HAND MADEPER
SONAL COMPUTER
What the Average PC Needs
Before we start pricing parts, let’s do a quick check of everything we need.
Processor
The CPU is the brain of your system and is the first component you should choose.
There’s a mind-boggling number of processor options available, but for most users, the choice usually boils down to either the Intel Core i3 (entry-level), i5 (mid-range) and i7 (high-end) processors.
Motherboard
The motherboard is the backbone of your system and the part to which all your other components attach.
It also contains USB ports and other ports, and possibly Wi-Fi and Bluetooth radios.
You need to ensure that your motherboard is compatible with all of your chosen parts and that it fits in your computer case.
Memory
RAM is one of the areas that PC manufacturers are notorious for skimping on, which is sad because it’s one of the most effective and most affordable upgrades you can make to your PC.
If you want extra RAM in a pre-built machine, it’s almost a given that you will pay way over market value.
Graphics Card
If you’re building a gaming PC, then you should pick a good graphics card first so that you can build the rest of your system around it.
For non-gaming PCs, modern Intel and AMD CPUs have integrated graphics support and will suffice.
Most low-end to mid-range PCs make do with this.
Storage
There are two types of storage.
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
Low price, large capacity, slow speed.
Solid State Drive (SSD)
Expensive, low capacity, high speed.
Whether you should pick HDD or SSD will depend on your personal preference.
Power Supply
The power supply is another area where it’s easy to cut costs.
The benefits of paying more include getting a modular unit and greater energy efficiency.
Most importantly, you need to have the correct wattage for your hardware.
Fans
Most computer cases come with at least one fan, and most processors and graphics cards and power supplies each have dedicated fans as well.
If your computer case ends up being too poor at circulating air, you can always install more fans at a later time.
Case
There are a huge array of case sizes.
The most important thing is that it fits your motherboard and all the components attached to it.
Extras and Optionals
On top of the basics, you may need to add a few additional items.
These could include a wireless card (if your motherboard doesn’t have one built in) and an optical drive but only if you need one.
We’re going to assume you already have a monitor, mouse, and keyboard, but if you don’t then you’ll have to factor in the price of those, too.
Operating System
When pricing up your custom-built PC, you mustn’t forget to include the cost of an operating system to power it.
If you want Windows or MAC you’ll need to pay prices for it.