Gaming Desktops | FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
A gaming PC is a high-performance computer designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. Video games, of course, but these powerful computers are also a good choice for intensive applications like video editing, 3D modelling, live streaming, AI-powered creative tools, and virtual reality.
What makes a computer a gaming PC?
The key to a gaming PC is performance. That means powerful, gaming-focused components. A dedicated graphics card is one of the most important parts of the system, delivering much stronger gaming performance than typical integrated graphics. Other key components include a powerful CPU, plenty of high-speed RAM, fast SSD storage, effective cooling, strong Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity, and a quality power supply appropriately sized for the system.
Looking for something more portable that still delivers PC-grade performance? Explore Handheld Gaming PCs — compact, console-style devices designed for gaming on the go.
Which graphics card should I choose for gaming?
There is a wide range of graphics cards available in gaming PCs. Choosing the right one is important because resolution, texture quality, frame rates, and visual effects all depend heavily on the GPU. It’s always a good idea to check the recommended requirements for your favourite games.
Popular current options include NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards, including RTX 50 Series models, and AMD Radeon RX graphics cards, including RX 9000 Series models. Ideally, your graphics card should have enough dedicated video memory, or VRAM, for the games, graphics settings, and resolution you want to use.
For virtual reality fans, look for a gaming PC that meets the recommended requirements for your preferred VR headset and games.
What kind of processor do I need for a gaming PC?
While the graphics card is critical to gaming performance, the CPU is also important. Look for a modern multi-core processor with strong gaming performance and clock speeds. Intel Core, Intel Core Ultra, and AMD Ryzen processors are common choices in gaming PCs, with higher-end models offering additional performance for demanding games, multitasking, streaming, and content creation.
How much RAM and storage does a gaming PC need?
Gaming PCs use fast RAM, with many newer systems featuring DDR5 memory, while some configurations still use high-speed DDR4. For modern gaming, 16GB of RAM is a practical starting point, while 32GB can be useful for demanding games, streaming, multitasking, and creative applications.
Gaming PCs also need plenty of storage for large game installations while benefiting from fast drive speeds. Look for a configuration with an NVMe SSD for quick load times and responsive performance, with 1TB being a practical starting point for many gamers. Some systems may also include additional SSD or hard drive storage for larger game libraries.
What monitor should I pair with a gaming PC?
To make the most of your PC gaming experience, choose a computer monitor that matches your graphics card’s capabilities. Look for a suitable resolution, such as 1080p, 1440p, or 4K depending on your GPU, along with the screen size and refresh rate that fit the games you play.
A monitor that supports NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD FreeSync technology can provide smoother gameplay when paired with compatible hardware. You might also choose the immersive experience of a curved monitor, an ultrawide display, or a multi-monitor setup. While you can connect your own speakers or headset, some monitors also include built-in speakers.