The Best PC Setup for Gaming in 2023

In the world of gaming, having the best gaming PC setup possible is crucial to achieving the ultimate gaming experience. With technological advancements being made every year, it is essential to keep up with the latest hardware to stay ahead of the game. A high-performance PC can make all the difference in gaming, allowing for smoother gameplay, faster load times, and better graphics.

The benefits of using a high-performance PC for gaming are numerous. Firstly, it allows for a more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience, as the graphics are of higher quality and the game runs more smoothly. Additionally, a high-performance PC can run multiple applications and programs simultaneously, allowing gamers to stream, record, and edit their gameplay without any lag or delay.

Choosing the right components for a gaming PC can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, it can be a breeze.

At Vibox, we understand the importance of having a top-of-the-line gaming PC, which is why we have been an industry leader since 2009. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best PC setup for gaming, discuss the best operating systems for gaming, and provide tips on how to optimize performance and enhance your gaming experience.

When it comes to building an ideal gaming PC, the components that make up the system play a crucial role in delivering the best possible performance. In this section, we will discuss each component in detail, highlighting their functions, features, and specifications, along with the top options available in the market in 2023.

The CPU is the brain of the PC, responsible for executing instructions and calculations required for running games and other applications. The ideal gaming CPU should have high clock speeds, multiple cores, and support for hyper-threading.

The best CPUs for gaming are:

• AMD 7800X3D: It has a processor from AMD's Ryzen series with 8 cores and 16 threads, a base clock speed of 4.2GHz, and a boost clock speed of 5.0GHz.

• Intel Core i5-12400:  It is a mid-range processor from Intel's Alder Lake series with 6 cores and 12 threads, a base clock speed of 2.5GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.4GHz.

• Intel Core i9-13900K:  A high-end processor from Intel's Alder Lake series with 16 cores and 32 threads, a base clock speed of 3.0GHz, and a boost clock speed of 5.8GHz.

The GPU is responsible for rendering images and videos on the PC, making it a critical component for gaming. The ideal gaming GPU should have high clock speeds, a large amount of VRAM, and support for the latest DirectX and OpenGL APIs.

Some of the best GPUs in 2023 are:

• Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090: This a top-of-the-line graphics card from Nvidia's Ampere series with 10,496 CUDA cores, 328 Tensor cores, 82 RT cores, and 24GB of GDDR6X memory. It is best suited for demanding applications such as 3D rendering, scientific simulations, and high-end gaming at 4K or even 8K resolutions.

• Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 Ti: This graphics card from Nvidia's Ampere series with 4,864 CUDA cores, 152 Tensor cores, 38 RT cores, and 8GB of GDDR6 memory. It is best suited for high-end gaming at 1440p or even 4K resolutions, as well as for content creation such as video editing and streaming.

RAM is responsible for temporarily storing data and instructions for the CPU to access quickly. A high-performance RAM is critical for gaming, as it can handle the large amounts of data required by modern games.

Some of the best RAM for streaming are:

• Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB

• Corsair Vengeance

• G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB Series

All of which are 32GB (2x16GB) DDR5 memory kits suitable for gaming setups. The Dominator Platinum RGB runs at 5200MHz, Vengeance at 6000MHz, and Trident Z5 RGB at 6400MHz, making the latter the fastest. However, all three kits come with RGB lighting, making them aesthetically pleasing. The Dominator Platinum RGB and Trident Z5 RGB Series are also equipped with heat spreaders to keep the memory cool.

Storage is responsible for storing data, applications, and operating systems. An SSD (Solid State Drive) is the preferred storage option for gaming, as it can provide faster load times and boot times compared to traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives).
 

SSDs for optimal gaming performance are:

• Samsung 970 EVO Plus

• Western Digital Black SN750.

Both are NVMe M.2 SSDs with a capacity of up to 2TB and offer high read/write speeds, with the Samsung 970 EVO Plus having speeds of up to 7450/6900 MB/s and the Western Digital Black SN750 offering speeds of up to 2000/1950 MB/s. The Samsung 970 EVO Plus provides high performance and reliability for demanding applications, while the Western Digital Black SN750 comes with a heatsink to prevent overheating and offers excellent performance and endurance for gaming and other workloads.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

The PSU is responsible for converting AC power from the wall socket into DC power that the computer can use. A high-quality PSU is essential for gaming, as it can ensure stable and consistent power delivery to the components.

