🖥 /pc building/

Alt Tag 📌 Written by Dan / Updated for Current Gen with LLM's 📅 Last updated: 4.5.25 💬 danxyz7 on Discord

Disclaimer & Evolution

This guide originated in 2016. While significantly updated to reflect current hardware standards (DDR5, PCIe Gen 5, NVMe dominance, ATX 3.0 PSUs, modern GPUs/CPUs), the rapid pace of PC tech means you should always verify compatibility and performance of specific components using current reviews and tools like PCPartPicker before purchasing. This guide provides the foundational knowledge and key considerations.

Building Your Modern Gaming PC: A Component Guide

Introduction: Crafting Your Ideal Gaming Rig

Welcome! Building a PC can seem daunting, but it's incredibly rewarding, giving you a machine tailored precisely to your needs. This guide focuses on selecting components for a gaming PC in the current hardware landscape, prioritizing performance, value, and compatibility.

The Anatomy of a Gaming PC: Core Components

A functional gaming PC requires these essential parts working in harmony:

  1. CPU (Processor): The 'brain', handling game logic, AI, physics, and feeding data to the GPU. (e.g., Intel Core series, AMD Ryzen series).
  2. Motherboard: The central hub connecting all components via sockets, slots, and chipsets. Dictated by CPU choice.
  3. RAM (Memory): Fast, short-term memory (DDR5 standard now) for active applications and game data.
  4. GPU (Graphics Card): The single most critical component for gaming performance. Renders visuals and outputs to the monitor. (e.g., Nvidia GeForce RTX series, AMD Radeon RX series, potentially Intel Arc).
  5. Storage (SSD/HDD): Long-term storage for your OS, games, and files. NVMe SSDs are essential for speed.
  6. PSU (Power Supply Unit): Converts wall power to usable DC voltage for all components. Quality is paramount.
  7. CPU Cooler: Prevents the CPU from overheating and throttling performance. Can be air or liquid (AIO).
  8. Case: The chassis housing all internal components. Impacts airflow, noise, and build ease.
  9. Case Fans: Provide airflow through the case to cool components. Often supplementary to included case/cooler fans.
  10. Operating System (OS): Usually Windows for maximum game compatibility.

Peripherals (Your Interface with the Game):

  1. Display (Monitor): Your window into the game. Resolution and Refresh Rate targets are key.
  2. Keyboard & Mouse: Your primary input devices. Highly subjective.
  3. Audio: Headphones or speakers.

Planning Phase: Critical Questions Before Buying

Impulse buying is the enemy! Answer these first:

  • 🎯 What is your primary goal?
    • Target Monitor: What Resolution (e.g., 1080p, 1440p, 4K) and Refresh Rate (e.g., 144Hz, 165Hz, 240Hz+) are you aiming for? This dictates the required GPU and CPU power.
    • Games Played: AAA titles at max settings? Competitive esports needing maximum FPS? This influences component balance.
  • 💰 What's your total budget? Be realistic and factor in all components, including peripherals and OS if needed.
  • ⚙️ What other tasks will the PC handle? Streaming, video editing, programming? These might push CPU/RAM needs higher than gaming alone.
  • ⏳ How long do you want this build to last before major upgrades? Influences initial component choices ('future-proofing' is limited, but aiming slightly higher can extend relevance).
  • 🛠️ Build Environment & Aesthetics: Consider room temps, dust, noise tolerance. Factor in aesthetics (RGB, case style) after ensuring performance and compatibility within budget.

"Guide Focus"

This guide emphasizes performance, compatibility, reliability, and value for gaming. Aesthetics are secondary considerations here.

