🖥️ PCPartPicker: The Tool You Need Before Building Your Next PC
Everything you need to know about the most useful site for building computers
📋 Article Contents
💡 What is PCPartPicker?
The PCPartPicker is a free website that helps you choose and combine all the parts you need to build your own computer. Think of it as a smart assistant that:
✓ Controls if the pieces you chose match each other
✓ Finds the best prices from many stores
✓ Calculates How much power will your computer consume?
✓ He warns you. for possible compatibility issues
You don't need to be an expert – the site guides you step by step in choosing each component!
🎯 Why should you use it?
The big problem in building a PC
When you decide to build your own computer, you face many questions:
- Will the graphics card fit in the box?
- Will the processor match the motherboard?
- Is the power supply enough for all the components?
- Where can I find the lowest price?
✅ Advantages
• Completely free
• Compatibility check
• Price comparison
• Huge database
• Active community
• Easy to use
⚠️ Attention
• Mainly for the English market
• Few Greek stores
• Prices may not be 100% accurate
• English required
🚀 Getting started with PCPartPicker
Go to pcpartpicker.comNo registration required to get started!
This button is located on the home page. It will take you to a page where you can select each component individually.
In the upper right corner you can select a country. Unfortunately there is no Greece, but you can select Germany or the UK for similar prices.
🔧 How to Choose Your Components
PCPartPicker shows you a list of all the parts you need. Let's look at the order:
1. Processor (CPU) - The heart of the PC
What is he doing: It is the "brain" that does all the calculations.
How do I choose:
- Click "Choose A CPU"
- Use the filters (Intel or AMD, how many cores do you want)
- Sort by price or ratings
Example: If you want to game, an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 is usually ideal.
2. Motherboard - Where everything connects
What is he doing: It is the base where all the other components are connected.
PCPartPicker's magic: Once you choose a processor, the site ONLY shows motherboards that match!
Caution: See if it has enough USB ports, RAM slots, and drive bays.
3. RAM - The temporary memory
How much do you need:
- 8GB: Basic use (internet, office)
- 16GB: Gaming and multimedia
- 32GB+: Professional use (video editing, 3D)
PCPartPicker checks: If the RAM you chose is compatible with your motherboard!
4. Storage Drive - Where files are stored
Two types:
- SSD: Fast, quiet, more expensive (RECOMMENDED for system)
- HDD: Cheaper, slower, for mass storage
Ideal combination: A 500GB SSD for Windows and programs + a 2TB HDD for files.
5. Graphics Card (GPU) - For gaming and graphics
When do you need it: For gaming, video editing, 3D rendering
Caution: PCPartPicker will tell you if it fits in your case and if the power supply can handle it!
6. Case - The home of components
What to watch out for:
- Size (ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX)
- Space for graphics card
- Cooling (how many fans can fit)
Automatic control: PCPartPicker shows if your parts will fit!
7. Power Supply (PSU) - Provides power to everything
How many watts do I need? Don't worry! PCPartPicker calculates the consumption and recommends a power supply!
Rule: Get a power supply 150-200W above the calculated consumption to be safe.
💰 Price Comparison and Purchase
One of the most useful features of PCPartPicker is that finds prices from many stores!
How does it work;
For each component you select, the site shows prices from Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy, and more.
You can see the price history - if something was cheaper a few days ago!
At the end, it shows you the total cost and takes you to the stores with one click.
For Greece - What should I do?
PCPartPicker does not have Greek stores, but you can:
- Use your build as a shopping list
- Look for the same models in Greek e-shops (Plaisio, Skroutz, etc.)
- Order from Amazon.de or Amazon.co.uk with shipping
⚡ Power Consumption Calculation
One of the most important things: How much power will your computer draw?
How PCPartPicker helps:
1. Automatic calculation: Once you add components, in the top right corner you will see "Estimated Wattage"
2. Example: If it says "350W", you need a power supply of at least 500W (for safety margin)
3. Warnings: If you choose a power supply that is not enough, you will see a warning!
👥 The Community and Completed Builds
PCPartPicker has a huge community of users sharing their creations!
