Gaming PC Build Errors to Avoid

Building a gaming PC is exciting and rewarding, especially when you add your own personal style. However, the process can be daunting, especially for first-timers. From selecting compatible components to assembling them correctly, there are numerous ways to make common PC building mistakes that are costly and frustrating.

This blog highlights some of the most common mistakes when building a PC and how to avoid them.

Not Reading Through the Manuals

Not reading the manuals when building a PC is one of the biggest PC-building mistakes because they provide essential information on adequately installing components, detailed compatibility between parts, and identifying the motherboard's various plugs and functions.

Skipping the manuals can lead to incorrect installations, compatibility issues, and confusion over motherboard connections, potentially damaging or reducing system performance.

Ignoring Compatibility Issues

One of the most common mistakes when building a PC is purchasing incompatible components. One of the more common compatibility issues is with the motherboard, especially when pairing with the CPU and RAM.

To avoid these issues, tools like PCPartPicker can identify compatibility problems. Additionally, checking the manuals can provide guidance. Bottlenecking, where one component limits the performance of others, can also be a concern. Online PC bottleneck calculators can help ensure compatibility and balanced performance.

Underestimating Power Supply Requirements

Underestimating the power needed for your power supply (PSU) is one of those PC-building mistakes that can lead to system instability and hardware failure. Make sure you accurately calculate the wattage required for all components and choose a reliable PSU brand for better build quality and safety.

Efficiency ratings are also helpful in determining the suitable PSU for your build. Understanding efficiency ratings, such as the 80 PLUS certification, ensures your PC's energy efficiency and long-term savings. To accommodate future upgrades and overclocking, future-proof your build by selecting a PSU with slightly higher wattage. Tools like Cooler Master, Be Quiet, and PCPartPicker can help determine the appropriate PSU wattage and ensure compatibility.

Motherboard Mistakes

New PC builders make mistakes with the motherboard, such as forgetting to install the backplate. The backplate provides support and ensures ports align correctly with the case, so make sure it is in place before installing the motherboard and other components.

Another one of the more common PC building mistakes is not connecting AIO coolers or fans to the motherboard, which can lead to inadequate cooling and potential CPU damage. Before testing, check that everything, including the coolers, is correctly connected to the motherboard.

Many builders also forget to install the stand-offs, which prevent the motherboard from touching the case and shorting out. Take your time putting the motherboard together, and check that the stand-offs are installed correctly for a smooth and successful build.

Improper Handling of Components

One of the PC building errors to avoid is improperly handling components. Proper handling during a PC build prevents damage, so the components work properly. Static electricity can harm delicate parts, so working on non-conductive surfaces is crucial. You can also use an anti-static wristband, but they are not always necessary.

Safely handling components means holding them by their edges and avoiding excessive force during installation. Additionally, never peel the plastic off your case while the PC is on, as this generates static electricity. Always verify the PC is off and disconnected from the power source before removing the protective plastic.

Not Installing Everything Correctly

Proper installation of PC components is critical to ensuring your build functions effectively. Here are some common installation issues PC builders face:

• I/O Shield: Insert this removable metal plate for inputs and outputs before installing the motherboard. Forgetting this step requires disassembly, which wastes time and risks damage.
• CPU Installation: Incorrectly placing the CPU can damage pins, so align the CPU markings with the ones on the motherboard socket.
• Memory Modules: Space the memory modules apart and consult the motherboard manual for correct slots. Most motherboards recommend using the second and fourth slots to recognize the RAM and utilize dual-channel memory for better performance. The RAM clicks into place when properly installed.
• PC Cooling Solutions: It is typical for new builders to install fans and apply thermal paste incorrectly. Ensure the fans are correctly oriented to create smooth airflow and avoid obstructions. For thermal paste, a drop the size of a rice grain in the center of the CPU ensures an even spread when installing the heatsink, leading to effective cooling.
• Motherboard: The manual provides detailed instructions on where to place the CPU, RAM, and other components, so use it to prevent improper installation and system instability.

To avoid these mistakes when building a PC, watch video guides on proper installation and consult the component's manual.

Not Plugging Everything in Correctly

One of the most common PC building mistakes, especially for beginners, is not connecting all the cables, which can cause a blank screen on your first boot. If this happens, aside from checking that your monitor is plugged in and turned on, ensure all internal connections are secure. Double-check that all cables are connected and plugged into the correct inputs. Incorrect or incomplete connections can prevent the system from turning on and may even damage components. Always refer to the manual for the correct plug-in locations to ensure everything is connected.

Skipping BIOS and Driver Updates

Skipping BIOS and driver updates can lead to various issues with system performance. The BIOS initializes hardware during the boot process, and updating it improves compatibility with new PC hardware. It is essential for enabling memory features like XMP or AMD’s EXPO, which allow your memory to run at its intended speeds with stable overclocking. An outdated BIOS may not support these features correctly, causing instability or hardware damage from incorrect voltage settings.

Drivers enable effective communication between your operating system and hardware components. Keeping drivers up-to-date resolves bugs, improves performance, and enhances system stability. Manufacturer websites offer the latest driver versions with recent fixes and optimizations. Outdated drivers can cause system crashes, reduced performance, and incompatibilities with new software and hardware.

Regularly updating the BIOS and drivers is the best way to avoid PC building errors related to them.

Neglecting Testing

After assembling your PC, perform an initial power-on test to verify that basic hardware components function correctly and the system can boot up. During this phase, ensure the system recognizes all components, as anything undetected may signal installation or hardware problems.

Once the initial test succeeds, benchmark your system to measure performance and ensure components operate optimally. Performing stress tests pushes the system to its limits to ensure stability under heavy loads. It helps identify overheating, inadequate power supply, or instability, especially with overclocking or high-performance builds.

Thorough testing helps identify and resolve issues and possible PC building errors before they become serious problems. It ensures your system is stable, performs well, and all components function correctly. Without testing, you risk unexpected failures, crashes, or performance issues, leading to a frustrating and costly experience.

The Best Way to Avoid PC Building Errors

Thorough planning and paying attention during your build helps you avoid these mistakes and build a reliable gaming PC with excellent performance. Embrace the process, double-check your work, and enjoy the thrill of a custom-built gaming system.

If you are new to PC building or want to build a budget PC, our guide can help you get started. For more help with PC building, visit HYTE’s Blog, Help Center, or Resource Page.