Building a gaming PC is something that happens to be a lot easier than some people might think in the first place. With so many guides available on the internet, you really don’t need more than some basic knowledge of putting things together, and in addition to that, you also need some basic knowledge and you are good to go.
However, there have queries on the internet discussing how to properly build a gaming PC. As it turns out, a lot of gamers end up making mistakes when it comes to building a gaming PC, and while these mistakes certainly are very common, they can ruin your entire experience of building a gaming PC.
As I have said before, building a gaming PC has become a lot easier than it used to be. To an extent, all you need to do is just plug in a couple of gables, and you are good to go. There is no other issue that can bother you in terms of making a gaming PC. Still, the mistakes are there, and in this article, we will be shedding light on some of the most common mistakes that a person ends up making when building a gaming PC.
Mixing the Power Cables Up
One of the biggest rookie mistakes that I have seen most PC builders make is mixing up the power cables. If you have ever wondered why manufacturers make sure that everything is listed on the cable, it is mainly because there have been incidents in which people have plugged the 8 pin EPS cable into the GPU rather than plugging it onto the motherboard or vice-versa.
I know it sounds something that is not realistic, but I can assure you that I have seen this happen with so many people that it is almost scary to even think of.
The good thing is that these pins are lined differently, so you will not be able to just shove them in. Sadly, there have been situations where people managed to force these cables into the sockets where they don’t below.
If you want your hardware to survive the catastrophe, then don’t be that person.
Not Screwing Your Graphics Card Into the Slot
Modern day graphics are getting heavier and heavier due to the beefier coolers they use. This means that it is really, really important to ensure that your graphics card is properly screwed into the case after being installed. Sadly, not many people understand this and they believe that it is fine to leave the GPU unscrewed.
I will be honest here, it is not. As a matter fact, leaving your GPU unscrewed is perhaps one of the most dangerous things that you can put your GPU through, and it is best if you just screw it.
Because if you decide against screwing the GPU in, then there is a chance that your PCI-E slot gets damaged due to the weight, and in addition to that, not screwing your graphics card can also introduce a lot of sag, especially if you have a weighty graphics card.
Not Connecting the Front Panel Cables The Proper Way
I will be honest, the front panel cables or headers are annoying. They are so damn thin, and every time you have to plug them in, the configuration has to be changed in order for you to be able to connect them properly.
While Asus, and Gigabyte give you a small adapter that you can plug all the cables into, and then plug that adapter into the motherboard, but with cheaper boards, that is not the case. If you +are dealing with those cables without an adapter, then I would advise you to consult the motherboard manual, and then plug the cables accordingly.
This will make your overall experience much better, as well as much smoother. So, so do consider these.
Not Plugging the Power Cables the Right Way
Another really, really common mistake that a lot of gamers make whenever they are building their computers is not plugging the power cables in the right way.
Now I know that plugging in those cables (especially the 24-pin) one can be a difficult task, but you need to make sure that you use the right amount of force. Just enough to have the cable go in, and make a clicking noise.
You want to know what happens if the cable is not fully seated, and you turn on the PC? Well, you would be granted with some smell, along with some smoke as well.
Yes, not fully plugging in your cables can be more disastrous for your PC than anything else, and let’s be honest, you wouldn’t want to blow up your PC now, would you?
Trying to Squish the Cables
Building a PC gaming is all about the cable management part, and I have to be honest here, I absolutely loath the cable management. I remember a few days ago when I built myself a new PC in the lovely Corsair Obsidian 500D, one of the biggest issue I ran into was about the cable management.
The case did have enough space for the cables, but me being the careless person I am, just wanted to make sure that everything is squished in. This was perhaps the biggest mistake I could have made with the cable management.
If you are starting your PC building journey, and you want to ensure that your experience goes as best as it could be, then you must avoid squishing the cables at all cost. Not only will it look off, but one of the biggest disadvantages to that is that it will potentially damage your cables, or the connectors on your components.
This is a big red flag for anyone who is spending a considerable amount of money on their hardware.
You can use cable ties, or zip ties to ensure that you are doing the proper job when managing your cables. If you can’t find a solution on your own, you can simply look for one on the internet, and that should get the job done for you. Just be gentle with the cables, because you really don’t want to snap them.
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Conclusion
There is no denying that building a gaming PC is a lot more fun than you might think in the first place. Especially if you are building one for the first time. However, you must know that there are mistakes that can be made, the mistakes that you must avoid at all costs to have the best possible experience with the PC.
Trust me when I say this, whether you are building a PC for the first time, or for the tenth time, the mistakes can certainly be made. So, it is best if you avoid them, and I really hope that this article helps you avoid all the possible mistakes there when it comes to building a PC. If you think there are more mistakes that are on the common side and should be avoided, then feel free to let us know.