What are "Completed Builds"?
They are real computers built by other users, with photos, details and prices!
How do they help you:
1. Inspiration: See what pieces others chose for the same budget
2. Real photos: See what the build actually looks like
3. Reviews: Read what builders say about the components
4. Search filters: Find builds with a specific budget or use (gaming, editing, etc.)
How to find the right build:
Go to "Completed Builds" from the menu
Use filters: sort by "Price" to see builds within your budget
Read the builders' comments and experiences
📱 Additional Useful Features
1. Guides & Benchmarks
The site has guides for beginners that explain:
- What each component does
- How to assemble the computer
- How to choose based on use (gaming, work, etc.)
2. Part Reviews
For each component you can see:
- User rating: How satisfied are they?
- Reviews: What people who bought it say
- Common problems: If something has known issues
3. Build Guides (Recommended Builds)
PCPartPicker has ready-made builds for various budgets:
- Entry Level: For basic use (~$500-700)
- Modest Gaming: For casual gaming (~$700-1000)
- Excellent Gaming: For serious gaming (~$1000-1500)
- Enthusiast: For ultra settings (~$1500+)
You can start from one of these and customize it!
4. Forum and Community
In the forum you can:
- Questions about your build
- You get advice from experts
- See what other beginners are asking
5. Wish Lists
If you create an account (free), you can:
- Save multiple builds
- Keep an eye on prices
- Share your build with friends
- Go back and modify it whenever you want.
⚠️ Tips and Things to Watch Out for
✅ Things you MUST do:
1. Read the compatibility warnings
PCPartPicker shows you messages. Some are simple information, others are important! Read them all.
2. Check the dimensions
Especially for a graphics card and box - the site says it fits, but double check!
3. Read reviews before you buy
Don't just trust the rating - read the real reviews!
4. Look at the price history
If something is too expensive now, you might have to wait a few weeks.
5. Keep some room in your budget
Always have 10-15% extra money for unforeseen circumstances (cables, fans, etc.).
❌ Things you should NOT do:
1. Don't overlook the power supply
Don't skimp here! A bad power supply can damage the other components.
2. Don't get the cheapest Windows disc
Get a good SSD for the operating system - the difference in speed is huge!
3. Don't forget the operating system
Windows costs money! Figure it into your budget (or use Linux for free).
4. Don't get RAM that doesn't fit
The motherboard must support the speed of the RAM you will get.
5. Don't buy everything at once without thinking
Keep an eye on the prices for a few days - you might find some deals!
🔍 Common beginner mistakes:
Error 1: "I got an Intel processor and a motherboard for AMD"
✓ Solution: PCPartPicker won't let you down!
Error 2: "The graphics card doesn't fit in the box"
✓ Solution: Check the dimensions shown on the site!
Error 3: "I don't have enough USB ports"
✓ Solution: Count how many things you will connect (keyboard, mouse, camera, etc.)
Error 4: "I forgot to bring fans"
✓ Solution: Most boxes come with basic ones, but you may need more
✅ Conclusion
The PCPartPicker is the best tool for anyone who wants to build their own computer. It's like having an experienced friend by your side who:
✓ Checks if the pieces match
✓ Finds the best prices
✓ Calculates electricity consumption
✓ Warns you of problems
✓ Shows you what others did
The basic steps:
Go to pcpartpicker.com
Start a new build
Choose components one by one
Check the warnings
Compare prices and buy
💡 Next steps:
- Go to pcpartpicker.com
- Explore Completed Builds for inspiration
- Read the beginner's guides
- Start your own build!
Good luck with your new PC! 🎮💻
Ready to get started?
Go to PCPartPicker⚠️ Note: PCPartPicker is an independent tool and is not affiliated with this article. Information is provided as a guide and prices/availability are subject to change. Always check details before purchasing within the app!
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