When considering the purchase of a new gaming PC, the purchaser must consider several factors. A gaming PC must be optimally configured to best serve the needs of the user, and cost should also be taken into consideration. To this end, the purchase of a gaming PC can be daunting for those uninitiated in the aspects of PC building or gaming in general. While there is no set time to buy a new gaming PC, there are certain different occasions when one might consider doing so.
Hardware Considerations
When buying a new gaming PC, it is important to understand the hardware of the PC and what is needed for gaming. The most important pieces of hardware for gaming PC performance are the processor, video card, RAM, and storage. The processor determines how well the PC will be able to manipulate complex calculations, while the video card is responsible for displaying graphics. RAM stores data more quickly than traditional hard drives while larger storage is necessary for a library of games and other applications.
It is generally a good idea to purchase a PC with a processor that’s slightly more powerful than what is currently considered the minimum, as needs can change. Processors that are more than one generation behind the current minimum can significantly reduce the performance of a gaming PC. Additionally, it is important to purchase the right amount and type of RAM; buying too little RAM can be just as damaging as buying a processor that is too old.
Changes in Technology
The technology of gaming PCs may change significantly over time. For example, the current generation of PC gaming is dominated by powerful GPUs which enable better graphics and framerates. The current generation of GPUs require powerful processors and a lot of RAM. It can be difficult for a gaming PC which is purchased for any less than the minimum requirements to keep up with the demands of the modern gaming market.
Furthermore, new graphics cards are continuously developed by GPU manufacturers. Since a current gaming PC may stop being able to provide a sufficient performance after a few years, it’s important to keep up with the latest developments in GPU technology. Depending on the timeline, this may mean replacing a current gaming PC with a newer one as often as once every two to three years.
Higher Refresh Rates
A higher refresh rate for a gaming PC is often preferred to ensure smooth and responsive gaming experience. For traditional LCD monitors this usually means a minimum refresh rate of at least 60Hz. Higher refresh rates are capable of providing a smoother experience, particularly in fast-paced games, but require a greater level of hardware performance.
The processor in a gaming PC must be powerful enough to keep up with the demands of a higher refresh rate. Additionally, a more powerful video card may be necessary due to the demand of newer, more intensive games. Lastly, a faster RAM will also be necessary to keep up with the demands of a higher refresh rate.
VR/AR/MR Gaming
Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) all come with their own system requirements which may be above the minimum requirements for traditional gaming. To get the best possible experience, a gaming PC must be able to meet the requirements of VR/AR/MR software, games, and hardware. This can mean significant changes in hardware, including a powerful processor, a lot of RAM, and a modern video card with full support for the technology.
For those wanting to pursue gaming with VR/AR/MR technology, either a significant upgrade or the purchase of a new PC may be necessary. This can lead to extra cost for the purchase, but is necessary for an optimal gaming experience in this area.
Price Concerns
The last consideration when buying a new gaming PC is cost. Good gaming PCs can be expensive, with the newest hardware and components costing a premium. If price is a major concern, then looking to savings in the peripherals may be a good idea, as these will generally be cheaper than the actual components of the gaming PC itself.
It is important to research gaming PCs thoroughly to ensure the best value. Knowing the needs of the user in terms of gaming preferences, cost, and hardware specifications is essential for finding the best gaming PC for the money. Also, pre-built gaming PCs may provide the best value for a gaming PC purchase, as the components included in pre-built PCs are often of similar or better quality than their components chosen separately.
Accessories and Upgrades
Sometimes, purchasing accessories or upgrades in lieu of a new gaming PC may be beneficial. Upgrading components such as the processor, RAM, or video card can extend the life of a PC by several years; however, these will typically cost a fraction of the cost of a new gaming PC. Notably, upgrading the video card may drastically improve the performance of the gaming PC.
If seeking an upgrade for the gaming PC, one should consider the amount of money that can be saved on upgrades versus the cost of a gaming PC. Aside from improving financial savings, upgrading the PC can be an educational experience, as one can learn the process of PC building or updating on their practiced machine.
Maintaining Warranties
Before considering a new gaming PC purchase, it is also important to make sure that any existing warranties are valid. The warranties found on gaming PCs can often last a few years and provide coverage in the case of a hardware failure. If purchasing a new gaming PC, the existing warranty may then be invalidated, costing the purchaser more in the long run.
For those who may be in the market for buying a gaming PC, it is important to understand the hardware-based benefits that come with buying the right model. Knowing what components are best for the user’s needs can be necessary to find the right gaming PC, along with an understanding of the timelines for hardware changes and the cost of upgrades.
