Parts Needed To Build A PC: A Comprehensive Guide

PC building is a challenging task, but with the right parts, it’s possible to build a powerful machine that can do everything. If you don’t have all the parts necessary to build you, there are plenty of resources out there to help you out.

In this guide, we’ll outline all the different parts you need in order to build a PC, and we’ll also provide comprehensive instructions on how to find and purchase these parts. We hope that this guide will save you time and money as you attempt to build your very own!

You can build a PC starting with the following components: 

  1. A case
  2. RAM
  3. Storage
  4. The processor
  5. Motherboard
  6. GPU 
  7. Monitor
  8. Input Devices
  9. Operating system etc 

List of Computer Parts Needed To Build A Computer

PC Case

When it comes to choosing a PC case, there are many different factors that you need to take into account. For example, you need to decide on the size of the case, the material, the color, and the style. With so many different options available, it can be difficult to decide on the right case for your needs.

In this blog post, we will provide you with a list of parts that you need to build a computer, so that you can make an informed decision about which case is right for you.

The specification of each type of motherboard is summarized below. This will help you in buying the right motherboard according to your requirements:

Motherboard typeSizeMaximum number of slotsRAMGPUSATA PortsUse
ATX12” x 9.6”7DIMM4Up to 12Full Tower
MINI-ITX11.2” x 8.2”7DIMMUp to 1Up to 6Full Tower
Micro-ATX9.6” x 9.6”4DIMMUp to 3Up to 8Mini Tower

Newer, faster boards are present in the market. These prices vary depending on the slots and intended use. Some boards are less than $100 US and brands usually determine the price for the same features.

For AMD or Intel chips, you’ll have to pay more than $200 for a premium board which is around $1,000 US. Economy boards are more affordable, costing less than $50.

CPU/Processor

The second part that you need to choose is the CPU. There are many different types of CPUs available on the market, so it is important to select the one that is right for your needs. You also need to decide on the type of motherboard that you want.

AMD Ryzen 9 5950x
AMD Ryzen 9 5950x

There are several different types of motherboards available, so you need to select one that is compatible with your CPU.

Once you have selected the motherboard, you need to choose a power supply. There are many different types and sizes of power supplies available, so you need to select one that is compatible with your motherboard and CPU.

Your processor is the heart of your computer, and it’s important to choose one that will meet your needs. If you’re a casual user, you can probably get by with a lower-end processor, but if you plan on doing any gaming or other intensive tasks, you’ll need something more powerful.

When you buy a processor, you should look at the CPU’s specifications, such as cores, clock speed, threads, cache, and TDP. You should also be aware of the brand and model of the processor in order to make sure you are getting the best possible deal.

When shopping for a CPU, you’ll need to consider the following factors:

  • Clock speed: This is the number of operations that the CPU can perform in a given second, measured in gigahertz (GHz). A higher clock speed means better performance.
  • Cores: A CPU with multiple cores can handle more tasks at once, which can be helpful for multitasking or running resource-intensive applications.
  • Cache: This is a small amount of high-speed memory that’s used to store frequently-needed data for quick access by the CPU. A larger cache can improve performance.
  • Socket type: The socket type determines which type of motherboard you’ll need. Make sure to get a compatible CPU for your motherboard.

There are two main types of processors: Intel and AMD. Intel processors are typically more expensive, but they offer better performance. AMD processors are a good choice if you’re on a budget.

When choosing a processor, you’ll also need to decide which socket type you need. The most common types are LGA 1151 and AM4. Make sure to check what type of socket your motherboard has before buying a processor.

Finally, you’ll need to decide how much power you need. Processors are measured in GHz (gigahertz) and the higher the number, the faster the processor. Higher-end processors can reach speeds of 4 GHz or more, but these are typically only needed for gamers and other power users.

Motherboard

ASRock B450 Steel Legend

One of the most important parts of a computer is the motherboard. This is the main circuit board that everything else plugs into. It houses the CPU, RAM, and other important components. If you’re looking to build a new computer, you’ll need to choose a motherboard that’s compatible with the other parts you want to use.

Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a motherboard:

-Form factor: The form factor of a motherboard determines the size and shape of the board. The most common form factors are ATX and microATX.

-Socket type: The socket type determines which type of CPU you can use with the motherboard. Make sure to choose a socket type that’s compatible with your CPU.

-RAM type: The type of RAM supported by a motherboard is also important to consider. Most motherboards support DDR3 or DDR4 RAM, but some older boards may only support DDR2.

-Expansion slots: Expansion slots are used for adding additional components to your computers, such as a graphics card or sound card. Make sure to check how many expansion slots are available on the board and what types they are.

Memory (RAM)

When it comes to building a computer, one of the most important parts you’ll need is memory (RAM). This is what allows your computer to store and access information quickly. Without enough memory, your computer will be slow and difficult to use.

HyperX Fury RGB
HyperX Fury RGB

There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for memory:

-The type of memory you need will depend on the type of motherboard you have. The most common types are DDR3 and DDR4.

-How much memory you need will depend on what you plan to use your computer for. If you just want to browse the internet and do some light word processing, 4GB of RAM should be plenty. If you plan to do more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, 8GB or more is recommended.

-You can always add more memory later if you find that you need it. Most motherboards have four slots for memory modules, so you can add more as needed.

Storage (Hard Drive)

One of the most important parts of a computer is the storage or hard drive. This is where all of your files and programs are stored. Without a good storage solution, your computer will be very slow and difficult to use.

There are many different types of storage available, but the most popular choice is a solid state drive (SSD).

SSDs are much faster than traditional hard drives and can make your computer feel much snappier. They’re also more reliable, which means you’re less likely to lose data if your computer crashes.

