Gaming PCs are trending among youth as they dissolve the boundaries between the real and virtual worlds. Modern games have realism, and cutting-edge components are required for them.
Gaming enthusiasts must be familiar with the minimum requirements for gaming PCs so they can choose the right type of gaming PC in 2024, depending on their gaming preferences, budget, and desired level of performance.
In this article, we will provide details of the gaming PC type and minimum requirements to help you seek the ultimate gaming experience without investing in top-of-line hardware.
Processor (CPU):
The processor is the brain of your gaming PC. A processor is a major requirement for gaming PCs because it can handle game logic and AI calculations and ensure smooth gameplay. In 2024, Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors are minimally recommended.
These mid-range CPUs provide enough power and can handle all the computations in a gaming PC. If the processor is not efficiently powered, it can cause decreased performance and stuttering during gameplay.
Graphics Card (GPU):
The GPU displays graphics in games. GPU is one of the major requirements for gaming PC, as the game’s visual quality is directly dependent on it. A minimum of an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super or an AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT is recommended.
These GPUs deliver 1080-resolution displays and frame rates, balancing a strike between price and performance. An underpowered GPU fails to provide a good-quality frame. You may experience low-resolution graphics and poor image quality without a GPU.
Memory (RAM):
Random Accessory Memory is important for smooth gaming and faster loading times. It temporarily stores data that needs to be accessed quickly. Sufficient RAM ensures system responsiveness for more demanding games.
In 2024, a minimum of 8GB of RAM is still acceptable, but 16GB of RAM is necessary to future-proof your system. Insufficient RAM may cause slower performance and longer loading times; you may also face potential game crashes or stuttering if memory capacity is exceeded.
Storage:
Storage is the main requirement for a gaming PC. It defines the PC’s space and the game’s loading time. Excellent storage requires a combination of speed and capacity. Two types of storage devices are available.
- SSD(Solid-State Drive)
- HDD hard disk drives
HDDs provide ample space but are not very efficient in reducing the loading time. Alternatively, an SSD allows fast transitions and reduces loading times. They also enhance system responsiveness for real gameplay. In 2024, a minimum of 500GB SSD is required to balance speed and budget well.
Power Supply (PSU):
The power supply unit (PSU) with sufficient wattage is a basic requirement for a gaming PC as it is responsible for providing electrical power to all components in the gaming PC. A stable power supply is required to handle all components and potential upgrades for a PC.
In 2024, a minimum of a 500-watt PSU with an 80 Plus certification is required to provide ample power to all components. PSUs with insufficient wattage may lead to unstable systems, system crashes and damaged components as they do not receive enough power.
Motherboard:
The motherboard is the main requirement for a gaming PC as it acts as a central hub. It has ports to connect all components of a gaming PC. Motherboards make certain the communication between components for the proper functioning of PCI.
The motherboard also determines the compatibility between the CPU, GPU, RAM, and other peripherals with the gaming PC. Incompatible motherboards cause unstable systems with reduced performance and lead to damaged hardware.
Cooling:
The cooling system is an essential requirement for gaming PCs during long and intensive gaming sessions, as heat is generated that may slow down the speed of the PC.
A proper cooling system is required to avoid thermal throttling and maintain the optimal temperature of the system. Inadequate cooling can lead to reduced performance. Overheating can result in lower frame rates and system crashes.
Display:
A monitor is required to enhance the visuals of games. High-end games require high-resolution visuals to provide realistic effects.
In 2024 a minimum of 1440p or 4K monitor is required, but a 1080p resolution monitor with a high refresh rate of 144Hz provides smoother visuals and reduced motion blur. 1080p resolution provides immersive and stunning graphics for your favorite games.
Requirements for Different Gaming Experiences in 2024
It is important to explore the minimum requirements for various gaming PCs in 2024. Knowledge about gaming PC types and their respective requirements will help you make an informed decision.
Top gaming components available on Amazon:
Motherboard
For motherboard following are top brands, along with features.
1. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming:
- Support for Intel processors
- PCIe 4.0 support
- Robust power delivery
- Extensive connectivity options
- High-quality audio
- Advanced cooling solutions
- Customizable RGB lighting
2. MSI MPG X570 GAMING PRO CARBON WIFI:
- Compatible with AMD Ryzen processors
- PCIe 4.0 support
- Strong VRM design
- Integrated Wi-Fi connectivity
- Premium audio
- Multiple M.2 slots for fast storage
- Customizable RGB lighting
Graphic Processor Unit (GPU):
Top brands for GPU on Amazon include
1. NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080:
- Powerful gaming performance
- Real-time ray tracing
- DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology
- High VRAM capacity
- Support for high-resolution gaming
2. AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT:
- Excellent gaming performance
- Competitive pricing
- Support for AMD’s Smart Access Memory
- Infinity Cache technologies
- High VRAM capacity
Processor (CPU)
Top brands for CPU on Amazon include
1. Intel Core i9-11900K:
- High-performance gaming
- Single-threaded applications
- Excellent clock speeds
- Multi-core processing
- Support for Intel’s Turbo Boost Max Technology
- PCIe 4.0 support
2. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X:
- Multi-threaded performance
- High core count
- Support for AMD’s Precision Boost technology
- PCIe 4.0 support
- Competitive pricing
Random Accessory memory (RAM)
Amazon provides the best RAM modules that provide temporary memory that can be quickly accessed. Here are the top products
1. Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro:
- DDR4 RAM
- Customizable RGB lighting
- High-speed performance
- Wide compatibility
- Corsair’s iCUE software for lighting control
2. Kingston HyperX Fury RGB:
- DDR4 RAM
- Stylish RGB lighting
- Reliable performance
- Low-profile design for better compatibility with CPU coolers
- Plug-and-play functionality
Cooling systems:
Cooling systems are an essential component of gaming PCs. Here are top cooling models available on Amazon.
1. Noctua NH-D15:
- Air cooling solution
- Dual tower design
- High-performance fans
- Excellent cooling efficiency
- Low noise levels
2. Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240R:
- AIO liquid cooling solution
- 240mm radiator
- RGB lighting with customizable effects
- Reliable performance
- Low noise levels
Power supply Unit (PSU)
When choosing a power supply unit (PSU) for your gaming PC, it’s essential to prioritize reliability, efficiency, and sufficient power delivery. Here are the top power supplies available on Amazon.
1. Corsair RM750x:
- 750W power output
- 80 Plus Gold-certified efficiency
- Fully modular design
- Quiet operation
- Reliable performance
2. EVGA SuperNOVA 750 G5:
- 750W power output
- 80 Plus Gold certified efficiency
- Fully modular design
- Compact size
- High-quality components for stable power delivery
Platforms for buying gaming components:
1. Amazon (www.amazon.com)
2. Newegg (www.newegg.com)
3. Best Buy (www.bestbuy.com)
4. Micro Center (www.microcenter.com)
Requirements for pre-built and custom-built gaming PC:
Pre-built and custom-built PCs are two options for gaming enthusiasts. Pre-built PCs are simple and convenient but do not provide customization options. Custom-built gaming PCs provide flexible and personalization options.
Pre-built requirements:
- Processor (CPU): Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5
- Graphics Card (GPU): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT
- Memory (RAM): 8GB or 16GB
- Storage: 500GB SSD or 1TB HDD
- Power Supply (PSU): 500W or higher
- Motherboard: Compatibility with the CPU and GPU
Custom built requirements:
- Processor (CPU): Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 (or higher for more demanding games)
- Graphics Card (GPU): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT (or higher for better performance)
- Memory (RAM): 16GB or 32GB
- Storage: 500GB SSD (or larger capacity) for faster load times
- Power Supply (PSU): 550W or higher, based on component requirements
- Motherboard: Compatibility with the selected CPU and GPU, with necessary expansion slots for future upgrades.
The requirements for both types of PCs are different. Lets dive into the comparison of both.
Minimum Software Requirements for a Gaming PC:
To ensure optimal performance and compatibility for gaming on a PC, meeting the minimum software requirements is essential. Here are the critical software requirements for a gaming PC:
- Operating system
- Windows
- MacOS
- Graphic drivers
Game Distribution Platforms:
Many games are distributed through online platforms, so having the necessary software installed to access and play games is essential. Some popular game distribution platforms include:
1. Steam:
It is a widely used platform for purchasing, downloading, and playing a vast library of games.
2. Epic Games Store:
It is another popular platform that offers free games and exclusive titles.
3. Origin:
It is an electronic Arts platform for purchasing and playing games.
4. GOG (Good Old Games):
It is a platform specializing in DRM-free games.
Conclusion:
In that case, you can enjoy smooth gameplay and stunning visuals. There may need to be more than these requirements to play highly demanding games, but you can still enjoy a wide range of games.
Customization is the key to enhancing the gaming experience, so make upgrades and adjustments based on your preferences and budget.
Happy Gaming!
