PC Gaming Setup: Parts You Need To Build One (2022)

Gadgets

May 6, 2022

Constructing a PC gaming setup is like investing in a versatile machine that can do anything – video streaming, video editing, intense gaming, you name it. The cost might be high, but this PC gaming setup can easily last at least 5 years, maybe 10, with regular upgrades and maintenance.

Understandably, the process of building a PC gaming setup can be intimidating. However, before you start cracking your head over how to build one, maybe first start with what parts you need.

The 7 Fundamental Parts

1. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)

GPU, otherwise known as the graphics card, is an essential component in a PC gaming setup. It renders images from the PC and displays them on the monitor. The stronger the GPU, the better it facilitates in-game graphics and settings.

You’d need to decide between Nvidia and AMD, producers of state-of-the-art GPUs. Once you’ve decided, you can proceed to choose between the following cards:

The latest Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070, 3080, 3090 – Newer and future-proof, but pricier.
The older Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 or the equally powerful AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT – Affordable but less future-proof.

2. CPU (Central Processing Unit)

CPU is what runs your computer. It delegates instructions and transmits information from one system to another within the computer for software and hardware functions. Hence, the better your CPU, the quicker it delegates and transmits.

We recommend the Intel Core i7-10700. It’s powerful, state-of-the-art, and it comes with a cooling unit.

3. Motherboard

The motherboard is where all the hardware parts are within the computer. It’s essential to find a motherboard compatible with the other parts in your pc gaming setup.

We recommend selecting one that supports your GPU and CPU. You can choose one with a built-in Wi-Fi system or an integrated graphics card.

There are 3 sizes – full-size, mini, and microATX. We recommend the full-size ATX design as it’s more affordable, easier to build, and has more space to fit in components.

4. RAM (Random Access Memory)

The RAM, otherwise known as the memory, is the component that determines the amount of data your computer can process.

To put it simply, RAM is where information is stored and accessed. The more RAM there is, the better your computer can process data and more of it. In short, this component is essential for gaming and productivity.

You can choose between 16GB to 128 GB of memory and 3000 to 4800 MHz of speed. A bigger memory and higher speed are undeniably better. However, it is more expensive, and not every system can power higher speed anyways. So, medium size and speed will probably be enough.

5. Storage

Storage is where unused files are stored, and it either comes in SSDs (Solid State Drives) or HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). The bigger your storage, the more space you have for games, files, and media files. We recommend getting 2 SSDs, one for games and another for system files.

6. Power Supply

The power supply is another vital component of the computer as it extracts electricity and supplies it to individual systems in the computer. The power supply is the one component you can’t afford to overlook because you might literally end up with a burning computer.

First, calculate how much power each part of your computer will draw. Second, select a power supply that provides more than enough. However, be careful to not spend on a power supply you’d never use.

7. Case

The case for your PC gaming setup is more of a personal aesthetic choice. You can choose to set up an ‘open-air’ build, which may lead to dust getting into your components. So, we recommend a case to protect your components from external objects.

You can choose cases with fans for extra cooling as well. Also, if your motherboard has USB options, remember to check that your case has the connections.

The First Step Towards a PC Gaming Setup

We hope this PC gaming setup guide has given you a better idea of what parts you need to build your PC gaming setup! Remember to consider your usage and budget when selecting your components.