Gaming – SmartnTechs https://smartntechs.com Essentials and Reviews about Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops and More Wed, 18 Sep 2024 12:44:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 How to Choose the Best High-End Gaming Laptop or PC https://smartntechs.com/gaming/choose-best-high-end-gaming-laptop-pc/ Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:42:50 +0000 https://smartntechs.com/?p=9588 Choosing a high-end gaming laptop or PC is an exciting but complex endeavor, especially with the rapid advancements in technology and the multitude of options available. This...

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Choosing a high-end gaming laptop or PC is an exciting but complex endeavor, especially with the rapid advancements in technology and the multitude of options available. This guide aims to help you navigate through the essential components and features you should consider to make an informed decision that suits your gaming needs and preferences.

Understanding Your Gaming Needs

Before diving into the specifics of hardware and features, it’s crucial to understand your gaming needs. Here are a few questions to guide your thought process:

  1. What types of games do you play?
    • If you play graphics-intensive AAA titles like “Cyberpunk 2077” or “Red Dead Redemption 2,” you’ll need a powerful GPU and CPU.
    • For less demanding games like “Minecraft” or “Among Us,” you can afford to prioritize other features over raw power.
  2. Are you interested in VR gaming?
    • Virtual Reality gaming demands high-end specifications, particularly a powerful GPU and a high refresh rate.
  3. Do you plan to use the laptop or PC for other intensive tasks?
    • Tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or software development may require additional processing power and memory.
  4. Portability vs. Power:
    • Decide whether you need the portability of a laptop or the upgradability and power of a desktop PC.

Key Components and Features to Consider

1. Processor (CPU)

The CPU is the brain of your gaming system. For high-end gaming, you should consider the latest processors from Intel and AMD:

  • Intel: The Core i7 and i9 series are ideal for gaming, with models like the i7-12700K or i9-12900K offering excellent performance.
  • AMD: The Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 9 series, such as the Ryzen 7 5800X or Ryzen 9 5900X, provide competitive performance and are often more cost-effective.

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Processors for Every Need – In-Depth Comparison!

2. Graphics Card (GPU)

The GPU is the most critical component for gaming performance. For high-end gaming, look for the following GPUs:

  • NVIDIA: The GeForce RTX 30 series, such as the RTX 3080 or RTX 3090, offers top-tier performance with ray tracing and DLSS technology.
  • AMD: The Radeon RX 6000 series, including the RX 6800 XT and RX 6900 XT, provides excellent performance and value.

Top 10 graphics cards for various use cases – Pros and Cons

3. Memory (RAM)

For gaming, 16GB of RAM is generally sufficient, but for future-proofing and multitasking, 32GB is recommended. Look for DDR4 or the latest DDR5 memory for optimal performance.

How to choose the right RAM for your desktop or laptop PC

4. Storage

  • SSD (Solid State Drive): A fast SSD is crucial for reducing load times and improving overall system responsiveness. NVMe SSDs are the fastest, with options like the Samsung 970 EVO or WD Black SN850.
  • HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Consider an HDD for additional storage space for your game library if you need more than 1TB of space.

5. Display

For laptops, the display is an integral part of your gaming experience:

  • Resolution: Aim for at least a 1080p display. For high-end gaming, 1440p or 4K displays offer sharper visuals.
  • Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate (120Hz, 144Hz, or 240Hz) provides smoother gameplay, especially for fast-paced games.
  • Panel Type: IPS panels offer better color accuracy and viewing angles, while TN panels provide faster response times.

Top 12 Monitors: Gaming, Video Editing, and Work – Our Recommendations and In-Depth Analysis

6. Cooling

Effective cooling is vital to maintain performance and prolong the lifespan of your components. Look for laptops and desktops with robust cooling solutions, such as multiple fans, liquid cooling, or advanced thermal designs.

7. Build Quality and Design

  • Laptops: Consider the build quality, keyboard comfort, and port selection. Aluminum chassis and RGB backlit keyboards are common in high-end gaming laptops.
  • Desktops: Look for sturdy cases with good airflow and expandability options for future upgrades.

8. Additional Features

  • Connectivity: Ensure the system has sufficient USB ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, and networking options (Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet).
  • Audio: High-quality speakers and audio jacks enhance the gaming experience.
  • Software: Some gaming laptops come with proprietary software for system optimization, overclocking, and lighting customization.

