Build Your Own Custom PC From Scratch
Building your own desktop PC from scratch is an extremely rewarding project that allows you to fully customize your computer to your exact specifications. While it may seem intimidating, with the right parts and some basic do-it-yourself skills, you can assemble an efficient, high-performance PC tailored specifically for your needs.
Benefits of Building Your Own PC
- Cost savings - Prebuilt desktops often have a premium price due to assembly and OS installation fees.
- Hardware selection - Pick each component that fits your budget and needs.
- Upgradeability - Building your own PC makes future upgrades much easier.
- Better performance - Carefully selected parts work together seamlessly for better speed.
Choosing Components
The core components you'll need for a custom desktop PC build include:
Component | Considerations |
---|---|
CPU (Processor) | Number of cores, clock speed, socket type, budget |
Motherboard | Socket type, RAM support, connectors, size |
RAM (Memory) | Capacity, speed, latency, expansion room |
GPU (Graphics Card) | Performance level, video outputs, budget |
Storage | HDD, SDD, or both. Capacity and speed. |
Power Supply | Wattage, efficiency rating, modular cables |
Case | Size, expansion bays, cooling options |
Assembly Tips for Beginners
Follow these tips for a smooth PC building experience:
- Use a static wristband when handling components to avoid ESD damage.
- Carefully inspect the CPU socket pins before installing the processor.
- Apply thermal paste to the CPU before attaching the cooler.
- Make all power connections before booting up for the first time.
- Install motherboard standoffs to avoid short circuits.
- Take your time and refer to the manuals if needed.
Building your own desktop PC takes time and research but can be very rewarding. The end result is a high-performance, customized machine tailored specifically for your needs and budget.
What is a Desktop Barebones Kit?
A desktop barebones kit, sometimes called a barebones system or barebones computer, contains many of the core components you need to build a complete desktop computer in a single bundled package.

What's Included
A barebones kit typically includes the following parts:
- Motherboard - Forms the backbone of the system.
- Processor - The CPU or brains of the computer.
- Case - Enclosure that houses all the components.
- Power supply - Provides power to the system.
- Cooling fans - Keeps critical parts from overheating.
Some kits may also include other components like RAM, storage drives, wired network cards, optical drives, and operating systems. The specific contents can vary.
What You Supply
While a barebones kit contains many core PC parts, you'll still need to supply a few additional components to complete the system:
- RAM - Additional memory sticks.
- Storage drive - HDD, SSD, or both.
- Operating system - Such as Windows 10.
- Peripherals - Monitor, keyboard, mouse.
- Optional parts - Graphics card, sound card, WiFi card.
Benefits
Some key benefits of choosing a desktop barebones kit include:
- Cost savings over prebuilt PCs.
- Customization and upgrade options.
- Education about computer components.
- Satisfaction of building your own system.
- Only pay for what you need.
Barebones kits allow you to build a custom desktop PC on a budget while avoiding the complexity of choosing and assembling every single part.
Benefits of Building Your Own Desktop PC
Constructing your own custom desktop PC from individual components offers a number of advantages over buying a pre-built system.
Cost Savings
One of the biggest benefits is cost savings. Prebuilt PCs often have extra costs added on top of just the hardware value, such as:
- Assembly fees
- Operating system installation charges
- Manufacturer premiums
- Shipping
By sourcing parts yourself and assembling the system, every dollar goes directly into the performance and quality of the hardware.
Customized Performance
Prebuilt desktops typically use mass market components aimed at general consumer needs. When you hand pick parts, you can tailor the system to your specific requirements like:
- Processor for heavy workloads like video editing, CAD, programming etc.
- High end graphics card for gaming or design work.
- Maxed out RAM and storage for complex multitasking.
- High wattage power supply for future expansion.
Upgradeability
Since you choose each component, you understand everything about the system's configuration. This makes future upgrades much simpler compared to proprietary prebuilt PCs.
Educational
Building your own system is an educational process that teaches you:
- How to assemble computer components.
- How to install an operating system and drivers.
- How to troubleshoot any issues.
- How each part works and interacts with other components.
This hands-on experience lets you maintain and upgrade the system yourself later on.
Satisfaction
Finally, nothing beats the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment from booting up a customized PC you built entirely yourself.
Choosing the Right Desktop Barebones Kit
With so many options on the market, it's important to consider your needs and budget when selecting a desktop barebones kit.
Size and Form Factor
Consider the available space where you want to use the computer. Full tower kits offer maximum expansion but need more open area. Small form factor Mini-ITX kits are great for confined desks and cubicles.
CPU Socket and Chipset
Make sure the processor socket and chipset match your desired CPU upgrade. Also consider:
- Current generation socket for future compatibility.
- Overclocking support if desired.

