How to Build a PC: Complete Guide
Step-by-step instructions for building your first custom PC
Overview
Building your own PC is easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing components to powering on your new system. The process typically takes 2-4 hours for first-time builders.
Time Required
2-4 hours for first build
Tools Needed
Phillips screwdriver minimum
Cost Savings
20-30% vs pre-built
Difficulty
Beginner friendly
Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Prepare Your Workspace
What you need:
- Clean, well-lit workspace
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Anti-static wrist strap (recommended)
- Small container for screws
- All your components
Safety Tips:
- Work on a non-carpeted surface
- Touch metal parts to discharge static
- Keep components in anti-static bags until needed
- Don't force anything - if it doesn't fit, check orientation
2
Install the Power Supply
Steps:
- Remove the side panel from your case
- Locate the PSU mounting area (usually at the bottom)
- Insert the power supply with the fan facing down (if there's a vent) or up
- Secure with the provided screws
- Route the power cables through the back of the case
💡 Tip: Don't connect any cables yet - we'll do that later when installing components.
3
Install the CPU
Steps:
- Open the CPU socket lever on the motherboard
- Carefully remove the CPU from its packaging
- Align the CPU with the socket (look for the golden triangle)
- Gently place the CPU in the socket - it should drop in easily
- Close the lever to secure the CPU
⚠️ Warning: Never force the CPU into the socket. If it doesn't fit, check the orientation.
4
Install the CPU Cooler
Steps:
- Apply thermal paste (if not pre-applied)
- Place the cooler over the CPU
- Secure with the provided mounting brackets
- Connect the cooler's power cable to the CPU_FAN header
💡 Tip: If using an aftermarket cooler, check the manual for specific mounting instructions.
5
Install RAM
Steps:
- Open the RAM slot clips
- Align the RAM stick with the slot (notch should match)
- Press down firmly until the clips snap into place
- Repeat for additional RAM sticks
💡 Tip: Install RAM in the slots recommended by your motherboard manual for optimal performance.
6
Install the Motherboard
Steps:
- Install the I/O shield in the case
- Install motherboard standoffs in the case
- Carefully place the motherboard in the case
- Secure with screws (don't overtighten)
- Connect the front panel cables (power, reset, LEDs)
💡 Tip: The front panel cables are the trickiest part. Refer to your motherboard manual for the exact pin layout.
7
Install Storage Drives
Steps:
- For SSDs: Mount in 2.5" drive bays or use adapter brackets
- For HDDs: Mount in 3.5" drive bays
- Connect SATA data cables to motherboard
- Connect SATA power cables from PSU
💡 Tip: NVMe SSDs install directly into the motherboard - no cables needed!
8
Install the Graphics Card
Steps:
- Remove the appropriate PCIe slot covers from the case
- Insert the GPU into the PCIe x16 slot
- Secure with screws to the case
- Connect PCIe power cables from the PSU
💡 Tip: Make sure the GPU is fully seated - you should hear a click when it's properly installed.
9
Connect Power Cables
Steps:
- Connect 24-pin motherboard power cable
- Connect 8-pin CPU power cable
- Connect PCIe power cables to GPU
- Connect SATA power cables to drives
- Route cables neatly behind the motherboard tray
💡 Tip: Use cable ties to keep everything organized and improve airflow.
10
First Boot and Testing
Steps:
- Connect monitor, keyboard, and mouse
- Plug in the power supply
- Press the power button
- Enter BIOS to check component recognition
- Install operating system
⚠️ Warning: If the system doesn't boot, don't panic! Check our troubleshooting guide.
Pro Tips
🛠️ Take Your Time
Rushing can lead to mistakes. Take breaks if needed and double-check each step.
📖 Read the Manuals
Motherboard and case manuals contain important information specific to your components.
🔌 Test Outside Case
For first-time builders, test the system outside the case first to ensure everything works.
📸 Document Everything
Take photos during the build process - they're helpful for troubleshooting and future reference.
Additional Resources
📋 Pre-Build Checklist
- All components purchased and compatible
- Tools and workspace ready
- Operating system downloaded
- Backup of important data
🔧 Essential Tools
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Anti-static wrist strap
- Flashlight or good lighting
- Cable ties for organization
📚 Helpful Guides
🎥 Video Tutorials
What's Next?
Congratulations on building your PC! Here's what to do after your first successful boot: