How to Build a Gaming PC?

Let us tell you the best technology investment that can benefit you in the long run. Spending some pennies on your gaming hardware to buy a new machine or upgrade the older one always assures you the best experience. A system of components reinforcing each other’s ability to perform makes the gaming more charming and mesmerizing. Therefore, you might be thinking of how to build a gaming PC or buy yourself a new pre-built PC, with all the hardware decided and put together by the manufacturer. There are chances that either one or the other component does not come up to your preferences.

Might be a few parts of this pre-built computer do not give you a satisfactory experience, and your gaming is not as much fun as it could be with a system built on your own. Yes, you heard it right. It is the investment we assure you can sharpen your gaming adventure. Making a gaming machine on your own rather than relying on an established one can be highly rewarding. While setting up your gaming PC, you are the boss who decides all the components, from the CPU, GPU, RAM, and ROM, to power sockets and supply.

Everything in the setup is selected according to your choices and needs; no compromises are needed. But what are the gains from going through such a demanding process? Is it fulfilling your inner soul to do something different or learn a new skill? Or it pays off in uplifting the performance and gaming fluidity. First, the notion must be dejected that building a PC is hectic. It is fascinating to put the pieces of your gaming system together and wait for it to astonish you with the results.

You just need thorough guidance on selecting the perfect pieces for your PC and putting them together. This information is fundamental, and we have tried our best to make this article a thorough and deep guide for all, whether you are a beginner or have some knowledge of PC components. We have broken the process into manageable steps, just follow them and build your personal computer. Just have a keen view of your preferences in the background so that you do not miss any feature you wanted so bad. You might go to the market and buy yourself a brand new PC, with all the hardware decided and put together by the manufacturer.

PREP 1: PC Build Tools

Are you going to build a PC and that too without tools? It does not seem knowledgeable. Grasp all the tools to help you link and put the equipment together. Getting what you need throughout the process prevents any disturbance that comes your way once you start it. So here are the tools you would often need, so arrange them earlier.

• Workspace: You need a sufficient surface area to place all the components together. The site must be large enough to accommodate the PC parts, peripherals, and tools. So the best option is to choose a wide table and a comfortable chair to sit on.

• Screwdrivers: For almost all the tasks of building a PC, you need Phillips No. 2 Screwdriver. But for one job, you may need to use Phillips No 1 Screwdriver, inserting an M.2 device in the motherboard.

Pro-tip: Instead of simple screwdrivers, use magnetic ones. They would make the screws and pins stick to them. As if the pins fall inside the case. It is pretty annoying to pick them.

Additional prep tools

As given below, you may need other tools to facilitate you throughout the building process. 

• Organization system: You are not handling a single component; there is much to handle, which must not be mixed. For example, to install a single piece, additional parts help you put it in the system like cables, screws, a manual, etc. Do not spread the things on the working surface; allow them to mix up. Instead, organize things so that whenever you need any particular tool, it is easily accessible and distinguishable for use.

Pro-tip: You can use Magnetic trays to keep the screws stuck to a place or use trays with separated compartments where screws can be assorted in small sections.

• Multiple light sources: Your working area should be well-lightened so that light finds direct ways to the components you are dealing with. You must keep a part aside, grab the second one, stand straight, and bend over the ingredients. So during all these activities, there should be no obstacle between your hardware and the light.

Pro-tip: Arranging multiple light sources might be complex for you. So you can use a torch, a mobile phone light, and a desk lamp. A moving light source is the best option to get the details of every corner and nook.

• Anti-static wrist-strap: This tool is not a mandatory commodity; you can even work without it. But as these straps are not costly and using them can prevent the occurrence of any sort of electrostatic discharge, we recommend you to buy and use them.

• Zip ties: Again, buying these ties is all your personal choice. Things are workable without this accessory, but if you compile all the cables inside your computer with these ties, you can prevent the system from being messy.

• Scissors: Scissors are a must-have option as you need them to cut the cables, zip ties, and wires used in packing the PC hardware.

