Computer Hardware for PC Gaming

During my early amateur years, when my parents were my only sponsors, I was playing on an outdated computer struggling to run games smoothly. The only workaround was to change every graphic setting to the lowest quality possible so I could squeeze out every bit of FPS (frames per second). I set the resolution to the lowest possible, which shrunk my screen viewing size so that almost 40% of my screen was covered in black bars. I was competing at a disadvantage, but I made the most of it.

Even today, you'll see top professionals playing on the best computers at tournaments, yet still using low settings and resolutions because it's what they've become used to. For competitive play, always choose performance over aesthetics. Higher FPS = smoother gameplay, which allows for smoother aiming.

Most games these days will have an option in the settings or a typeable command to view the FPS in the game. If there isn't a view FPS option, there are many free third-party programs that will. I'd recommend loading up your game on a graphics-intensive map and moving around the map while keeping an eye on the FPS count. If you see the frames dropping significantly, you'll notice the game and crosshair appear choppier, which makes aiming more difficult. This is when I'd recommend either lowering the quality settings, resolution, or upgrading hardware.

I won't go into detail about PC hardware because there are more in-depth resources online, but here are my quick notes on each component:

• CPU (Computer Processing Unit): This is the brain of the computer. Make sure when purchasing a new CPU that it’s compatible with your motherboard.
• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Responsible for rendering the game graphics. Definitely don’t cheap out here.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): The more programs running, the more RAM is needed. If you plan on streaming or recording, you’ll want more RAM.
• Hard Drive: Fast hard drives = faster loading speeds. Get an SSD hard drive or better.
• Motherboard: Make sure you get a motherboard that can support all your hardware upgrades.
• Power Supply: Provides power to all your components. The more powerful your components, the more power they will need.
• Case: Find a case that can comfortably house all your components and has good fan and air circulation flow to keep your components from overheating. Hot components will drain performance and your FPS.

Tips:

• Over time, dust will form over your components, which causes overheating issues. I recommend routinely taking the PC outside and giving it a good cleaning with a can of air spray, especially if you have a dusty environment or pets that shed hair.
• Place your computer on a table, away from the floor where dust settles.
• It's cheaper to buy the parts separately and build yourself -- Easily doable by watching YouTube videos
• Ask your friends if they have any old parts laying around

Hope this helps!

-Rambo