Should a newbie PC gamer build or buy a gaming pc?

E3  2018 gaming convention is currently happening. With over 60,000 attendees and millions of video game fans around the world tuning in to every announcement, no one can deny that gaming is BIG BUSINESS!

The dilemma many newbie gamers face is whether to build a gaming pc or to buy a pre-built one.

Is it worth building a PC? it can be, but as with everything – there is no straight-forward answer. For those beginners on the sidelines, let’s look at the two options:

To build a gaming pc

Building a PC means you have options. There are lots of various components so you can get exactly what you want out of your PC and you can tailor the specifications to suit you. Want lots of super-fast RAM? no problem – you buy a motherboard that can support that. Need a faster liquid-cooled processor? You get that too.

Building your own computer isn’t as difficult as it sounds and can be done in 30 minutes. All you need to do is have the necessary components, and the ability to follow the instructions. Much like your old Lego, everything slots together – from the case to the motherboard, to the power supply, graphics card – just clicks or screw into place.

The essence in building your own desktop computer is that you know you can plan for upgrades as budget and new components become available. The cool thing about a PC is it is never “finished” and games often say  “it is finished for now”. The building is part of the gaming fun.

The downside is that you have to put in the labor. You must research components that are compatible with other, you have to be willing to buy from various suppliers and people, you have to be willing to wait until you gather all the components before having a working PC. You don’t have to be “technical” but you do need to understand the basics.

Overall, buying individual components is cheaper, but you have to bear in mind that you get what you pay for. The supplier of the components needs to be credible and something as simple as storing memory boards in anti-static bags could be something that a Craigslist “supplier” could overlook. This means damaged components.

Not to build a gaming pc

If building your own sound like too much hard work, then a pre-built proper PCs is not a bad option by any means. No hassles. Get it immediately and anything goes wrong, you have your warranty. However, a pre-build PC comes at a price.

Also, if you would like your gaming device to be a laptop so you can take it around, you will almost certainly have to buy it pre-built due to the difficulty of making a laptop. These days, you can pick up a good $800 gaming laptop that offers solid performance for the price.

When buying a PC straight out of the box from a reputable supplier, you know you are in good hands. The manufacturer has the expertise of the finer details of building a computer such as new laser ablation processes to drill the holes, all the way through to the sophisticated microchipping technique. After all, this is what they do for a living so they need to perfect the art of delivering quality.

The downside is the price and the lack of flexibility. The pre-built computers are usually built in such a way where you can choose some components but within the limit. The more expensive the pc is the more options you have. So start saving!

So in summary:

Before you start, it is advisable that you identify what you actually want and what you can afford. Start with that in mind.

Once you have a budget, pop into your local computer store and chat with the sales person about your options. Ask for a written quote with the components outlined. Take that list and start your search online to see where you can get the best deal. In most cases, you could go back to the store and ask them to match other prices. In this case, a pre-built pc will work beautifully and within your budget.

If you are adamant that there are no PCs out there for you, then building your own is an option. Ideally buy a PC that can evolve and grow with you. Whenever you buy an essential component like a motherboard always ask what the maximum capacity it can handle. This will allow you to upgrade whenever you want without having to replace the motherboard too.

At the end of the day, the hardware is the enabler to get into gaming. Remember that you don’t need to have the best specs to be the best at your game. That is where the real fun is to be had!

Happy gaming.