Recommended High-End Gaming Laptops

1. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
  • RAM: 16GB DDR4
  • Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
  • Display: 14-inch, 1440p, 120Hz
  • Pros: Portable, powerful performance, excellent battery life

2. Razer Blade 15 Advanced

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-11800H
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
  • RAM: 32GB DDR4
  • Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch, 4K OLED, 60Hz
  • Pros: Premium build quality, stunning display, customizable RGB lighting

3. Alienware m15 R6

  • CPU: Intel Core i9-11900H
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
  • RAM: 32GB DDR4
  • Storage: 2TB NVMe SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch, 1440p, 240Hz
  • Pros: High refresh rate display, advanced cooling system, iconic design

Recommended High-End Gaming Desktops

1. Alienware Aurora R12

  • CPU: Intel Core i9-11900KF
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090
  • RAM: 64GB DDR4
  • Storage: 2TB NVMe SSD + 2TB HDD
  • Pros: Exceptional performance, upgradable, unique design

2. Corsair One i200

  • CPU: Intel Core i9-10900K
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
  • RAM: 32GB DDR4
  • Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD + 2TB HDD
  • Pros: Compact form factor, liquid cooling, high build quality

3. HP Omen 30L

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
  • RAM: 32GB DDR4
  • Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD + 2TB HDD
  • Pros: Sleek design, customizable lighting, solid performance

Budget Considerations

High-end gaming laptops and desktops come with a significant price tag. Here are some tips to get the best value for your money:

  • Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye on major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school sales.
  • Refurbished Models: Consider buying refurbished models from reputable sellers to save money.
  • DIY Desktops: Building your own desktop can be more cost-effective and allows for better customization and future upgrades.

Future-Proofing Your Investment

To ensure your gaming system remains relevant for years to come, consider the following:

  • Upgradability: Opt for systems that allow easy upgrades for components like RAM, storage, and GPU.
  • Warranty and Support: Choose brands that offer solid warranties and customer support.
  • Trends in Gaming Technology: Stay informed about emerging technologies like ray tracing, AI-driven graphics enhancements, and new game engines to ensure your system can handle future games.

Conclusion

Choosing a high-end gaming laptop or PC involves balancing performance, features, and budget. By understanding your gaming needs and focusing on key components like the CPU, GPU, memory, and storage, you can make an informed decision that delivers an exceptional gaming experience. Whether you prioritize portability with a gaming laptop or power and upgradability with a desktop PC, the options listed above offer some of the best choices in the market for high-end gaming.

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PS4 vs PS5 – Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S: Gaming Console Comparison https://smartntechs.com/gaming/ps4-vs-ps5-xbox-series-x-vs-xbox-series-s/ https://smartntechs.com/gaming/ps4-vs-ps5-xbox-series-x-vs-xbox-series-s/#respond Fri, 03 Nov 2023 00:12:21 +0000 https://smartntechs.com/?p=8926 PlayStation 4 vs PlayStation 5 The PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5) are two remarkable gaming consoles that have shaped the gaming industry in their respective...

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PlayStation 4 vs PlayStation 5

The PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5) are two remarkable gaming consoles that have shaped the gaming industry in their respective eras. With the PS5’s release, gamers were presented with a next-generation console promising a range of advancements over its predecessor, the PS4. We will delve into the key differences between these two consoles, analyzing their hardware, performance, features, gaming libraries, and overall impact on the gaming landscape.

PlayStation 4 vs PlayStation 5

Hardware and Performance

The hardware capabilities of the PS4 and PS5 mark a significant leap forward. The PS4 has an 8-core x86-64 AMD “Jaguar” CPU and a 1.84 teraflops AMD Radeon GPU. On the other hand, the PS5 boasts an 8-core AMD Zen 2 CPU and a custom AMD RDNA 2 GPU capable of 10.28 teraflops. This substantial increase in power translates to faster load times, improved graphics, and more seamless gameplay on the PS5. Additionally, the PS5’s solid-state drive (SSD) significantly reduces load times compared to the PS4’s traditional hard disk drive (HDD), providing a more immersive gaming experience.

Graphics and Visual Fidelity

The PS5’s graphics capabilities elevate gaming to new heights. With support for ray tracing, high dynamic range (HDR), and up to 8K resolution, the PS5 offers stunningly lifelike graphics and enhanced visual details. In comparison, the PS4 delivers impressive visuals at 1080p or 4K resolution (Pro model), but lacks the advanced features of the PS5.

