First PC build checklist: what to buy first and what to check (2026)
What is the first thing I should buy when building a PC?
Nothing yet. First decide your budget and what you will use the PC for: which games, at what resolution and at what target frame rate. Then pick the CPU and graphics card, because they set the platform (the socket and RAM type) and the size of the power supply. Buy everything else to fit them. Do not buy parts one at a time before the full list has been checked, or you may end up with a part that does not fit the rest.
Set a budget and a target
Start with three decisions: how much you can spend, which games you want to play, and the resolution and frame rate you are aiming for. A 1080p screen at 60 frames per second asks much less of a PC than 1440p at 144. Write all three down, because every later choice depends on them.
Leave a small buffer in the budget for things that are easy to forget, such as an operating system licence, cables and a monitor if you do not have one.
Pick the CPU and GPU first
The CPU and graphics card come first because they decide most of what follows. The CPU sets the socket, which sets the motherboard and usually the RAM type. The graphics card sets the minimum power supply size and how large a case you need.
For games, the graphics card usually has the biggest effect on frame rates, so it often takes the largest share of the budget. Pick a CPU that does not hold it back, and check the benchmarks for the games you actually play.
Motherboard to match the socket
The motherboard must have the same socket as the CPU. Also check the board's size (ATX, Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX), the number of M.2 slots and the RAM type it supports. Some boards need a BIOS update before they recognise a newer CPU, so check the CPU support list on the board maker's website. The PC part compatibility guide covers each of these checks in detail.
RAM: amount and type
RAM has to be the type the board supports, such as DDR5 or DDR4. DDR4 and DDR5 are not interchangeable, so a DDR4 kit will not fit a DDR5 board.
As common guidance, 16 GB is a typical baseline for gaming and 32 GB gives more room if you multitask heavily, for example by streaming or keeping many apps open while you play. Buy a matching kit of two sticks so the memory can run in dual channel.
Storage
Use an NVMe SSD for the operating system and your main games. It loads far faster than a hard drive. Pick a size that fits your game library, since modern games are large, and check that the board has a free M.2 slot that supports NVMe.
Power supply
Choose a power supply with enough wattage for the whole system, with headroom rather than running near its limit. Start from the graphics card maker's recommended PSU wattage. Pick a reputable model, because the PSU feeds every other part. Also check that it has the power cables your graphics card needs.
Case and cooler
The case must fit your motherboard size, the length of the graphics card and the height of the CPU cooler. Good airflow matters too, and it is worth planning for in the UAE heat.
Some CPUs come with a cooler in the box and some do not, so check the box contents of the CPU you chose. If you buy a separate cooler, confirm it supports your socket and fits under the case's side panel.
Operating system licence
A new PC needs an operating system, and most gamers use Windows. Add the licence to your list, since it is a part of the cost that is easy to forget. You will usually install it from a USB drive made on another computer.
Tools and prep
You need little to build a PC, but have it ready before you start.
- A Phillips screwdriver, usually a magnetic one, is the main tool.
- A clear, well lit table with space to lay out the parts and a small bowl for screws.
- Anti-static practice: touch a bare metal part of the case now and then to discharge static, and hold boards and cards by their edges.
- The manuals for the motherboard and case, since they show where each cable goes.
Assembly order
At a high level, the build goes in this order. The manuals show the exact steps for your parts.
- Install the CPU and RAM on the motherboard while it is outside the case.
- Fit the CPU cooler and any M.2 SSD, then mount the motherboard in the case.
- Install the power supply and connect the motherboard, CPU and drive cables.
- Fit the graphics card and connect its power cables.
- Tidy the cables, close up the case and connect the monitor to the graphics card, not the motherboard.
For a fuller walk through, including budgets and part order, see the guide to building a gaming PC in the UAE.
First boot checks
The first time you power on, do these checks before you install games.
- Enter the BIOSRestart and press the key shown on screen at startup, often Delete or F2. Check the board's manual for yours.
- Confirm detectionThe BIOS should show the full amount of RAM, your CPU and your drives. If something is missing, power off and reseat it.
- Enable XMP or EXPORAM often runs at a slower default speed until you turn on its rated profile. Intel boards call it XMP and AMD boards usually call it EXPO.
- Update the BIOS if neededA new CPU may need a newer BIOS than the one on the board. Follow the board maker's instructions, and do not switch the PC off during an update.
- Install driversAfter Windows is installed, add the chipset driver from the motherboard or CPU maker, then the graphics driver from the GPU maker.
Before you pay
This is the last pass before you spend money. Tick off each item.
- Budget, resolution and target frame rate are written down.
- The CPU socket matches the motherboard.
- The RAM type matches the motherboard.
- The GPU and cooler fit the case.
- The PSU has enough wattage and the right connectors, with headroom.
- An operating system licence is on the list.
- The total price includes 5% VAT.
- Warranty terms and seller details are checked for each part, and receipts are kept.
Next step
GG PC is the tool being built to make these checks easier for UAE gamers. It has not launched yet, and you can join the GG PC waitlist for early access.