Choosing a gaming PC: what should you look for before you buy?

Buying a gaming PC may seem straightforward: choose a powerful graphics card, add RGB lighting and you’re done. In practice, it’s the combination of components, upgrade options and included software that determines whether your desktop will continue to suit you over time. A high product rating or striking case does not necessarily tell you enough.

For Dutch gamers, PC enthusiasts and creators, there are three common pitfalls:

• A powerful graphics card without a suitable processor: this can limit performance in some games, particularly at high refresh rates.
• Too little memory or storage: 16 GB of RAM is suitable for many games, but streaming, video editing and multitasking require more space. A 480 or 500 GB SSD can fill up quickly.
• Focusing on RGB rather than cooling: lighting does nothing to improve heat dissipation. Check the number of fans, airflow and the type of CPU cooler.

The most important specifications of a gaming desktop

1. Graphics card and desired resolution

The graphics card largely determines the image quality and resolution you can achieve. A 1080p gaming PC is suitable for Full HD monitors and competitive games. If you’re looking for a 1440p gaming PC, you’ll generally need more graphics headroom, particularly for modern games with ray tracing.

Don’t just look at the GPU name. Also check:

• the amount of graphics memory in GB;
• the available video outputs;
• support for features such as ray tracing and image upscaling;
• the power supply’s wattage.

An RTX 5060 gaming PC is a sensible choice if you mainly play at 1080p. According to the stated product specifications, an RTX 5060 Ti gaming PC offers more graphics headroom for 1080p and certain 1440p scenarios. An RTX 5070 gaming PC is aimed at users who value higher settings, high frame rates and more demanding creative applications.

Claims about additional performance or image quality come from the manufacturer’s or seller’s product information. Treat them as an indication and always check the full configuration.

2. Processor, RAM and storage

A Ryzen gaming PC and an Intel gaming PC can both be suitable. Look at the complete combination:

• Processor: a Ryzen 5 5500, for example, is a six-core processor with twelve threads. The Ryzen 7 7800X3D in the Shark Ultimator R700 has eight cores and sixteen threads.
• Memory: 16 GB is a useful starting point for gaming and everyday use. For demanding video editing or running many programmes simultaneously, a system with upgradeable memory is more practical.
• Storage: NVMe SSDs generally provide short start-up and loading times. Check whether 500 GB or 1 TB is enough for your game library. Modern games can use a great deal of storage space.

Also check whether free memory slots and additional drive bays are available. The MSI MAG Infinite S3 models, for example, list two memory slots and additional bays for 2.5- and 3.5-inch storage. This makes future upgrades easier to plan.

3. Cooling, power supply and case

A gaming computer produces more heat during long sessions than a basic office PC. Therefore, check:

• whether there are several case fans;
• whether the front can draw in air;
• which type of CPU cooler is used;
• how many watts the power supply delivers and whether it has a relevant efficiency rating;
• whether the dimensions fit beneath or beside your desk.

A standalone Corsair case fan can supplement an existing case. According to the product specifications, the CO-9051005-WW has a diameter of 120 mm, PWM control, a stated speed range of 480 to 2400 rpm and RGB LEDs. Check beforehand which fan positions and connections your case and motherboard support.

For more powerful configurations, a 360mm all-in-one cooler such as the MSI MAG CORELIQUID I360 may be relevant. The product information lists compatibility with AM4, AM5 and Intel sockets including 1700 and 1851. Always check the processor socket and whether your case has enough room for a radiator of this size.

Which gaming PC suits the way you use it?

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Shark Max Bite R501 Gaming PC RTX5060/R5/16GB/1TB

Why it suits this profile: This ready-built gaming desktop combines a Ryzen 5 5500, RTX 5060, 16 GB DDR4 and a 1 TB NVMe SSD. That makes it suitable for users who want to get started with modern games without building a PC themselves.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 1 TB of storage avoids the limited capacity found in many entry-level models. The case lists a mesh front and ARGB fans for airflow.

Key benefit & highlights

RTX 5060 with 8 GB, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB NVMe and Windows 11 Home according to the product listing.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

Shark Ultimator R700 Gaming PC RTX5070/R7/16GB/1TB

Why it suits this profile: If you value high graphics settings, 1440p gaming and demanding applications such as rendering, this configuration offers a more powerful combination of processor and GPU.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The configuration lists a 360mm liquid cooler and a 750W power supply. However, check the available space and connections before installation.

Key benefit & highlights

Ryzen 7 7800X3D, RTX 5070 12 GB, 16 GB DDR5, 1 TB NVMe and Windows 11 Home according to the product details.

Suitable for: Specific uses & demanding users

MSI MAG Infinite S3 14NVM5-2873EU Intel Core i5 RTX 5060 Ti

Why it suits this profile: This MSI gaming PC is well suited to users looking for a compact ready-built desktop for gaming, multitasking and everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list two free RAM slots and additional drive bays. This provides more room for upgrades than a completely sealed mini PC.

Key benefit & highlights

Intel Core i5-14400F, RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, Wi-Fi 6E and a 500W 80 PLUS Bronze power supply.

Suitable for: Gamers who value RGB design

RGB Gaming PC RTX 5060 Ryzen 5

Why it suits this profile: This RGB gaming PC is aimed at players who want to combine a distinctive gaming design with Full HD gaming and a wireless network connection.

How this product avoids the pitfall

As well as RGB lighting, the configuration lists four ARGB case fans and a 550W 80+ Bronze power supply. Cooling is therefore not just about appearance.

Key benefit & highlights

Ryzen 5 5500, RTX 5060 with 8 GB GDDR7, 16 GB DDR4, 480 GB PCIe 4.0 SSD and USB Wi-Fi adapter.

Check this before buying a gaming PC

1. Is Windows included? A Windows 11 gaming PC is ready to use straight away, but some barebones systems are supplied without an operating system. With the MSI PRO DP180, for example, you need to install the RAM, storage and operating system yourself.
2. Will the PC fit on your desk? A compact gaming PC saves space, but compact models often have less room for large graphics cards or additional storage.
3. Are all accessories included? Check the product page for a power cable, Wi-Fi adapter, keyboard and mouse. The included components vary by model.
4. What warranty applies? Products are covered by statutory conformity rights within the EU at a minimum. Also check the specific warranty information provided by the manufacturer and seller.

Frequently asked questions about gaming PCs

Is a gaming PC suitable for streaming and video editing?

Yes, but as well as the graphics card, look at the number of processor cores, RAM and storage. For gaming and streaming simultaneously, 16 GB is a starting point; a system with upgradeable memory may be more practical for larger projects.

How long does a gaming PC last?

Its lifespan depends on the games you play, settings, maintenance and upgrade options. A system with free RAM slots, additional storage bays and a suitable power supply can be adapted more easily as your requirements change. Keep the ventilation openings free from dust and don’t place the desktop in an enclosed cabinet.

How much does it cost to run a gaming computer?

Power consumption depends on the power supply, graphics card, processor and the number of hours you play. The wattage shown on the power supply is not its constant consumption; it is the power supply’s maximum capacity. Check the power management settings and switch off the PC when you’re not using it.