Cheap Gaming PC Build 2016 DIY Gaming Rigs Built In 2016

Gaming PCs provide users with the ability to enjoy immersive gaming experiences.

In 2016, creating a cheap but powerful gaming PC build has become increasingly accessible due to advances in technology and more affordable components.

This article will investigate the best DIY builds for those looking to create their own gaming rig without spending too much money on components.

It will explore how these builds can be tailored to suit different budgets as well as offering performance capabilities that are capable of running games at higher resolutions and frame rates than ever before.

Choosing The Right Processor For Your Build

When it comes to building a powerful gaming PC, the processor is arguably one of the most important components. With so many different options available in terms of brands and models, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Fortunately, there are some general rules that apply when selecting a processor.

First off, consider your budget and what kind of overclocking options you have. If cost isn’t an issue, then go with Intel’s high-end offerings such as the Core i7 or Xeon processors – they offer excellent performance at any price point. On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget but still want top notch performance, AMD’s Ryzen series offers good value for money and plenty of overclocking potential.

Price comparisons between comparable CPUs from both manufacturers will help give you a better idea of what’s available in each price range.

The second factor to take into account is the amount of cores and threads offered by each processor type. A quad-core CPU with hyperthreading technology provides more than enough processing power for even intensive tasks like video editing or 3D rendering. Similarly, dual core CPUs with hyperthreading may suffice for casual gamers who aren’t running particularly demanding games or programs. Ultimately, it all depends on how much power you need without breaking the bank – something only careful research and comparison shopping can provide insight into.

In order to maximize gaming performance while keeping within budget constraints, understanding RAM and graphics card specifications is essential to get right before making a purchase decision.

Understanding Ram And Graphics Card Specifications

When it comes to building a gaming PC, many enthusiasts find themselves lost in the world of RAM and graphics cards. Whether you’re an amateur who wants the best performance on a budget or an experienced user looking for maximum power, understanding memory optimization and graphic optimization is essential.

For those new to the game, RAM stands for Random Access Memory and acts as temporary storage space while your computer runs applications. This type of memory can be measured by its capacity (in gigabytes) and speed (in megahertz). Higher capacities are desirable when running resource-intensive games, but faster speeds will help optimize system responsiveness without overloading the processor.

It’s important to research which types of RAM best fit your needs before investing in components.

Graphics cards offer another level of complexity due to their multi-layered architecture. Built with specific processors designed to handle graphical tasks, these cards provide users with enhanced visuals that would otherwise not be possible on integrated graphics units. Factors such as core clock speed, shader processing cores, frame buffer size and technology should all be taken into consideration when selecting a card.

However, gamers should also keep an eye out for features like overclocking capabilities if they want even more performance from their system. Investing in a quality motherboard is also key since this component will house both your RAM and GPU – making sure everything works together harmoniously.

Investing In A Quality Motherboard

When building a gaming PC in 2016, the importance of investing in a quality motherboard should not be overlooked.

There are various types of motherboards available, each with their own unique features.

To maximize performance and ensure compatibility with other components, it is important to choose a motherboard that is compatible with the latest CPU and GPU models.

Additionally, features such as overclocking capabilities and expansion slots should be considered when selecting a motherboard for a gaming PC.

Types Of Motherboards

When constructing a new gaming PC, one of the most important components to consider is the motherboard. It serves as the primary hub for all other hardware and provides many features that are essential for overclocking capabilities, network connectivity, and more.

In order to get the best performance out of your gaming rig, investing in a quality motherboard is crucial. There are several different types of motherboards available on the market today.

ATX boards are by far the most popular option due to their wide range of expansion slots and onboard support for multiple GPUs. MicroATX boards offer similar features with less space but can still provide ample power for mid-range builds.

MiniITX boards are great for low-power PCs or those who need something ultra compact and portable. Finally, users looking to squeeze every ounce of performance from their system should look into server and workstation-grade motherboards which often feature enterprise class chipsets designed specifically for high end computing tasks such as rendering 3D graphics or running virtual machines.

With these options available, it’s clear there’s plenty of choice when selecting the right motherboard for any given build project.

