All the parts and processes of my first build
Back in April of 2021 I was feeling cooped up within the walls of my 17th floor apartment in Minneapolis amidst the global coronavirus pandemic. Naturally, I needed to something to do to keep my mind occupied.
I had recently started playing video games such as Fortnite, Rocket League, and Call of Duty: Warzone. I mainly played on my Xbox One but I know many people prefer to have a computer be there dedicated gaming “console”. The only computer I had was over 5 years old and had suffered an unfortunate drop when I was in college that severely limited its capability. To be frank, this computer wasn’t fit for gaming.
With a strong need for a new personal computer as well as a desire to continue casually gaming, I started researching how to build a gaming PC. I had never done it before but I knew several people who have had success and really enjoyed the process.
Long story short, I went for it and successfully built the computer that I am currently writing this story on. Below are the parts needed to build a computer along with the ones I used for my specific build.
Disclosure: There are affiliate links within this article and I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post. These are all products I highly recommend and have personally bought and used. I will not include links to items that I haven’t verified or personally used.
1. Case
The case of a PC is the big box that all of the components will fit in. Technically, you could make a PC without a case, but cases are actually really important in having optimal airflow and have your components work well together. Plus a PC without a case wouldn’t look very good either.
The case that I chose is the NZXT H710i in Black/Red. It looks awesome and has plenty of space to accommodate all of my components and optimal airflow.
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The Central Processing Unit is essentially the brain of your computer. The CPU retrieves and executes instructions and performs basic arithmetic, logic, and input/output operations of a computer system. The two biggest processor brands are AMD and Intel and people remain pretty divided on which brand trumps the other. However, both are great brands and both have processors that will work great for your specific build goal.
The CPU that I chose for my computer is the 10th gen Intel Core i7–10700K. This processor is great as it has integrated graphics which means that you can still utilize your computer without having to have a separate GPU. However, if you want to do any sort of gaming, you’ll need a separate, much better, GPU.
3. Motherboard
The motherboard is the backbone that ties all of the components together and allows them to interact with each other. Note, that not all processors and motherboards are compatible. It’s important to check that your CPU is compatible with your motherboard or vice versa. Typically, you can check the product description of motherboards to see which processors are compatible with it.
The motherboard that I decided on is the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge Motherboard.
4. Memory (RAM)
Random Access Memory (RAM) is the short-term memory of the computer. It’s the space where the computer can place data it’s currently working on so that it is readily accessible. The more RAM a computer has, the more data it can juggle at a given time.
8GB of RAM is a very standard size for most computers although it’s recommended to have 16GB of RAM for any hardcore gaming. I have two 8GB RAM sticks for a total of 16GB for my computer. Below is a link to the RAM that I use.
5. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is usually the most valuable component of a gaming PC to a hardcore gamer.
6. Storage
Storage is your computer’s long term memory, similar to how RAM acts as your computer’s short term memory. This component allows you to store and access data on a more long term basis. Storage for PC’s typically come in two forms: Solid State Drives (SSD) and Hard Disk Drives (HDD). The main difference is that HDD’s are a legacy storage technology that use spinning disks to write/read data whereas SSD’s are a newer technology that have less moving parts which makes them operate quicker and be less prone to damage.
I decided to go with a SSD for my PC. The one I chose was the TEAMGROUP GX1 960GB SSD.
7. Power Supply Unit
The power supply unit (PSU) is how you will connect your PC to your wall outlet and get power! This component will supply power to all components of your PC. It’s important to take note of the number of watts you want or need for your computer to operate. For the most part, for normal usage only 300–400w is needed but it is recommended to get 550–650w PSU or higher if you are going to do any high end gaming.
The PSU I chose is the NZXT C750 which is a 750 Watt PSU.
8. Cooling System
A PC cooling system’s job is to remove excess heat generated by other components to keep the components within optimal temperature ranges. This is especially important for the CPU. If the CPU gets too warm it can wear out more quickly and can even risk being damaged.
The cooling system I chose is the NZXT Kraken X53 RGB Liquid Cooler.
9. Peripherals
Peripherals are all of the other connected devices you’ll need in order to utilize your PC. The most essential peripherals you’ll need are a mouse, a keyboard and one or two monitors. These are all devices that you can connect to your PC to use and also can be easily replaced if necessary.
I’m not too picky when it comes to peripherals as I have a simple Logitech mouse, Dell keyboard and Dell monitors. If you are a hardcore gamer you’ll definitely want to make an investment in these pieces if you can to optimize your gaming experience.
10. Operating System (OS)
The operating system (OS) is the most important piece of software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer’s processes, memory, software and hardware. Without an OS, a computer is essentially useless.
The OS I use is Windows 10.
Thanks for reading! I hope that this article can set you on your way to building your very own PC. It’s a very rewarding feeling to successfully assemble a working PC.
-Cam
