If you are not comfortable paying top dollar for a state-of-the-art gaming PC, you can save a lot by ordering the separate components and building the machine yourself. You might be thinking this is a tall order with your limited knowledge of computer hardware, but such is the design that you can’t plug a component into the wrong slot, and with a little online research, you can handle a build.
Here are the major components you will need to source:
- Mainboard – This platform enables components to be connected, and with the dropping mainboard price, you can go for a top of the range ASUS, made for serious gaming. The best solution is to Google an online gaming component supplier, where you can not only purchase top products, you can also read a lot of resources to help you gain a better understanding on hi-end gaming hardware.
- CPU – The central processing unit is the heart of your computer, and with Intel’s core i7, 10th generation, you have the top of the range of quad core CPUs. AMD are another manufacturer with cutting edge processors, and as is often the case, there are only two major players, Intel and AMD.
- VGA Card – This item handles the graphic data transfer and if you want 4k gaming, one of Nvidia or AMD’s flagship cards is the best way to go. There are some that are great value for money, with prices ranging from $300-$1,200, like the GeForce RTX 3060 from Nvidia. Generally, an online supplier will have the lowest prices, thanks to their special arrangement with the makers. If you have a mac laptop, here is a troubleshooting guide, which could save you money.
- RAM – For serious gaming, the entry level is 16GB, while most avid gamers want 32GB, which is more than enough for the current speeds, and with DDR4, you really can’t go wrong. When looking at components, always compare with at least 2 other supplies, as prices can vary from one to the next, and a keen eye could save you a $100 on the build.
- Case – There are so many wild gaming cases out there, with coloured LED lights that change colour and hi-end cooling systems, which you do want. The main concern in that your choice of mainboard fits the case, with all the right holes for secure fixing, and you can source all components from a single online supplier.
- Power Supply – No surprises here, and they are all very similar, so go with a tried and trusted maker and all will be fine. This is the piece of kit that would save your mainboard from frying if there is a power surge, and it bolts into the casing at the rear.
- Monitor – There are some tasty curved monitors that can handle the highest of frame rates, and for around $150, you can get a top-rated monitor that handles 4k. If you are worried about paying bog money online, here is a link to online consumer protection.
- Keyboard & Mouse – You don’t need wired, as wireless is both affordable and convenient, and there’s a range of backlit keyboards that are designed with performance gaming in mind, and you are advised to go for one of these.
You can source everything in a single shop, and when the packages arrive, clear off the dining table and make sure you have the tools you’ll need, and don’t rush the build.