PREP 2: Gaming PC Cases

After assorting all the tools, choosing a case for your PC is prioritized. Then we will proceed towards selecting all the parts. But what are the criteria for choosing a PC case? And what should be the concerning areas? Well, deciding on a perfect-sized case varies from user to user. You must pick a PC case by keeping in mind the destined location to place it. Do not go for sensitive material and construction if you plan to put it under the desk or cover it with something. A powerfully built case with sturdy looks is enough in such a case.

Spending money on these things matters only when you want perfection in the entire system, and you are more of a person who loves aesthetics. You would not notice any standard set by the manufacturers for developing these cases. But three general sizes are commonly available: Full-Tower cases, Mid-Tower cases, and Mini-Tower cases. You can get the one that resembles your desired machine.

More detail on cases:

• Full-tower cases: PC cases are supposed to be compatible with the motherboards. When buying a case, we opt to check its use and adjustability with other computer components, mainly the motherboard. Full tower cases are the largest and thus tend to accommodate extended and large-sized ATX motherboards. Their length measures 18 to 20 inches and their width measures about 8 inches. Users can pair this full-length case with ATX motherboards, but why would one like to go for such a massive system? It can occupy so much space; still, people pick this pair. The answer is that they want the system open to upgrades in the future. The large case can give accessible accommodation to external large storage devices, and you can also put a cooling setup in place. So in the future, the specifications of your system will not become obsolete, and you will be able to improve it by keeping updated from time to time.ll be able to improve it by keeping updated from time to time.

• Mid-tower cases: These cases come with some variations in size but are the most widely used shells for a PC. These cases come with some variations in form factor and are the most commonly used shells for a PC. Their dimensions are 17-20 inches in length, 18-20 inches tall, and 6-8 inches in width. These cases have enough space for all your needs of arranging a gaming setup like the CPU, graphics cards, a suitable cooling system, and storage and memory drives. This casing option allows you to have a modest size that not only gives you the freedom to have necessary components fitted inside it but also occupies less space and quenches your aesthetic need. They are also a good pair with standard full-size motherboards.

• Mini-tower cases: This option is quite remarkable and comes in a compact version, but there is no room left for an upgrade once you have set the components up in this shell. You must be careful while picking this cover, as it requires something different from other covers. Like the small space, it requires particular components mainly built for it. For example, half-length cards and drives and a modest cooling system are all you can have with this form factor. And later, if you plan to replace any component with a larger and more advanced one, there is no extra space for it. Therefore, a small tower case is not recommended as it limits your system to a few specifications you can not upscale. Instead, pick a larger one, even if you do not get the real strategy behind this selection. You will realize with time how efficient and relaxing an experience you are enjoying with this big pack. You can also check other features that vary from case to case due to the price. Make sure the build quality is premium; it allows noise reduction and facility to keep the things sorted inside the shell.

PREP 3: Gaming PC Parts

Are you done with all the essential things? Come up to the next part; getting your hands on the necessary components. Here we can recall the real purpose of building a gaming PC. Getting a built-in system and making some advances can be sufficient to have an above-average machine. But the headache you get in for sorting the best components and then assembling them is not a futile task. We know a gaming console finds its sole use in upscaling the gaming experience. But the PC you put together can be more powerful and long-lasting than this console. But things can go the other way if you do not know the features of these components. After all, having powerful parts is all we need in our new system. So be attentive to the specifications and prioritize them wisely. Here we have enlisted the mandatory elements you must have on your PC.

Gaming PC Parts List:

• Central processing unit (CPU)

• Motherboard

• Memory (RAM)

• Graphics processing unit (GPU)

• Storage

• Power supply unit (PSU)

• System cooling

• Gaming peripherals

• Operating system (OS)

Pro-tip: PC hardware works only if the parts are compatible. So check out the features required to be compatible with other components like sockets, ports, and others while purchasing.

Step by Step Guide to Building a Gaming PC

Now that you have done all the preparatory stages, it is time to act and put the things together. The exact fun and creative things are on the door. Although the procedure is exciting and easy-going, doing proper research and getting guidance from someone can be helpful if you are not an avid tech lover. But if you have been someone playing with the PC parts for an extended period and understand some technicalities, this building up can be a wondrous experience for you. Let us dive into the detailed steps to know how things can flow.