Motherboard Features

Motherboard features are an essential component when constructing a new gaming PC. Performance can be greatly enhanced by investing in a quality motherboard that provides the right balance of components and overclocking potential.

Most modern motherboards feature multiple PCIe expansion slots, allowing for additional GPUs to be installed as well as a large number of memory slots which allow users to increase their RAM capacity. Many also come with advanced BIOS options such as power management settings, fan speeds, and overclock profiles – all of which are necessary for reaching maximum performance levels.

Whether it’s high-end ATX boards or ultra compact MiniITX solutions, there is no shortage of choices when selecting the perfect motherboard for any given build project. With these features available, gamers have more control than ever before to customize their PCs according to their needs and budget.

Selecting The Best Case For Your System

When looking for the perfect case for your gaming system build in 2016, there are several things to consider. Aesthetics such as design and style should be taken into account, but more importantly practical factors like airflow optimization and cable management must also be considered.

In terms of aesthetics, it is important to pick a case that fits with the overall look you want to achieve. This could mean matching certain colors or designs, or simply finding something that looks cool. Ultimately this comes down to personal preference, so select what will make you happy while building your rig.

However, since the internal workings of a PC can get quite hot during operation, effective cooling is essential when selecting a case. Therefore, airflow optimization is critical; aim for optimal air intake at the front of the chassis and exhaust at the rear.

Additionally, proper cable management ensures that all components run smoothly without any obstructions blocking fan intakes or exhausts – resulting in better performance from all parts of your system. If these elements are not properly managed then overheating may occur which can cause major problems down the line.

With careful consideration given to both aesthetic and practical needs, you’ll have no problem finding an ideal case for your DIY gaming rigs built in 2016. Now that we’ve discussed cases let’s turn our attention towards power supply considerations in order to ensure efficient energy delivery throughout your entire system setup process.

Power Supply Considerations

When it comes to selecting a power supply (PSU) for your gaming PC build, the choices can be daunting. However, with some budgeting and research into reliable brands, you can find the right option that will keep your system running smoothly.

First of all, when considering how much wattage is needed in order for your system to run efficiently and avoid any potential hardware issues down the line, it’s important to do your homework. Many online calculators exist which provide accurate estimates based on what parts you are using in your build. This should give you an idea of at least the minimum amount of wattage that is necessary for stability.

Additionally, consider investing a bit more money upfront if possible; this will ensure that you have enough headroom so as not to overload components or burn out prematurely due to high temperatures over time.

In terms of finding the best brand for reliability and performance within your budget, look no further than established names such as Corsair or Seasonic. Both offer quality options ranging from Bronze level up to Titanium so there’s something available regardless of whether you’re building high-end or entry-level rigs.

It may also make sense to go with modular designs since they tend to use less space inside the case while still offering plenty of support even during peak load times when multiple components are being used heavily simultaneously. Moving forward with picking the right hard drive…

Picking The Right Hard Drive

When building a gaming PC, the hard drive is an integral component for choosing what type of performance you want.

There are two main types of drives to compare when looking at price and performance: Solid State Drives (SSDs) and Hard Disk Drives (HDDs).

SSDs are more expensive than HDDs, but offer faster storage speeds because they have no moving parts. Because of this increased speed, gamers can experience quicker loading times in their games.

HDDs on the other hand, provide large amounts of storage at a lower price point; however, they lack the speed that SSDs possess.

For gamers looking to maximize performance while staying within budget constraints, using both types of drives might be a good option.

This combination allows users to store their data on larger capacity HDDs while also having access to fast boot times with system files stored on SSDs.

Additionally, some motherboards support multiple drives which could allow even greater flexibility in terms of space and speed depending upon the user’s needs.

With careful consideration given to price comparisons between various drive types and the desired performance level from each one, it is possible for users to build a rig that meets all expectations without going over budget.

Moving forward towards cooling options for improved performance requires further research into how much power will be needed as well as different methods available such as liquid or air cooling solutions.

Cooling Options For Improved Performance

Powerful gaming PCs require careful cooling considerations in order to maximize performance. There are two primary options for keeping your system cool: air or water cooling.

