A gaming PC is a specifically designed computer built to meet the specifications and demands of video games. While some low-intensity games can run on most PCs, other games require specific hardware and specifications to run effectively – or to run at all. There are many different types of gaming PCs on the market to suit a range of budgets and individual requirements, from a completely custom-built gaming PC to a prebuilt gaming PC designed for specific games, performance levels or usage.
Gaming PCs have come a long way since their early days, making them incredibly accessible for anyone that prefers gaming from a desktop rather than using a console or TV. Custom-built gaming PCs offer the highest optimisation for your plans and the types of games you like to play, whether you prefer sprawling open worlds, exciting shooters or action-filled MOBA gameplay. Combined with voice chat platforms like Discord or streaming services such as Twitch, gaming via a PC can provide a well-rounded, immersive, and enjoyable experience, whether you play solo or with friends.
Most of the components you’ll find ‘under the hood’ are standard for all types of PC. The difference is that, while some PCs may only provide enough power for easy browsing, many gaming PCs are built to match the power needed to play the latest generation of games. Gaming PCs are often upgraded over time as needs change and budgets grow, allowing for an entirely personal gaming experience.
Whether you like the idea of starting with simple games like Minecraft or want to jump in the deep end with high-power, graphically intense games like Red Dead Redemption 2 or Metro Exodus, a gaming PC is what you need. As for the specifics of what you’ll need to build your perfect custom gaming PC? We’ve covered all you need to know below.
So, what goes into creating a gaming PC? While the components of the majority of prebuilt and custom PCs remain the same, the difference with optimised setups is the quality of components you choose. To build a gaming PC – or any PC for that matter – you’ll need all of the following included:
CPU (Processor)
The CPU is the ‘brain’ of your PC and is a vital component to make your PC run as it should. Without a CPU, your computer won’t run. As the central requirement for any PC, the processor connects different systems and multitasks to help you do things quickly and easily. To know if a CPU is worth the money, you can look at the clock speed, cores and threads included.
Motherboard
The motherboard, or MOBO, is the foundation for your PC and is the platform where all your PC hardware lives. You want to make sure your motherboard is fully compatible with all the parts you use. While many PCs come with a basic motherboard, you can opt for one with additional integrated graphics, Wi-Fi functionality, and more, depending on your budget and requirements.
GPU (Graphics Card)
Your graphics card is amongst the most essential components of your gaming setup. The GPU is the powerful element of your PC that takes the code in a game and transforms it into beautiful, rendered images on your monitor. The better your GPU, the better you can make your in-game graphics. Want to go all the way to ultra? Then the best GPU on the market is your best bet.
RAM (Memory)
RAM are individual ‘sticks’ attached via clips to your motherboard, and they do the vital job of determining the amount of data your PC can process at one time. Memory-intensive games may require a certain level of RAM to run effectively. The more you have, the more you can process, especially in combination with a good-quality CPU.
PSU (Power Supply)
Without power, clicking the ‘on’ button on your PC won’t do anything at all. A good-quality power supply can ensure you get the correct amount of electricity to your PC for it to run safely. Your choice of power supply should be based on the specs in your GPU for best results. The more efficient your power supply is, the less heat it will generate as a result.
Storage (Hard Drive/SSD)
Having excellent storage is a must for the average PC gamer. While some small games can be under 1GB in size, recent titles can eat up as much as 160Gb on install. If you have a 500Gb hard drive, that’s not going to hold that many modern games. An HDD offers affordable storage space, while an SSD, or solid-state drive, improves your computer speed and how quickly your games load. For best results, one of each is always a good move.
Case
Now for the exciting part – picking your case! From futuristic designs packed with LEDs to understated options that look sleek and stylish, there are hundreds of case options on the market. However, beyond looks, it’s crucial you choose a case that fits the size of your components. A full-size case is always a good idea if you’d like to expand later. You’ll also want to make sure there’s enough room for air circulation and for fans to work properly.
Cooling
Keeping your PC cool is key to keeping it running in peak condition. Fans are the baseline for computer cooling, providing airflow to cool inside components. Liquid coolers offer an alternative specifically for the CPU, essentially cooling the component by absorbing and dissipating heat. Thermal paste should also be installed with your CPU, helping to mitigate heat and keep everything cool.
There are as many different types of video games out there as there are players, so there’s no wrong or right amount to build a custom gaming PC for your individual needs. There’s also no one prebuild gaming PC that will suit everyone, so it’s best to start by looking at your budget and what games you’d like to play, rather than opting for something that sounds good on paper.
If you don’t have much money to spare and you’re looking for a budget gaming PC, you can typically find something that will run a range of games at medium to low settings for between £500-750. You can also save costs of prebuilt PCs, which often have premiums attached, by choosing to build your PC yourself. If you have a budget of £700, you might be able to get more for your money by purchasing your parts.
If you’re looking for something mid-range that plays a large number of games well or at least reasonably well, then a mid-range gaming PC in the region of £750-1,200 can provide everything you need. Opting for a PC with the room to upgrade and develop over time can help you upgrade your setup once more funds are available. For example, you could cut costs with a single stick of RAM or one SDD or HDD and then add the additional components later.
For high-spec gaming PC builds, the sky is the limit. If you’re willing to pay for a high-end gaming PC, you could be looking at anything from £1,500-£3,000 and beyond. It all depends on the functionality and graphical quality you want. For example, if you want 4K, you’ll need a graphics card to support that, or if you want to play VR, you’ll need to match the specifications required.
Beyond the PC itself, you’ll also want to invest in the right accessories to enhance your gaming experience. A quality headset, keyboard and mouse can make all the difference. You’ll also want a monitor that matches your specs, so if you’re buying a 4K-ready graphics card, you’ll want to make sure your monitor can meet those requirements too.
So, when it comes to PC gaming, are laptops up to the task? While PCs are generally a better choice for gaming, there are a few times where a gaming laptop may be handy. If you need a dual-purpose laptop for school and home, or you want something portable for travel, gaming laptops tick those specific boxes. If you’re running low-spec games, a gaming laptop can be a viable alternative, especially if you don’t have the space for a desk and complete PC setup.
There are a few ways that gaming laptops don’t quite meet the mark, though. When it comes to high-spec and high-intensity games, laptops simply don’t have the cooling capacity to prevent overheating for extended play sessions. The ergonomics of playing over a laptop also aren’t ideal for your back and neck, unless you have your laptop hooked up to a monitor and separate keyboard and mouse.
However you prefer to game, starting with the right components is the best place to start. Whether you like the sounds of a prebuilt gaming laptop or want to build a PC from scratch, picking something that suits your gaming style and goals is always the right path to take. Start with your budget and objectives, and work from there to find a gaming PC that suits you down to the ground.