How to Build a Really Fast Desktop Computer in 2024: A Complete Guide
Ever wonder what makes a computer fast? In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to build the fastest desktop computer for your budget, from choosing the ideal case design to installing and testing components.
What makes a PC fast?
Several key components contribute to a computer’s speed and performance:
- A powerful multi-core processor with high clock speeds
- Ample RAM (16GB or more)
- Fast storage like an SSD
- A dedicated graphics card for demanding visual tasks
- Adequate cooling to prevent thermal throttling
- A motherboard that can support high-performance components
- Sufficient power supply to run all components
By carefully selecting and assembling these components, you can create a desktop PC that delivers blazing fast performance for your needs.
Why build your own fast computer?
There are two main reasons someone might want to build their own computer rather than buying a pre-built system:
- Cost savings: By purchasing individual components and assembling them yourself, you can often build a more powerful PC for less money than buying a comparable pre-built system.
- Customization: Building your own PC gives you complete control over every component, allowing you to tailor the system precisely to your needs and preferences.
Additionally, the process of building a PC can be educational and rewarding for tech enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of computer hardware.
Is building a PC difficult?
For many people, the idea of building a computer from scratch may seem daunting. However, assembling a PC is often easier than you might expect. With some research, patience, and careful following of instructions, even first-time builders can successfully put together a high-performance desktop computer.
That said, if you’re uncomfortable working with computer components or prefer a hassle-free solution, there are plenty of excellent pre-built options available as well. Let’s look at some key components you’ll need to consider for a fast desktop build:
Essential components for a fast desktop computer
1. PC Case
Choose a case that offers good airflow, cable management features, and enough space to comfortably fit all your components. Look for cases with multiple fan mounts and support for liquid cooling if you plan on overclocking.
2. Motherboard
The motherboard is the foundation of your build. Select one that’s compatible with your chosen processor and has the features you need, such as adequate RAM slots, M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs, and sufficient PCIe lanes for expansion cards.
3. Processor (CPU)
For maximum speed, look for a multi-core processor with high clock speeds (4.0 GHz or higher). Current high-performance options include Intel’s 13th gen Core processors or AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series.
4. RAM
Aim for at least 16GB of fast DDR4 or DDR5 RAM. If you’re doing heavy multitasking, video editing, or running virtual machines, consider 32GB or more.
5. Storage
For the fastest possible storage, opt for an NVMe SSD. These offer much higher read/write speeds compared to SATA SSDs or traditional hard drives. Consider pairing a smaller NVMe drive for your OS and programs with a larger HDD for file storage.
6. Graphics Card
If you’re gaming or doing GPU-accelerated tasks like video editing or 3D rendering, a powerful dedicated graphics card is essential. Look at options from NVIDIA’s RTX 4000 series or AMD’s Radeon RX 7000 series for top performance.
7. Cooling System
Proper cooling is crucial for maintaining peak performance. At minimum, ensure your case has good airflow with intake and exhaust fans. For high-performance builds, consider an all-in-one liquid cooler for your CPU.
8. Power Supply
Choose a high-quality power supply with enough wattage to comfortably run all your components, plus some headroom for future upgrades. Look for 80+ Gold certified PSUs or better for maximum efficiency.
HP Product Recommendations for Fast Desktops
While building your own PC offers maximum customization, HP also offers some excellent pre-built options for those seeking high performance without the assembly process:
HP OMEN 45L Gaming Desktop GT22-1455xt
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The OMEN 45L is a powerhouse gaming desktop that delivers blistering performance for the most demanding games and applications. With its high-end components and innovative Cryo Chamber cooling, it’s an excellent choice for gamers and content creators alike.
- Windows 11 Home
- 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i9 processor
- NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4090 (24 GB GDDR6X dedicated)
- 16 GB memory; 1 TB HDD storage; 1 TB SSD storage
The OMEN 45L’s combination of a top-tier Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA RTX 4090 graphics card delivers unparalleled gaming performance and blazing-fast speeds for tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. The dual storage solution pairs a speedy 1TB SSD for quick boot and load times with a capacious 1TB HDD for additional file storage.
HP Z8 Fury G5 Tower Workstation
For professionals who need the ultimate in desktop performance, the HP Z8 Fury G5 Tower Workstation is a top-tier choice. This powerhouse is designed to handle the most demanding computational tasks with ease.
- Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
- Intel® Xeon® Processor
- 16 GB ECC memory; 512 GB M.2 storage
- NVIDIA® T400 Graphics (4 GB GDDR6)
The Z8 Fury G5 is built for extreme performance in fields like scientific computing, machine learning, and complex 3D modeling. Its Intel Xeon processor offers exceptional multi-threaded performance, while ECC memory ensures data integrity for critical workloads. The customizable nature of this workstation allows you to configure it precisely for your professional needs.
How to install components and assemble your fast desktop
While the specifics can vary depending on your chosen components, here’s a general outline of the assembly process:
- Prepare your workspace and gather all necessary tools (typically just a Phillips head screwdriver).
- Install the CPU into the motherboard socket, being extremely careful not to bend any pins.
- Attach the CPU cooler, applying thermal paste if necessary.
- Install the RAM modules into the appropriate slots on the motherboard.
- Mount the motherboard in the case, securing it with screws.
- Install the power supply unit in the case.
- Connect the necessary power cables to the motherboard and other components.
- Install your storage drives (SSD and/or HDD) in the appropriate bays or slots.
- If using a dedicated graphics card, install it in the appropriate PCIe slot.
- Connect any remaining cables, including front panel connectors, USB headers, and fan connectors.
- Double-check all connections, then close up the case.
For more detailed guidance on PC assembly, check out our comprehensive guide on how to build a gaming computer.
Testing your newly built fast computer
Once you’ve assembled your PC and installed your operating system, it’s a good idea to run some tests to ensure everything is working correctly and performing as expected. Here are some ways to check your computer’s speed and performance:
- Use built-in Windows tools like Task Manager to monitor CPU, RAM, and disk usage.
- Run benchmark software like Cinebench for CPU performance or 3DMark for graphics performance.
- Use CrystalDiskMark to test your storage drive speeds.
- Monitor temperatures using software like HWMonitor to ensure your cooling is adequate.
If you’re looking to further optimize your system’s performance, consider exploring our tips on how to improve computer performance.
Remember, building a fast desktop computer is about balancing your performance needs with your budget. Whether you choose to build your own or opt for a pre-built system like the HP OMEN 45L or Z8 Fury G5, the key is selecting components that work well together to deliver the speed and performance you require.
For those interested in exploring HP’s range of high-performance pre-built desktops, be sure to check out our gaming desktops and workstations collections.
Building your own fast desktop computer can be a rewarding experience that results in a powerful, personalized system tailored to your exact needs. With careful planning and component selection, you can create a PC that rivals or even exceeds the performance of many pre-built options on the market.
