Most novice gamers use off-the-shelf pre-built computers for gaming, but hardened PC gamers often build a custom setup - everything from the hard drive to their chair is geared towards their gaming. In 2019, competitive gamers in the U.S. spent an average of $425 annually on downloadable content and game accessories. Players of all types and from all genres spend lots of money to customize their home equipment to get the best gaming experience.
How to Build the Perfect Gaming PC
It isn't just for first-person shooter games or racing games, even iGaming players go bespoke when building a PC. iGaming includes live-streaming casino games, eSports, and multi-table online poker, all of which require above-average computer specs if you want to keep the wins coming. Plus, since almost every game nowadays is online, a strong and fast internet connection is definitely a must. With such a variety of online games to enjoy, it's important to build the right PC, and we'll guide you through the process.
Four Pillars for Building Perfect Gaming PC
1. Processor
The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of your computer and carries out all of the important functions. It receives instructions, performs calculations, and executes the commands it's given. For example, when you play Call of Duty, your computer uses a large amount of your CPU's capacity while connected online and even more so if you're battling in multiplayer mode. You'll want to make sure that your processor can easily handle all of the data it's being fed, so you should use, at a minimum, an Intel Core2DuoE8200 2.66 gigahertz processor. This will give you an enjoyable gaming experience without any annoying lag.
If the CPU is your computer's brain, random access memory (RAM) is your computer's muscle - making it the next most important component. The amount of RAM your computer has will determine whether or not it performs well while playing games, as memory affects performance. If your computer doesn't have adequate RAM, for example, only 2GB, and you're trying to play an action-adventure racing game like Grand Theft Auto V, you may notice your computer responding very slowly, which will affect the gaming experience.
The minimum amount of RAM you should have for gaming should be 4GB, and we recommend trying the OCZ 4GB (2x2048MB) Dual Channel Memory Kit DDR2. If your budget allows, go for 8GB. And if you want to future-proof your computer, install 16GB and your computer will be able to handle any type of gaming, including multiplayer and live streaming.
The average gamer uses just one monitor to play games. However, to play poker online like a professional, or roam the open world as a bounty hunter, you will need at least two monitors. Poker and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt are fast-paced games and smart gamers use multiple screens when playing. One monitor is to be used for the game and the other is to be used to multi-table or to view a map. Plus, a dual-monitor set-up makes multitasking easy, gives extra space to read chats and comments, as well as increases visual immersion while gaming.
Before you buy your extra screen, be sure to check if your PC has the proper connections for a dual monitor setup. Your computer should have at least two HDMI outputs, or one HDMI output in addition to a Display Port output.
If you only had one monitor, you'd be required to switch between full-screen windows, which is doable but inconvenient. Employing a dual-monitor set-up will give gamers easy access to everything they need, thus making the gaming experience twice as better.
When playing online poker, you repeat the same type of clicking and maneuver the mouse in the same way, which can make your hands and wrist get tired. If you play every day for many hours, it could lead to numbness, tingling in the hand, and even carpal tunnel syndrome.
To combat this, you could invest in a programmable mouse that is ergonomic to lessen the chances of getting carpal tunnel syndrome, and reduce the need for repetitive mouse movements. We recommend the Logitech MX Master 3 Wireless Mouse as it's designed with a thumb rest, handy thumb-scroll and round shape which makes it comfortable to use for many hours, and it's versatile for all types of games, especially FPS games like Titanfall 2 and Apex Legends.
If you want to be a serious player and take your gaming experience to the next level then go all in with your custom PC. Try these suggestions out so you're ready to battle it out with the pros!