For the best PC setup for gaming in 2023 the Corsair HX1000i and Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W Gold power supplies are the best. The Corsair HX1000i is a high-performance PSU that offers excellent efficiency and modularity. The Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650W Gold PSU is a reliable power supply unit suitable for gaming setups. It offers a high-efficiency rating of Gold and is equipped with a quiet fan for cooling.

Cooling System

The cooling system is an essential component in any gaming PC setup. It ensures that the internal components of the PC stay cool and prevent overheating, which can lead to hardware failure or reduced performance. There are two main types of cooling systems: air and liquid.

Air cooling systems use fans to draw cool air into the PC case and expel hot air out. The CPU and GPU typically have their own dedicated fans, while case fans help with overall airflow.

The best air-cooling systems have high static pressure, low noise levels, and are easy to install. Liquid cooling systems use a pump to circulate liquid coolant through a radiator that dissipates heat from the liquid. This type of cooling system is more efficient than air cooling, but also more complex and expensive. The best liquid cooling systems have high flow rates, low noise levels, and are reliable.

For the best PC setup for gaming good cooling system is key here are some of our favourites:

• Cooler Master's Hyper 212 Evo V2:  This a budget-friendly air cooler with four heat pipes and a 120mm fan, suitable for moderate overclocking and quiet operation.

• Deepcool Assassin III: This a high-performance air cooler with seven heat pipes and two 140mm fans, suitable for extreme overclocking and demanding workloads. It also comes with RGB lighting and a large heatsink. 

Motherboard

The motherboard is the backbone of the gaming PC setup, connecting all the components together and providing power and data transfer. It also determines the maximum performance of the PC by supporting specific CPU and GPU models, memory types and speeds, and storage interfaces.

Some of the best Motherboards for PC gaming include:

• ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero; Supports DDR5 RAM up to 128GB at 6400 MT/s and has 2 PCIe 5.0 x16 slots and 1 PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4 speeds only) slot. It has 3 M.2 slots and features Intel 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet and WiFi 6E for networking.

• Gigabyte B660 Gaming X DDR4: It has DDR4 RAM up to 128GB at 4400 MT/s and has 1 PCIe 5.0 x16, 1 PCIe 4.0 x16, and 1 PCIe 3.0 x16 slot. It also has 3 M.2 slots and features Realtek 2.5 Gigabit LAN for networking. 

Peripherals (keyboard, mouse, headset, etc.)

Peripherals are the external devices that you use to interact with your gaming PC, such as the keyboard, mouse, headset, and monitor. They can greatly affect your gaming experience by providing responsive and accurate input, high-quality audio, and immersive visuals.

Two of the best peripherals for gaming PCs are:

Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is a versatile and feature-packed controller suitable for gaming on both Xbox and PC platforms. It offers various connectivity options, including USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless, with a battery life of up to 40 hours. It also features four paddles, two D-Pads, and remappable buttons for customization. 

Glorious Model O 2 is a lightweight gaming mouse suitable for FPS, MOBA and other games. It weighs only 68g and offers multiple connectivity options, including USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless.

When it comes to selecting the right operating system for gaming, Windows is the best option for several reasons. First and foremost, Windows is the most widely used operating system, meaning it has the largest user base and thus the most support from game developers. This translates into a wider selection of games available for Windows compared to other operating systems.

In addition, Windows also provides the best support for gaming peripherals such as gaming mice, keyboards, and controllers. Many gaming peripherals are designed specifically for use with Windows, meaning they may not work as well on other operating systems. Another advantage of Windows for gaming is the availability of DirectX, a collection of APIs used by game developers to create high-quality graphics and audio in games. DirectX is developed by Microsoft, the creators of Windows, and is optimized for use with the operating system.

While Linux and macOS also have their advantages, such as being more secure and stable than Windows, they are not as well supported for gaming. Linux has a smaller user base and fewer game developers creating games for it, while macOS is only compatible with a limited selection of games.

Overall, if you want the widest selection of games and the best support for gaming peripherals, Windows is the way to go. It has been the dominant operating system for gaming for many years, and its continued popularity and support from game developers show no signs of slowing down.

Gaming Monitors

A Gaming monitor is an essential part of any gaming setup as they can significantly enhance the overall gaming experience. When selecting a gaming monitor, there are several factors to consider ensuring you get the best possible performance and visuals. In this section, we will discuss the key aspects of gaming monitors, including display resolution and refresh rate, response time and input lag, panel type, and adaptive sync technologies.