Air cooling utilizes fans, vents and heat sinks to dissipate the excess heat generated by components during use. This is typically done with a fan mounted on top of the processor heatsink which directs airflow from within the computer case over the heated surfaces and out through exhaust ports at the rear of the chassis.

Water cooling systems involve submerging certain components in a liquid medium – usually treated water – to transfer thermal energy away from those parts and into another part of the loop, such as an external radiator.

The choice between air and water cooling depends on how demanding your gaming PC will be used and what type of hardware you have installed. If you’re looking for superior cooling performance then a more complex closed-loop liquid cooler may be worth investing in; however if you’re only going to play moderately intensive games then a good quality air cooler should suffice.

Ultimately it comes down to personal preference, budget and application requirements when deciding whether air or liquid cooling is right for you.

No matter which route you take, making sure that all of your essential components remain sufficiently cooled is essential for ensuring optimal performance levels from your rig. Keeping up with regular maintenance such as dust removal can also help ensure maximum efficiency from both types of systems and avoid any potential overheating issues caused by blockages or build ups inside the machine itself.

Now that we’ve discussed some important factors regarding selecting appropriate cooling solutions let’s move onto building your system from scratch!

Building Your System From Scratch

Having obtained the necessary components, it is now time to begin building your gaming PC from scratch. Building a computer on a budget can be daunting, but with proper planning and budgeting of costs, constructing a gaming rig that performs well is achievable.

To get started, gather all the tools you need such as screwdrivers and pliers for installation purposes. It is important to read through user manuals carefully before proceeding.

The next step in building your system consists of assembling each component correctly into their respective slots inside the case. When installing fans or other additional cooling solutions, pay careful attention to directions specified by manufacturers for best results. Once assembly is complete and all cables are connected properly, it’s time to move onto software selection.

Software selection involves determining which parts will be suitable for running games at optimal performance levels without breaking the bank. Research different versions of operating systems available to choose one that fits within existing budgets while providing adequate power for playing games.

After selecting an OS, consider downloading any necessary drivers or applications related to graphics cards and CPUs depending on individual needs. Finally, install an operating system and verify that everything functions properly before beginning game play sessions.

Installing An Operating System

Installing an operating system is a critical step in building your own gaming PC. Before you can get started, there are some important decisions to make regarding software selection and driver installation.

To begin, it’s essential to choose the right OS for your setup. Windows 10 has been specifically designed with gamers in mind, offering better compatibility and performance than previous versions of the platform. It also includes support for DirectX 12 – ideal if you want to get the most out of newer games – as well as other features such as Game Mode that enhance responsiveness during gameplay.

Linux-based systems can be good choices too, depending on what specific game titles you plan to play; however they may require more effort when configuring drivers or accessing certain apps or services.

Once your OS choice has been made, you’ll need to install all necessary drivers for components like graphics cards, sound cards and network adapters. Installing these correctly will ensure that everything works properly once you start playing games, so take your time and double check each one before moving on to the next stage of assembly.

Here are 5 key points to remember when it comes to installing an operating system:

• Choose the best option based on which game titles you plan to use (e.g., Windows 10 vs Linux)
• Make sure any necessary hardware drivers have been downloaded beforehand
• Install all drivers sequentially rather than simultaneously
• Double check each driver prior to starting up your new rig
• Don’t forget about additional software updates after installation

With everything set up correctly, you’re now ready move onto optimizing your rig for maximum performance!

Optimizing Your Rig For Maximum Performance

Building a gaming PC from scratch can be an intimidating task for even the most experienced gamers. It requires knowledge about hardware components, budgeting costs, and understanding how to optimize performance for maximum benefit.

When it comes to cheap gaming rigs built in 2016, there are several ways of upgrading your existing setup to get more out of your system without breaking the bank.

First off, look into upgrading key components such as RAM and CPU that have the biggest impact on overall system performance. A good rule of thumb is to always purchase high quality parts within a reasonable price range; this ensures you’ll get the best possible value per dollar spent while still getting optimal performance gains.