STEP 1: INSTALL CPU

Parts/tools: Motherboard, CPU

Open up the packages and start setting the parts one by one. First things first, get the motherboard and CPU out of their packaging. Make sure your hands are dust and oil-free, as if you touch their pins and ports with dirty hands, it can cost you loss in the form of a loose connection between the components. Place the units, motherboard, and the CPU, on your working surface and connect them. Grab the CPU socket, which comes with its plastic covering.

These sockets have a tiny metal lever next to them, which needs to be pulled away to open the metal tray. So press this lever softly and move it to the side. It will open the tray where the CPU socket is seated. A CPU carries an arrow and must align it with the socket arrow. Once the CPU and the socket are paired, close the tray by lowering and pressing the metal lever.

Pro-tip: Do not use harsh means to settle the two devices with each other. It is not going to work.

Pro-tip: The plastic cap on the socket carries sensitive pins that can be uprooted if you forcefully remove the lid. Do not remove it, as it would separate itself while pairing with the CPU.

STEP 2: (OPTIONAL) INSTALL M.2 SSDs

Parts/tools: Motherboard, M.2 SSD, Phillips #0 screwdriver, motherboard user manual

This step is essential if you want to add one or more storage drives to the system. But before initiating, grab the Phillips No. 0 screwdriver, M.2 SSD, and the motherboard. To install an M.2 solid state drive on your system, first, you have to find its slot, which is present on the motherboard. You can find it easily, but if you can’t, the motherboard’s user manual can help determine this slot’s exact location. Once you find it, use a Phillips No.0 screwdriver to remove the screw present across this slot. Insert the card into the space and put the screw back. Now your drive is installed and set to perform.

Pro-tip: Plan storage wisely as an M.2 drive placed in your motherboard can limit the space for other storage devices. Opt for this option only if it is mandatory.

Troubleshooting: Sometimes, this device is seated in the motherboard but not recognizable and hence not functional. You can try to run it manually in the BIOS to make it operate in the system.

STEP 3: INSTALL CPU COOLING

Parts/tools: Motherboard with installed CPU, CPU cooler, thermal paste, CPU cooler manual

Arranging a proper cooling system and putting it in shape seems a complex procedure, but in reality, it is not. To ease things, we must say, applying thermal paste can be a challenging task for you if you are a newbie and have never done this before. Let us know the demands and process of setting a cooling system in your motherboard pre-installed on the CPU.

You can get proper directions through the CPU cooler manual to install a cooler because these coolers come from different manufacturers and provide instructions to install them. You can not apply the same process to all the coolers for putting them in the system. Some other components you require to install a CPU are the motherboard paired with the CPU, thermal paste, cooler, and manual.

Now comes the step of mounting this cooler to the motherboard. Usually, a motherboard carries a bracket on which some coolers can be seated. But remember, some coolers do not require this mounting bracket; therefore, you must remove the preinstalled bracket in your motherboard. Fix the cooler on this bracket, but one step might be added here to improve its function.

These coolers have a conductive side attached to the CPU for power connection. A thermal paste is applied on this side which helps dissipate the heat. Usually, some coolers come with a thermal paste pre-applied, but in case you do not get this layer, you can apply it yourself. You have to use this layer before installing the cooler on the motherboard.

While applying a layer, go easy with smaller chunks and spread it over the entire surface. Once applied, place the cooler in its proper location on the CPU and press gently. Maybe this step was not easy for you, and you have used a lot of paste. But relax; it can be wiped easily.

Pro-tip: If you want to remove thermal paste pre-applied to the cooler or wipe the extra paste off the surface of the table or hardware, you can apply 90% isopropyl alcohol with the help of the cloth. It makes wiping the paste as easy as tapping the dirt on any part. Open the thermal paste on any paper or fabric you have kept with yourself to prevent a big chunk from coming out and spreading on the equipment.

Troubleshooting: You might not get the same result as expected, and the system is not set up as desired. The reason might be challenging to troubleshoot or related to inappropriately applied thermal paste. Nothing to bother; just get the cooler out of the motherboard, wipe off the paste and repeat the process.

