A Guide to Building a Gaming PC: Components, Tips, and Recommendations

Published 21st of February 2024

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This means if a product is purchased through a link we provide, we may earn a commission. Learn more here.

Introduction:

Building your own gaming PC can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to create a high-performance gaming setup tailored to your preferences. However, navigating the world of PC components can be daunting for beginners. In this guide, we’ll give you the general steps on building a PC from start to finish, including recommendations for components and valuable tips to ensure a successful build.

 

Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this article are our recommendations, however, it is advised that you research the products yourselves and buy the product best suited for your needs. It is also critical that you research the products you buy to make sure that each component of the PC are compatible with eachother. 

1. Planning Your Build:

Before diving into the build process, it’s essential to plan your build carefully. Consider factors such as your budget, desired gaming performance, and future upgradeability. Research compatible components and create a list of parts needed for your build.

2. Choosing the Right Components:

a. CPU (Central Processing Unit): The CPU is the brain of your gaming PC. Make sure you consider a CPU that is compatible with your motherboard. Other things to look for is clock speed and core count. 

Recommended: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X or Intel Core i5-12600K.

b. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): The GPU is crucial for gaming performance. Look for a graphics card with sufficient VRAM and performance for your desired gaming resolution and settings.

Recommended: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti or AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT.

c. Motherboard: Choose a motherboard that matches your CPU socket type and supports the features you need, such as PCIe slots for expansion cards and sufficient RAM slots.

Recommended: ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming.

d. RAM (Random Access Memory): Opt for DDR4 RAM with sufficient capacity and speed for gaming. Aim for at least 16GB of RAM, preferably in a dual-channel configuration.

Recommended: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 3600MHz.

e. Storage: Consider a combination of SSD (Solid State Drive) for fast boot times and load speeds, and HDD (Hard Disk Drive) for mass storage.

Recommended: Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB NVMe SSD and Seagate Barracuda 2TB HDD.

f. Power Supply: Choose a reliable power supply unit (PSU) with sufficient wattage and efficiency for your components. Consider factors such as modular cabling and 80 Plus certification.

Recommended: EVGA SuperNOVA 750 G5 750W 80 Plus Gold.

g. Case: Select a PC case that accommodates your chosen components and offers adequate airflow and cable management options. Choose a case with a design that matches your aesthetic preferences.

Recommended: NZXT H510 Mid Tower Case.

3. Building Your PC:

Disclaimer: These are the general steps when building a PC. The steps order may not be relevant to your build, additionally, extra steps may need to be needed depending on the components you bought. This is just a general outline on the process of building a PC. It is critical that you do your own research to ensure you are building your PC correctly.

a. Prepare Your Workspace: Clear a spacious and well-lit area to work on your PC build. Gather all necessary tools, including screwdrivers, cable ties, and thermal paste.

b. Install the CPU and Cooler: Carefully install the CPU into the motherboard socket and apply thermal paste before attaching the CPU cooler.

c. Install RAM and Storage: Insert RAM modules into the appropriate slots on the motherboard and install SSDs/HDDs into drive bays or M.2 slots.

d. Mount the Motherboard: Secure the motherboard to the case using standoffs and screws, ensuring it is properly aligned and grounded.

e. Connect Power Supply and Cables: Install the power supply unit in the case and connect power cables to the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage devices.

f. Install Graphics Card and Expansion Cards: Insert the GPU into the PCIe slot on the motherboard and install any additional expansion cards, such as Wi-Fi or sound cards.

g. Cable Management: Route cables neatly and use cable ties to organize them, ensuring good airflow and aesthetics.

h. Test Boot and BIOS Setup: Power on the PC and enter the BIOS to configure settings such as boot order and XMP profiles for RAM.

Conclusion:

With this guide, you’re equipped with the knowledge and recommendations needed to embark on your journey of building a gaming PC. Whether you’re a novice builder or seasoned enthusiast, building your own PC allows you to unleash your creativity and maximize your gaming experience like never before.