We are going to keep it short and simple for you.
These are the basic components of any desktop computer build.
You must buy all of these parts to have a functioning desktop.
This information is “evergreen” and will not change with time.
Computer Parts List
- CPU aka Processor
- CPU Cooler/Fan(optional)
- Motherboard aka Mobo
- GPU aka Graphics Card
- Memory aka RAM
- Hard Drive or Solid State Drive (SSD)
- PSU aka Power Supply Unit
- Case
There are a few optional parts as well.
If your CPU does not come with a fan/cooler, you will need a CPU fan.
If your CPU does not have integrated graphics, you will need a separate graphics card.
If you plan on gaming, you will need a graphics card.
If your motherboard does not have built-in WiFi, you may need a wireless card or adapter.
Explanation of Parts
CPU: The CPU is the computer’s processor or brain. It will handle all the tasks you run. Several options are available at any given moment, and it can be quite confusing on which brand you should choose, such as Intel or AMD. And even when you narrow it down to a brand, the “Generation” constantly changes. That is why we suggest you research before buying any CPU.
There are a few things to look out for with a CPU that can determine the rest of your build. Mainly, does it have integrated graphics, and what does it mean? Integrating graphics is a great option if you are only using your computer for work because you do not need a separate graphics card. You can save a lot of money this way. However, if you are gaming and don’t have integrated graphics, you must buy a separate graphics card.
Many CPUs come with a fan cooler but if you plan on gaming or overclocking, you should get a separate higher end CPU cooling fan.
Motherboard: The motherboard, aka mobo is like the veins of the computer allowing all the different components to interact with one another. You can’t pick any mobo; you must get one that matches the “socket” of your CPU. The socket won’t be a secret, the CPU will clearly display what type of socket you need and you can find a mobo based on that.
Once you narrow down the socket, you can decide whether you want built-in WiFi, or extra expansion slots.
Your motherboard size will have to match the computer case you decide to build in. The sizes are Mini ATX, Micro ATX, ATX, E-ATX. Don’t buy a full-sized mobo if you want to fit it all in a micro case.
Computer Memory aka RAM: RAM, or Random Access Memory, acts as a current deck of processes and handles as many tasks as possible in the cache rather than from the hard drive. In today’s computing world, you should probably get at least 32GB of RAM for any build. The price has come down enough to make this possible. You must also match your RAM to your motherboard. Most mobos handle DDR4 and now DDR5, but you can easily tell when you buy it.
Hard Drive Hard Drive is the physical storage of the computer. This is where your Operating System(Windows) and programs will install. You may be used to traditional Hard Drives but the game has completely changed as technology has advanced. So you will now be looking to get a MVMe Internal M.2 SSD. Nothing less. This plugs directly into the PCIe of your motherboard and has speeds up to 35 times faster than the HDD you’re used to. Yes, it makes that big of a difference. The prices have come down a lot, so you may even be bale to get 2TB if you install a lot of games.
You will have a 1TB or 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD for the main Operating System drive, and if you need extra storage for large files, personal videos, movies, a lot of pictures, etc., you would then buy a second 1TB or larger cheaper traditional HDD for extra space. While it is slower, it is still good for long term storage of such files. Many offices now have network-attached storage, so you may not need to store all the files on your desktop. And they are cheap enough to go with 4TB.
Power Supply Unit aka PSU: Not a lot to say about PSU’s. They are pretty universal and fit most computer cases. For a light work machine, a 500w will do. If you’re going to build a gaming computer, maybe a 650w is a better idea. But you almost can’t go wrong with picking a PSU. They have the proper fitting and cables to hook to your computer.
I suggest modular and 80 Plus Gold for a gaming machine.
Computer Case: The tower or case is mostly a personal preference. We have linked to a few popular ones in our computer case article. Some look really cool, and some are very basic. The only real thing to look out for is the size. You have to decide the size of your computer when picking a case and match the motherboard to the case. These are the sizes from smallest to largest. Mini ATX, Micro ATX, ATX, E-ATX. So in a way, you might want to pick your case first, then build around it.
Graphics Card: This is a whole new level of building and goes beyond the basic elementary components of a PC. If you are building a gaming computer, you will need a GFX card and a basic idea of what card to buy. The market for GFX cards is ever-evolving at a fast rate, so one week’s technology can be next month’s relic.
For gaming in today’s world you will need at least 8GB of VRAM(Video RAM) at standard 1080p but for higher end like 1440p you’ll have to go with 12GB or more and if you want to game in 4K, 16GB or more. If you can afford it, go the highest you can afford because with the advancements in AI games will soon be rendering on our PC.
When you do go high end GFX card, you will likely have to up your Power Supply Unit so be sure to keep those compatible with one another. As well as the size of your computer case.
If you are ready to pick a card, do a lot of current research on the matter. Youtube is full of recent reviews that match your favorite games.
If you have any questions, be sure to leave a comment, and we’ll help you out.