FAQ PC building mistakes
What is the importance of selecting a compatible CPU and motherboard when building a new PC?
Compatibility between the CPU and motherboard is crucial in PC building. The processor must fit the motherboard’s socket, and the chipset should support the CPU’s features. Incompatible pairings can lead to functional failures or underutilization of PC components.
How does RAM affect the performance of PCs, especially in gaming PCs?
RAM (Random Access Memory) is vital for the speed and efficiency of PCs, particularly in gaming. It temporarily stores data for quick access, enabling smoother gameplay and faster processing for complex gaming scenarios.
Can you explain the significance of PSU (Power Supply Unit) in the PC building process?
The PSU is essential in providing stable and sufficient power to all PC components. An inadequate or low-quality PSU can lead to power instability, reducing component lifespan and potentially causing system failures.
Why is airflow important in a PC case, and how can one optimize it?
Proper airflow in a PC case is crucial for cooling and preventing overheating. Optimizing airflow involves strategic fan placement for efficient air intake and exhaust and ensuring unobstructed paths for air movement inside the case.
What are some common mistakes beginners make when building their first PC?
Common mistakes include applying too much force on components, using incompatible parts, poor cable management, overlooking the need for sufficient cooling, and applying too much thermal paste on the CPU.
Why is it important to use standoffs when installing a motherboard in a PC case?
Standoffs prevent the motherboard from touching the case directly, which can cause short circuits. They provide a secure and insulated mounting point, ensuring the safety and stability of the motherboard.
What role does the CPU cooler play in a desktop PC, and why is it important?
The CPU cooler dissipates heat from the processor, maintaining optimal operating temperatures. This prevents overheating, which can lead to throttled performance or hardware damage, especially during intensive tasks.
How does choosing between AMD and Intel processors affect your PC build?
Choosing between AMD and Intel impacts the build’s performance, budget, and future upgrade paths. Each brand offers different strengths in processing power, integrated graphics, and cost-effectiveness, influencing the overall PC’s capabilities.
What is PCIe, and why is it important in the PC building process?
PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-speed interface standard for connecting hardware devices like graphics cards and SSDs to the motherboard. It’s essential for achieving maximum performance from these components.
What are some tips for beginners to avoid mistakes when building their first PC?
Beginners should thoroughly research components for compatibility, follow step-by-step build guides, avoid rushing the assembly process, double-check connections, and seek advice from experienced builders or online forums.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when building your first PC?
One of the most common errors is not ensuring compatibility among components. Always verify that the CPU, motherboard, and other parts are compatible. Avoid applying excessive force, especially when installing the CPU into the socket, and ensure proper cable management.
How important is it to choose the right motherboard when you’re building your own PC?
The motherboard is the backbone of your build. It dictates the type and number of components you can install. Ensure it has the right CPU socket for your processor and enough ports and slots for your needs.
What are the key considerations for selecting RAM sticks for a new build?
When selecting RAM, consider the capacity, speed, and compatibility with your motherboard. Also, check the number of available slots on the motherboard and the maximum memory it supports.
Why is proper installation of a heatsink crucial in PC building?
A heatsink effectively dissipates heat from the CPU. Improper installation can lead to overheating, causing thermal throttling or damage. Ensure it’s securely attached and that thermal paste is appropriately applied.
What role do motherboard standoffs play in building PCs?
Motherboard standoffs are used to elevate the motherboard above the case, preventing electrical shorts. They must be correctly positioned and installed to align with the motherboard’s screw holes.
How can PC part picker tools aid new builders in assembling their PC?
PC part picker tools help in ensuring compatibility between components, budget management, and finding the best deals. They provide a comprehensive overview of the build, making it easier to avoid common mistakes.
What are some tips for effectively installing the motherboard in a PC case?
To install your motherboard, first secure the standoffs in the case. Then, carefully align the motherboard with these standoffs and the rear I/O ports with the case’s cut-out. Secure the motherboard using screws without applying too much force.
Why should new hardware be handled carefully when building your PC?
PC components are sensitive to static electricity and physical damage. Handle them by their edges, use anti-static measures, and ensure a clean, uncluttered workspace to avoid damaging these delicate parts.
What is the significance of the CPU socket in the PC building process?
The CPU socket determines the type of processor you can install. Different processors require different sockets (e.g., Intel’s LGA and AMD’s AM4), so it’s crucial to match the socket type of your motherboard with your chosen CPU.
In the context of building PCs, what should you consider regarding motherboard headers?
Motherboard headers are connectors for various functions like USB ports, audio, and power buttons. Ensure your case’s connectors are compatible with the motherboard’s headers, and connect them correctly for full functionality of your build.