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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Components for Your Custom PC
Hello there! We're your trusted team at It's Fix'd, committed to providing you with all the tech solutions you need. If you're planning to build a custom PC, you're in the right place. This guide will assist you in choosing the right components for your needs.
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
At the heart of your computer is the CPU. It carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing basic arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output (I/O) operations. The CPU's power and speed significantly impact your PC's performance. Two leading manufacturers dominate the CPU market: Intel and AMD. When choosing, consider your budget, the software you plan to use, and whether you plan to use your PC for tasks like gaming or video editing.
2. Motherboard
The motherboard is like the nervous system of your computer - it connects all your components together so they can communicate. When selecting a motherboard, ensure it's compatible with the CPU you've chosen and has enough ports and slots for all your components.
3. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
For gamers, video editors, and designers, the GPU is a crucial component as it handles rendering images, animations, and videos. There are integrated and dedicated GPUs. Serious gamers and professionals should opt for a dedicated GPU for higher performance.
4. Random Access Memory (RAM)
RAM temporarily stores data the CPU uses, contributing to the speed and efficiency of your PC. The amount of RAM you need depends on your usage. For most users, 8GB is the minimum, but for heavy gaming or professional work, 16GB or more is recommended.
5. Storage: Hard Drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD)
HDDs and SSDs store your software, documents, pictures, music, videos, etc. SSDs are faster and more durable but more expensive. HDDs offer more storage space for a lower price. Many PC builders choose a smaller SSD for the operating system and frequently used programs and a larger HDD for other files.
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The PSU or Power Supply Unit powers all your components. A good PSU will provide stable power and keep your components safe. The power requirement of your PSU will depend on the overall power draw of your system. When choosing a PSU you should look at the certified power efficiency rating. The overall rating of a good PSU is called 80+ certified but there are also subcategory that are as follows in order from worst to best, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum.
7. Cooling system
Keeping your PC's temperature down is critical for optimal performance and longevity. Your cooling system could be air (fans) or liquid-based (coolant). The choice between an air cooler and a liquid cooler depends on two factors, personal preference, and the amount of heat your CPU produces. When it comes to personal preference what that means is what looks the best to you but also the maintenance involved, with an air cooled system the only real maintenance you have to do is making sure your fans are working properly and occasionally cleaning dust off of them, on the other hand custom liquid cooling involves a lot more maintenance like draining and replacing the liquid in the loop every 4 to 6 months to prevent bacteria growth which can cause cooling issues. the easy medium for the two is what is called an AIO or All-In-One water coolers. The difference is that an AIO is a closed loop where you can not change the liquid meaning if the liquid ends up evaporating you will need to but a whole new cooler, you also can not see the liquid going threw the tubes but often they come with RGB fans that are hooked up the a radiator that cool the liquid so you still get a little bit of lighting and esthetic
8. PC Case
Last but not least, all your components need a home - the PC case. Consider the size of your motherboard, how many drives you'll install, the kind of cooling system you plan to use, and what you would like to be able to plug into the front of the computer as certain cases have different ports on the front for easy access to something you might plug in and unplug often and of course, aesthetics.
Remember, building a custom PC should cater to your individual needs and budget. Whether you're building a budget PC or a high-end gaming rig, every component has a role to play.
The It's Fix'd team is here for you every step of the way. We're happy to consult on your custom PC build, helping you find the components that will serve you best. Feel free to contact us at 401-753-4263 or send us a message through our contact form. Our top-notch customer service, available 24/7, will make sure you're never left in the dark.
