A Beginner’s Guide to PC Parts – What You Need to Know

1) Motherboard — The Nervous System

The board that connects everything and decides what’s compatible.

Socket: Must match your CPU (e.g., Intel LGA1700, AMD AM5).
Chipset: Features/lanes (USB count, PCIe version, M.2 slots).
Form factor: ATX (full features), mATX (balanced), mini-ITX (compact).
VRM quality: Better power delivery helps CPU stability and temps.
Memory support: DDR4 or DDR5 (not both on one board).
M.2 slots: Check count and PCIe version for NVMe SSDs.

Quick tip: Check the board’s RAM QVL so your kit is known to work well.

2) CPU — The Brain

Runs the instructions for everything you do. Choose based on your tasks and budget.

Cores/Threads: More helps with multitasking and content creation.
Clock speed & boost: Affects snappiness; not the only metric.
Architecture & efficiency: Newer gens deliver better per-core performance.
iGPU: Handy if you skip a GPU initially (basic display output).

Quick tip: Pair the CPU tier with a matching GPU tier to avoid bottlenecks.

3) GPU — The Artist

Renders game frames and accelerates creative apps. Biggest factor for gaming FPS.

VRAM: Higher resolutions/textures need more (e.g., 8–12GB for 1440p).
Outputs: HDMI/DisplayPort count and versions for your monitor.
Power: Check recommended PSU wattage and connector type.
Size: Length/thickness must fit your case; watch 3-slot cards.

Quick tip: Match GPU to monitor: 1080p high-refresh needs midrange+; 4K benefits from high-end.

4) RAM — Short-Term Memory

Temporary workspace for active tasks. More RAM = smoother multitasking.

Capacity: 16GB is a sweet spot for gaming/general use; 32GB for heavy creation.
Speed & latency: Higher MHz and lower CL help (within budget).
Dual-channel: Prefer 2×8GB or 2×16GB over a single stick.
XMP/EXPO: Enable in BIOS to run your kit at rated speed.

Quick tip: Use the board’s recommended slots (often A2+B2) for stability.

5) Storage — Long-Term Memory

Where your OS, apps, and files live.

NVMe SSD (M.2): Very fast; ideal for OS, apps, and active games.
SATA SSD: Slower than NVMe but still quick; great value.
HDD: Cheapest bulk storage for media/archives.
Capacity: Start with 1TB SSD if budget allows; add HDD later if needed.
Heatsinks: NVMe drives can throttle; use the board’s M.2 shields if provided.

Quick tip: Keep OS + frequently used apps on NVMe; stash big files on HDD/SATA SSD.

6) PSU — The Heart

Converts wall power for your components. A quality PSU protects your build.

Wattage: Add your parts’ draw and leave ~30% headroom.
Efficiency: 80+ Bronze is entry; Gold+ runs cooler/quieter.
Modularity: Modular/semi-modular = cleaner cable management.
Connectors: Ensure the right PCIe/12VHPWR plugs for your GPU.
Size: Standard ATX fits most; check shroud clearance.

Quick tip: Don’t overshoot massively—very high wattage can be inefficient at low loads.

7) Case — The Home (and Airflow)

Houses all parts and affects temps, noise, and looks.

Compatibility: GPU length, CPU cooler height, radiator support.
Airflow basics: Front/bottom = intake; top/rear = exhaust.
Pressure: Slight positive (more intake than exhaust) helps dust control.
Filters: Removable dust filters ease cleaning.
Front panel: Mesh fronts cool better than solid/glass.

Quick tip: Simple fan layout: 2× front intake + 1× rear exhaust. Add top exhaust if temps are high.

In short: Motherboard sets compatibility; CPU handles compute; GPU drives visuals; RAM keeps active data fast; SSD/HDD store everything; PSU powers safely; case manages airflow and fit. Nail compatibility, airflow, and PSU quality—your build will sing.