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Building a custom PC can seem overwhelming, but PCPartsPicker simplifies the process by providing an interactive builder with automatic compatibility checking and curated component selections.

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Before you start

Consider your budget and use case before selecting components. PCPartsPicker offers pre-built templates across four budget tiers to help you get started.
1

Select your region

Start by choosing your country or region. PCPartsPicker currently supports:
  • United States
  • India
Regional selection ensures you see accurate pricing from local retailers and availability for your area.
2

Choose a starting point

You have two options:Start from scratch: Select components individually based on your specific needs and preferences.Use a template: Choose from one of the four pre-built configurations:
  • Budget Build - Featuring Intel i5-12400F processor, ideal for basic computing and light gaming
  • Gaming Build - Featuring AMD Ryzen 5 8500G, balanced performance for 1080p gaming
  • Excellent Build - Featuring AMD Ryzen 7 9700X, high-performance for content creation and gaming
  • Enthusiast Build - Featuring Intel i9-13900K, top-tier performance for demanding workloads
Templates provide a solid foundation that you can customize to fit your specific needs.
3

Select your CPU

The processor is the brain of your computer. Consider:
  • Core count: More cores help with multitasking and content creation
  • Clock speed: Higher speeds benefit gaming and single-threaded applications
  • Integrated graphics: Processors like the Ryzen 5 8500G include graphics, eliminating the need for a dedicated GPU in budget builds
Your CPU choice will influence motherboard compatibility, which PCPartsPicker automatically checks.
4

Choose your motherboard

The motherboard connects all your components. PCPartsPicker filters compatible options based on your CPU selection.Key considerations:
  • Socket type (automatically matched to your CPU)
  • Form factor (ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX)
  • RAM slots and maximum capacity
  • Expansion slots for future upgrades
5

Select memory (RAM)

RAM affects system responsiveness and multitasking capability.Recommendations:
  • 16GB minimum for gaming and general use
  • 32GB for content creation and heavy multitasking
  • 64GB+ for professional workloads
PCPartsPicker ensures RAM compatibility with your motherboard’s speed and type requirements.
6

Add a graphics card

For gaming and graphics-intensive work, a dedicated GPU is essential.
If you selected a CPU with integrated graphics (like the Ryzen 5 8500G), you can skip this step for budget builds and add a GPU later.
The platform verifies your case has adequate space and your power supply can handle the card’s requirements.
7

Choose storage

Select your storage based on capacity needs and performance requirements:
  • NVMe SSD - Fastest, ideal for OS and frequently-used applications
  • SATA SSD - Good performance at lower cost
  • HDD - High capacity for bulk storage
Many builders use a combination: fast SSD for the operating system and a larger HDD for file storage.
8

Select a case

Your case houses all components. PCPartsPicker checks that:
  • Your motherboard form factor fits
  • There’s adequate space for your GPU length
  • Cable management options are available
  • Cooling provisions meet your needs
9

Add additional components

Complete your build with:
  • Power supply - Ensure sufficient wattage for all components
  • CPU cooler - Stock coolers are often adequate, but aftermarket options improve cooling and noise
  • Case fans - Additional airflow for optimal temperatures
  • Peripherals - Monitor, keyboard, mouse as needed
10

Review compatibility and pricing

PCPartsPicker automatically validates your configuration:
The compatibility check runs continuously as you build, alerting you immediately to any issues.
Review the total cost and adjust components if needed to fit your budget. Pricing reflects current rates from retailers in your selected region.
11

Share or export your build

Once satisfied with your configuration:
  • Export as PDF for a printable parts list
  • Share on social media to get feedback from the community
  • Save for later to compare different configurations

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Next steps

Understanding components

Learn more about each component category and how to choose the right parts

Compatibility rules

Understand what compatibility checks are performed automatically

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Tips for success

Start with a template: Even experienced builders benefit from using templates as a starting point. You can always customize individual components while maintaining overall balance.
Always verify power supply wattage is sufficient for your components, especially when adding high-end graphics cards. Include a 20-30% overhead for safety and future upgrades.

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