Universal Component Selection Factors:

Apply these checks to every part you consider:

Mandatory Checks:

  • Compatibility: Will it physically and functionally work with everything else?
    • Physical Fit: Case clearances (GPU length/width, CPU cooler height, radiator support), RAM height vs. air cooler.
    • Sockets/Slots: CPU socket matching motherboard, RAM type (DDR5) matching motherboard, GPU fitting PCIe slot.
    • Connectors: PSU has correct cables (Motherboard 24-pin, CPU EPS, GPU PCIe/12VHPWR), Monitor inputs match GPU outputs (DisplayPort/HDMI 2.1).
    • Chipset/Platform Features: Motherboard supports CPU features, PCIe Gen 4/5 speeds for GPU/NVMe, RAM speed/XMP/EXPO profiles.
  • ⏱️ Performance Lifespan ('Relevancy'): How well will this part perform at your target settings now and in the near future? Avoid severe bottlenecks.
  • 🛡️ Reliability & Warranty: How likely is failure? Check professional reviews, user feedback, and manufacturer warranty length/terms. Crucial for PSUs.

Important Considerations:

  • OEM vs. Brand vs. Model: Understand the difference (e.g., AMD makes the CPU chip [OEM], ASUS builds the motherboard [Brand], using a specific chipset/model [Model]). Brand choice often influences cooler quality (GPU), VRMs (Motherboard), support, and aesthetics. Model determines performance tier.
  • Quantity: Usually 2 RAM sticks (dual-channel). Multiple storage drives common. Multiple GPUs (SLI/Crossfire) are obsolete for gaming.
  • Ease of Installation/Use: Some cases, coolers, modular PSUs are easier to build with.
  • Resale Value: High-end GPUs/CPUs tend to retain value better.
  • Reviews: Consult multiple professional, independent reviews (text and video) for benchmarks, thermal performance, noise levels, and known issues before buying.

Part 1: Monitor Selection - Setting the Performance Target 🎯

Choosing your monitor first is highly recommended. It defines the performance goal for your entire build.

Core Goal: Build a PC capable of delivering a smooth, enjoyable experience at the monitor's native resolution and maximum refresh rate in your preferred games and settings.

Monitor Capability vs. PC Power:

  • Matching: Ideal scenario – PC can fully utilize the monitor's specs now.
  • Monitor Outpaces PC: Requires careful consideration:
    • ✨ Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): Essential. Technologies like AMD FreeSync (widely compatible via VESA Adaptive Sync standard) and Nvidia G-Sync/G-Sync Compatible smooth out gameplay when FPS is below the monitor's max refresh rate. Most modern GPUs/monitors support Adaptive Sync over DisplayPort. HDMI 2.1 VRR is also common, especially on TVs. Check specific monitor reviews for reliable VRR range and performance with your chosen GPU brand.
    • Compromise: You may need to lower in-game settings, use upscaling (DLSS/ FSR/ XeSS), or accept lower frame rates until a future PC upgrade.
    • Upgrade Path: A high-end monitor choice often implies future GPU/CPU upgrades are planned.

"Certainty vs. Uncertainty"

Building for certainty means matching monitor specs you can drive today. Building for uncertainty involves buying a higher-spec monitor anticipating future hardware upgrades to fully utilize it.

Key Monitor Considerations:

  • 🔌 Connectors:
    • DisplayPort (DP): Standard for high-bandwidth PC gaming (DP 1.4a common, DP 2.0/2.1 emerging for very high res/refresh).
    • HDMI 2.1: Essential for modern consoles, high-refresh 4K on compatible PC hardware.
    • Ensure GPU outputs match monitor inputs.
  • ⏳ Lifespan: Monitors often outlast PCs. Consider future standards (connection types, HDR).
  • 🖼️ Panel Technology: (Consult professional reviews: Rtings, TFTCentral, Hardware Unboxed)
    • IPS: Excellent all-rounder, good colors, wide viewing angles, fast response times now common.
    • VA: Superior contrast ratios (deep blacks), viewing angles/response times improving but can still lag top IPS/OLED.
    • OLED: Perfect blacks, near-instant response time, best HDR potential. Burn-in risk decreasing but still present; brightness may be lower than high-end LCDs.
    • Mini-LED: Advanced LCD backlight tech improving contrast and HDR performance significantly.
    • TN: Largely relegated to budget or extreme high-refresh esports niche; poor colors/viewing angles.
  • 📊 Specs & Features:
    • Resolution & Refresh Rate: Key targets (e.g., 1440p @ 165Hz+, 4K @ 144Hz+). Balance needs vs. budget vs. GPU power.
    • HDR: Look for meaningful certifications (e.g., VESA DisplayHDR 600/1000+) for impactful HDR. Basic "HDR support" is often meaningless.
    • VESA Mount Compatibility: For using monitor arms/wall mounts.
  • 🛡️ Brand/Reliability/Warranty: Read user reviews, check for dead pixel policies, compare warranty lengths.