RAM Support
Check that the motherboard supports your needed RAM capacity, speed, and type.
- Number of slots for future expansion.
- Supports fastest RAM speeds to utilize.

Storage Options
Look for kits that include:
- M.2 slot for an NVMe SSD.
- SATA ports for 2.5" SSD/HDD.
Graphics card support
Consider kits with:
- PCI-E x16 slot for a dedicated graphics card.
- Multiple PCI-E x1 slots for expansion.
Power Supply Capacity
Higher wattage PSUs allow for:
- Power hungry GPUs.
- Multiple drives and peripherals.
- Overclocking headroom.
Extra Features
Added functionality like:
- USB and USB-C ports.
- LED lighting and windows.
- Liquid cooling support.
Choosing the barebones kit that matches your performance, connectivity, and expansion needs will give you a perfect foundation for a custom desktop.
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Adding Your Own Components to a Barebones PC
One of the major benefits of a desktop barebones kit is the ability to customize it with your own components like the CPU, RAM, and storage based on your specific needs.
Choosing a CPU
The processor is the most crucial component. Considerations when selecting a compatible CPU include:
- CPU socket type - LGA1700, AM4 etc.
- Cores and threads for parallel processing.
- Clock speeds for single core performance.
- Power efficiency and thermal output.
- Budget and intended use case.
Installing RAM
When adding RAM sticks:
- Check motherboard's supported RAM types like DDR4, DDR5.
- Aim for at least 16GB total capacity for modern systems.
- Populate dual channel RAM slots for better performance.
- Consider faster RAM speeds up to the max motherboard speed.
Storage Drives
Mix and match storage drives based on your capacity and speed needs:
- M.2 NVME SSD for OS and applications, up to 2TB capacity.
- 2.5" SATA SSD for games and work files, up to 8TB.
- HDD with up to 10TB+ for media storage and backups.

Other Components
Optional but recommended parts include:
- Dedicated GPU like NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon.
- Aftermarket CPU cooler for overclocking.
- Additional case fans for better airflow.
Choosing the right complementary components for your needs is key to maximizing performance and value from a barebones kit.

How Amazon Prime Benefits Desktop Barebones Buyers
For those who frequently purchase desktop barebones kits and components, an Amazon Prime membership can be extremely valuable.
Free Two-Day Shipping
Amazon Prime offers free two-day shipping on millions of items, including desktop barebones kits. This allows you to get your components much faster compared to standard shipping times.
Quick shipping is extremely convenient when sourcing parts for a new custom PC build. You can get all your chosen barebones kit, CPU, RAM, storage, and more in just a couple days instead of waiting over a week.
Free No-Rush Shipping
If you aren't in a hurry, Prime members can select no-rush shipping during checkout and receive rewards or credits on future Amazon purchases. This is a great way to save some money on accessories, peripherals, or your next barebones kit.
Lightning Deals
Amazon Prime gives you 30 minute early access to limited time Lightning Deals on desktop barebones kits, PC components, and compatible accessories. This lets you grab flash sales before inventory sells out.
Prime-Exclusive Deals
Certain deals and savings offers are exclusively available for Prime members. This includes extra discounts on select barebones kits, combo deals on kits bundled with a CPU or RAM, and more.
Regular desktop barebones shoppers can realize significant savings from the Prime-exclusive promotions.

Amazon Prime Rewards Card
The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature card offers 5% back on all Amazon purchases for Prime members. This can quickly add up when buying multiple high-ticket PC components over time.
The rewards can offset the $139 annual Prime membership fee or even earn you a profit.
Overall, an Amazon Prime subscription can provide tremendous value if you frequently buy desktop barebones kits and related components for custom PC builds.

Build Your Own Computer With Desktop Barebones
Building your own computer with desktop barebones is a great way to save money and customize your PC to your exact specifications. Here are some steps to get started:
- Choose a barebone PC kit from a reputable retailer such as Micro Center, CPU Solutions, AVADirect, Hard Disk Direct UK, Newegg, or Magic Micro Computers.
- Decide on the basic components you need, including your choice of processor, memory, storage, and graphics card.
- Follow the instructions provided with the barebone kit to assemble your computer.
- Install your operating system and any additional software you need.
- Enjoy your new custom-built computer!
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What Components Do I Need To Build A Computer With Desktop Barebones?
To build a computer with desktop barebones, you will need the following components:
Barebones desktop computer systems usually come with a pre-fitted motherboard and power supply, so you will need to choose a compatible CPU, memory, storage, and graphics card to complete your build. You can purchase barebones desktop kits from retailers such as Micro Center, CPU Solutions, AVADirect, Hard Disk Direct UK, Newegg, or Magic Micro Computers. Assembling a barebone computer by hand is usually less expensive than buying a pre-configured computer from a retailer, and may save time and labor compared with building a system from scratch. Peripherals such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor must be acquired separately.
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