The difference between the two consoles becomes particularly noticeable when playing games optimized specifically for the PS5, as they take full advantage of its hardware capabilities, resulting in breathtaking visuals and immersive gameplay.

Storage and Load Times

Storage technology is an area where the PS5 surpasses the PS4. The PS4 relied on HDDs, which led to longer load times and limited storage capacity. In contrast, the PS5’s SSD not only reduces load times significantly, but it also enhances system responsiveness. Gamers can now jump into their favorite games more quickly and seamlessly on the PS5. Moreover, the PS5 offers an expandable storage option, allowing users to attach additional SSD storage to accommodate their growing game libraries, offering more convenience and flexibility compared to the PS4.

Backward Compatibility

Backward compatibility is a crucial factor for gamers during a console transition. Sony addressed this concern by ensuring that the majority of PS4 games are compatible with the PS5. This means that players can continue to enjoy their favorite PS4 titles on the new console, often with improved performance and graphics. However, it is worth noting that not all games are backward compatible, and users should consult the compatibility list provided by Sony for a seamless transition.

User Interface and Features

The PS5 introduces a revamped user interface (UI) with a modern and intuitive design. The UI focuses on providing a seamless user experience, allowing players to access games, friends, and media quickly. Additionally, the PS5’s DualSense controller brings innovative features such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, enhancing immersion and offering a more tactile gaming experience. In contrast, the PS4’s UI is simpler and lacks these advanced features, making the PS5 a significant leap forward in terms of user interaction.

Gaming Experience and Exclusive Titles

The gaming experience on the PS5 showcases the next generation of gaming. Exclusive titles such as “Demon’s Souls,” “Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart,” and “Returnal” demonstrate the PS5’s graphical prowess and take full advantage of its hardware capabilities, providing an immersive and visually stunning experience. However, the PS4 still boasts an impressive library of games, including highly acclaimed titles like “The Last of Us Part II” and “Ghost of Tsushima.” These games have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, making the PS4 a valuable gaming platform even in the era of the PS5.

The transition from the PS4 to the PS5 represents a significant milestone in gaming technology. With enhanced hardware, graphics, faster load times, and innovative features, the PS5 offers an unparalleled gaming experience. However, the PS4 still holds its ground with a strong library of games and a more affordable price point, making it an excellent choice for gamers on a budget. Ultimately, the decision between the two consoles depends on individual preferences, budget, and the desire for the latest gaming innovations. Regardless of the choice, both the PS4 and PS5 have contributed to the evolution of gaming and have left a lasting impact on the industry.

Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S

The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S are two highly anticipated consoles from Microsoft, representing the next generation of gaming. While both consoles share the same Xbox ecosystem and offer unique features, they cater to different audiences due to their divergent approaches to hardware, performance, and affordability. In this review, we will delve into the key differences between the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, analyzing their hardware capabilities, gaming experiences, backward compatibility, and overall value in the gaming landscape.

Xbox Series X vs Xbox Series S

Hardware and Performance

The Xbox Series X is a powerhouse, featuring cutting-edge hardware designed to deliver the best gaming experience possible. It boasts a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, an RDNA 2 GPU capable of 12 teraflops, and 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM. With these specifications, the Xbox Series X can handle games at up to 4K resolution with ray tracing, high frame rates, and enhanced visual effects. Additionally, the console’s high-speed SSD significantly reduces load times and offers quick access to games and applications.

In contrast, the Xbox Series S focuses on affordability while still providing a solid gaming experience. It features a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, an RDNA 2 GPU capable of 4 teraflops, and 10 GB of GDDR6 RAM. The Series S targets gaming at 1440p resolution, providing smooth gameplay and fast loading times. Although it doesn’t offer native 4K gaming like the Series X, it does support upscaling for improved visuals on 4K displays.

Graphics and Visual Fidelity

The Xbox Series X stands out in terms of graphics and visual fidelity. It supports native 4K resolution, HDR, and ray tracing, allowing for breathtaking visuals with realistic lighting and reflections. Games optimized for the Series X take full advantage of its hardware capabilities, delivering stunning graphics and immersive experiences.

On the other hand, the Xbox Series S is designed to deliver solid performance at a lower price point. While it may not support native 4K resolution, it still offers excellent visuals at 1440p resolution. Games designed for the Series X are also compatible with the Series S, benefiting from improved frame rates and faster loading times, making it a great choice for gamers who prioritize affordability without compromising on gameplay quality.

