> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://mintlify.com/modernharp/PCPartsPicker/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Building your PC

> Step-by-step guide to creating your custom PC configuration with PCPartsPicker

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.

## Before you start

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

<Steps>
  <Step title="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.
  </Step>

  <Step title="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.
  </Step>

  <Step title="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.
  </Step>

  <Step title="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
  </Step>

  <Step title="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.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add a graphics card">
    For gaming and graphics-intensive work, a dedicated GPU is essential.

    <Note>
      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.
    </Note>

    The platform verifies your case has adequate space and your power supply can handle the card's requirements.
  </Step>

  <Step title="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.
  </Step>

  <Step title="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
  </Step>

  <Step title="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
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review compatibility and pricing">
    PCPartsPicker automatically validates your configuration:

    <Check>
      The compatibility check runs continuously as you build, alerting you immediately to any issues.
    </Check>

    Review the total cost and adjust components if needed to fit your budget. Pricing reflects current rates from retailers in your selected region.
  </Step>

  <Step title="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
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Next steps

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Understanding components" icon="microchip" href="/guides/understanding-components">
    Learn more about each component category and how to choose the right parts
  </Card>

  <Card title="Compatibility rules" icon="shield-check" href="/guides/compatibility-rules">
    Understand what compatibility checks are performed automatically
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Tips for success

<Tip>
  **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.
</Tip>

<Warning>
  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.
</Warning>