STEP 4: INSTALL MEMORY (RAM)

Parts/tools: Motherboard, RAM, motherboard user manual

Again, the memory module is to be seated in the motherboard, where you can get all the instructions from the motherboard’s manual. There could be chances that you do not need to open the manual. Therefore, check out the number of memory slots engraved on the motherboard and the RAM units you want to put in them. Usually, a motherboard offers 2-4 memory slots, not more than that. You can slip one in each space if you have four memory modules.

But if you have just two memory modules, consider giving proper spacing to the slots, like inserting one module in the first slot and the other in the third slot. Otherwise, spaces will be populated for no reason, and you can not make them work optimally.

Pro-tip: The notch embellished on your RAM helps you align it in the correct direction. But note that this notch is not located in the central position. So be wise while placing your RAM according to its location.

Troubleshooting: RAM gets seated in the motherboard quickly, but after installing, you might face an issue making you wonder why this chip is not running on your PC. The reason is that sometimes this memory module is not installed perfectly; therefore, it does not operate when the entire system is working. Here again, the only option is to re-install it and then turn on the system.

STEP 5: (OPTIONAL) DO A TEST RUN OUTSIDE THE CASE

Parts/tools: Motherboard with CPU and CPU cooler installed, RAM, GPU, PSU, screwdriver, motherboard user manual, PC monitor (attached to GPU)

This is the time to have a quick test for the efforts you have put on up till now. The components we have summed up, like the motherboard, the CPU, the CPU cooler, and the RAM, must go through a short assessment. However, this assessment is only concerned with checking whether all the parts are functioning optimally or whether any parts are malfunctioning or dead. But this could be nerve-racking for you as all the components are fixed inside the chassis.

In a closed case, performing this test and then troubleshooting the cause of any malfunctioning is nerve-wracking. But we can not move further without ensuring that our efforts go in the right direction. To run this test, assort all the components, attach power cables, install the GPU, and connect them to the power supply. Make sure every piece is supplied with power. Some parts have power buttons that turn a tiny light on after pressing, indicating they are working now.

Now assess how each part is responding to the power supply. If you notice any component’s light is blinking, it may be a signal towards any issue. Try to troubleshoot the problem and resolve it using a manual guide. If your system qualifies for this test, cut off the power supply. It is better to wait for a while so that all the power lights on your motherboard are turned off, and no further current is left in it. Now you can get back to work.

STEP 6: MOUNT POWER SUPPLY

Parts/tools: PSU, case, PSU cables, Phillips #2 screwdriver

Grab the Phillips No.2 screwdriver, screws, the power supplying unit, and its cables. A power supplying unit comes with a fan, which helps maintain airflow. While installing this unit, it is essential to consider the direction of this fan so that it can work fully. Though the process is easy, following a manual book can direct the steps into straight and concise steps. Get the PSU and cables out of the packaging box to start with the mounting process.

Now decide to mount this unit at a proper place where fans find the best suitable location to support airflow. The back of your case near the bottom line is probably the best place to seat a PSU. Here fans can easily face the outside environment if you orient it correctly. Mount the unit appropriately with screws and tighten them using a Phillips screwdriver. After finishing the setup, attach power cables to ensure power supply.

To best orient the fans and get a decent flow of air, check out whether a vent is available at the bottom back of the case or not. If the vent is open, you must place the PSU upside down to enable airflow. On the contrary, when there is no vent, the fan must face upward. Do not ignore the surface where you are going to place this setup. If this is a carpeted floor, ensure the fans are aimed upward.

STEP 7: INSTALL MOTHERBOARD

Parts/tools: Case, motherboard, I/O shield (if not attached to the motherboard), Phillips #2 screwdriver, screws, motherboard user manual

You can install the motherboard in case using the Phillips No2 screwdriver, getting the necessary information from the motherboard user manual. All you need is to find its exact place and some screws. Some boards require more screws, like the full-size ATX motherboards, which need nine mounting pins. At the same time, small panels are settled with lesser screws. An essential part of the motherboard’s installation process is its thin I/O shield, which comes with sharp cutting edges, so be careful while handling it.

This metal sheet covers the inputs and outputs of a device to prevent it from being damaged when cables are plugged and unplugged frequently. Usually, all motherboards are equipped with this shield, which must be placed on the ports before installing the motherboard and fixing it. There is no need to be so strict while inserting the screws. Just put a screw in its hole, and turn it until the board is in its place. Now move up to creating the power supply connection. You can power up the board using two power connectors; one comprises eight pins while the other has 24 pins.

