Building a gaming PC from scratch may seem intimidating for new gamers, but that doesn’t have to be the case!
First and foremost, it is crucial that you carefully consider the system requirements for any games that you plan on playing, as this will enable you to select the optimal components and build for your build. Next, choose a case that meets both your needs and budget constraints.
CPU
Your PC’s central processing unit (CPU) serves as its brain, processing information by sending out instructions sequentially and managing basic computer tasks like opening browser tabs or running programs. But its greatest claim to fame lies in rendering game data at high frame rates with demanding graphic settings for playback.
If you want a gaming PC capable of meeting the challenges posed by modern video games, look for high-end CPUs from Intel or AMD. These processors are specifically designed for speed and may even be overclocked to increase performance further. Gaming rigs also require advanced cooling systems to protect components from overheating and possibly premature burning out.
Building your computer can be both an economical and rewarding experience. Assuming you know what components go together and their connections, first-time builders often spend two to six hours physically assembling components before double-checking everything for connections and taking any necessary precautions before testing connections for proper functioning. Take your time when first starting out; YouTube tutorial videos and Micro Center Community are full of helpful guides available online that may assist.
RAM (random access memory) is one of the easiest components to install into a computer. Locate your motherboard’s memory slots, align your RAM sticks to ensure no slots overlap, press firmly until you hear a click, feel them lock into place, and press again until it clicks into place.
Motherboard
A motherboard is the central hub in any gaming PC, housing all add-in components and controlling its power supply. Motherboards come in all shapes, sizes and price points – from those designed specifically for hardcore gamers and content creators to home users and casual gamers. While certain boards support advanced features for hardcore gamers or content creators, others prefer casual gamers or home users. The best motherboards will support modern technology standards but may cost more to achieve performance results that match your preferences.
Your CPU (Central Processing Unit) serves as the heart and soul of your computer, processing information millions of times every second to perform tasks such as everyday office use or running demanding games. Unfortunately, even with an advanced CPU running at peak performance, it cannot support modern games at optimal frame rates without an appropriate graphics card.
A graphics card (GPU) is a specialized processor that processes visual data. This makes it essential for gaming, video editing and other graphics-intensive activities; and plays a critical role in providing seamless, lag-free gameplay.
RAM (random access memory) is where programs and apps store information while they’re active, which makes it an essential component for gaming and other high-demand apps; it doesn’t have to be the most costly part of your system either, with mid-range models typically serving most gamers’ needs.
Installing RAM is one of the easiest parts of building a computer, but you will need to know exactly which kind of slot your motherboard offers and its number of available slots. Referring to your motherboard’s instruction manual will help follow its guidelines for this step; typically, this requires taking off one screw from the case to gain access to its memory slots or aligning RAM with an indented notch on its backside so its gold fingers snap into place correctly.
Graphics Card
Building a gaming PC can be an enjoyable and fulfilling project. It is more complex than it initially appears and provides an engaging way to experience the gaming world in a new light. But for those not inclined towards DIY or who feel overwhelmed by the idea of creating one from scratch, there are other alternatives that may save both time and money in building one from scratch.
A high-quality graphics card is necessary to keep up with the latest games. GPUs are specially designed and optimized to process visual data like that found in video games; your CPU may be excellent at processing information sequentially (millions of times per second), but they aren’t fast enough to keep up with what’s necessary for running demanding titles at high frame rates.
A graphics card converts binary information to pixels – tiny squares that form images on your computer monitor or TV screen). More pixels equal more detailed imagery; therefore, for optimal results you’ll want at least 1080p resolution in your graphics card if possible – while 4K graphics cards offer stunning clarity!
Your GPU requires RAM – Random Access Memory – which acts as short-term storage and allows your computer to store and retrieve information quickly. The more RAM your PC has, the higher its performance when running games.
Another cost-cutting measure is to wait for components you require to go on sale, purchase bundle deals, or buy used components if frugal gaming is your goal.
Hard Drives
Selecting the ideal storage for your gaming PC is key to its performance. When making this choice, keep your game preferences and potential storage needs in mind as you decide between an HDD or SSD – both offer ample capacity, but HDDs typically perform slower. This could make all the difference when finishing first-person shooters!
Your motherboard size will also dictate which SSD or HDD storage solution is available. SSDs use NAND flash memory to read and write data quickly; as they’re also smaller, they save space within your case. Most gamers opt for using both SSDs and HDDs together for optimal storage purposes.
Gaming PCs need storage for the operating system, games and other important software programs. An SSD or NVMe drive is highly recommended, as these drives offer much faster game-loading times than conventional HDDs.
An investment in a power supply unit (PSU) for your gaming PC is always recommended. A PSU converts AC power into DC energy that powers all your computer system’s components, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Make sure it can support all the hardware you select; also, find one with a warranty. Furthermore, consider which case or enclosure your PSU fits best before deciding.
Case
A case is the final piece of hardware to turn your pile of parts into a working PC. It provides an enclosure to house all the components while protecting them from dust and dirt while offering space for any additional devices you might add later. In addition, it connects everything to an AC-DC power supply, which supplies your motherboard and other essential hardware with the power that it needs for operation.
Your new PC requires a monitor, keyboard and mouse to play games. For an enhanced gaming experience, consider adding a gaming headset or ergonomic mouse designed specifically to help take control of your games.
The assembly process should be relatively quick once you start assembling a computer from its many parts. Many first-time builders typically complete assembly in two to six hours – giving ample time for reading component manuals and watching tutorial videos/guides should any issues arise. When building your PC, patience and double checking of correctly connected cables are observed – then switch it on! You may find yourself playing your favourite games sooner than expected! Check out this video from Kingston, which highlights common build mistakes you should try and avoid!