There’s a reason why the PC gaming market is worth an estimated $45.5 billion. When you have the right type of set-up, there’s no better way to experience video games than the developers intended.
However, that all depends on the type of PC gaming setup you have. Sadly, many beginners are intimidated when it comes to building PC gaming setups. When you consider the amount of money and time that needs to go into planning, this makes sense.
The good news is that the experience doesn’t need to be stressful thanks to this helpful guide. In it, we’ll give you some tips on perfecting your PC gaming setup, from the PC itself to the furniture you use. That way, you can start gaming the way it was meant to be without breaking the bank. Let’s get started!
The PC: Building PC Gaming Setups Yourself or Buy Pre-Manufactured?
Most people recommend building your PC when making your ideal setup. There’s a lot of reasons for this. It’s more affordable, you have more control over what goes into it, and it’s uniquely yours.
While some technical know-how is required you can find many helpful video tutorials to walk you through any confusing parts. If building your rig sounds like the right move for you, then you will need to start collecting parts before you assemble. Here are all of the components that you’ll need:
- Workspace
- Screwdriver
- PC casing
- A central processing unit (or a CPU)
- Motherboard
- A graphics processing unit (or a GPU)
- Storage
- Memory (or RAM)
- Power supply unit (or a PSU)
- Operating system (or an OS)
- Cooling unit
- Mouse
- Keyboard
- Monitor
- Sound System
There are plenty of places where you can buy these components, whether they’re major stores like Best Buy or online sellers. We recommend setting a budget and sticking to it. Otherwise, it will be fairly easy to go overboard.
If you’re intimidated by building your PC, then you can also purchase one pre-manufactured. This will be a lot easier than building one. However, keep in mind that it will almost always be more expensive to purchase one that’s already made.
If you’re going with pre-manufactured, then you should also consider what else you’ll be using the computer for. In some cases, it might make sense to go with an option that’s more versatile in areas unrelated to gaming.
For example, if you plan on also using your computer for video, audio, or image edits, then you might want to go with a Mac for editing. While Macs tend to get a bad reputation in PC gaming, the reality is that they can run almost all the same games as a PC. And, they have more flexibility in areas unrelated to gaming, like editing.
The Desk: How Much Space Do You Need?
Next, it’s time to decide on a desk. When it comes to finding this type of specialized furniture we recommend avoiding gaming retailers. Typically these types of specialized stores charge a lot more for desks because they’re made for gaming.
However, the reality is that you can find something much cheaper somewhere like Ikea that works just as well. What you should keep in mind is how much space you need. Small setups will just require space for a monitor, sound system, keyboard, and mouse. You can keep your PC case under the desk.
If you have a small set up, then a small office desk will suffice. However, if you have things like an audio mixing board, additional monitor or lot’s of accessories/decorations you want to set up, then you’ll need a bigger desk.
Don’t have room for a big desk? Consider two small ones set up at an angle. This can help you maximize surface space while fitting your set-up into a smaller room.
The Chair: Find Something Comfy
Many people spend thousands of dollars on their PC set-up only to purchase a cheap, uncomfy chair. This doesn’t make any sense. You’ll be sitting at your gaming station for hours at a time. As such, why not be as comfortable as possible?
As such, we recommend setting aside $100 or more for your chair. Make sure it’s something that you can sit up straight in for hours without the need to take a break. The good news is that there are tons of chairs designed specifically for gamers.
While these aren’t necessary, they do offer a unique look and functional lumbar support. Still, like lots of gaming equipment, they’ll likely also be marked up. As such, you shouldn’t feel bad going with a more traditional office chair. Just make sure that it’s comfortable.
The Ambience: Make Your Gaming Setup Your Own
Finally, there are the finishing touches to consider. You’re going to be spending a lot of time at your gaming set-up. So, why not make it more your own? Colored lights, movie or game posters, and figurines/memorabilia are a great way to make a space more your own.
This is especially important if you streaming games to a live audience. People want to see you in a space that reflects your interests. That’s why some of the top streamers have video set-ups that show their gaming space in great detail.
While this step is technically optional, we do encourage you to make your space more unique with some light touches.
Want More Content? Keep Exploring
We hope this article helped you learn more about building PC gaming setups. As you can see, there are a lot of decisions you need to make before you can start buying the components and furniture you need.
However, as long as adequately plan everything, then you should be able to make a budget and eventually complete the setup you wanted. If you need technical help along the way, then there are thousands of video resources you can choose from. So, dive and start enjoying your ideal PC build today. Did you enjoy this article? If the answer is yes, then you’re in the right place. Keep reading to find more topics that you’re sure to enjoy