Part 2: Graphics Card (GPU) - The Gaming Engine 💪

This component dictates your visual experience: frame rates (FPS), resolution capabilities, and graphical settings quality.

Core Goal: Choose a GPU that delivers target FPS (ideally near/at monitor refresh rate) at your chosen resolution and settings, utilizing features like upscaling/frame generation where needed.

Key GPU Considerations:

  • Compatibility:
    • Power: Requires adequate PSU wattage and correct connectors (PCIe 8-pin, potentially 12VHPWR/12V-2x6 for high-end cards). ATX 3.0/3.1 PSU highly recommended for stable power delivery to modern GPUs.
    • Display Outputs: Match monitor inputs (DisplayPort 1.4a/2.1, HDMI 2.1).
    • VRR: Ensure compatibility with monitor's VRR tech (FreeSync/G-Sync Compatible generally works across brands via Adaptive Sync).
    • Physical Size: CRITICAL. Check case clearance for Length, Height, and Width. Modern GPUs are often very large (3-4 slots wide).
    • Motherboard: Fits in primary PCIe x16 slot (check PCIe Gen 4/5 compatibility).
  • Performance & Features:
    • Rasterization: Core non-raytraced gaming performance. Check independent benchmarks for your target games/resolution. Look at average FPS and 1% lows for smoothness.
    • Ray Tracing (RT): Significantly more demanding. Performance varies greatly by GPU architecture and game implementation. Nvidia generally holds an edge here, but AMD/Intel are improving.
    • AI Upscaling & Frame Generation: ESSENTIAL tech for modern gaming.
      • Nvidia DLSS: Upscaling (Super Resolution) + Frame Generation + Reflex (latency reduction). Widely supported, often considered quality leader. Requires RTX GPU.
      • AMD FSR: Upscaling (Super Resolution) + Frame Generation (Fluid Motion Frames). Open standard, works on most GPUs (incl. Nvidia/Intel), quality varies by implementation.
      • Intel XeSS: Upscaling. Works on most GPUs, best quality on Arc GPUs.
      • These allow higher FPS at demanding settings/resolutions. Frame Generation adds latency, best used when base FPS is already decent.
  • ⏱️ Relevancy Period: Aim for strong performance today. Upscaling tech helps extend a GPU's useful life.
  • 🏭 OEM (Chip): Nvidia (GeForce RTX) vs. AMD (Radeon RX) vs. Intel (Arc). Compare current gen performance, features (RT strength, upscaling quality), power efficiency, driver stability, and price point.
  • 🏷️ Model (Card Tier): E.g., RTX 4070 Super vs. RX 7800 XT. Performance scales with price/tier. Compare benchmarks directly.
  • 🏭 Brand (AIB Partner): ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, Sapphire (AMD exclusive), Zotac, PNY, etc. Differences mainly in cooler design/performance/noise, factory OC (minor gains), aesthetics, warranty. Read reviews of specific models.
  • 💾 VRAM: Video Memory. Crucial for high resolutions & textures. 12GB becoming minimum for solid 1440p. 16GB+ strongly recommended for 4K and future-proofing. Insufficient VRAM causes stuttering/poor performance.
  • ♻️ Resale: GPUs often hold value well.
  • 🛡️ Reliability/Warranty: Check model reviews for known issues (e.g., coil whine, cooler problems). Compare warranty lengths.

Part 3: Processor (CPU) - The Conductor 🧠

The CPU manages game operations, physics, AI, and prepares data for the GPU. Crucial for high FPS and avoiding bottlenecks.

