What You Should Look For In A Gaming PC
More people are playing video games worldwide, expanding the demand for gaming PCs. Fortunately, you can easily buy and build these computers nowadays.
You want to play the latest games at the highest quality, so you must find the computer with the best specifications. More importantly, it should provide the best value for money.
This article will help you select the ideal gaming PC by explaining its components. As a result, you could select the best one based on your needs and budget.
- Processors or CPU
- Graphics cards or GPU
- Internal storage
- Memory or RAM
- Power supply and cooling system
1. Processor or CPU
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The central processing unit or CPU is the “brain” of your computer. It sets how fast a computer can execute tasks.
Your gaming PC’s processor should be able to keep up with the demands of modern video games. You can ensure that by looking at the number of cores, threads, and frequency.
A processor with multiple cores can split tasks among them, allowing for higher performance and efficiency. The usual standard number of cores for playing video games was six.
However, you would want one with at least eight cores since each new video game release requires higher specs. Processors also have threads that organize data from the cores.
The common standard was 12, but you may want to get a gaming PC with 24. That way, you can easily keep up with the latest titles.
You must also consider the frequency of your CPU. The general rule of thumb is to have a PC with 3.0 GHz, but you may want to go higher.
2. Graphics cards or GPU
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Modern video games can be alluring due to their hyper-realistic visuals. However, your computer would need a powerful graphics processing unit to produce them.
Fortunately, 2022 offers high-quality options for your first graphics card. For example, AMD will release its RX 4900 XTX and XT on December 13.
The question is, do you play games with realistic graphics? You might spend too much money if you do not.
For example, the Nvidia RTX 4090 can run Genshin Impact at 13K resolution. However, you might not notice the graphics boost due to its cartoony visuals.
However, such a powerful GPU will allow you to experience AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Ghost of Tsushima in exceptional detail.
3. Internal storage
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You will install numerous titles that are 10GB to 100GB or more. That is why you must have a spacious internal memory unit in your gaming PC.
The standard is 1TB, but you should have at least 2TB nowadays. As mentioned, new games require more memory storage and extra space.
The extra space would allow you to use your computer for other tasks like remote work. Still, you will need vacant space in internal memory for a dedicated gaming PC.
More space lets you install more titles in the future. Moreover, games tend to develop a laggy performance as you fill internal storage by more than half.
Choose solid-state drives or SSDs because they execute commands quicker than hard disk drives (HDD). It will also ensure your computer boots up in seconds.
4. Memory or RAM
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RAM stands for random access memory, enabling your computer to execute short-term tasks quickly. More RAM means it will start programs faster and run them smoother.
A gaming PC needs lots of RAM to keep up with the demands of modern video games. I recommended 8GB for gaming in another article about RAM.
However, the standard went up to 32GB as video games advanced significantly compared to last year. You should consider the other components before you purchase one.
Computers have motherboards that house their internal components. Some only work with specific types of RAM, so you should choose the one that fits your device.
5. Power supply and cooling system
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First-time PC builders and buyers often need to pay more attention to the power supply and cooling system. After all, they often focus on achieving the highest-quality graphics and frame rates.
The power supply allocates the right amount of electricity for each PC part. More importantly, it should have the appropriate safeguards to ensure your computer will not catch on fire!
For example, there have been reports of RTX 4090 cables burning and melting. Meanwhile, you should invest in a high-quality cooling system.
Gaming PCs generate significant amounts of heat as they consume more electricity. You may choose cooling fans, liquid cooling, and newer options.
Nevertheless, you need quality cooling to prevent PC parts from cooking inside the unit. Your choice will depend on your preferences and existing PC components.
Essential gaming PC accessories
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We only discussed the important parts of a gaming computer. However, you still need peripherals like a monitor, headset, mouse, and keyboard.
Your monitor should have a high resolution and refresh rate. Otherwise, you will experience lag and not see the visual quality expected from your graphics card.
You also need quality headphones to hear in-game music and sound effects. Invest in a high-quality pair to use while you are not playing.
You will also need it to have a superb microphone if you play with people online. Moreover, wired headphones often have better sound quality than wireless ones.
Next, you need to have a durable keyboard for your gaming PC. Specifically, you should go for a mechanical keyboard.
Its keys have individual switches, unlike regular keyboards, so they are more durable. More importantly, they register each keypress quickly, giving you the utmost control over your gaming experience.
Most of these keyboards are highly customizable. You may select your preferred colors and backlight. Also, you can have silent keys or loud ones if you prefer the “clickety-clack” of each stroke.
Lastly, you need a quality mouse. You want one that is not too heavy or bulky in your hands. Also, you would need to have a high DPI (dots per inch) to ensure high sensitivity and accuracy.
That is essential for Call of Duty, Valorant, and other games that require lightning-fast reflexes. Note that a better mouse does not guarantee more wins!
Conclusion
You may buy these parts and build a gaming PC yourself. On the other hand, you could purchase a pre-built gaming rig.
Note that building a PC is more budget-friendly, and you can ensure the best specs. Alternatively, you may purchase a gaming laptop to take your gaming experience while traveling.
You may also buy a console instead. For example, you could purchase the PlayStation 5 or the Nintendo Switch. Learn more by reading their Inquirer Tech articles.
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