Laptops and other personal computers are expensive, especially if you only want high-end products. If you know how to build your own PC from scratch, you could save money. Building a personal computer is easier than you may think. All you need are the right set of materials and detailed instructions to walk you through the process.
The good news is that you will find answers to frequently asked questions about building your own PC in this article. You will learn about the cost, process, and benefits of building your own PC.
Why You Should Build Your Own PC
If you are interested in computer engineering, building your own PC will provide you with a practical learning experience. It is also cost-effective in the long run. You can ensure quality and durability because you will be responsible for acquiring all the parts needed to build the PC. Another benefit is that you have complete control over the technical architecture of your PC if you build it, yourself.
How Hard Is It to Build Your Own PC?
Building your own PC is not difficult if you have some fundamental knowledge of engineering. However, even people without technical experience have been able to construct their own computers by following online tutorials, enrolling in bootcamp programs, or joining tech communities. All you need is a problem-solving mindset and you can complete the task.
How Long Does It Take to Build a PC?
It varies. Depending on certain variables, it takes between 40 minutes to four hours to assemble the hardware of a PC. The less experience you have with assembly, the longer it will take to assemble your PC, even if you follow all the required steps. As a beginner, you should seek help from professionals, whether in-person or online through YouTube videos.
How Much Does It Cost to Build Your Own PC?
Building a PC may cost as low as $300 or as much as $4000 depending on the type of PC you want to build and the quality of the equipment you buy. Traditional PCs for web browsing are the cheapest to build, while gaming PCs are the most expensive.
How Much Cheaper Is It to Build Your Own PC?
A traditional PC for browsing will cost around $500 to $4,000 when purchased outright or on credit. High-end gaming PCs can cost well over $5,000. Building a PC may be less expensive or just as expensive as buying one, depending on what you want to build. Furthermore, the long-term maintenance of a PC that you build is typically less expensive than that of a PC that you buy.
What Do You Need to Build Your Own PC?
Certain tools and components are required for the success of your PC development project. Some of the most vital tools you will need are listed below. Note that this list is just a handful of the most important components you will need. There are a few additional items that are not included in the list below.
- Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): This is an electronic circuit that is required to ensure that graphics are displayed correctly on the monitor of your PC. Without this, you cannot use discrete graphics cards.
- Motherboard: The Motherboard is the main circuit that allows all the important components of the computer to interact. The GPU, CPU, and other key hardware rely on the motherboard for interaction. The motherboard size should be determined by the size of the optical drive, storage drives, aftermarket coolers, and everything else.
- Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of the computer that carries out instructions on the computer. Without a central processor, a computer cannot function.
- RAM: The random access memory (RAM) is an important component of the computer’s short-term memory that allows it to complete tasks efficiently.
- System Cooling: You must have a cooling system in place to ensure that your PC does not overheat. Choose a modern processor cooling system that includes heat pipes.
- Power Supply Unit (PSU): The PSU is required for converting AC to DC. It also regulates DC, ensuring that it is not too much for the PC.
- Monitor: Your monitor is the front end of your PC that displays everything you need and proves that you did a good job with the initial assembly. You can buy a monitor for as low as $50.
- Computer Case: The PC case is the housing for all the important hardware like the motherboard, CPU, RAM, GPU, and everything else you need to get the computer to work.
- Storage: The data storage drive plays a key role in the computer because it allows you to retain media or other content. A 2.5 inch drive should suffice. It differs from RAM and cannot be used interchangeably.
Building Your PC From Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you know what you’ll need to build your PC, it’s time to learn how to put these tools and components together to create the ideal PC hardware.
Connect the CPU to the Motherboard
The first stage in making your PC is connecting your central processing unit to your motherboard. Instructions for this can be found in the motherboard manual. You need to handle the CPU and the CPU socket type with care to avoid causing lasting damage. Unclip the CPU from the CPU socket and place it on the motherboard, which should be flat. To avoid future overheating, install a cooling system known as a CPU cooler for the CPU.
Install the Ram
The ram usually comes with a user manual that explains how to install it on the motherboard. The motherboard should have between two to four RAM slots depending on the one you ordered. You can fill all of the slots to be as efficient as possible. Follow the instructions in the RAM manual to carefully install it in the RAM slots on the motherboard.
Install the PSU
When installing the power supply unit, make sure it is as close to a vent as possible. So, if your PC has a case, consider mounting the PSU’s fan toward the case’s vent. As a result, air flows out of the system when the fan blows.
Mount the Motherboard and Install the GPU
After you’ve safely tucked your CPU and RAM into your motherboard, you can mount it into your computer case and secure it with the necessary screws. A modern motherboard requires approximately nine screws, so make sure you have the appropriate screwdriver. Install the GPU after securing the motherboard. Some heavy-duty GPUs require auxiliary power. If this is the case, make sure to connect it to a power supply via the power cable.
Install the Storage and Unpack the Monitor
Your storage drive must be installed in your computer case. This is usually a simple task because most casings include drive bays with 2.5-inch drives that are specifically designed for storage. All you have to do is install the storage drive into the drive bay and make sure it is connected to other components in the motherboard. This is also a good time to mount your monitor and connect it to your PC case on the table or workspace you intend to use.
Install the Operating System
At this point, your entire computer hardware should be properly organized and secured in place. The operating system of your choice can be downloaded to a USB drive and then installed on the computer via the required USB ports or PCIe slots. Turn on the monitor using the power button and finish the software installation. You can also connect a mouse and keyboard for easier navigation.
Do You Need Coding Skills to Create a PC?
You do not need coding skills to create a PC. Creating a PC requires more handwork than software work. Even the operating system installation is self-explanatory, so anyone with basic knowledge of how computers work can do it. However, learning how to code is a great skill that will help you monetize your computer once it is completed.
Can You Learn to Build a PC in a Coding Bootcamp?
No, you can’t learn how to build a PC in a coding bootcamp because most bootcamps only teach the software aspect of computers. This means that you will learn about the different types of programming languages and frameworks on a computer and how to create your own programs. This knowledge can help you make the most out of your PC.
Gather Feedback, Reflect, and Iterate
After installing your operating system on your PC, you should start using it to gather feedback and make necessary changes. You can invite your friends or family to use the PC for gaming or anything else they want. Consider them your beta testers and use their feedback to improve your product.
Building a computer is an investment that will earn you money and provide you with a practical learning experience that will last a lifetime. As technology advances, you can adapt your PC to the new normal or create a completely new one.
How to Build Your Own PC FAQ
Yes, building your own PC is worth it if you shop for components in the right stores. Aside from the initial cost of building a PC, you will save more money in the long run than someone who buys a pre-built PC. This is because you will not need frequent repairs, maintenance, or replacement of components if the first option is sturdy.
No, building a high-end gaming PC is not hard if you know the right combination of components and you have a natural talent for putting things together. The first time may be more difficult than subsequent attempts, but if you are determined, you will succeed.
When building your own gaming PC, the motherboard should be the first component you purchase. It is the critical component of the custom PC that interfaces with other critical components. After purchasing the motherboard, you can add the GPU, CPU, storage, RAM, PSU, monitor, keyboard, and other key components.
Yes, you need to buy Windows 10 when building your PC or another operating system and installing it. Your specifications should determine the operating system you install, but Windows 10 is currently the simplest to obtain and install with little to no assistance.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
