Computer Components

Complete buying guide

1) Plan the platform

• Use case first. Every day, gaming, creator work, or compact office PC

• Budget split. For gaming, put more into the GPU. For content creation, put more into CPU, RAM, and SSD

• Form factor. ATX for expandability, micro ATX balances size and slots, mini ITX for very small builds

2) CPU and motherboard

• Socket and chipset must match. Examples include AM5 on AMD and LGA1700 on Intel

• VRM quality matters for higher-end CPUs and sustained boosts

• I O. Count USB, USB C, M.2 slots, SATA ports, and headers you need now and later

• BIOS support. Older boards may need a BIOS update for newer CPUs

3) Memory

• Capacity. 16 GB suits most users, 32 GB is ideal for heavy multitasking and modern games, and more for creative suites

• Type. DDR4 or DDR5, as your board supports

• Channels. Use matched pairs for dual-channel performance

4) Storage

• NVMe SSD for Windows and applications. 1 TB is a sensible starting point

• Secondary SSD or HDD for games and media

• M.2 sizes. Common lengths include 2280. Check heatsink clearance and slot location

5) Graphics card

• Pick your resolution and refresh

  • 1080p high refresh suits mid-range GPUs

  • 1440p prefers upper mid GPUs

  • 4K needs high-end GPUs

• Check length, thickness, and power connectors. Some models use a 12-pin or 12V 2×6 style plug. Use the included or approved cables

6) Power supply

• Choose a reliable unit with an 80 Plus rating and the right cables

• Wattage guide

  • Office builds around 450 to 550 W

  • Mid gaming around 650 to 750 W

  • High-end GPUs often require 850 W or more

• Modular cabling keeps builds tidy

7) Case and cooling

• Prefer front mesh for airflow and low noise

• Fit a balanced fan layout. Front or bottom intake and rear or top exhaust

• CPU coolers. Large tower air coolers are great value. AIO liquid coolers help with high sustained loads

• Measure for GPU length, cooler height, and radiator support

8) Connectivity and extras

• Wi Fi 6 or 6E and Bluetooth 5 for wireless devices

• 2.5G Ethernet for fast local transfers

• Display outputs. Use DisplayPort for high refresh monitors where possible

• Sound and capture. Add dedicated cards if you need pro audio or streaming inputs

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying parts that do not fit together. Always check the socket, size, and connectors

• Undersizing the power supply and limiting future upgrades

• Choosing 8 GB RAM for Windows 11 and then struggling with multitasking

• Putting Windows on a slow SATA HDD instead of an NVMe SSD

• Ignoring airflow and ending up with heat and noise issues

• Using a single stick of RAM instead of a matched pair

• Forgetting display cable versions and losing high refresh or HDR

• Skipping a BIOS update when it is required for your CPU

Setup and care tips

• Build on a clean, static, safe surface and take photos of cable routing for future upgrades

• Update BIOS, chipset, GPU, and Wi Fi drivers on day one

• Keep at least 20 per cent of your system SSD free for performance

• Dust filters help. Vacuum or brush every few months

• Back up to the cloud and an external drive. Test a restore occasionally

• Keep the PC off the carpet and leave space for intake and exhaust

Popular sub categories

• CPUs

• Motherboards

• Memory RAM

• SSDs and HDDs

• Graphics cards

• Power supplies

• PC cases

• CPU coolers and case fans

• Wi Fi and network cards

• Capture and sound cards

• Cables, adapters, and thermal paste

• Uninterruptible power supplies

FAQs. Computer components

1) What components do I need to build a PC
CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage, graphics card if required, power supply, case, and cooling. Add Wi Fi, extra fans, or a sound or capture card if you need them.

2) How do I make sure parts are compatible
Match CPU socket and motherboard chipset, choose the right RAM type, check GPU size and power connectors, and confirm the case supports your parts.

3) How much RAM do I need
16 GB is a sensible minimum for Windows 11. Use 32 GB for modern games, creative work, and heavy multitasking.

4) SSD or HDD for Windows
Use an NVMe SSD for the operating system and apps. Add an HDD or a second SSD for large libraries.

5) What power supply wattage should I buy
Office builds run well on 450 to 550 W. Mid gaming rigs often need 650 to 750 W. High-end GPUs can need 850 W or more.

6) Do I need a dedicated graphics card
Not for office, browsing, and media. You do for gaming, 3D, and GPU-accelerated creative tools.

7) Will a new CPU work in my old motherboard
Only if the socket, chipset, and BIOS support it. Check the board vendor’s CPU support list before you buy.

8) DDR4 or DDR5
Choose the type your motherboard supports. DDR5 offers more bandwidth and future headroom. DDR4 remains fine for many builds.

9) How many M.2 SSDs can I use
Depends on your board. Many ATX boards offer two or three M.2 slots. Check the manual for shared lanes with SATA ports.

10) Which case size should I choose
ATX cases fit full-size parts and many fans. Micro ATX saves space. Mini ITX is very small but needs careful part selection.

11) What is PCIe 4.0 or 5.0
It is the interface for GPUs and NVMe SSDs. Higher versions offer more bandwidth. Your CPU and board decide what you can use.

12) How do I keep a PC cool and quiet
Use a mesh front case, set up balanced intake and exhaust, choose a capable CPU cooler, and clean dust filters regularly.

13) Can I reuse my old power supply
Only if it is a good quality unit with the right connectors and enough wattage. Older PSUs may not support newer GPU plugs.

14) Do I need Wi Fi on the motherboard
Not if you will use Ethernet. If you want wireless, choose a board with Wi Fi 6 or add a PCIe or M.2 Wi Fi card.

15) What warranty do components come with
Each part includes a manufacturer’s warranty and our easy UK returns. Length varies by product. Check the listing for details.

Ready to build or upgrade

Explore computer components across CPUs, motherboards, memory, storage, graphics, power, and cooling. With expert advice, clear specs, fast UK delivery, and trusted service since 1988, you can build a reliable, quiet, and fast PC that fits your budget and plans.

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