With desktop and laptop computers being relatively inexpensive to buy, you may be scratching your head wondering why on earth you should even contemplate building your own PC from scratch. It is no longer the 1980s, but assembling your own computer is rising in the popularity stakes, and not just by veteran computer enthusiasts either.
Although it looks and sounds daunting, all it requires you to do is to buy some parts, install them and add cables; okay, so that is oversimplified admittedly, but think of it as grown-up Lego. Still need convincing about the DIY computer route? Let’s look at why building your own computer holds such merit:
1. You can get a high specification computer for less
Yes, although computers are comparatively inexpensive to the costs of yesteryear, for a high specification computer you can still expect to spend big bucks. If you buy high-end separate parts that are the same make as used in brand-name computers, you can build a PC that performs just as well and make dramatic savings of up to 50 percent.
2. You can choose exactly what you want
The problem with buying off the shelf products is that you invariably pay for features that you are not likely to use or ever want. Building your own PC means that you are not restricted by what the brands offer you, which when you investigate it, is a limited choice. For example, if you don’t need lots of storage because you use a cloud-based game, why pay for it?
Think about what you want your PC to be capable of and choose the parts accordingly. Whether you want to be able to experience your virtual world in higher definition or just want to have a go at building your own PC, here’s a list of the components you need:
- Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- Motherboard
- Memory
- Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
- Storage
- Monitor
- Power supply
- Case
Tip: Make sure that your motherboard can accommodate the various components. If you are making a serious gaming PC that is very complex or you a going to make PCs regularly, or even as a business, PCB design software can be invaluable for your circuit board design.
3. Easy to maintain and upgrade
The components are made in a standardized way so there are no nasty surprises when you do come to work on your PC, so you can maintain and upgrade your custom-built PC easily. Plus, the component manufacturers typically have expert customer support, so you avoid having to deal with computer retailers who often have poor customer service and lean towards voiding warranties when upgrades are made.
Assembling your custom-built computer can be a daunting idea, but once you have achieved your goal, you will feel so rewarded. You’ll learn so much about the hardware and how computers work, that you may even be inspired to do it again. Research online and combine your knowledge with common sense, not only will you a unique custom-build PC, extra money in your pocket but you will have the gaming experience that you craved.
