Computer Build Checklist

Guy Segev

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Ultimate Gaming PC Build Checklist: How to Build a High-End PC in 2024

Building your own gaming PC can be a rewarding experience, but it can also seem overwhelming. To help you through the process, we’ve put together a comprehensive computer build checklist that includes everything from selecting components to installing the operating system. Whether you're putting together the best gaming PC or a mini gaming rig, this step by step PC build guide will walk you through the entire process.


Main Components for Your Gaming PC


When assembling a great gaming PC, there are essential components to consider. This building a PC checklist will help you make sure you have everything you need before you start.


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CPU (Central Processing Unit):

The heart of your PC, especially for a high-end gaming PC. If you're aiming for the best gaming PC online, consider an AMD Ryzen or Intel Alder Lake processor. AMD’s cutting-edge Ryzen processors even support artificial intelligence functions, boosting gaming performance.

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Motherboard:

Choose a motherboard compatible with your CPU. Features like PCI-E 5.0 slots and DDR5 memory can be crucial for future-proofing your gaming build. Use a computer configurator to match your motherboard to your needs.
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Graphics Card (GPU):

This is the most critical component for your gaming pc fps and overall gaming experience. If you're aiming for the best gaming PC ever, consider an Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti or an AMD Radeon RX 7900. These GPUs ensure high performance in modern games, making them ideal for any modded gaming PC.
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RAM:

You need at least 16GB for smooth gaming, but for complete PC builds aiming to be the most popular gaming PC in 2024, 32GB of DDR5 RAM is recommended.

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Storage (SSD):

An M.2 NVMe SSD is essential for fast load times in games and booting up your system in seconds. Look for at least 1TB to store all your games and data.

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Power Supply (PSU):

Your PSU should provide enough wattage for your components, typically 650-850W for a tower gaming rig. Modular PSUs can simplify cable management in ready PCs.
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PC Case:

Choose a case that has enough airflow for your components. A tower gaming case ensures room for future upgrades like additional cooling systems or mini gaming PCs.



Peripherals and Tools You Need


Before diving into the steps of building a PC, gather these essential tools and peripherals:


Phillips Screwdriver: Required to screw in most components.

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Thermal Paste: Apply between the CPU and cooler to ensure efficient heat transfer.

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Mouse & Keyboard:

A gamer master needs responsive peripherals.
Monitor: A high-refresh-rate monitor (144Hz or higher) is essential for a video gaming PC.


Windows USB Installer:

You'll need this to install your operating system.
Step by Step PC Build – Assembling Your Gaming PC
1. Install the CPU:
Lift the retention arm on the motherboard’s CPU socket, align the golden triangle of the CPU with the triangle on the motherboard, and gently drop the CPU into place. This is a crucial part of your build a computer step by step guide.

2. Install the RAM:
Slot your RAM sticks into the DIMM slots, ensuring they click into place. For dual-channel configurations, use the 2nd and 4th slots from the CPU.

3. Install the SSD:
Slot your M.2 drive into the M.2 slot and secure it with a screw. M.2 SSDs offer the best speed for modern gaming.

4. Mount the Motherboard:
Align the motherboard with the standoffs inside your case and secure it with screws. Ensure the I/O shield is properly in place before doing so.

5. Install the Power Supply:
Secure your PSU at the bottom of your case and connect the 24-pin motherboard cable, 8-pin CPU power cable, and the PCI-E power cables for your GPU.

6. Install the GPU:
Your graphics card goes into the first PCI-E x16 slot. Secure it to the case using screws, and connect the necessary PCI-E power cables.

7. Install the CPU Cooler:
Attach your air or liquid cooler to the CPU. Don’t forget to apply thermal paste before mounting the cooler. This ensures your high-end computers don’t overheat during heavy gaming sessions.

8. Cable Management:
Tie up excess cables to improve airflow. Keeping things tidy is essential for both aesthetics and performance in your best gaming PC ever.

9. Connect Front Panel Cables:
Attach the front panel power, reset, and USB headers to the motherboard.

10. Install the Operating System:
Plug in a bootable Windows USB and turn on the system. Follow the on-screen prompts to install Windows.

Final Checklist Before Powering Up
Before pressing the power button, check off these items from your checklist for PC build:

  1. CPU installed properly with cooler
  2. RAM seated in the correct slots
  3. SSD or HDD connected
  4. GPU secured in the PCI-E slot
  5. All power cables attached
  6. Front panel cables connected

Now, power on your system and configure the BIOS. Once you’ve installed Windows, you can start optimizing your new gaming pc only for maximum performance.


Ready to Get the Best Gaming PC?


Whether you’re assembling a 500 gaming rig or splurging on a 1000 gaming modded gaming PC, following this step-by-step pc build guide ensures your system is ready for any challenge. If you’re not building your own, you can always order PC builds online or finance your gaming bundle with options like gaming finance or finance gaming PC no credit checks.

In 2024, the best PC gaming setups can be easily purchased, but building your own using this PC building checklist provides the satisfaction of creating a custom system designed for your needs. From the best gaming PC buy online choices to complete PC builds, you can now confidently say you've mastered the steps of building a PC.

For those who want to get a PC without the DIY hassle, explore options like the best gaming PC online or pre-built systems. However, nothing compares to the pride of building the best PC gaming 2023 has to offer, personalized for you!