Storage and Load Times

Both the Xbox Series X and Series S feature custom NVMe SSDs, which provide significant improvements in loading times compared to previous console generations. The Xbox Series X comes with a 1 TB SSD, providing ample storage space for games, while the Series S offers a smaller 512 GB SSD. However, the Series S has a more limited available storage capacity due to its smaller size. Both consoles support expandable storage options through Seagate’s proprietary expansion cards, ensuring gamers can continue to expand their game libraries.

Backward Compatibility

Microsoft has made backward compatibility a priority, allowing gamers to enjoy their existing Xbox One, Xbox 360, and even some original Xbox games on both the Series X and Series S. With the addition of Auto HDR and improved frame rates, older titles can benefit from enhanced visuals and smoother performance on both consoles. This commitment to backward compatibility ensures that players can seamlessly transition from previous generations while still enjoying their favorite games.

Gaming Experience and Game Library

Both the Xbox Series X and Series S offer an extensive game library, including a mix of exclusive titles, third-party games, and access to Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft’s subscription-based service. Game Pass provides a vast catalog of games, including first-party titles that are available on launch day. This subscription service gives players the opportunity to explore a wide range of games without the need to purchase them individually.

However, the Xbox Series X stands out with its capabilities to deliver a more immersive gaming experience. With its superior hardware and support for native 4K resolution, it provides the most visually impressive and technologically advanced gameplay. The Series X’s performance allows for higher frame rates and improved graphics, creating a more immersive gaming experience compared to the Series S.

The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S offer distinct experiences tailored to different types of gamers. The Series X provides unparalleled power, native 4K gaming, and a range of advanced features for those seeking the highest level of performance. On the other hand, the Series S offers an affordable option without compromising on gaming quality, delivering solid visuals and smooth gameplay at a lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between the Xbox Series X and Series S depends on individual preferences, budget constraints, and desired gaming experiences.

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Ultimate Guide to Building Your Gaming PC https://smartntechs.com/gaming/pc-building-guide/ Thu, 03 Feb 2022 12:01:01 +0000 https://smartntechs.com/?p=6893 Believe it or not, you can build your own gaming PC that plays the latest games. For a beginner, building a gaming PC can seem like a...

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Believe it or not, you can build your own gaming PC that plays the latest games.

For a beginner, building a gaming PC can seem like a daunting process. And the truth is, yes, it is hard work. The main questions you might have could include:

  • What parts do you need to build a PC?
  • What tools do I need?
  • What are the main benefits of building a PC?
  • What is the actual building process?

This Ultimate gaming PC build guide will answer most of the questions you might have.

Ultimate gaming PC

Why build your own gaming PC?

If you are a true gamer or simply a computer enthusiast, then I assure you that nothing compares to the satisfaction of completely building your own fully functional PC. There are many reasons why you might want to assemble your own PC, and here are a few of them:

Building your own PC allows you to improve its performance at a lower cost

By mounting your own PC, you get significantly more performance per Dollars spent than by buying a ready-made PC. You can assemble a PC equivalent to those already assembled in the shops for two-thirds of the price!

Customization

By building your own gaming PC, you can make it unique and tailored to your taste and performance expectations by selecting from an infinite number of component combinations.

Gamers know that customization is very important. By building your own PC, you can choose what you put in it and how you want it to look.

Satisfaction

Nothing will make you appreciate the machine on which you play games, stream, listen to music, and do just about everything else you do on it, more than building it yourself.

Building your own system will allow you to learn more about the hardware you’re using and understand each component better. And it’s definitely more satisfying than going to your local computer store and buying a pre-assembled PC with no flavor.

It’s FUN

Putting together your own gaming PC requires a bit of research to find the exact components you want, and for that, you’re going to have to look at or read hardware reviews and ask others for advice.

It might sound like a lot of work, but you’ll have fun talking to other people, learning things, being able to fully embrace your geeky side, and getting to know all the details of what makes up your ultimate gaming PC.

What do you need to build a gaming PC?

Choosing the right parts is essential before building a gaming PC. It’s easy to fall into the trap of buying the most expensive core components, such as the CPU or GPU – at the cost of neglecting components like the RAM or the PSU (“Power Supply Unit”).

To make the process easier, here’s a list of basic components and we will guide you to choose the right options for your needs.

The motherboard

 

Motherboard

As its name suggests, the motherboard is the nerve center not only of a good PC but also of any computer in general. It is a key part that must be chosen with great care, bearing in mind that it should allow you to upgrade your machine when it is no longer able to run the next games, when your graphics card is no longer powerful enough, for example.

The choice of motherboard is conditioned by:

  • Format (mini-ITX, micro-ATX, ATX, and e-ATX),
  • Socket, i.e., the brand of processor it will house (Intel or AMD),
  • Chipset as well as its slots,
  • Connectors and Expansion ports which are used respectively to connect the RAM memory bars, the hard disk(s)
  • And finally, the Graphics card as well as other secondary components such as the sound card or the network card.

As we mentioned earlier, it is crucial to take into account the evolutionary potential of your future motherboard in order to avoid having to start on a new configuration in 6 months.

The Processor

 

Processor

The processor is the brain of a computer. Its impact on performance in games is not as important as it used to be, but it remains an important choice to make, which will also influence other parts, like your cooling system and your motherboard.

While Intel has long dominated the market, in 2021, it is clear that AMD is the one with the most momentum with its Zen 3 architecture. Both brands offer good options; however, if you buy the best processors available or if you opt for a more affordable one, note that this is a part that doesn’t really degrade over time.

The Graphics Card

 

Graphics Card

The graphics card is the part that will have the biggest impact on the performance of your games. It dictates the resolution you can play at, the smoothness of your games, and the quality of the graphics. It’s also the hardest to get right these days. Here again, there are two main families: NVIDIA cards and AMD (RX 6000 series).

To choose the right graphics card, you need to consider your budget, the resolution of your screen, the quality of the graphics you expect, and the refresh rate you want to play at.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM

RAM is the element that allows the processor to store data temporarily so it can be accessed quickly. The higher the number of RAM you have, the faster the software will run. The current generation of processors must be equipped with DDR5 memory, a technology that came on the market a few years ago and whose price has nevertheless dropped considerably.

Some people claim that 8 GB is enough, but the whole point of building a PC is not to have to close Chrome every time you start a game. Go for at least 16 GB, ideally 32 GB or more.

Note: it is better to have 2 x 16 GB memory sticks than 4 x 8 GB sticks since you can more easily add memory later, and their resale value will be higher.

Going to Buy RAM? Learn more about How to choose the right RAM for your desktop or laptop PC

Storage disk (Hard drive)

Hard Disk

For storage, avoid hard drives, which will slow down your computer considerably. Instead, you have two choices: an SSD, or an NVMe array, a small memory chip that installs directly on the motherboard in an M2 port, without having to be connected to a SATA port and your power supply like an SSD.

An NVMe array is – by far – the preferred option for storage in recent years. It’s easier to plug in, cleaner to install (since you don’t have to deal with cables), and the fastest solution on the market. The only downside is that motherboards have few compatible ports (from 1 to 4 on average), so you won’t be able to constantly add more over time as was possible with SSDs. As for capacity, if you plan to play games, 1TB seems to be the minimum since some games can reach 150GB. A 500 GB drive is too quickly filled for modern games.

Power Supply box (Power supply unit)

The power supply is what provides the electrical current to the different parts of your computer.

Power Supply Unit

The main feature of a power pack is its power. Your needs can be estimated with various online calculators, but graphics card manufacturers also have minimum suggestions, which are usually higher. You will also need to choose its efficiency, identified with the help of the 80 Plus program.

In short, an 80 PLUS Titanium case will be more efficient than a Gold, which in turn will be more efficient than a Silver, then a Bronze. The more efficient the PSU, the less power you will lose, but the more you will pay for it.

The cooling system

Cooling System

Your processor will need cooling; Without cooling, it will overheat at the first opportunity. Note that while processors used to come with their own heat sinks and fans, this is no longer generally the case. You will therefore need to buy one.

Two main cooling systems exist for computers:

  • Air cooling.
  • Water cooling.

If a liquid cooling system used to be complex to install, this is no longer the case in recent years, thanks to all-in-one systems. These are not very expensive (at least, considering your overall budget), and they offer maximum cooling. This means that your processor will be able to run at its peak performance for a long time.

When buying one, make sure you get a model whose size is compatible with your case. This one must also be compatible with the format of your processor.

The Case

CPU Case

The case needs no introduction: it’s the room where your components will be housed. Obviously, choose a case with a design you like, especially if you plan to have your computer in view. Ideally, choose a model with easily accessible ports on the front and that is compatible with the components you want to use.

