Pick & Purchase

It's time to choose your components

This step is where most people start to panic—and we get it.

There are a lot of choices, and this is where it can feel overwhelming.

Use PCPartPicker

It is a free tool that:

  • Lets you mix and match parts

  • Shows you if they’re compatible

  • Warns you if something won’t work

  • Helps estimate power needs and total price

If you do nothing else, build your part list here.

Pixel Tip

PCPartPicker has several user builds featured on their site.

This is a good starting spot if you are still uncertain on where to begin for your own build.

Starting Point

Go back to your build goals from Step 1. How did you define your needs? This will inform your build.

Write down what you need to prioritize, such as GPU or CPU. Also, decide on a budget.

Pixel Tip

Your priorities will shape how you spend your budget.

You don’t need the “best” part—you need the right part for what you’re building.

The Build

Start with the part that matters most for your goal.

  • Gaming? → Start with the GPU

  • Streaming or creative work? → Start with the CPU

  • Budget build? → Start with the APU (CPU with built-in graphics)

Once you know that “core” part, you can build around it—matching the motherboard, RAM, and power supply to support it.

Pixel Tip

Your first pick is your anchor. Everything else needs to work with it—so pick with purpose.

Once you’ve picked your first part, follow this order:

  1. Start with:

    • GPU (for gaming)

    • CPU (for creative/streaming)

    • APU (for budget builds)

  2. Then pick a:

    • CPU/GPU (Whichever one wasn't first)

    • Motherboard (must match CPU socket + RAM type)

    • Power Supply (must handle total wattage)

    • Case (fits GPU + motherboard size)

    • RAM (type + speed supported by motherboard)

    • Storage (SATA or NVMe—check what your motherboard supports)

  3. Optional:

    • CPU cooler (if your CPU doesn’t include one or you want better performance)

    • RGB lighting, case fans, etc.

    • Monitor, keyboard, mouse, audio gear

Example

$1200 Gamer Build

  • (CPU) AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

  • (GPU) NVIDIA RTX 4060 Ti (16GB) or AMD RX 7700 XT

  • (Motherboard) MSI B650M PRO or ASUS TUF B650M

  • (RAM) 16GB DDR5 (2x8GB, 5600MHz)

  • (Storage) 1TB NVMe SSD

  • (PSU) 650W 80+ Bronze modular PSU

  • Mid-tower case with good airflow

  • Stock CPU cooler or basic air cooler

  • Windows 11 or Pop!_OS

Things to Remember

Even if everything seems right, double-check:

  • CPU and motherboard socket match.

  • RAM is supported by motherboard specs.

  • GPU (length, mainly) fits the computer case.

  • PSU has enough wattage (don’t forget to account for any GPU you install—these can be power-hungry.)

  • Your case has enough airflow and fan support.

Pixel Tip

PCPartPicker handles most of this, but it’s worth getting familiar with these checks now, before the boxes show up.

Don't Forget the OS

This is the time to look at your future PC's operating system.

Download it for free:

  • Windows 11 is available from Microsoft’s website

  • Linux distros (like Pop!_OS or Ubuntu) are totally free

Buy a copy:

  • You can purchase Windows on a USB drive or as a license key

  • If you buy a key, you’ll still need to download and prepare the installer yourself

Pixel Tip

No matter how you get your OS, have it ready on a USB before build day. Nothing feels worse than finishing your PC and realizing you’re missing your installer.

Buying

Here are the most common places to find your components:

  • Newegg – PC part specialist, great filters

  • Micro Center – Best in-store deals (U.S. only)

  • B&H Photo – Great for creative/workstation parts

  • Best Buy – Solid availability, occasional price matching

  • Direct from manufacturer – Good for GPUs, cases, coolers

If you’re unsure, stick to well-known sellers with solid return policies and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

  • Double-check compatibility again before buying.

  • Read reviews—not just ratings—for any part you haven’t bought before.

  • Look for combo deals (like CPU + motherboard bundles.)

  • Consider buying parts over time if your budget is tight.

  • Create a PCPartPicker list and use it to track pricing.

Pixel Tip

Most parts ship separately—even if you order all from one store.

Parts like GPUs, CPUs, and motherboards often ship in anti-static packaging—this is normal.

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