How to Build a Gaming PC With Intel Core for Beginners

September 16, 2024 By Janne Smith No Comments 15 minutes

Building a gaming PC may seem intimidating by its name, but in reality, it’s only a five-finger exercise! And, you don’t have to be a tech-savvy or the experienced one to start off with how to build a gaming PC setup. That said, this guide outlines the beginner-friendly steps for building your dream gaming PC setup. Let’s get the ball rolling!

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How to Build a Gaming PC – Key Notes

Here are the highlights of the article for how to build a gaming PC, however, if you’re looking for further details then we recommend scrolling down for the details:

• Essential tools for how to build a gaming PC include a monitor, screwdriver, thermal paste, and a cooling fan.
• Building a gaming PC involves selecting and installing key parts: CPU (brain of the PC), GPU (handles graphics), RAM (temporary memory), storage (SSD for speed, HDD for capacity), and a motherboard to connect everything.
• Start by installing the CPU and optional M.2 SSD, followed by the cooling system, RAM, and GPU. Run a test outside the case, then mount the power supply, motherboard, and drives. Finally, install the operating system from a USB flash drive.
• A basic gaming PC setup costs around $1000-1500.

Gather the Required Tools

It’s finally to roll up your sleeves and start off with the process of building a gaming PC. Similar to tying up the laces before your run, you must gather all the required tools. Here are the required tools for how to build a gaming PC:

• Monitor
• Hex Nut Driver
• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Thermal Paste
• Computer Cooling Fan
• Ram
• Motherboard
• SSD Storage
• GPU Power
• CPU
• Power Supply
• Case
• Operating System
• Peripheral
• Ventilation and Air Conditioning

Once you’ve got all your tools; that’s your first step winded up for how to build a gaming PC. Following that. it’s time to jump to the coming sections to learn how to build a gaming PC.

PC Case or a Panel (Location)

Here’s the first step for building a gaming PC: you must have a specific case or a panel where you’ll keep your monitor and other PC parts in. Mostly, a tempered glass case does the job. And there are 3 PC case sizes you must know of before starting off with the further steps of how to build a gaming PC:

• Full tower
• Mid tower
• Mini tower

However, there are no standard case sizes, instead, the above-mentioned are only the general options that you can avail of from the market. And, we recommend the taller cases since you get to have more space. But, you can go for the smaller ones too, depending on your preferences.

Different sizes also come with varying tags, i.e, the bigger ones are going to cost more than the smaller and packed PC cases. Along with the size, the quality also primarily affects the price. For example, opting for the premium casing material will cost more.

Additionally, opting for add-on features, like a cable, drive cages and others add to the price. Instead, going for a standard build or a PC case will reduce costs.

Gaming Parts

Here’s what sets the stage for your dream gaming setup. You can be as creative as you like, i.e., get a custom build and play around with your setup’s aesthetics or stick to the budget. Because, it’s all definitely going to break the bank. Generally, you’ve 7 components that make up to the umbrella term: Gaming Parts. We’ve briefly described all below.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Simply put, the CPU is the gaming PC’s brain dictating and running all actions. While this guide will stick to the standard Intel core, you can also opt for other options, such as AMD, which is already the fast-runner in the world of programming processors.

We recommend digging in a bit and researching which processor will work better for you. Although most gaming units stick to Intel, AMD’s performance is definitely worth recommending.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

Every gaming computer requires a graphics card, which is also where most of your money is about to go. It’s the GPU that enables viewing the visual representations on your PC. And, it’s the GPU that allows you to play all graphics-heavy games, like The Witcher 3 or The Assasin’s Creed.

Overall, the quality of your graphics card determines the resolution of the visuals you see on your screen. For this, we recommend assessing your requirements and researching beforehand when building a gaming PC about general system requirements for the game you already do or want to play.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

This is your system’s temporary memory where you can save all your temporary data that you can quickly access. For example, you’d normally need 16GB RAM for gaming and for advanced games, you require 32GB of RAM.

Here’s a tip, don’t install RAM kits from different manufacturers which mostly advertise to offer specific speeds, but later, they don’t. It’s best to get the RAM from the same manufacturer as the processor. This doesn’t only go for slower speeds, but if you’re getting a RAM that offers a faster speed than the system, then expect a underclocked process.

Moreover, whatever RAM you’re getting, ensure that it supports the motherboard you’re using.

Motherboard

This circuit board connects all components, such as the RAM, wireless cards, graphic cards and all. We recommend getting a large-sized motherboard that can fit all components and offers compaitbiltiy with all the current and future hardware along with your gaming setup’s build. While motherboard’s size depends on your requirements, it’s best to consider different options before narrowing down your selection.

Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and SolId-State Drives (SSDs)

A storage divides into:

1. SSDs
2. HDDs

Pairing both storages enables you to leverage a quicker load time and smoother gameplay. Breaking down their purposes, an HDD storage is inexpensive while enabling you to store larger chunks of data. An HDD storage comes in 2 common form factors:

• 2.5-inch (laptops and game consoles)
• 3.5-inch (desktop computers)

We recommend getting the 3.5-inch HDD for your gaming system as this allows you to store larger amount of data, resulting in a seamless gaming experience.

Meanwhile, an SSD’s common factor is 3.5-inch. But, you can get a smaller SSD and 3.5-inch HDD. The former will support the bootup process and for the gaming part, HDD’s got your back.

Operating System (OS)

Once you’ve all the components, you must install an OS or download it via an installer from the USB flash drive. For example, you can use the Windows 11 for an enhanced gaming performance.

CPU Cooling System

May it be a PC or laptop, you must always have a proper ventilation and a cooling system to prevent overheating. You can either arrange small desk fans or use a liquid coolant (distilled water) for your PC gaming setup. However, the latter is a more expensive option and they require more maintenance than normal.

Once you’ve got these components for how to build a gaming PC – Key Notes, it’s time to set it all up.

1. Install the CPU

Here’s a brief tutorial on how to install the CPU:

• Remove the motherboard from its antistatic packaging and place it on your work surface.
• Find the CPU socket covered with a plastic cap.
• Identify the small arrow on the plastic cap or on the socket itself.
• Locate the small metal lever next to the CPU socket. Open the socket tray by pressing down on the lever and pull it to the side (away from the socket).
• Remove the CPU from its packaging.
• Handle the CPU carefully by its edges to avoid touching the pins on the bottom or the top of the chip.
• Find the arrow in one corner of the CPU.
• Align this arrow with the arrow on the CPU socket.
• Gently place the CPU onto the socket.
• Ensure the CPU is seated properly.
• Lower the retention lever back into place to secure the CPU.
• Applying some force may be necessary to lock the lever down, but do not force the CPU into the socket.

2. Optional M.2 SSD Installation

This step is optional, but if you want to install an M.2 SSD then you can do that right after installing the CPU. Here’s how you can install the M.2 SSD:

• Find the M.2 slot on your motherboard. It’s a small, horizontal slot with a small screw located across from it.
• If you have difficulty locating it, encounter multiple M.2 slots, or plan to install more than one M.2 SSD, refer to your motherboard’s user manual for guidance.
• Use a Phillips #0 screwdriver to remove the small screw next to the M.2 slot. Keep the screw safe for later use.
• Gently insert the M.2 SSD into the slot. It should be positioned at a slight angle of about 35 degrees from the motherboard.
• Press the SSD down into the slot and secure it by replacing the small screw to lock it in place.

3. CPU Cooling System Installation

The exact instructions of installing the CPU cooling system differ. That said, it’s best to check the user manual of your CPU cooler and then start with the process. Speaking of the types, a few coolers need a mounting bracket while a few others don’t. Check to see if your cooler needs a bracket and adjust one if required.

On the other hand, a few of these coolers come with a pre-applied thermal paste. Whereas, if there’s no thermal paste applied then you can squeeze a pea-sized amount onto the CPU’s middle and place the cooler there. Apply slight pressure and let it sit.

4. Install RAM

Initially, check the number of RAM slots on your motherboard. It’s mostly 2 or 4 of them. If you’re filling all RAM slots then easily put them all, however, if you’re only filling a few slots then head to the user manual for it.

5. Run a Test

What if you put in all the efforts to only find out that the setup isn’t working as expected? That’s where we recommend running a test without the case. Here’s how you can run the test:

• Install the GPU.
• Connect the assembled gaming parts to the power supply.
• A few motherboards come with a switch for power supply, but many others don’t. If there’s one, then switch it on. If there are none, find the power switch pins (denoted by colorful nodules or PWR ON).
• Once done, you can now tell if all components are working.
• The motherboard’s lights shouldn’t be blinking or beeping. If this is case, check the user manual.
• A few motherboards have a postcode display. You can identify the problem when these 2 digits blink. If you see them, consult to the user manual for problem identification.
• In case of no post code, connect the GPU to a display and verify the POSTs test, or if your PC starts up show you the motherboard’s logo.
• Once done, switch off the power supply and wait for the LEDs to go off. Make sure there’s no residual power in the gaming system.
• Uninstall the GPU and all other power cables.