"Beyond Gaming"

Tasks like streaming, video editing, simulation, and compiling heavily leverage CPU core count and multi-threaded performance. Factor this into your choice if applicable.

Key CPU Considerations:

  • Compatibility:
    • Socket & Chipset: MUST match the motherboard. (e.g., Intel LGA1700/LGA1851 with Z790/B760 etc., or AMD AM5 with X670/B650 etc.). Verify current gen compatibility.
  • 🚀 Performance Architecture: Modern CPUs often use hybrid designs (Performance-cores for demanding tasks, Efficiency-cores for background/low-power) or specialized gaming features (e.g., AMD's 3D V-Cache). Understand which architecture best suits gaming (often high clock speeds, strong single-core performance, large cache) vs. productivity (more cores).
  • ⚙️ Core Count & Clock Speed:
    • Gaming: 6-8 Performance-cores is often the sweet spot for value/performance. More E-cores can help multitasking.
    • High FPS Gaming (144Hz+): CPU often becomes the bottleneck. Prioritize high clock speeds, strong single-core IPC (Instructions Per Clock), and large cache (like AMD X3D CPUs).
    • Productivity: More cores/threads generally scale better.
  • ⏱️ Relevancy Period: A strong mid-range CPU (current gen Core i5/Ryzen 5 or i7/Ryzen 7) usually provides excellent gaming longevity. Top-tier CPUs offer diminishing returns for gaming alone.
  • 🏭 OEM: Intel Core vs. AMD Ryzen. Intense competition. Check current benchmarks comparing gaming FPS (esp. 1% lows), multi-tasking performance, power consumption, platform cost, and features (PCIe lanes, integrated graphics) for your budget.
  • 📈 Integrated Graphics (iGPU): Useful for troubleshooting or basic display output if a dedicated GPU isn't installed/working. Some modern iGPUs (esp. AMD's Radeon integrated) can handle very light gaming/esports titles.
  • 🛡️ Reliability/Warranty: CPUs are generally very reliable components.

Part 4: CPU Cooler - Staying Chill ❄️

Prevents your CPU from overheating, which causes performance throttling (automatic slowdown). Essential for anything beyond low-end CPUs.

Key Cooler Considerations:

  • Compatibility:
    • Socket: Must list support for your specific CPU socket (e.g., LGA1700, AM5). Check manufacturer specs. Mounting hardware included?
    • Case Clearance: Verify Max CPU Cooler Height (for air coolers) or Radiator Support (size like 240mm, 280mm, 360mm and mounting location - top/front/side) in your case specs.
    • RAM Clearance: Critical for large air coolers. Ensure it doesn't overhang RAM slots or requires low-profile RAM sticks. Check cooler dimensions.
  • 💨 Model (Air vs. Liquid AIO):
    • Air Coolers: Offer excellent performance-per-dollar. Range from budget single towers to high-end dual towers that rival AIOs. Simpler design, highly reliable (only moving part is the fan, easily replaceable). Can be bulky.
    • All-In-One (AIO) Liquid Coolers: Closed-loop systems with radiator, fans, pump, and water block. Can offer higher peak cooling potential (especially larger 280mm/360mm+ rads) and different aesthetics. Can exhaust heat directly out of the case. More complex, more potential failure points (pump is critical, slight permeation over years, minuscule leak risk).
  • 🌡️ Cooling Capacity (TDP): Coolers often list a Thermal Design Power rating. Ensure it comfortably exceeds your CPU's TDP, especially if considering overclocking or running demanding workloads. Look at comparative benchmark reviews for real-world performance.
  • 💲 Value: High-quality air coolers provide the best value for most users. AIOs are chosen for maximum thermal headroom, specific case layouts, or aesthetics.
  • 🛠️ Ease of Installation: Varies significantly between models and socket types. Watch install videos.
  • 🛡️ Reliability: Air coolers are generally more reliable long-term. AIOs have improved but pumps have a finite lifespan (typically 5+ years). Check warranty length.

