Having a gaming PC is the dream of many. Consoles are no longer the popular and most common option to play. Although it may sound complicated, with this guide we explain the main components and steps so you know how to assemble your gaming pc.
Table of Contents
Components of a gaming PC
To know how to assemble a gaming PC by parts , you must first know the basic elements you need:
Graphic card
It is one of the star components when playing video games. It will allow you to enjoy more or less realistic graphics . The more you invest in it, the better results you will get in this regard.
For example, if you spend between 100 and 250 euros, surely your graphics card is ideal for games of no more than 1080p resolution. However, if you invest more, in the market you can find perfect options for 4k resolutions.
CPU
The CPU or the Central Processing Unit will be vital for your PC, since without it… it will not work. It is the one that interprets the actions of the operating system and in short, it will be the brain of your computer .
To get an optimal experience, you will have to assess the capacity of your CPU . You should therefore look at the number of cores and frequencies it has.
In general, for many games it will be enough for the CPU to use four cores (or even one or two if they are somewhat older and/or less demanding). Keep in mind that if the CPU has a lot of power, the processor will have to match and have it too.
Processor
It will depend on the budget you have. The normal thing is that you choose between AMD (Ryzen 3 range) or Intel (3 range) if you opt for a more affordable gaming PC. If you want a very powerful one, you will have to go for the Ryzen 7 or i7 option (if you choose AMD or Intel, respectively).
Heatsink
The heat sink releases heat that a computer component can build up. In the case of a gaming PC, the ideal is to choose a heatsink with a size according to the processor to keep it at an optimal temperature. It is also advisable to have a case designed to cool all the components of your computer together.
Base plate
All the important internal elements and components of your PC (such as the processor, RAM and hard drive) are connected to it . That is why it is so important, since it is like the skeleton of your device.
To acquire the motherboard, you must first choose your socket (the place or module where the processor will be installed). The latter can be AMD or Intel. The general recommendation is that for an AMD gaming PC, choose an AM4 socket and for an Intel one, a 1200 socket.
You will also have to choose the size of your motherboard depending on your needs (keep in mind that for powerful gaming PCs the ideal is ATX or EATX sizes).
RAM memory
This is where data from apps or programs you use is temporarily stored . For your gaming PC, it will again depend on the money you have. You can find RAM from 8GB to more powerful 16GB. For the latter, you will have to invest around 150 euros. The larger its size, the better performance.
HDD
It is important above all so that the system runs smoothly and avoid delays and stoppages of programs. Although this will not be so decisive for your games, it will influence the installation, loading and starting. For a gaming PC, the ideal is to have an SSD or solid state drive (this stores information on microchips with memories that are interconnected).
5 steps to install your gaming PC
After you have chosen the elements for your dream gaming PC, it is time to install them. This is the order you will have to follow:
- Install the motherboard: you must be careful not to scratch it. You’ll need to line it up with the I/O panel and then put in the screws.
- Install the memory: on the motherboard, you have to find the slots for the RAM memory and place it carefully, exerting the necessary pressure.
- Install the processor: depending on the one you have purchased, you will have to follow some assembly instructions. Even so, the most normal thing is that you have to remove the metal bar from the CPU to find the support where the processor will go.
- Install the heatsink: In this case, you will also have to read the instructions of the one you bought, but usually it will be enough for you to connect the four holes that are near the processor module.
- Install the graphics card: on the motherboard of your PC, you have to locate the space intended for the graphics card and place it in that place. Then you will have to secure it with its corresponding screws. Later, you must connect the PC to the power supply with the necessary cables. And ready!
As you can see, the process is not as complicated as it seemed and now you can focus on other details that are also crucial, such as choosing the best monitor for your games.
