Buying PC components: how to build a suitable and compatible PC

Building or upgrading a new PC starts with compatibility, not the colour of the RGB lighting. If you focus only on clock speed, storage capacity or an appealing product photo, you could end up with components that do not work together, do not fit in the case or require additional accessories.

The most common pitfalls when buying PC components are:

• Choosing the wrong socket: an AMD processor will not fit a motherboard with LGA 1700, and vice versa.
• Mixing up DDR4 and DDR5: these memory types use different motherboard slots. DDR5 RAM will not work in a DDR4 motherboard.
• Overlooking dimensions and connections: a graphics card may be too long, a CPU cooler too tall or an RGB fan may have an unsuitable connector.
• Confusing marketing claims with guaranteed performance: terms such as “gaming”, “quiet” or “8K-ready” only mean something when considered alongside specific specifications, your other hardware and the software being used.

The key specifications for computer components

1. Socket, chipset and memory type

First, check the processor socket. For recent AMD systems, look for an AM5 motherboard. According to the product information, the MSI MAG X870E TOMAHAWK WIFI supports AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000 and 9000 series processors and DDR5-SDRAM. The GIGABYTE A620M GAMING X also uses the AM5 socket and supports DDR5.

For Intel systems, an LGA 1700 motherboard is relevant. The MSI B760M Project Zero and MSI PRO B760M-P are examples of LGA 1700 motherboards. Pay close attention to the memory type: the B760M Project Zero is designed for DDR5, while the MSI PRO B760M-P uses DDR4.

Practical checks:

1. Find out which socket your processor uses.
2. Check that the motherboard has the same socket.
3. Check whether the motherboard supports DDR4 RAM or DDR5 RAM.
4. Check the maximum memory capacity and number of DIMM slots.
5. See whether your processor may require a BIOS update.

2. Storage: NVMe and SATA SSDs

An NVMe SSD and a SATA SSD are not the same thing. An NVMe SSD usually uses an M.2 slot and communicates via PCIe. This reduces cable clutter and is convenient when building a new PC. A SATA SSD generally uses a 2.5-inch enclosure and requires both a SATA data cable and a power cable.

Check the following on the motherboard:

• The number of M.2 slots.
• The supported PCIe generation.
• Whether an M.2 slot also supports SATA mode.
• Whether certain SATA ports are disabled when you install an M.2 drive.
• Whether an M.2 SSD heatsink is included.

According to the product information, the Kingston KC600 256 GB is a SATA III 2.5-inch SSD with read speeds of up to 550 MB/s and write speeds of up to 500 MB/s. This type of storage is particularly suitable for an existing PC with a spare 2.5-inch drive bay, or for an upgrade where no M.2 slot is available.

3. Cooling, airflow and physical space

Good airflow involves more than simply choosing a high fan speed. Consider airflow, static pressure, PWM control, noise level and the available mounting points.

• A 120mm case fan fits in many compact cases and radiators.
• A 140mm case fan can often move more air at a lower speed when mounted in a compatible position.
• A fan for a radiator benefits from sufficient static pressure.
• Check that your motherboard has enough 4-pin fan headers.
• ARGB lighting usually requires a compatible 5V 3-pin connector; RGB 12V 4-pin is not the same.

The Corsair iCUE LINK LX120-R RGB 3-pack lists a maximum speed of 2400 RPM, airflow of up to 70 CFM, PWM support and 18 RGB LEDs per fan. The Corsair iCUE LINK RX140 MAX RGB lists a range of 300 to 1600 RPM and airflow of up to 102.9 CFM. These figures are product specifications; actual noise levels and cooling performance depend on the installation, case and fan curve.

Recommended PC components to buy for different usage profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

GIGABYTE A620M GAMING X Motherboard

Why it suits this profile: The micro-ATX form factor is suitable for a compact AM5 build. The product specifications list four DDR5 slots, one M.2 PCIe 4.0 slot and four SATA connections.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The socket and memory type are clearly specified. However, check the exact maximum RAM capacity in advance, as the supplied product information lists different figures for this.

Key benefit & advantages

AM5, micro-ATX, DDR5 and support for M.2 and SATA storage.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

MSI MAG X870E TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard

Why it suits this profile: According to the product details, this ATX motherboard offers four memory slots, support for up to 256 GB DDR5, multiple M.2 and SATA connections, Wi-Fi 7 and 5 Gigabit Ethernet.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The connections and platform support are clearly stated. Even so, check your case dimensions and your processor’s BIOS support.

Key benefit & advantages

Extensive expansion options, DDR5 support and built-in wireless networking features.

Suitable for: Specialist use & intensive users

Corsair iCUE LINK LX120-R RGB Computer Case Fan 12 cm, 3-pack

Why it suits this profile: The set contains three 120mm fans with PWM control, specified airflow of up to 70 CFM and support for case and radiator cooling.

How this product avoids the pitfall

PWM enables automatic or manual speed control. According to the instructions, an iCUE LINK hub is required for the lighting; this is sold separately.

Key benefit & advantages

Three fans in one pack, PWM support and specified static pressure of up to 3.8 mmH2O.

Suitable for: Gamers and content creators

ASUS PRIME RTX 5060 O8G GAMING

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this RTX 5060 graphics card has 8 GB GDDR7, three DisplayPort connections, HDMI 2.1b and a specified length of 268.3 mm.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The required 8-pin power connection and 145 W power consumption are listed. Before buying, check your power supply, available case space and airflow.

Key benefit & advantages

8 GB GDDR7, PCIe 5.0 interface and four video outputs according to the product specifications.

Frequently asked questions about PC hardware

Which PC components should I buy first?

Start with the processor and motherboard, as the socket and chipset determine the rest of the build. Then choose RAM that is compatible with the motherboard. Next, check the graphics card, power supply, storage, case and cooling. This helps you avoid buying DDR4 RAM for a DDR5 platform or choosing a graphics card that will not fit in the case.

Is NVMe always necessary for a gaming PC?

No. NVMe storage offers a compact solution and can deliver high transfer speeds, but a SATA SSD is often sufficient for the operating system, general software and many games. Focus particularly on the available connections, capacity and your budget. On an older PC, a SATA SSD can be a straightforward upgrade.

How long do PC components last?

Lifespan depends on usage, temperature, dust, the power supply and mechanical stress. Good airflow helps remove heat. Clean fans carefully, use a suitable power supply and check all connections before installation. The statutory guarantee for the products mentioned is at least two years according to the product information provided; additional rights may apply under applicable Dutch law.