Part 5: RAM (Memory) - Fast Access Data 🚀

Random Access Memory holds data the CPU needs quick access to. Type, speed, capacity, and configuration impact performance.

Key RAM Considerations:

  • Compatibility:
    • Type: DDR5 is the current standard for new Intel and AMD platforms. DDR4 is legacy. Motherboard MUST support the chosen type.
    • Speed & Timings (Latency): Check motherboard's QVL (Qualified Vendor List) for validated kits, though not strictly necessary if specs match. Aim for speeds considered the "sweet spot" for your platform (e.g., DDR5 6000MHz CL30 is often ideal for AMD Ryzen 7000, Intel 13th/14th Gen also benefits from high speeds). Lower CAS Latency (CL) is better at a given speed (e.g., CL30 is better than CL36 at 6000MHz). Enable XMP (Intel) or EXPO (AMD) profiles in the motherboard BIOS/UEFI to run RAM at its advertised speed, otherwise it defaults to slower JEDEC speeds.
  • 💾 Quantity (Capacity):
    • Gaming & General Use: 32GB (2x16GB kit) is the recommended standard for smooth multitasking and headroom in modern games.
    • Budget Builds: 16GB (2x8GB kit) is the minimum, but may struggle with newer AAA titles alongside background apps.
    • Heavy Productivity/Creative Work: 64GB (2x32GB or 4x16GB) or more may be necessary.
  • ⚙️ Configuration: ALWAYS install RAM in pairs (for dual-channel) or quads (if platform supports quad-channel) using matched kits. Using a single stick significantly hurts performance. Follow motherboard manual for correct slot population (usually slots 2 & 4 from the CPU for dual sticks).
  • 🏷️ Brand/Model: Focus on matching specs (Capacity, Type, Speed, Timings, Voltage) to your motherboard/CPU needs at the best price. Heat spreaders are primarily aesthetic; RAM generally doesn't run hot enough to need massive ones unless doing extreme overclocking. Reputable brands include Crucial, G.Skill, Corsair, Kingston, TeamGroup, Patriot.
  • 🛡️ Warranty: Most reputable RAM has a lifetime warranty.

Part 6: Storage (SSD & HDD) - Where Your Data Lives 💾

Stores your Operating System (OS), games, applications, and personal files. Drive speed dramatically affects OS boot times, application loading, and game load screens.

Solid State Drive (SSD): The Standard for Speed

NVMe SSDs are essential for a responsive modern PC.

  • 🚀 Interface & Speed:
    • NVMe SSD (M.2 form factor): Connects via PCIe lanes directly to the CPU/chipset for maximum speed. Use for OS, frequently played games, and applications.
      • PCIe Gen 4: Current mainstream standard. Offers excellent speeds, vastly faster than SATA. More than sufficient for gaming load times.
      • PCIe Gen 5: New high-end standard. Offers significantly higher sequential read/write speeds (benefits large file transfers, some creative workloads). Minimal impact on game loading times vs. Gen 4 currently. Requires compatible motherboard/CPU M.2 slot. Often requires heatsink due to higher temps.
    • SATA SSD (2.5" drive or M.2 form factor): Uses the older, slower SATA interface. Significantly slower than NVMe. Suitable for bulk game storage (less frequently played titles), media files, or upgrading older systems lacking M.2 slots.
  • 💾 Quantity (Capacity):
    • OS / Primary Drive: 1TB - 2TB NVMe SSD minimum recommended. Windows and core apps take up space quickly.
    • Game Drive(s): Additional 1TB - 4TB+ NVMe SSD highly recommended as modern game sizes balloon (100GB+ is common). A large SATA SSD can be a budget alternative for bulk game storage.
  • ⚙️ Features:
    • DRAM Cache: Important for OS drives and primary application drives. A small DRAM cache on the SSD improves performance consistency (especially with small random reads/writes) and drive endurance. DRAM-less NVMe drives are cheaper and fine for secondary game/storage drives.
    • Endurance (TBW - Terabytes Written): Indicates rated lifespan. Generally very high for modern consumer SSDs; not usually a concern for typical gaming use.
  • 🏷️ Brand/Model: Check professional reviews for real-world performance benchmarks (esp. game loading, application performance), thermal behavior (does it need a heatsink?), and reliability history. Reputable brands: Samsung, Crucial (Micron), Western Digital (WD), Solidigm (formerly Intel NAND), Kingston, TeamGroup, Sabrent, Corsair.
  • 🛡️ Reliability: SSDs are generally very reliable. However, always back up critical personal data to another drive or cloud service.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Bulk / Archive Tier Only

