PC Components

Here are all the parts needed to assemble a desktop computer – from the processor and video card to the case, fans, and thermal paste. If you are building a new system from scratch or just replacing one part in an old computer, start from the category of the part you need.

How to choose

• Start with the task. For gaming, the most important are the video card and the processor. For video editing and 3D – the processor, memory, and fast disk. For office work, a modest system with integrated graphics is sufficient.
• The foundation: processor and motherboard. The processor determines the socket, while the motherboard determines the type of memory, number of disks, and connections. The new AM5 and LGA 1851 platforms only work with DDR5.
• Memory and disks. 16 GB RAM is the minimum for a modern system, while 32 GB is comfortable for gaming and work. The fastest choice for the system is an M.2 NVMe SSD, while hard drives are for large archives.
• Power supply and cooling. A quality power supply protects all other parts. The cooler must match the heat of the processor, and the fans in the case must ensure airflow.
• The case. It must accommodate the motherboard, video card, and cooler and have good ventilation. A mesh front panel and at least three fans keep the parts cool and quiet.
• Future upgrade. If you plan to upgrade to a more powerful processor or video card later, choose a platform with long support, a power supply with a reserve, and a case with space. This way, you will only replace one part, not the entire system.

What to watch out for

• Don't skimp on the power supply – a cheap unit without certification can damage expensive parts.
• Check the height of the cooler and the length of the video card relative to the case.
• DDR4 and DDR5 are not interchangeable – the memory must match the motherboard.
• Thermal paste and mounting accessories are often forgotten, and without them, assembly stops.
• A powerful video card with a weak processor or vice versa loses some of its capabilities – keep the parts in the same class.

Compatibility

The parts of the computer depend on each other: the socket connects the processor to the motherboard, the motherboard determines the memory and size of the case, and the video card determines the required power of the power supply. The easiest way to avoid mistakes is the configurator – it shows only the parts that fit together and checks the power and dimensions for you.