How to Build a PC from Scratch: Complete 2025 Beginner’s Guide

Are you considering following the DIY route? Building a PC from scratch in 2025 is one of the greatest tech moves you could ever make to ensure more control over your system's performance. 

So, whether it is your first time or you are actually tired of the overly expensive prebuilt machines, building your computer setup provides satisfaction and maintains savings.

Read on to discover the entire procedure from choosing your PC parts to pressing the power button for the first time.

Planning: Building a PC from Scratch Guide

Start the process by planning out the budget and examining the usage of the system, whether it is for building a gaming computer from scratch, content creation, or daily use. This, in turn, will assist you in prioritizing what is vital: do you need a high-tier GPU for 1440p gaming or a quicker SSD for workflows?

Moreover, it is important to select compatible PC building components. Utilize a PC parts compatibility checker to prevent having mismatched components. 

In this regard, Matrix offers motherboards like the H61 NVMe, H81 NVMe, and H110 DDR4, ideal for budget-friendly Intel builds using older generation CPUs.

Selecting Right Tools: PC Parts Compatibility Check

You do not need a fully equipped workshop to build a PC, just a clean and stable surface, a cool pair of hands, and a few basic tools. 

Have the necessary tools needed, a head screwdriver, thermal paste (if it's not pre-applied on the CPU cooler), and zip ties or straps for good cable management on hand before building your PC from scratch. 

Use an anti-static wrist strap to avoid accidental electrostatic discharge that may result in sensitive component damage. 

Motherboard Assembly & How to Assemble a Desktop PC

Firstly, if you are planning to assemble your desktop PC, have your motherboard out of the case. Plug in the CPU, add thermal paste and your cooler, and slot in RAM. And install your storage, either an M.2 NVMe SSD or SATA drive for upgrades.

Secondly, insert the motherboard into the case, matching it up against standoffs and the I/O shield. Ultimately, install your power supply (ensure it is adequate for the wattage requirement of your system), and connect up the important cables.

Graphics Card Installation & Cable Management

Next you need to install the graphics card. Insert it carefully into the motherboard PCIe x16 slot and fix it with screws. Connect the power supply unit and its necessary PCIe cables if more power is needed. Do not forget to connect the front panel connectors (i.e., power button, reset switch, USB ports, and audio jack) as well.

With everything in place, organize all the cables. Better cable management improves airflow and the system aesthetics and ease of use. Finally, you are now one step closer to completing your DIY PC setup.

Boot Up & Test your Build Custom PC

Connect your mouse, keyboard, and monitor. Power the PC, turn on your PSU, and click the power button. Now, your PC will boot and head into the BIOS.

With this, you can install your OS using USB bootable. In this line, most users use Windows 11. After installing, get your GPU and motherboard drivers downloaded and run system updates. Using benchmarking tools to measure performance and stability

Note: Benchmarking tools such as Cinebench, 3DMark, UserBenchmark, or AIDA64 can help to measure system performance and stability after setup. These tools are used to detect bottlenecks and validate that the components work efficiently.

Final Overview: Build your own PC

In order to build your own PC, you need to follow the above instructions with patience. By following the procedure step by step, you will assemble parts and create a system optimized to your specific needs and preferences.

If your aim is to build custom PC for gaming, productivity, or both, the guide provides valuable insights regarding how the technology works. 

Thus, if you are to make a computer from scratch, this approach offers unmatched control over performance, design, and functionality.

 

Build your custom PC today with Matrix components and optimize performance, speed, and reliability for gaming and productivity!

 

PC Building – FAQs

1) What do I need to build a PC from scratch?

To build a PC from scratch, you'll need core components like a CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage (SSD/HDD), GPU (optional for some builds), power supply, case, and cooling system. You’ll also need basic tools like a screwdriver, thermal paste (if needed), and an anti-static wrist strap.

2) Is it cheaper to build your own PC?

Yes, building your own PC can be more cost-effective than buying a prebuilt one. It allows you to choose parts based on your budget and needs, avoiding unnecessary extras and markup prices added by retailers.

3) How do I check PC parts compatibility?

You can use online PC parts compatibility check tools like PCPartPicker. These tools help ensure that all your selected components, CPU, motherboard, RAM, GPU, etc., are compatible with each other.

4) Can a beginner build a gaming PC from scratch?

Absolutely! With a proper step-by-step guide, beginners can build a gaming PC from scratch. Just plan your budget, choose compatible components, and follow assembly instructions carefully.

5) Do I need any software after building a PC?

Yes. After assembling your PC, you’ll need to install an operating system (like Windows 11), GPU drivers, motherboard drivers, and run system updates. Optional benchmarking tools like Cinebench or 3DMark help test your system's performance.