Additionally, consider adding additional graphics cards if you plan on doing serious gaming with advanced visuals or image editing tasks like 3D rendering; multiple GPUs will significantly improve frame rates and reduce loading times compared to single GPU solutions.

Finally, when building a cheaper gaming rig it’s important to focus on what matters most: reliability and longevity. Invest in reliable power supplies and cooling solutions so your machine runs smoothly over time; these two upgrades alone can make all the difference between having an unreliable setup versus one that will last years. Ultimately, taking some extra time to research different hardware options before purchasing any components is essential in order to achieve peak performance at an affordable cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Gaming Pc Build For Under $500?

When budgeting for a gaming PC, it’s important to consider both the cost of parts and peripherals.

According to research from PC Gamer, as of 2016 there are many ways gamers can build an impressive rig on a budget of $500 or less.

While such a project may require some DIY modifications, with the right combination of components it is possible to assemble a powerful machine that offers plenty of bang for its buck.

Peripheral items like monitors and keyboards should also be taken into consideration when constructing this type of budget-friendly gaming system – but by following certain tips and tricks, creating the best gaming pc build under $500 is certainly achievable.

What Components Do I Need To Build A Gaming Pc?

Building a gaming PC can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it requires careful budgeting and knowledge of the components needed.

To build a gaming PC one needs to consider several factors such as gaming benchmarks to determine what type of processor is necessary, as well as how much RAM should be included in order to achieve desired performance levels.

Additionally, picking out individual parts like motherboards, graphics cards, power supplies, hard drives, cooling systems and cases all must also be taken into consideration when building a gaming PC.

Ultimately, following some basic budgeting tips while researching the latest technology on the market will help ensure that your custom-built gaming rig meets your expectations for both quality and performance.

What Is The Best Cpu For Gaming?

When it comes to performance optimization and gaming benchmarks, the best CPU for gaming is a hotly contested topic.

Modern CPUs have seen significant improvements that allow them to offer superior graphical processing capabilities over their predecessors, making them ideal for gamers looking to get the most out of their hardware.

Due to the importance of having an efficient processor in order to maximize frame-rates while playing games, selecting the right CPU can be crucial.

Popular choices include Intel’s Core i5 7600K and AMD Ryzen 5 1600X; both processors are capable of delivering exceptional performance with minimal power consumption.

Ultimately, choosing the right option will depend on individual needs and budget constraints as there is no one definitive answer when it comes to finding the perfect CPU for gaming.

What Is The Best Gpu For Gaming?

Graphics cards, also known as GPUs (graphics processing unit), are essential components in a gaming PC build.

When selecting the best GPU for gaming performance, one should consider factors such as memory speed and CUDA cores.

Memory speed is important because it determines how quickly data can be read from and written to the graphics card’s onboard memory.

More CUDA cores will increase the overall graphical power of the GPU, which ensures that games run smoothly even with high settings.

Furthermore, these days there are many different types of graphics cards available on the market – ranging from budget options to powerful ones suitable for 4K gaming.

Therefore, depending on your budget and desired level of performance, you can select an appropriate GPU for your needs.

How Much Power Does A Gaming Pc Need?

When building a gaming PC, it is important to consider the power requirements that you’ll need for optimal performance. The amount of power needed will depend on factors such as your budget, type of games being played and other components in the system.

Generally speaking, most gamers tend to choose a mid-range gaming PC with enough wattage to handle their current game library. If you are looking for high-end gaming performance, then you may want to look into more powerful specs such as an Intel Core i7 processor or higher quality graphics card.

Ultimately, choosing the right power supply for your setup is key for achieving maximum gaming performance without compromising on stability or reliability.

Conclusion

The gaming PC industry has grown rapidly over the past few years, with powerful components and peripherals now available at surprisingly affordable prices.

When it comes to building a budget-friendly gaming rig in 2016, there are several important elements to consider.

What type of CPU can provide the best performance while maintaining an efficient energy profile? Which graphics card is most suited for your particular needs? How much power should be devoted to powering your system?

To answer these questions, gamers must weigh up their options carefully before investing in new hardware. With careful consideration, however, it is possible to build a cheap gaming PC that will still deliver impressive results.

Is this what you need for your next gaming experience?