How To Build a PC in 2023 - Part 1: The Basics

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the essential components and considerations for building a gaming PC in 2023, as presented in Part 1 of the video series by Paul's Hardware. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide will help you understand the basic parts you'll need to successfully assemble your PC.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Peripherals

Before diving into the components, ensure you have the following peripherals ready:

• Monitor
• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Speakers or headphones
• Power cable for the monitor

If you already own these items, you can skip purchasing new ones.

Step 2: Understand the 7 Basic Parts of a Gaming PC

Familiarize yourself with the seven fundamental components required for a gaming PC build:

1. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
2. CPU Cooler (Heatsink/Fan)
3. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
4. Motherboard
5. Memory (RAM)
6. Storage (SSD or Hard Drive)
7. Power Supply (PSU)
8. Case

Step 3: Choose Your CPU

• Selecting a CPU: Look for models like the Ryzen 5800X3D, which balances performance and cost.
• Where to buy: Check retailers like Amazon and Newegg for competitive pricing.

Step 4: Select a CPU Cooler

• Options: Consider coolers like:
  • Thermalright Silver Soul 135 Black
  • Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE
• Tip: Ensure the cooler is compatible with your CPU and fits in your case.

Step 5: Choose Your GPU

• Recommended GPUs: Options include:
  • RTX 3060 12GB
  • RTX 3060 Ti 8GB
  • RX 6700 XT
• Considerations: Choose based on your gaming needs and budget.

Step 6: Select the Motherboard

• Popular Choices:
  • ASUS PRIME B550-PLUS
  • MSI B550-A PRO
• Tip: Ensure compatibility with your CPU type and the number of RAM slots.

Step 7: Choose Your Memory (RAM)

• Recommendations:
  • Team T-FORCE VULCAN Z 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3600
  • G.SKILL Ripjaws V Series 32GB (2x16GB) DDR4 3600
• Tip: Aim for at least 16GB for gaming.

Step 8: Select Storage Options

• SSD vs. Hard Drive: SSDs offer faster load times.
• Recommended SSDs:
  • Kingston NV2 1TB M.2 NVMe
  • TEAMGROUP MP33 1TB M.2 NVMe
• Tip: Consider a combination of SSD for your OS and HDD for additional storage.

Step 9: Choose a Case

• Popular Cases:
  • NZXT H510 Flow
  • Fractal Design Focus 2
• Tip: Ensure your case has adequate airflow and space for the components.

Step 10: Select a Power Supply (PSU)

• Recommendations:
  • Thermaltake Smart BM2, 80+ Bronze 750W
  • Silverstone Essential, 80+ Bronze 750W
• Tip: Ensure your PSU has enough wattage to support all your components.

Conclusion

Building a gaming PC is an exciting project that requires careful selection of components. Start by gathering the necessary peripherals, understanding the basic parts, and making informed choices based on your gaming needs and budget. Once you've selected your parts, you're ready to move on to the assembly process, which will be covered in the next part of the series. Happy building!