Are you a PC gamer looking to build the ultimate gaming rig? Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a casual player, building your own gaming PC can be a fun and rewarding experience. But with so many components and configurations to choose from, it can also be overwhelming.
To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of 10 tips for building the ultimate gaming PC. Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to creating a powerful and reliable gaming machine that will give you hours of immersive gameplay.
Choose the Right CPU
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of your computer, so it’s important to choose the right one. For gaming, you’ll want a CPU with a high clock speed and multiple cores. Intel’s Core i7 and i9 processors, and AMD’s Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7 processors are popular choices. Some current examples of CPUs that are great for gaming are the Intel Core i9-13900K and the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X.
Pick the Right GPU
The GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is responsible for rendering the graphics in your games, so it’s critical for gaming performance. Nvidia’s GeForce RTX and AMD’s Radeon RX graphics cards are popular choices for gaming. Some current examples of GPUs that are great for gaming are the MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 4080 and the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT.
Get Enough RAM
Make sure to get enough RAM (Random Access Memory) to handle the demands of gaming. 16GB is a good starting point, but if you plan on multitasking or streaming your gameplay, consider going up to 32GB. Some current examples of RAM that are great for gaming are the Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro 32GB DDR4-3600 and the G.Skill Trident Z5 32GB DDR4-3200.
Choose a Good Power Supply
Your power supply is what delivers power to all the components in your PC, so it’s important to choose a good one. Look for a power supply with enough wattage to handle your components, and a high efficiency rating for optimal energy usage. Some current examples of power supplies that are great for gaming are the EVGA SuperNOVA 850 P6 and the Corsair RM850x.
Invest in a Solid-State Drive
An SSD (Solid-State Drive) can significantly improve load times and overall system performance. Consider getting an SSD as your primary storage device, and a larger traditional hard drive for additional storage. Some current examples of SSDs that are great for gaming are the Samsung 870 EVO Plus and the Western Digital 4TB WD Black Interal Drive. Additionally, if you wanted a more simplistic build, you may consider m.2. M.2 drives allow for faster speeds over a traditionally SSD and have sometimes half of the footprint. An example would be the Samsung 980 PRO SSD with a 2TB capacity.
Don’t Skimp on Cooling
Adequate cooling is critical for gaming performance and overall system longevity. Consider getting an aftermarket CPU cooler and additional case fans to keep your system cool and running smoothly. Some current examples of CPU coolers that are great for gaming are the Noctua NH-D15 and the Corsair H150i Elite Capellix. Some current examples of case fans that are great for gaming are the Noctua NF-A14 and the Corsair LL120. A review of the Corsair LL120’s can be seen here on YouTube in their debut release.
Consider the Motherboard Features
Your motherboard determines which components you can use, and what features your PC will have. Make sure to choose a motherboard that has the features you need, such as enough PCI-E slots for expansion cards, and the right ports for your peripherals. Some current examples of motherboards that are great for gaming are the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E and the MSI MPG B550 Gaming Edge WiFi.
Choose a Good Case
Your case not only holds all your components, but it also affects the airflow and cooling of your system. Look for a case with good ventilation, plenty of space for your components, and a design that fits your style. Some current examples of cases that are great for gaming are the Lian Li LI PC-O11 Dynamic EVO and the Phanteks Eclipse G500A.
Don’t Forget About Peripherals
While the components of your PC are important, don’t forget about the peripherals that complete your gaming experience. A good gaming monitor, keyboard, and mouse can significantly enhance your gameplay. Some current examples of peripherals that are great for gaming are the ASUS ROG Swift PG279QZ monitor, the Logitech G915 TKL keyboard, and the Razer DeathAdder V2 mouse. Check out our breakdown on some amazing gaming options is something like the PG279QZ isn’t an option.
Consider Future Upgrades
Technology is always advancing, so it’s important to consider future upgrades when building your gaming PC. Make sure to choose components that are easy to upgrade, and leave room for expansion in your case and motherboard. This will ensure that your gaming PC stays relevant for years to come.
By following these 10 tips, you’ll be well on your way to building the ultimate gaming PC. Of course, there are many other factors to consider when building a PC, but this should give you a solid foundation to start with. Happy building and happy gaming!