Lesson 1RAM: capacity, speed, latency, dual-channel vs single, recommended kits and XMP/EXPOThis section covers choosing RAM capacity, speed, and latency for gaming and work, comparing single vs dual channel, and enabling XMP or EXPO profiles while checking motherboard QVL lists for stable, compatible memory kits.
Recommended RAM sizes by workloadDDR generations and naming schemesFrequency, timings, and real latencySingle vs dual channel performanceXMP and EXPO profile configurationChecking motherboard QVL for kitsLesson 2CPU selection criteria: cores, threads, single-thread performance; shortlist processLearn to shortlist CPUs by cores, threads, and clock speeds, compare single and multi-thread performance, and consider platform life, power use, and cooler needs to pick the best value chip for your workload.
Defining gaming vs creator prioritiesReading core, thread, and boost specsInterpreting benchmark score chartsPlatform upgrade path and socketsPower limits, heat, and cooler needsPrice‑to‑performance comparisonsLesson 3Case fans and cooling plan: fan count, static pressure vs airflow, fan placement for positive pressureDesign a full case airflow plan by picking suitable case fans, balancing static pressure and airflow types, and placing intake and exhaust fans for slightly positive pressure that cools better and cuts dust buildup.
120 mm vs 140 mm fan characteristicsAirflow vs static pressure fan bladesFront, top, rear, and bottom placementCreating positive or neutral pressurePWM vs DC control and fan curvesNoise reduction and vibration controlLesson 4CPU cooler choice: stock vs aftermarket, TDP ratings, airflow vs AIO considerationsLearn to choose between stock and aftermarket CPU coolers by checking TDP ratings, socket fit, noise, and airflow vs liquid AIO options, so your processor stays cool, quiet, and safe.
Reading CPU TDP and cooler ratingsStock coolers: pros, cons, safe use casesAir tower coolers: size, noise, clearanceAIO liquid coolers: risks and benefitsThermal paste types and applicationCase airflow impact on CPU coolingLesson 5Case: airflow vs aesthetics, tempered glass and RGB considerations, form factor, dust filtersLearn to check PC cases for airflow, build quality, and ease of assembly while balancing glass panels, RGB lights, and looks. Also assess dust filters, radiator support, and space for big GPUs and coolers.
Mesh vs solid front panel airflowTempered glass safety and tintingRGB fans, strips, and control hubsGPU, PSU, and cooler clearanceDust filter locations and cleaningCable management space and grommetsLesson 6Motherboard selection: chipset features, VRM quality, form factor, expansion slotsPick a motherboard by chipset, VRM quality, and size. Match CPU support, RAM standards, slots, rear ports, and BIOS features to your performance goals and future upgrade plans.
Matching socket and chipset to CPUVRM phases, cooling, and stabilityATX, mATX, ITX form factor trade‑offsPCIe slots for GPU and add‑in cardsM.2 and SATA storage connectivityRear I/O ports and internal headersLesson 7GPU: performance targets at 1080p/1440p, power draw, VRAM requirements, recommended modelsSelect a GPU based on target resolution, refresh rate, and game settings. Compare VRAM needs, power use, cooler designs, and models while avoiding bottlenecks with your CPU and PSU.
1080p, 1440p, and 4K performance goalsVRAM capacity for modern game assetsReference vs custom cooler designsPower connectors and PSU demandsAvoiding CPU bottlenecks in gamesUsed vs new GPU buying considerationsLesson 8Storage: NVMe vs SATA, capacity sizing for OS/games/video projects, endurance (TBW)Choose between NVMe and SATA drives, size storage for OS, games, and projects, and check endurance ratings like TBW. Plan tiered storage for speed, reliability, and easy expansion later.
NVMe vs SATA performance and use casesSystem drive vs bulk storage strategyCapacity planning for games and mediaTBW, DWPD, and warranty coverageQLC vs TLC NAND characteristicsPartitioning and backup strategiesLesson 9Gathering current price ranges: how to do quick market checks and record reliable approximate pricesLearn practical ways to check current component prices from major shops, local stores, and trackers. Record realistic ranges, spot odd prices, and keep a simple list updated for future builds.
Choosing reliable pricing websitesUsing filters and sorting effectivelyRecording low, typical, and high pricesTracking sales, rebates, and bundlesRegional price and tax differencesMaintaining a reusable price sheetLesson 10Power supply: wattage sizing method, efficiency (80 PLUS), modularity, recommended wattage and modelsSize PSU wattage for your build, check 80 PLUS efficiency, and choose modular types, with clear wattage targets for common CPU and GPU pairs.
Estimating system peak power drawHeadroom for transient GPU spikesUnderstanding 80 PLUS certificationsSingle vs multi 12V rail designsModular vs non‑modular cablingBrand reliability and warranty lengthLesson 11Operating system license: Windows versions, OEM vs retail, approximate costsCompare Windows versions for gaming and work, understand OEM vs retail licenses, typical prices, activation, and how to avoid fake or too-cheap sources.
Windows Home vs Pro feature needsOEM vs retail license differencesTypical price ranges and discountsWhere to buy legitimate licensesActivation, accounts, and transfersBudgeting OS cost into full build