PC Resource Center
Considering the high price of PCs and the complicated configuration process, you may wonder why everyone hasn't abandoned the PC for the console systems yet. Game developers love the consoles because the hardware always stays the same, but superstar tech developers such as Epic, id, and Crytek all make games on the PC because that's where you find the most powerful graphics technology. People remain loyal to the PC platform because it's on the cutting edge of gaming.
If you're in the market for a gaming PC, the most important hardware components to consider are the video card, the processor, and the system memory. The video card plays the biggest role in how your games look and how well they run. You'll also need a decent processor, and be sure to get at least 2GB of RAM or more for optimal performance. Newer systems generally come with anywhere between 2GB and 4GB of RAM by default.
Yes, the PC is more expensive than a game console, and configuring a machine requires an alarming amount of homework. At the same time, if you're going to get a PC for Web browsing, word processing, and basic multimedia functionality, then you might as well get one that can play games, too.
PC Video Cards
Find out what you need to know about video cards before buying a new PC or upgrading an existing system.
PC Processors
You need a good processor to go alongside that video card. Find out about current processor trends and how they affect game performance.
PC Laptops
You won't be able to find a laptop that can outperform a fully loaded desktop, but you'll find plenty that can compete with a midrange system and offer a lot more versatility.
PC Gaming FAQ
PC gaming can be confusing for beginners. Do you need Windows Vista? Can I play games on a Mac? Find out in our FAQ.
More PC Hardware Features
-
COD MW2 Hardware Performance Guide
Modern Warfare 2 got you bogged down? Find out what you need to upgrade to make it run right.
Read the story » -
Fallout 3 Hardware Performance Guide
Fallout 3's radioactive wastelands look fantastic, but they do sap your computer's performance. Find out what you need to do to get the game to look and run great.
Read the story » -
ATI Radeon HD 5970 Performance Preview
AMD has a new flagship in town: the Radeon HD 5970. It's fast, it's long, and it's about as understated as a rocket-powered Ferrari with lasers for headlights.
Read the story » -
Razer Mamba vs. Microsoft Sidewinder X8
Gaming mice come in many flavors, but wireless is rarely one of them. Most wireless mice tend to have a considerable amount of lag and really aren't built to satisfy gamers in terms of buttons, shape, or performance. Enter the Sidewinder X8 from Microsoft and the Mamba from Razer.
Read the story » -
Intel Core i7 Hands-On Preview
We get our hands on Intel's Core i7 CPU, their latest lineup of quad-core processors.
Read the story »