Future-proof PCs are usually quite expensive as they’re often just the most expensive components stuffed in a PC case. However, with some research and savvy tech purchases, you’re able to build a PC you won’t need to upgrade for at least five years.
5Get the Latest RAM Generation
DDR5 is the latest RAM generation. The next one, DDR6, is expected to launch to consumers in 2026, while the previous version, DDR4, is slowly phasing out. I remember building my first PC in 2016; DDR3 was still everywhere despite DDR4 being the latest generation. Thankfully, I went with DDR4 RAM even though I could have saved money with DDR3.
Thanks to that key decision, I kept those two sticks ofCorsair Vengeance LPX 2x4GB DDR4 RAMuntil 2022, only adding two more sticks of identical RAM in 2020 when upgrading to 16GB for video editing. DDR5 prices were incredibly high in 2022, as high as $360 for aCorsair Vengeance 2x16GB 5200MHzkit. However, the same kits now cost less than $100.
DDR5 prices will continue to drop, and DDR6 will also take a while to become widely adopted, so DDR5 is the best logical choice if you don’t want to worry about upgrading in the future. DDR5 is fast, and depending on your PC usage demands, 32-64GB of DDR5 will likely be more than enough even after DDR6 is released.
4Buy the Best CPU and GPU From the Previous Generation
The latest generation GPU will always be the most expensive. However, with the latest releases come people who will upgrade and sell their previous generation high-tier graphics cards at a lower price.
I bought a GTX 1080Ti and Ryzen 9 3900x in 2020 for $400 each, just before the silicon shortage caused crazy price hikes. Search for reviews of high-end GPUs and CPUs that focus on value for money on the high end; focusing too much on value will put you in the mid-tier, and that won’t last you as long as a high-tier component. Keep an eye out for used high-end components at great prices, ideally about 70% of their SRP or lower.
For example, going for high-end parts like an Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti and an AMD Ryzen 9 7900x will ensure your GPU and CPU stay powerful enough to handle the latest games and heavy programs until your GPU loses driver support. CPUs don’t use drivers, so they last much longer—especially if you regularlyclean your motherboard and repaste your CPUso they don’t overheat and die.
3Don’t Buy the Best Motherboard
Even though you’re buying the best of the previous generation, that doesn’t mean it needs to go into the best motherboard to support it.
However, you shouldn’t go for the lowest tier, like the AMD A-series or the Intel H-series. Luckily enough, the mid-tier motherboard series for Intel and AMD are similar, like theAMD AM5 B650for AMD andIntel LGA 1700 B760. Not all B-series motherboards are the same, though and you should look for these two key features.
Plenty of VRMs With Heatsinks
Voltage regulator modules (VRMs) provide your CPU and other components with clean, stable power. This is a big task, and they can get quite hot, so you’ll want ones with heatsinks over them to help cool them down.
If your motherboard doesn’t have high-quality VRMs and doesn’t have enough of them, your power-hungry CPU will not get the power it needs. There’s no hard rule on the exact number, but from experience, aim for at least 10 VRMs. You can count them by looking for chokers, the big blocks surrounding the CPU.
What Is a VRM on a Motherboard, and Why Is It Important?
Power regulation is critical when it comes to protecting your motherboard and its components.
For example, theIntel Core i9 13900Khas a TDP of 253W, an incredible amount of power for a CPU. To handle this high-power draw, you’d want to pair it with anMSI B760 Gamingwith lots of VRMs and big heatsinks.
Have at Least Four RAM Slots
When getting RAM, try to buy just two sticks in your desired amount of RAM. Two sticks use dual-channel, and using all four doesn’t add speed.
Two RAM sticks give you the flexibility to add more in the future without sacrificing performance in the present.A 4x8GB configuration doesn’t perform faster than 2x16GB, assuming the same clock speed, so getting 2x16GB like thisCrucial 2x16GBkit is better. You’ll have two empty slots to add to in the future.
2Get a Reputable Power Supply
Despite adding no performance to your PC, the power supply or PSU is crucial to a proper PC build.
A low-quality PSU can fail and take your other components along with it, or at worst, cause a fire. In 2017, the first thing I upgraded on my PC was the PSU. I went from a cheap 500W 80 PLUS Bronze to a SilverStone 600W 80 PLUS Silver. I’ve carried it over to every PC I’ve had. It’s the only remnant of my original PC, though I’d advise against keeping a PSU for longer than five years. You may also check outPSUCircuit; this channel tests a lot of PSUs for their reliability, efficiency, stability, and even large power spikes.
To properly choose a PSU, I suggest using thePC Power Supply Calculatorand aiming for the higher end of the suggestion. Always check reviews and buy from a reputable brand with a good warranty.
The Cables in Your PC’s Power Supply, Explained
The power supply is one of the most confusing parts of building a PC. But once you understand what each cable does, it’s a piece of cake.
1Save Money by Buying Used Parts
Many are afraid of buying used parts because of the risk involved. However, understanding the risks can make buying second-hand PC hardware a great option. For example, trybuying second-hand PC parts from a trusted vendorwith guarantees and a good return policy. The best second-hand outlets will test and ensure the hardware is up to scratch before sending it, so you’re able to trust what you’re buying.
PC components mostly stay in a case sitting on a desk, computing its days away. Unless it’s a GPU used for crypto mining, which isn’t as common nowadays anyway, PC components don’t get that stressed for it to break all of a sudden. If you’re only buying the previous generation’s hardware, it won’t be so old that it’s ridden with dust and prone to overheating.
If you’re worried about longevity, you can alwaysrepaste your GPUand get a good cooler for your CPU to keep your temperatures at bay. Join Facebook groups or keep an eye out for deals on Facebook Marketplace and eBay, and you’ll eventually come across great PC parts for great prices.
