Building a gaming computer is more than just a hobby for some, it’s a way to have a personal, high-performance machine that’s designed with your needs in mind. You can choose a pre-configured PC that suits most of your requirements, but creating a custom build allows you to customize and upgrade the components over time.

The key to a successful PC build is to start with the right components. Having the right CPU and GPU will determine how well your PC performs, so research what games you want to play and look for recommended system requirements on the game vendor’s website or gaming review sites. Once you know what specifications to look for, shopping for parts becomes easier. Make sure to consider the size of your case and what other parts you might want to include, such as an SSD, RAM, or a liquid cooling system.

Once you have all the parts, assembling your PC is relatively simple and can be done in under an hour. It’s important to use a few PC build tools to keep the process organized, such as a project mat, antistatic wrist strap, and a screwdriver set. Ensure that you have all the necessary cables to connect your components, and follow the motherboard manufacturer’s instructions carefully when connecting power cables.

Once your system is assembled, it’s ready for you to add your operating system (OS). Prepare a Windows boot USB drive ahead of time and insert it into the computer before you turn it on. gaming pc builder