How to build a PC from scratch

Master your gear and learn new skills with our explainers and guides.

View this email in your browser  |  Manage newsletter subscriptions 10.05.21 Assembling a computer yourself is a lost art. It can be a daunting task. It's expensive, it's complex, it can get messy. It's also incredibly rewarding, and if you can build an Ikea table, bookshelf, bed, or anything that comes in more than one of those deceivingly heavy flatpacks, you can build a PC. The tricky part of a PC-building guide? Our experts can't tell you exactly how to build your PC—not unless they know which hardware you're using. They can, however, explain what each component does and what their recommendations are for every piece of gear you'll need to do the job. Read our guide to building a PC from scratch, plus a few other tips and tricks, below. If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more.     Want a Better PC? Try Building Your Own Assembling a computer yourself is a good way to learn about how it works. Build Your Own Raspberry Pi Home Network Content Filter Boost both your digital security and your web browsing speed with an inexpensive, DIY packet inspector. How to Make the Most of a Tiny, Cramped Laptop Screen Small screens don't mean small accomplishments. Here's how to get big things done. 5 Graphics Settings Worth Tweaking in Every PC Game Sure, you can settle for the default presets, but even small changes can mean better performance—or a much better gaming experience. Your Favorite Mobile Apps That Can Also Run in a Web Browser Break free from the confines of your phone screen for messaging, music, and more. GET WIRED A helicopter on Mars. What to expect post-Covid. The next electrifying/terrifying leap in A.I. explained. Get 1 year of unlimited access to WIRED for less than $1 per month. That includes Steven Levy's exclusive newsletter and a free tote! Subscribe now.       When you buy something using the retail links in this email, we earn a small affiliate commission. Read more about how this works.   This e-mail was sent to you by WIRED. To ensure delivery to your inbox (not bulk or junk folders), please add our e-mail address, wired@newsletters.wired.com, to your address book.   View our Privacy Policy Unsubscribe or manage your newsletter subscriptions