Slow mechanical drives using spinning platters.

  • ⚠️ Use Case: Primarily for archiving large media files (videos, photos) or as a backup destination where speed is not a priority. NOT recommended for installing modern OS or games – loading times will be painfully slow.
  • ⚙️ Technology: For desktop use, prefer CMR (Conventional Magnetic Recording) drives over SMR (Shingled Magnetic Recording). SMR drives have poor rewrite performance and are better suited for archive-only scenarios. Check drive specifications carefully.

Part 7: Motherboard - The Foundation 🏗️

The central nervous system connecting all components. Choice is dictated primarily by CPU socket and desired features.

Key Motherboard Considerations:

  • Compatibility:
    • CPU Socket & Chipset: CRITICAL. Must match your chosen CPU (e.g., Intel LGA1700 for 12th-14th Gen, AMD AM5 for Ryzen 7000+). The Chipset (e.g., Z790, B650, H610) determines features like overclocking support (Z/X series generally required for CPU OC), number of PCIe lanes, USB port count/speed, M.2 slot availability/speed, and SATA ports. Research chipset differences for your platform.
    • RAM Support: Must support DDR5 (for current builds). Check maximum supported RAM speed and capacity. Verify QVL if using very high-speed kits or unusual configurations.
    • Form Factor: ATX (standard full size), Micro-ATX (mATX) (shorter), Mini-ITX (ITX) (tiny). Must fit your chosen PC Case. Smaller form factors have fewer expansion slots and potentially trickier building/cooling.
    • Expansion Slots (PCIe): Primary (top) x16 slot for GPU should be PCIe Gen 5.0 or Gen 4.0 (check CPU/chipset support). Ensure enough slots if you need other cards (capture card, sound card - though onboard audio is usually sufficient).
    • Storage Connectors: Sufficient M.2 slots (check if they support PCIe Gen 4 or Gen 5 speeds). Sufficient SATA ports for any SATA SSDs/HDDs.
    • Rear I/O Panel: Check for enough high-speed USB ports (USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 (10Gbps), Gen 2x2 (20Gbps), USB4/Thunderbolt are desirable). Ethernet port (2.5Gbps becoming standard, 1Gbps minimum). Integrated Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 ideal) and Bluetooth. Audio jacks (check quality/features if important). Display outputs (if using integrated graphics).
  • ✨ Features & Quality:
    • VRM (Voltage Regulator Module): Quality and cooling are crucial for stable power delivery to the CPU, especially for higher-end CPUs or overclocking. Check reviews for VRM thermal performance.
    • BIOS/UEFI: User-friendliness, feature set, update frequency/stability.
    • Onboard Audio: Quality varies (Realtek ALC codecs are common). Dedicated sound cards rarely needed unless you have specific audiophile requirements.
    • Aesthetics: Color scheme, RGB lighting, design.
  • 🏷️ Brand/Model: Choose based on essential compatibility, required I/O and features, VRM quality (via reviews), BIOS reputation, aesthetics, and budget. Reputable brands: ASUS (ROG, TUF, Prime), Gigabyte (Aorus, Gaming), MSI (MEG, MPG, MAG), ASRock.

Part 8: Power Supply Unit (PSU) - Clean Power Delivery ⚡

Converts AC wall power to stable DC power for your components. Do not cheap out on the PSU. A poor quality unit risks instability, component damage, or even fire.

