For gamers like you who want a powerful machine that is also compact and portable, building a mini gaming PC can be a fun and rewarding experience. You can build a mini gaming PC that meets your needs and fits your budget with the right components and some basic knowledge. Whereas, in this article will walk you through the process of building your own mini gaming PC, from selecting the right components to putting everything together. So, let’s get this party started!
Choosing the right components
Before you proceed to building your mini gaming PC, you must first select the appropriate components and here are a few things to think about:
Form Factor
The size and shape of your motherboard are defined by the form factor. Mini-ITX or Micro-ATX motherboards are commonly used in mini gaming PCs. Whereas, Micro-ATX motherboards are slightly larger but still small enough to fit in a mini gaming PC case, while Mini-ITX motherboards are the smallest and most compact.
CPU
The processor, also known as the CPU, is the brain of your gaming PC. The two major CPU manufacturers are Intel and AMD. We recommend a processor with a TDP of 65W or less for a mini gaming PC, such as the Intel Core i5-11400 or AMD Ryzen 5 5600G.
GPU
The graphics card on your gaming PC, also known as the GPU, is responsible for the visuals in your games. Whereas, the two major GPU manufacturers are Nvidia and AMD. We recommend a graphics card with a TDP of 150W or less for a mini gaming PC, such as the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 or AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT.
RAM
RAM (random access memory) is where your gaming PC stores data that it needs to access quickly. Moreover, I recommend at least 16GB of DDR4 RAM for a mini gaming PC.
SSD/HDD
Storage is required to install your operating system, games, and other files. We recommend a combination of a solid-state drive (SSD) and a hard disc drive (HDD) for faster boot times and game load times. A 512GB SSD and a 2TB HDD are good places to start.
Putting Together Everything
After you’ve chosen your components, it’s time to put them all together. The steps are as follows:
Step 1: Get Your Workspace Ready
Make sure you have a clean, well-lit workspace before you begin building. A screwdriver, pliers, and thermal paste will be required as well.
Step 2: Install the CPU and CPU Cooler in Step 2.
Begin by connecting the CPU to the motherboard. Make sure the notches are properly aligned before gently lowering the CPU into place. Apply a small amount of thermal paste to the top of the CPU after it has been installed. The CPU cooler should then be connected to the motherboard. Ascertain that it is securely attached and connected to the CPU fan header.
Step 3: Install the RAM
Install the RAM into the motherboard’s RAM slots. Check that the notches on the RAM stick match the notches on the slot. Gently press the RAM into place until it clicks into place.
Step 4: Install the Storage Devices
Place the SSD and HDD in their respective bays in the mini gaming PC case. Connect the storage devices’ SATA cables to the motherboard.
Step 5: Connect the Power Supply
Insert the power supply into the case of the mini gaming PC. Connect the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage devices with the appropriate cables.
Step 6: Install the Graphics Card
Insert the graphics card into the motherboard’s PCIe slot. Assemble it and connect the necessary power cables from the power supply to the graphics card.
Step 7: Connect the Front Panel Cables
Connect the front panel cables from the mini gaming PC case to the motherboard’s appropriate headers. The power switch, reset switch, USB ports, and audio jacks are all included.
Step 8: Cable Administration
After you’ve installed all of the components, it’s time to tidy up the cables. To keep cables organised and out of the way, use cable ties and cable management channels. This will improve airflow and make the mini gaming PC appear cleaner.
Step 9: Restart the computer and install the necessary drivers.
Finally, connect the power cord to the mini gaming PC and turn it on. If everything was correctly installed, the mini gaming PC should boot into the BIOS. You can then install your operating system and drivers.
Suggestions and Tricks
- Before handling any components, make sure to ground yourself. Static electricity has the potential to harm sensitive electronics.
- Before installing any components, carefully read the instructions. Each component may require its own set of installation instructions.
- Make a plan for cable management ahead of time. Before everything is installed, it is easier to manage cables.
- Once the mini gaming PC has been assembled, don’t forget to install an operating system and drivers.
Conclusion
Constructing a mini gaming PC can be a difficult but rewarding experience. You can build a powerful and portable gaming PC that meets your needs by selecting the right components and following the steps outlined in this article. If you run into any problems, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance or consult online resources. Best wishes on your mini gaming PC build!
Also read: Computer PC Vs Mini PC