Also, make sure that its size is compatible with your motherboard’s form and that it’s big enough for your graphics card. Personally, I also like cases that make it easy to place cables under the motherboard, which means that both sides of the case are removable, which makes for a cleaner case with better ventilation.

The tools needed for PC building.

If you don’t have these tools on hand, don’t worry. There are many suppliers of electrical/electronic tools, and they can be purchased at a relatively low cost in supermarkets or home improvement stores.

  • Anti-static wrist strap: This will help disperse static electricity that may build up.
  • Screwdriver: This is the most commonly used tool in PC assembly and repair.
  • Cable ties: If necessary, to keep things in order, it is advisable to tie the cables inside the PC case.
  • Mini cutter: Useful for all sorts of things, the cutter is especially handy when you are using cable ties, which need to be cut off cleanly.
  • Flashlight, torch, or headlamp: It can get dark inside a PC case, especially once everything is set up.
  • Pencil and Notepad: It will be easier for you to take notes of important settings and options when assembling or disassembling your machine.

How to build a PC: Complete and detailed step by step guide

Here are some important things to know before you start:

  • Make sure you have a tidy flat space (desk or floor) to start with and get organized.
  • Keep all papers, cables, and screws from the same component together but don’t mix them up.
  • Don’t hesitate to look at the explanation manuals that are given with the components if you have any doubts.

Step 1: Mount the processor in the motherboard

To begin, you must mount the processor in the motherboard. To do this, uncheck and lift the small iron rod next to the processor and pass it to the other side to open the protection.

Then place the processor in the reserved slot and close the cover by folding back the iron rod to its original position.

Step 2: Place the fan tray

Once the processor is in place, you will have to place the CPU cooling system. The method of attachment can vary from one to another, there may be a bracket to aim at, or it is sometimes possible to clip it.

Step 3: Install the RAM on the motherboard.

Installing the RAM should not be a problem for you. If the installation of the memory sticks is not very complicated, we strongly recommend that you refer to your manual.

Step 4: Fix the motherboard in the case

The motherboard is almost ready, and we will finish filling it with the graphics card after the PC assembly.

  • Open the case and lay it down; it will be easier to work with.
  • Remove the original cover (protections) on the motherboard connectors if present.
  • Check the presence of the positioning (fixing) spacers on the motherboard slot.
  • Now, Insert it so that the external connectors fit properly.

Step 5: Place the graphics card

Now it’s time to finish mounting the components on the motherboard and insert the graphics card. Start by removing the plastic pieces that are on the graphics card.

To install the graphics card:

  • Locate the PCI slot closest to the processor where the graphics card will be installed.
  • Remove the covers (protections).
  • Insert your graphic card (do it until you hear a clip indicating that the lock is engaged).
  • Screw it down for a secure fit.

Step 6: Place the power supply

We can now continue assembling the PC and move on to placing the power supply, which we will connect next.

  • Take the PSU, and place it in its slot located generally at the bottom or top of the case.
  • The power supply is generally delivered with 4 cross-headed screws for its fixing at the back of the case.

Step 7: Connecting the different cables

The order in which the different connectors are attached does not really matter. For a clean result, you just have to be logical and avoid crossing the cables.

Step 8: Connecting the case fans and the front panel

We will take this opportunity to connect the external fans of the PC to the motherboard. Locate the cables that are connected to the case fans. The fan connectors are 3-pin connectors that you will connect to the “sys-fan” ports on the motherboard.

Let’s move on to the front panel connections. These are all the cables with small tips coming out of the front of the case. To connect them, refer to the diagram in the manual of your case; the connections may vary from one case to another.

Finally, we finish this PC assembly by connecting the hard disk(s) or SSD to the motherboard. To do this, you simply use the SATA power cords and the SATA data cables.

Step 9 (Final Step): Check that everything works.

Now we have finished installing everything on our PC (unless you have additional components like a wi-fi card.), and we are going to make sure that everything works. Don’t close the case yet.

Connect the external power cable to the mains and press the power switch. Normally, if you have everything connected properly, the PC should turn on, and all the fans should be running.

The great thing about a gamer setup is that it’s synonymous with “good components, well cooled.” It’s a perfect mix to look ahead and plan for a 5-to-10-year expense. If you start with a high-end graphics card today, you won’t see the limits of it for another 4-6 years – and even then, under extreme conditions, which will have made you change everything else in your setup anyway (an 8K display?).

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