Many people assume that building a gaming PC is a daunting task and opt for a pre-built one. However, with the right planning and preparation, building your own rig is actually fairly easy.

The first step is to prepare a small build area and ensure that all of your parts arrive safely. After that, it’s time to start the assembly process.

1. CPU

The processor handles all the data transactions that make up your PC’s core functionality. It’s also responsible for displaying video graphics on the screen.

The CPU has tiny electric contact pins that plug into a socket on the motherboard. Be careful not to bend the pins when removing and installing the CPU. Choosing a CPU with more cores and threads helps your system run faster, smoother, and more efficiently.

2. Motherboard

The Motherboard physically supports all the other components in your gaming rig. It’s like the backbone, control center, and circulatory system all-in-one.

Be careful not to damage this important piece of hardware as you work – it’s easy to do if you don’t keep an eye on static electricity (which you should always avoid working with). Remove the motherboard from its antistatic bag, and place it on a hard flat surface.

3. Graphics Card

A gaming PC gives you the opportunity to play at high in-game settings that simply aren’t possible on console. But before you start purchasing components, make sure to come up with a budget and check the game’s recommended system requirements.

Also, ensure your power supply unit has enough wattage to support the GPU you’re buying. Most graphics cards will state what wattage they require on their packaging.

4. RAM

RAM, or random access memory, is where your immediate data sits as you work with it. It processes information much faster than storage can.

RAM is one of the easiest components to install in a computer, but it does sometimes fail to snap into place properly. Check your motherboard manual for the best slot to put it in, and make sure its notch lines up with its plastic clips.

5. Hard Drives

A hard drive is a digital storage system that reads and writes information using magnetic properties. It stores data even when the computer is turned off.

The inclusion of a solid state drive (SSD) into your gaming PC can yield speed advantages that can profoundly elevate gameplay experience. SSDs are renowned for their rapid speeds, but also offer increased reliability and resilience against hardware failure.

6. Speakers

Whether you’re playing a competitive multiplayer game or a more relaxed open-world exploration game, high-quality speakers help you feel immersed. They also let you enjoy music and podcasts with rich sound that can’t be reproduced on headsets.

Many modern gaming laptops have Bluetooth, making it easy to connect speakers to them. However, most desktops will require 3.5mm audio jacks. These will need to be connected to the motherboard’s audio drivers.

7. Sound Card

A sound card takes digitized digital signals and turns them into real-life sounds, like music or exploding gunfire in your favorite game. While most motherboards have their own built-in audio hardware, a dedicated card can improve your audio quality dramatically.

Gaming-grade sound cards typically include headphone amps, improving audio performance even more. Depending on your specific needs, a sound card can be worth it for you.

8. Keyboard

Gaming keyboards aren’t usually considered a make-or-break component, but they can help you get in the game faster. Choose a keycap layout that fits your personality, and consider adding a macro feature to customize your keys for gaming.

Finally, a monitor and a mouse-and-keyboard combo will provide you with the control and comfort you need to dominate in-game. With a PC, you’ll be able to explore an almost endless library of titles and experiences that simply aren’t available on console.

9. Mouse

Though gaming consoles might be all the rage, PCs are still the best way to play some of the most popular titles. Luckily, building your own custom PC isn’t as intimidating as it once was. All you need is a good guide, some patience and the right components. Start your build and conquer those leaderboards! (Be sure to have a large table to work on and avoid anything that could create static.)

10. Headset

A gaming PC opens the door to a world of modern games that require a lot of power to run. Plus, building your own rig allows you to upgrade the parts as technology advances or your gaming preferences change.

Many headsets use lighthouse tracking for more immersive experiences, and you’ll need a large, clear play space to set up. But even entry-level VR headsets offer a world of new possibilities.