Computer Repair

Replacing Your Aging Desktop Computer

February 20, 2024

I’ve had my desktop computer for over 5 years now and it’s really starting to show its age. The boot up time takes forever, simple tasks make the fans spin like crazy, and I can’t run any of the newer programs and games. I think it’s time for an upgrade. Here’s everything you need to know about replacing your aging desktop computer.

Should You Upgrade or Buy New?

The first decision is whether you want to try upgrading your current computer or buy a brand new one.

Upgrading Your Current Computer

Upgrading can save you money compared to buying new. Some things to consider:

Processor – You may be able to upgrade your CPU for better performance. Make sure your motherboard supports newer processors.
RAM – Adding more RAM can help with multitasking and running demanding programs. Check how many RAM slots you have available.
Graphics Card – Upgrading to a newer GPU can drastically improve gaming performance. Make sure your power supply can handle it.
Storage – Adding an SSD or larger hard drive can speed up boot times and storage. Check you have spare SATA ports and bays.

Upgrading can provide a boost, but it’s limited by your existing motherboard and components. It won’t match a brand new system.

Buying New

A new desktop gives you the latest technologies and will last longer before needing an upgrade.

You can choose the exact specs you want.
New warranties protect from early component failures.
Futureproof yourself for newer software and games.
Higher resale value down the road.

The downside is the cost. But you may save money in the long run by not constantly upgrading components.

Choosing Desktop Computer Components

If you decide to buy new, choosing the right components is key. Here are the main things to look for:

Processor (CPU)

The CPU handles most of the computational tasks on your computer. Some tips:

Cores – More cores allow for better multitasking and performance. 4-core is minimum, 6 or 8-core is best for demanding tasks.
Clock speed – Higher GHz generally means faster processing, but speed isn’t everything. Look at benchmarks for real-world performance comparisons between processors.
AMD or Intel – Both make excellent CPUs. AMD Ryzen CPUs currently offer better value for money. Intel is better for gaming.

For most users, a mid-range 6-core AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 will give the best performance for the cost.

RAM

Having more RAM enables your computer to juggle more tasks at once.

8GB – The minimum I’d recommend today for good system performance.
16GB – The best for most users, allows comfortable multitasking and gaming.
32GB – Ideal for serious content creation, video editing, 3D modelling etc.

Make sure to get at least DDR4 3000MHz or faster RAM sticks.

Graphics Card

The graphics card handles rendering your display and graphics processing. It’s vital for gaming.

Entry-level – Fine for web browsing and office work. Not suitable for gaming. E.g. Nvidia GT 1030.
Mid-range – Can run modern games at medium settings. Good value. E.g. Nvidia RTX 3060.
High-end – Max out game settings and enable ray tracing. Expensive but powerful. E.g. Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti.

Also check how much VRAM (graphics memory) the card has, 4GB or higher is recommended for gaming.

Storage

This includes your hard drive(s) and solid state drives (SSDs).

Get a small SSD (250GB – 500GB) for your operating system and most used programs. This dramatically speeds up boot times.
Larger hard drives (1TB – 4TB) offer ample storage for files and games.
For professional media editing, get a larger NVMe SSD. NVMe drives are blazingly fast.

I’d recommend at least a 500GB SSD + 2TB Hard Drive combo for most home builds.

Other Components to Consider

Here are some other important parts for a desktop computer build:

Power supply – 550-650W is adequate for most single GPU systems. Get a 80+ Bronze or Gold certified PSU from trusted brands only.
Case – Look for good airflow from front intakes and rear exhausts. Mid towers offer ample room.
Motherboard – Get one compatible with your CPU. Consider number of USB ports, fan headers and M.2 slots needed.
CPU cooler – The stock cooler is fine if not overclocking. Aftermarket ones keep temps lower and are quieter.
Case fans – Add more high CFM fans for positive pressure airflow and lower temps.

For component compatibility, I recommend using PCPartPicker. Their system builder makes it easy.

Prebuilt vs Custom Built Desktops

You can either buy a pre-built desktop from a brand like Dell, HP, etc. Or you can hand pick components and build your own custom PC.

Custom building allows enthusiasts to maximize performance by tailoring each component to their needs. But it does require research and patience.

Prebuiltstrade off some customizability for the convenience of an out of box working system. Shop around for deals and specs that meet your needs.

Either can work well if you understand the tradeoffs. I tend to prefer custom building my own but it’s a personal preference.

Installation and Cable Management

Once you have all your components, it’s time for installation. Some tips:

Carefully install the CPU, RAM, SSD and hard drives based on motherboard manual instructions. Be gentle.
Maintain tidy cable management for airflow by bundling and routing cables out of the way.
Connect front panel connectors like power button and USB ports to the motherboard header pins.
Install the power supply, graphics card, fans and CPU cooler.
Do external cable management by neatly organizing rear motherboard panel connectors.

Take your time and don’t force anything. Look up a PC build guide if you need step-by-step instructions.

Setting Up Your New Computer

With all the hardware installed, the last step is software setup:

Install your preferred Windows, Linux or other OS. Have your license key ready.
Update Windows and enable automatic updates to stay secure.
Install essential software like web browser, office suite, media player, etc.
Update graphics drivers, motherboard utilities, and other hardware drivers.
Tweak BIOS settings if needed to enable XMP for RAM speed or set boot order.
Run benchmarks to check temperatures, clock speeds and performance.
Install RGB lighting control software and calibrate colors to your liking.

After finalizing software configuration, your shiny new desktop is ready to use! No more waiting around for your aging machine. Enjoy the speed.

With the right research and choices, building a new modern desktop computer can breathe years of life back into your computing experience. Take your time and have fun with it!