When it comes to videogames, the PC still has a lot to offer over its console cousins. The only big downside is the cost of building a good gaming rig, and the technical know- how that comes with it. Fortunately, learning more about setting up a gaming PC will also lead to smaller expenses down the road.

Nowadays, a pre- built machine can cost around $1, 500, but a good starter set should only cost $800. The key is to look for the most inexpensive deals when it comes to the most important components like the processor and RAM. Take note that a newer version of a piece of hardware doesn’t necessarily mean that it will improve the whole machine’s performance substantially. All of the pieces must work together, so check out the core processors first.

For those coming in from scratch but would like to start building their own PC, a good way to learn is to experiment on old machines, take them apart, and rebuild them again. A few tries at this should help even the most hopeless novice find his way around the ins and outs of any computer.

When it’s time to buy the parts themselves, patience is always the key. It’s best to look around three or four websites that specialize in PC hardware. Oftentimes, there are discounts given to package deals, but these might include components that might not be so useful in the long run. Again, research and patience are need to building a good gaming rig.