Pro-tip: Install only those standoffs necessary to be a part of the motherboard, and that too before mounting it in the case.

STEP 8: INSTALL GPU

Parts/tools: Motherboard, GPU, Phillips #2 screwdriver, screws, motherboard user manual

Install the GPU in one of the PCI x 16 slots with the help of screws and establish a power connection. The tools you may require include screws, a Phillips no.2 screwdriver, and the manual. Before starting the process, remove any expansion slots or I/O metal covers on the back of the case so that they do not hamper the ability of the graphics card to settle in there. Spot the PCI Express 16 slot on the motherboard, which stands out in length and color compared to other niches. This is where to set the graphics card if there is just one slot.

But if you get more slots, get information from the manual about which one to rely upon over the other. Here you must ensure the card enjoys enough space for breathing and working. After selecting the slot, insert the GPU by aligning it with retention brackets and the hole. Gently push it inside; the GPU is settled when you hear the click. Unlike the other parts, you only require one or two screw pins to secure this card in its place. Once reserved, the GPU is set to make your excitement real.

STEP 9: INSTALL STORAGE

Parts/tools: Motherboard, SSDs, HDDs, Phillips #2 screwdriver, screws, case/chassis user manual

Most components are already set up in the chassis; let us now add hard drives. Storage drives like HDDs and SSDs feature two standard sizes; 2.5 inches and 3.5 inches. To install a hard drive, motherboards must have suitable bays which accommodate these devices. An array of bays, all having different dimensions, is provided inside the case. They either look like simple metal brackets or have two metal clasps on both sides of the bay and act like a switch.

You have to grab these clasps and squeeze them to open the bay. Bring the tray out of the bay and place your drive on it. Remember the size compatibility, a 3.5 inches long tray can be replaced with a 2.5 inches tray, but as it is smaller, it can be loose and moving. So if you are opting for this replacement, fix the 2.5 inches tray with screws. Put the tray back in its bay; a click sound sets it in the bracket.

Drive is seated in the slot; connect it with a SATA cable and a power supply to help it function. If there are no metal clasps, and you get just simple holes in bracket form, then simply slide the drive in the space and settle it with screws. Usually, two screws get the work done, but you can use more if the user guide recommends doing so.

Pro-tip: Bays seem confusing? The 2.5-inch drives are acceptable in the 3.5-inch bays. Further, the user manual can help you locate bays inside the case and decide which one to use for your purpose.

STEP 10: INSTALL OPERATING SYSTEM

Parts/tools: PC, monitor, mouse, keyboard, OS saved to a flash drive

In this step, you have to install the operating system and make sure all the PC parts you have installed so far are recognizable by the system or not. So let us first install the operational machinery using a flash drive. First, you must turn the PC on, make some necessary changes to drive the data from your USB, and install the operating system after restarting the computer. We have assembled the heavy components, which required some technicalities.

Now connect the monitor and peripheral inputs like mouse and keyboard and complete the machine setup. Turn on the computer after plugging in the USB drive in which you have retained the data related to the operating system. The system will use this data and show you the first screen from where you can enter the BIOS or system setup. Just press the enter key and move on to the next screen. You will get multiple options; first, move to the system information tab.

This tab gives you a summary of the PC parts, are they recognized by the system or not, and how are they performing? After ensuring your efforts have proved successful, move on to the next step. BIOS setups vary from device to device, so you must find the Boot page. Go to Boot order and mark your USB drive as the option to install the drivers. Once the changes are done, click the restart button. After turning on, the computer will extract data from the flash drive, and after following simple steps, it will be booted.

Pro-tip: If your peripheral devices like mouse or keyboard are not working on getting you in the setup, they might not be connected reasonably. Check the connection and try again. Prepare the OS drivers in the USB flash before initiating the PC build-up. Once you set the machine, just insert the drive and install the OS.

Troubleshooting: If all the parts are set well and the PC is still not turning on, do not disturb the internal cables and components. There might be an issue with the power supply or connection. Try plugging it again.