Key PSU Considerations:

  • 🔌 Wattage: Calculate your system's estimated peak power draw (CPU + GPU are the biggest consumers - check their TDP/power limits). Use online PSU calculators (e.g., Cooler Master, be quiet!) as a starting point. Add significant headroom (at least 150W-250W, maybe more for top-tier GPUs) to handle transient power spikes (modern GPUs can draw huge power for milliseconds), ensure the PSU operates in its efficient range (often ~50% load), and allow for future upgrades. Common ranges: 750W-850W for mid-high range builds, 1000W+ for enthusiast/high-end GPU builds.
  • 🏅 Quality & Reliability: MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR. This isn't just about wattage or efficiency rating. Look for units built with high-quality internal components (e.g., Japanese capacitors), good electrical performance (tight voltage regulation, low ripple/noise), and robust safety protections (OCP, OVP, UVP, SCP, OPP, OTP). Consult professional, independent PSU reviews and reputable tier lists (e.g., Cultists Network PSU Tier List) to gauge quality.
  • ✅ Efficiency Rating (80 Plus): Indicates how efficiently the PSU converts AC to DC power (Bronze < Silver < Gold < Platinum < Titanium). Higher efficiency means less wasted energy as heat and potentially lower electricity bills. 80 Plus Gold is generally the sweet spot for value and performance. Efficiency rating alone does NOT guarantee electrical quality or reliability.
  • 🆕 ATX 3.0 / ATX 3.1 Compliance: Highly recommended for builds with modern GPUs (Nvidia RTX 30/40 series+, AMD RX 6000/7000 series+). These standards are designed to handle the high, brief power spikes (transients) common with these cards much better than older ATX 2.x PSUs, improving stability. Often includes native 12VHPWR / 12V-2x6 connectors.
  • 🔗 Connectors: Ensure the PSU has all the necessary cables for your components: Motherboard 24-pin ATX, CPU 4+4 pin EPS (sometimes requires two for high-end CPUs/motherboards), GPU PCIe 6+2 pin and/or 12VHPWR/12V-2x6 (check GPU requirements!), SATA power for drives, potentially Molex (rarely needed now).
  • 🛠️ Modularity:
    • Fully-Modular: All cables detach. Best for custom builds and clean cable management.
    • Semi-Modular: Essential cables (Motherboard, CPU) are attached, peripheral cables (PCIe, SATA) are detachable. Good balance of cost and convenience.
    • Non-Modular: All cables are attached. Hardest for cable management, usually found on budget units.
  • 📏 Form Factor: ATX is standard desktop size. SFX / SFX-L are required for many Small Form Factor (SFF) cases. Ensure compatibility with your case.
  • 🛡️ Warranty: Longer warranties (7-10+ years) often indicate manufacturer confidence in the unit's quality and longevity.

Part 9: PC Case - Housing and Airflow 🏠💨

The enclosure for your components. Affects thermals, noise, build experience, and visual appeal.

Key Case Considerations:

  • Compatibility:
    • Motherboard Form Factor: Must support your chosen board (ATX, mATX, ITX).
    • GPU Clearance: CRITICAL. Check maximum Length, Height, and Width supported. Compare against your chosen GPU's dimensions. Factor in power connectors extending from the GPU.
    • CPU Cooler Clearance: Check maximum Air Cooler Height or Radiator Support (size like 240/280/360mm and thickness/placement compatibility - top, front, side).
    • PSU Clearance: Check maximum PSU Length.
  • 🌬️ Airflow: PARAMOUNT for performance and longevity. Look for designs that facilitate good airflow. Mesh front panels are generally superior to solid/glass fronts for intake. Ensure adequate fan mounting locations (intake and exhaust). Check professional reviews that test thermal performance.
  • 💨 Included Fans: Quality, quantity, and type (airflow vs. static pressure) vary greatly. You may need to purchase additional/better fans for optimal cooling and noise levels.
  • 🛠️ Build Experience & Cable Management: Look for sufficient space behind the motherboard tray, well-placed cutouts, tie-down points, included straps/velcro. A well-designed case makes building much easier.
  • 🔌 Front Panel I/O: Ensure it has necessary ports accessible. At least one high-speed USB Type-C (e.g., USB 3.2 Gen 2) and multiple USB Type-A ports are desirable. Headphone/mic jacks.
  • 📐 Size & Aesthetics: Balance desired footprint (Mid-Tower, Full-Tower, SFF) with component compatibility, cooling potential, and personal visual preference.
  • ✨ Features: Dust filters (removable/easy to clean are best), tempered glass vs. mesh side panels (aesthetics vs. airflow), noise-dampening materials (often sacrifice some airflow), vertical GPU mounting support (usually requires separate riser cable, can impact thermals).
  • 🏷️ Brand/Model: Huge variety exists. Focus on brands known for good build quality and thermal design (e.g., Fractal Design, Lian Li, Corsair, Phanteks, be quiet!, Cooler Master). Watch/read reviews testing thermals, noise, and build process.

