Normally, the average user does not give much importance to the technical specifications and overall performance of a desktop computer. In this case the only goal is for the machine to have enough power to allow it to carry out everyday tasks, such as creating, editing and saving Office files and documents. However, if we are talking about real "hardcore gamers", users who are passionate about video games who are not satisfied with anything below the best, then choosing the best performing hardware components on the market is a matter of "life or death". Only high-end hardware, which can guarantee the highest level of performance, will be accepted; everything else simply does not exist. While essentially a normal desktop computer is apparently no different from a computer designed and built exclusively for gaming, in reality we are talking about two machines that have very little in common. The parts that make up a computer dedicated to the world of video games should come from a very careful selection process because they will have to guarantee the highest level of reliability even during the most stressful and demanding gaming sessions.
Steps
Step 1. Choose the processor
Just like any other modern electronic device, the microprocessor is the brain of the computer. So it is essential to choose the correct one.
- The two big giants of the computer processor world are Intel and AMD. Each produces a wide range of CPU models that differ in power and cost.
- The general rule to take into consideration is that the higher the number of "cores" present in a single microprocessor, the greater the computing power that the latter can provide.
- A good processor designed for the gaming world falls within a price range ranging from € 200 to € 1,000.
Step 2. Choose a gaming optimized motherboard
If the processor is the brain of a computer, the motherboard represents the nervous system, since it has the task of putting all the individual parts in communication with each other by correctly sending the commands generated by the CPU.
- To ensure a minimum response time, the motherboard should be able to effortlessly handle the amount of data generated by the video game you want to use.
- You can buy a good motherboard already at a starting price of 100 €.
- The most famous motherboard manufacturers on the market are ASUS, MSI and Gigabyte.
Step 3. Invest in a good amount of RAM
Video games require a particularly intensive use of memory, so to lighten the work of the processor you will have to buy RAM modules with a large memory capacity.
- Normally the amount of RAM installed on a computer designed for gaming starts at 4 GB, up to 16 GB. Check your motherboard user manual to find out which RAM modules are compatible in terms of data transfer speed (how often your memory works).
- Depending on the storage capacity and data transfer speed, RAM modules cost from € 20.
Step 4. Buy a great graphics card
As gaming comes down to a high-resolution image with millions of colors and graphics detail, purchasing a graphics card that delivers the highest level of performance is a must. The higher the computing power of the GPU, the better the final visual result will be.
- Modern video cards, just like RAM modules, are sold with different technical specifications. The minimum choice falls on a card that has at least 4GB of memory to produce acceptable graphics rendering with most games.
- You can buy a decent graphics card for as little as $ 100, but if your goal is to own a high-end one, then be prepared to spend at least $ 500-1,000.
- The two most famous manufacturers of gaming graphics cards, which practically hold the shared monopoly, are NVidia and ATI. Again, both offer a wide range of products suitable for all budgets and all needs.
Step 5. Choose a power supply that can guarantee a high level of power
Computers designed for the world of video games are greedy for electrical power to be able to correctly perform the processing of all the amount of data. By purchasing a power supply capable of delivering a lot of power, you can be sure that all the electronic components in your computer work without problems.
- A mid-range computer needs around 500W of power, while a high-end machine can consume up to 1,000W.
- The price of a desktop power supply varies based on the power it delivers. A 500 W power supply has a price that varies between 50 and 200 €.
Step 6. Choose the appropriate case
Since gaming computers need a lot of power to properly power all components, they also generate a great deal of heat as a result. For this reason it is necessary to choose a case that has an adequate ventilation system to avoid overheating of the individual electronic components.
- You can buy a suitable house from as little as € 50.
- You can also install additional fans or a liquid cooling system to improve overall ventilation.
Step 7. Complete your computer by purchasing accessories
You'll need a large, high-resolution monitor (or more than one), a mouse and keyboard built specifically for gamers, and a good pair of headphones. Normally these are the elements needed to complete a dedicated gaming computer.
Although they are not indispensable components they will be able to complete your gaming experience making it much more fulfilling
Advice
- Always read the instruction manuals of all the components you have purchased. Make sure you read all the technical specification details to avoid running into compatibility issues.
- If you don't have the experience to build a computer from scratch or if you just don't feel like it, ask for help from a professional technician to do it for you.
Warnings
- Before working on the internal parts of a computer, it is best to disconnect it completely from the mains. Otherwise you run the serious risk of receiving a shock by coming into direct contact with the components installed on the motherboard or with the power supply.
- Always try to prevent the most delicate electronic components from coming into contact with a discharge of static electricity; if this happens they could be irreparably damaged.
