The Insider’s Guide to Purchasing Components for a High End PC

So you’ve finally had enough of low end and mid-range PCs. Maybe they lag, or freeze. Perhaps there isn’t enough RAM or processing power to handle the types of programs you want to run. Regardless of the reason, you have finally made the decision to upgrade your computing capability building a higher end PC.  This post will serve as your guide to purchasing components to build your very own high end PC.

Building A High End PC

Building a PC isn’t as easy as ordering one pre-built from your favorite company. You are now responsible for identifying, collecting, and assembling all the essential components. This can be overwhelming to the first timer. The first factor to consider is cost. How powerful do you need your new computer to be?

If you want a system, that can play all the latest games and render video editing, then expect to pay over $1000 for that capability. If your system serves as a simple multimedia center and business machine, then price will be reduced to around $600-$700. Once you’ve decided which system best suits your needs, it’s time to find and purchase all the major components.

Gathering Your Components

There are two online computer outlets that are both reputable and reasonably priced: Fry’s and TigerDirect. It’s preferable to buy all of your new computer parts over the internet, the selection is greater, and the price will be far more competitive. Choose whichever company suits you the most. However, if you are looking more more specialty components like Actifio’s new data management and storage, check out CPU Inc.

The Skeleton

The first item you’ll need to purchase is the case. This is the frame that holds the circuitry. High end computers will typically need bigger cases, which tend to cost more. The main three things to look for when looking to buy a case: What is it made of, how well ventilated is it, and how accessible is your computer within the case. Different builders have different preferences, and cases are made from everything from cheap plastic to burnished aluminum. A case should cost you somewhere in the range of $90-$100.

Next the motherboard. Depending on what features you want, such as Bluetooth, or USB3, the motherboard will cost anywhere from $100-$300. Then buy the processor, which is one of the more expensive components. An Intel i5 processor is good for most mid-range builds, while an i7 is preferable for higher end processes. A processor will cost you from $300-$500.

Then you’ll need RAM to ensure the computer runs smoothly. RAM is one of the cheapest components. Depending on what type of motherboard bought, you’ll need 4, 6, or 8GB of RAM. This will cost you from $20-$40.

The Power supply unit, or PSU, is exactly as it appears. It is the unit that supplies power to the computer. High end rigs will need at least 650 to 700 Watts, while their middle range cousins can make due with 500 Watts.

By far the most expensive component is the graphics processor. High end cards are built for larger cases, and can cost upwards of $900. Double that if you buy two and configure them together for increased performance.

The Peripherals, a.k.a, Monitors

The main peripheral that matters is a monitor. Monitors with higher frame rates and resolutions will provide a greater reviewing experience. Larger screens with superior resolution, such as 1080p will cost more. Expect to pay $200-$400 for a monitor. The mouse and keyboard aren’t too important. They can be picked up from away for $20 altogether. Add any audio configuration if you wish.

High-End Custom PCs are always superior to their pre-manufactured counterparts. Now you have a solid understanding of the steps involved in building a PC from scratch and how to go about acquiring what you need to do so.