6. Mount the Gaming Case

After running the test, it’s time to mount the gaming case and the power supply. Here’s how to do that:

• Remove it from its packaging or disconnect it from components if previously tested. Set aside the cables if it’s a full or semi-modular unit.
• Determine the PSU’s position in the case (usually at the bottom, near the back) and how it should be oriented. Ideally, position the fan to face outside through a bottom vent if available. If there’s no bottom vent, mount the PSU with the fan facing upward inside the case, ensuring enough clearance.
• Attach the PSU to the case using the four screws provided.
• For non-modular or semi-modular PSUs, route the attached cables through the case to their destinations and use any cable management features in the case.

7. Install the Motherboard

This section will briefly walk you through the motherboard installation process. Here’s how you can do that:

• I/O is a rectangular protection case for the motherboard. Before proceeding, watch your fingers because the I/O edges will be sharp.
• Put the I/O casing on the motherboard.
• Install the motherboard.
• Thoroughly check if all cables are correctly attached.
• Use a #2 screwdriver and mount the center screw to hold the motherboard still.
• Don’t drag your motherboard when mounting the screws.
• Attach all screws and there is no specifc number of screws since that depends on the board.
• Once done, connect both connections, i.e, a 8-pin and 24-pin CPU connector to the power.

8. Install the GPU

Here’s how you can install the GPU:

• Find the longest PCIe slot on your motherboard. This will be a different color from other components.
• Refer to the motherboard manual to determine priority if you see multiple PCIe x16 slots available.
• Select a slot providing ample ventilation space around the GPU and other components.
• If needed, remove small metal tabs from the back panel of your case to expose the GPU’s ports, such as the HDMI and others.
• Unbox the GPU and align it with the rear retention bracket and PCIe x16 slot.
• Gently push it into the slot until it clicks. Ensure the PCIe tab locks the GPU in place.
• Fasten the GPU to the case using one or two screws (depending on the requirement).
• If the GPU has additional power requirements, connect the necessary power cables from the PSU.

9. Install the SSD and HDD

The steps will differ depending on the bays. Here’s a brief walkthrough of how you can install the SSD and HDD:

• Open the case and check the drive bays.
• You’ll see multiple stack of bays of different sizes and with switches in the case. These switches can be of plastic or metal brackets.
• Storages come in 2.5-inch (for HDDs and SSDs) and 3.5-inch (mainly for HDDs) sizes.
• Most 3.5-inch bays can hold 2.5-inch drives, but not the other way around. Some 3.5-inch bays have trays that can accommodate 2.5-inch drives.
• Look for larger bays in your case. Typically at the front and near the top, which are designed for optical drives.
• For cases with tool-free bays, each bay will have a plastic lever or switch. Unlock or open this mechanism to remove the tray.
• Place your drive into the tray. If using a 3.5-inch tray for a 2.5-inch drive, secure the 2.5-inch drive to the 3.5-inch tray with screws to prevent movement.
• Slide the tray back into the bay until it clicks into place.
• For cases without tool-free bays, locate the large metal bracket with slots or holes. Slide the drive between the bracket and the case side, then secure it with screws.
• Follow the chassis manual for the recommended number of screws. Typically, most drives will stay secure with just two screws.
• Once all drives are installed, connect them to the motherboard using a SATA cable (provided with the drive or motherboard) and to the power supply.

10. Install the Operating System

You’re almost done! It’s time to install the operating system, and you can do that by installing it from your USB flash drive. Before proceeding, ensure that you plug in your USB, mouse, keyboard, and other required external components as per your preference. Once done, it’s time to install the operating system. Here’s how you can do so:

• Once the PC starts, you’ll see a dialogue box. Click on Key for system setup or BIOS.
• If no prompt appears, then refer to the motherboard’s user manual.
• In BIOS, find the System Information Page to check all components recognized by the system.
• Find Boot Order or Boot Priority. Click on either and set the USB flash drive as the boot device.
• Set the drive where you plan to install the OS as the second boot device.
• Restart your computer. It should boot from the USB flash drive, and the OS installer will appear.
• Follow the instructions provided by the installer to complete the OS installation.

You’ve successfully setup your gaming PC. However, there are a few things to still be mindful of which we’ll be covering in the final note of this guide. Till then, head to the FAQs section to find answers to possible questions.

Wrapping Up

Building a gaming PC is quite easier than thought, and you don’t have to have previous experience to set it all up. Moreover, you don’t need a stretched budget as well for building a gaming PC. Instead, anything from $1000 and above should be enough for setting up a gaming PC.

Once you’re done with building a gaming PC, it’s important to consider the risks of online gaming as well. That said, the web is flooded with cyber threats and you must remain connected to FastestVPN for an elevated digital protection when browsing the web.

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