As gaming has grown in popularity, the machines needed to play cutting edge games are pushing the technological envelope with increased performance and power. Hardcore gamers that once were limited to their ability to build their ultimate gaming machine now have a variety of options to get their digital fix.

With so many options available, cutting through the noise can be a daunting task, even for experienced gamers. Gaming computers are a serious investment and constantly evolving technology means it can be easy to miss the mark if you are not armed with some basic knowledge.

Whether you are exploring an upgrade to your existing gaming computer setup, or are just getting started, there are a number of things to consider. Your best bet is to work with a team, like Gadget Genie, that can help you navigate the digital waters so that you get the most out of your investment.

What To Consider When Buying a Gaming PC

When it comes to narrowing down your selection, the options can be overwhelming. Rather than add to that frustration, we would rather you have a well-rounded understanding of what to factor in before you invest in your next gaming computer.

Goals

When you start researching processors, graphics cards, and the whole enchilada, you first need to have a solid understanding of the goals for your gaming PC. Like everything else, there are extremes, as well as a vast middle ground, within the technology.

Evaluating how you will use the computer will determine the items that end up on your must-have list. Here are a few things to consider:

• Will you be using the computer to play one game, or multiple games?
• What games does this include?
• How graphically demanding are the games?
• Does the PC need to be future-proof?
• Will you always be playing at home or does the system need to travel well?

Using these answers as a baseline will put you on the right track and help you avoid unnecessary expenses. Whittling down the list means you manage the investment while retaining the ability to enjoy the games you love or are looking forward to playing.

Budget

Once your goals are determined, the next logical step is to establish your budget. Gaming PCs can range from a few hundred dollars to over $40,000. You read that correctly, the 8Pack OrionX is the world’s most expensive gaming PC, topping out at $43,000.

While your budget is likely not going to be in the vicinity of an OrionX, a realistic budget will help you quickly narrow down your choices. Keep in mind that even budget gaming PCs provide better speed and improved graphics cards compared to run-of-the-mill home computers.

Ability to Upgrade

Somewhat tied to your budget is deciding if your new investment needs to be future-proof or upgradable. With games constantly trying to best one another, the technology needed to play games changes at an alarming rate. As a result, computer components can quickly become obsolete, creating the need to constantly upgrade the system.

If you are the type of gamer that is constantly seeking the next great title, you need to ensure that whatever system you buy can be upgraded easily. The most common items to upgrade are RAM, graphics cards, hard drive (or solid-state drive), and cooling, although the last one rarely impacts gameplay.

Size

Have you ever heard the saying, “It is not the size of the dog in the fight, but the fight in the dog?” There is a kernel of truth in that statement as it applies to gaming technology. For years, the best gaming PCs were behemoth desktop computers so laptop users were relegated to hardware that simply couldn’t keep up.

Today, gaming laptops are just as common as their larger counterparts, no longer suffering from the pitfalls of yester-year. The choice ultimately boils down to user preference. But buyer beware, gaming laptops are typically twice as expensive as a desktop with the same capabilities. Essentially, you pay for mobility.

Base Components

If you are not a tech junkie, evaluating computer components can make your head spin. To avoid the headache, fall back on the types of games you will be playing to establish a solid foundation. Older games will not require the same types of hardware that newer games, like CyberPunk 2077, will need to perform optimally.

Reputable salesmen should ask you what types of games you will play, so that they can point you in the right direction. Sure, you could use a souped up NVIDIA RTX 30 series gaming laptop for older titles, but it might not be the best option for your gameplay preference or budget.

Build or Buy

For those going down the road of purchasing a gaming PC, the question will inevitably turn to whether you should buy or build your system. Building a system to custom fit your gameplay style, and visual aesthetic can be incredibly rewarding. It is worth noting that it can also quickly surpass the cost of a pre-built system that has the same functionality.

In our experience, building is an enticing thought, but the better option is to go with a system that was designed professionally. This helps ensure performance and compatibility of components. The last thing you want to do is devote time and money only to find that you ordered the wrong component.

Find Gaming PCs Near Me

Shopping for a new gaming PC can be exhilarating, but it is important to start with a foundation before jumping into the void. Building the foundation can be difficult if you are only going off of websites designed to pull you to the most expensive options. Work with a local team of tech professionals that love to geek out over the latest and greatest in gaming technology.

The Gadget Genie team has been helping tech enthusiasts get the most out of their gaming systems for years, including repair and refurbishment. Our experts will help you wade through all of the muck so that you can get your game on. Contact us to learn more.