If you want the best performance, you’ll need to spend a bit more money on an SSD. But if you’re on a budget, you can still get good performance from a traditional hard drive. Just keep in mind that it will be slower than an SSD.

Graphics Card

A graphics card is one of the most important parts of a computer. It is responsible for rendering images and videos on the screen. A good graphics card will make games look better and run smoother. There are two types of graphics cards, dedicated and integrated.

Dedicated graphics cards are stand-alone units that are plugged into the motherboard. Integrated graphics cards are built into the CPU and use part of the system RAM as video memory.

The discrete GPU or dedicated GPU, on the other hand, is separate from the processor. The GPU has its own memory, which is separate from the CPU. The discrete GPU is separate from the processor chip and consumes more power and generates more heat.

However, with its own power source and memory, it is more powerful and can provide a better gaming experience.

When it comes to graphics cards, it’s important that you know the specs of your PC. If you like gaming, designing graphics, or rendering 3D graphics, then a discrete GPU is the best choice.

If you’re not looking to do any heavy gaming or video editing, an integrated GPU should be enough to handle simpler tasks like word processing and playing games.

You can find dedicated GPUs from AMD and NVIDIA that range anywhere from $70 to $1,000.

Monitor

A monitor is one of the most important parts of a computer, as it is the main way that you will interact with the machine. There are a few different types of monitors available on the market, so it is important to know what you need before making a purchase. Here is a list of the different types of monitors available:

-CRT monitors: These monitors use cathode ray tubes to display images, and are often heavier and bulkier than other types of monitors. They are also not as common as they once were, due to the advent of LCD and LED screens.

-LCD monitors: LCD, or liquid crystal display, monitors are thinner and lighter than CRT screens and use much less power. They are the most common type of monitor on the market today.

-LED monitors: LED, or light emitting diode, monitors are similar to LCD screens but use LEDs to backlight the display instead of cold cathode fluorescent lights. LED monitors often provide better image quality than LCD screens.

Keyboard and Mouse

One of the most important parts of a computer is the keyboard and mouse. Without these two essential pieces of equipment, it would be very difficult to use a computer. When choosing a keyboard and mouse, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, you need to decide what type of keyboard and mouse you want. There are wired and wireless options available. Wireless keyboards and mice are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer more freedom and flexibility.

Second, you need to consider the size of the keyboard and mouse. If you have large hands, you might want to choose a larger keyboard.

Third, you need to decide what features you want in a keyboard and mouse. Some keyboards have special buttons for gaming or other specific tasks. Some mice have special buttons or features as well.

Finally, you need to think about the price. Keyboard and mice can range in price from very cheap to quite expensive. Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you should be able to choose the perfect keyboard and mouse for your needs.

Operating System (OS)

There are a few things you need to consider when choosing an operating system (OS) for your computer. The three most common OSes are Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Windows is the most popular OS, and it’s what most people use. macOS is the second most popular, and it’s what Apple computers use. Linux is the third most popular, and it’s a free open-source operating system.

When choosing an OS, you need to think about what you’ll be using your computer for. If you’re just going to be using it for general things like browsing the internet, sending emails, and watching videos, then Windows or macOS will be fine.

If you’re planning on doing more specific things like video editing or gaming, then you’ll need to choose an OS that’s suited for that. For example, if you want to do video editing, you’ll need to get a computer with Windows because that’s the only OS that supports all the major video editing software.

Once you’ve decided on an OS, you need to choose which version of it you want. For Windows, there are two versions: Windows 11 and Windows 10. For macOS, there are three versions:macOS Catalina,

Conclusion

With this list of parts needed to build a computer, you should have no trouble putting together your own custom PC. If you take your time and follow the instructions carefully, you’ll end up with a machine that’s both powerful and great looking. So what are you waiting for? Get started on your next project today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different parts needed to build a computer?

Building a computer requires various parts that work together in order to function properly. The most important parts of a computer include the processor, motherboard, memory, storage, and power supply. Other essential components include a case, a cooling system, and input/output devices.

How much does it cost to build a computer?

The cost of building a computer depends on the type of machine you want to assemble. A basic desktop PC can be assembled for around $500, while a high-end gaming rig can cost upwards of $2000.

How long does it take to build a computer?

It takes anywhere from 1-8 hours to build a computer, depending on your experience level and the complexity of the machine you’re assembling.

What tools do I need to build a computer?

In order to build a computer, you will need a screwdriver, pliers, and tweezers. Additionally, it is helpful to have an anti-static wrist strap or mat to prevent static electricity from damaging sensitive components.

Can I upgrade my existing computer instead of building a new one?

Yes! If you’re happy with the performance of your current machine but want to give it a boost, upgrading is a great option. Some common upgrades include adding more RAM, replacing an old hard drive with a solid-state drive, or installing a better graphics card.

I’m not very tech-savvy. Is building a computer right for me?

Building a computer is a great way to learn about the inner workings of these machines. However, it’s important to do your research before embarking on this project. There are plenty of resources available online and in libraries to help you get started.

What are some of the risks associated with building a computer?

The most common risk when building a computer is static electricity damaging sensitive components. This can be prevented by using an anti-static wrist strap or mat. Additionally, it’s important to be careful when handling delicate parts like processors and memory modules.

I want to build a gaming computer. What components should I focus on?

If you’re interested in gaming, you’ll want to make sure your machine has a powerful processor and graphics card. Additionally, you’ll need plenty of RAM and fast storage (like an SSD) to ensure smooth gameplay.

Stephen Smith
Hi, I'm Stephen Smith. I love traveling, computer hardware, and software. I’m constantly trying to learn new skills and programming languages. Reviewing new pieces of hardware is one of my favorites hobbies. Drop by any time to leave me a message if you have any questions.