Part 10: Peripherals - Your Connection to the PC ⌨️🖱️

Keyboard and mouse are your primary inputs. Choice is highly subjective based on feel and preference.

Keyboard:

  • ⌨️ Switch Type: Mechanical switches are dominant for feel and customization.
    • Types: Linear (smooth), Tactile (bump), Clicky (bump + click sound). Cherry MX and its clones (Gateron, Kailh) are widespread. Optical and Hall Effect switches offer different actuation methods, potentially faster response/longer lifespan.
    • Hot-Swappable: Boards allowing easy switch replacement without soldering offer great customization potential.
  • 📏 Size/Layout: Full-size (with numpad), TKL (Tenkeyless - no numpad), 75% (compact with arrows/F-row), 65%/60% (ultra-compact). Choose based on desk space and need for specific keys.
  • ✨ Features: Connectivity (Wired / Low-latency 2.4GHz Wireless / Bluetooth), RGB Backlighting, Keycap Material (PBT is more durable and shine-resistant than ABS), Programmability (Macros, Remapping via software/firmware like QMK/VIA).
  • 🏗️ Build Quality: Case material (plastic vs. aluminum), keycap quality, stabilizer quality (prevents wobble on larger keys), internal dampening all affect typing feel and sound.

Mouse:

  • 🖐️ Shape & Size: MOST CRITICAL factor. Must fit your hand size and preferred grip style (Palm, Claw, Fingertip) comfortably for extended use and optimal aim. Try shapes in person if possible.
  • ⚖️ Weight: Trend continues towards lightweight (< 70g, even < 60g) for competitive FPS, allowing faster movements. However, medium-weight mice still preferred by some. Purely preference.
  • 🎯 Sensor: Modern top optical sensors (e.g., PixArt PAW series) offer flawless tracking performance. Focus on implementation and features rather than minor sensor spec differences.
  • 🔗 Connectivity: Low-latency 2.4GHz wireless offers wired-like performance without the cable drag. High Polling Rates (2000Hz, 4000Hz, 8000Hz) available, reducing latency slightly, but impact is diminishing for most users and increases CPU usage. Wired is still reliable and cheaper.
  • 🖱️ Switches (Clicks): Optical mouse switches are gaining popularity as they eliminate the potential for double-clicking issues inherent in traditional mechanical microswitches and offer faster actuation. Click feel varies.
  • ✨ Features: Software for customization (DPI, button mapping, lighting), quality mouse feet/skates (PTFE standard for smooth glide), number of programmable buttons.

success "Final Compatibility Check & Build Time!"

Before ordering, run your complete parts list through PCPartPicker.com. It's an invaluable tool for checking compatibility flags (socket, clearance, power connectors, etc.). Watch a few detailed PC build guide videos (from channels like Linus Tech Tips, JayzTwoCents, Paul's Hardware, Gamers Nexus) to familiarize yourself with the assembly process before you start. Take your time, stay organized, and enjoy building your new gaming rig! Good luck!

Edit Report
Pub: 18 Apr 2025 09:46 UTC
Edit: 04 May 2025 21:39 UTC
Views: 115