Display Resolution and Refresh Rate

These are essential aspects to consider when choosing a gaming monitor. Display resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen, and a higher resolution translates to better image quality. The most common display resolutions for gaming monitors are 1080p, 1440p, and 4K. Additionally, refresh rate refers to the number of times the monitor updates the image on the screen per second, and a higher refresh rate means smoother and more fluid visuals. The ideal refresh rate for gaming is 144Hz or higher.

Response Time and Input Lag

Response time and input lag are critical factors when selecting a gaming monitor. Response time refers to the time it takes for a pixel to change colour, and a lower response time translates to less motion blur and ghosting. Input lag refers to the delay between pressing a button on the keyboard or controller and seeing the action on the screen, and a lower input lag means more responsive gameplay. Ideally, a gaming monitor should have a response time of 1 Ms or less and an input lag of less than 10 Ms.

Panel Type (TN, IPS, VA)

Panel type is another critical aspect to consider when selecting a gaming monitor. There are three main types of panels: TN, IPS, and VA. TN panels have the fastest response times and the highest refresh rates, making them ideal for competitive gaming. IPS panels have better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, making them ideal for single-player games with stunning visuals. VA panels have the highest contrast ratios, making them ideal for games with dark environments.

Adaptive Sync Technologies (G-Sync, FreeSync)

Adaptive sync technologies, such as G-Sync and FreeSync, are designed to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the monitor's refresh rate with the graphics card's output. G-Sync is exclusive to Nvidia graphics cards, while FreeSync is compatible with both Nvidia and AMD graphics cards. Adaptive sync technologies can significantly enhance the overall gaming experience, and it is recommended to have a gaming monitor with either G-Sync or FreeSync.

Gaming Accessories

Gaming accessories play a significant role in enhancing the overall gaming experience. In this section, we will discuss the best gaming accessories for 2023.

Gaming Keyboards

A good gaming keyboard should offer tactile feedback, anti-ghosting, and customization options. The ASUS ROG Azoth is a high-end wireless gaming keyboard suitable for competitive gaming and content creation. It features responsive optical-mechanical switches, a customizable OLED display, and per-key RGB lighting. Additionally, it offers up to 450 hours of battery life and a detachable magnetic wrist rest. 

Gaming Mice

A gaming mouse should be ergonomic, have a high DPI, and have customizable buttons. Glorious Model O 2 is a lightweight gaming mouse suitable for FPS, MOBA and other games. It weighs only 68g and offers multiple connectivity options, including USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless. It comes with an ergonomic shape suitable for claw, palm, and ambidextrous grip types and features five Glorious Switches, PTFE skates, and adjustable debounce time. 

Gaming Headsets

A good gaming headset should have clear audio, and noise-cancelling technology, and be comfortable to wear. The SteelSeries Arctis 9X is a versatile gaming headset compatible with PC, Mac, PlayStation, Switch, and Xbox (Xbox version only). It offers various connectivity options, including USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0, with a weight of 338g. Additionally, it features 40mm drivers, a frequency response of 10-22,000 Hz (Wireless) and 10-40,000 Hz (Wired), and a retractable ClearCast microphone. 

Gaming Controllers

A gaming controller should have a comfortable grip, responsive buttons, and customizable settings. Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is a versatile and feature-packed controller suitable for gaming on both Xbox and PC platforms. It offers various connectivity options, including USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless, with a battery life of up to 40 hours. It also features four paddles, two D-Pads, and remappable buttons for customization. 

Optimizing Performance and Experience

Optimizing performance and experience is an essential aspect of achieving the best gaming experience possible. There are several ways to optimize your gaming PC's performance, including overclocking, updating drivers and firmware, adjusting in-game settings, and enhancing network connectivity.
 

Overclocking

Overclocking is the process of increasing the clock speed of a component, such as the CPU or GPU, to achieve higher performance. This can significantly boost your gaming PC's performance, but it requires careful attention to avoid damaging your components. Overclocking can increase the heat generated by your components, so it's crucial to ensure adequate cooling to prevent overheating.

Updating Drivers and Firmware

Updating drivers and firmware is crucial for ensuring your gaming PC's components work correctly and efficiently. Outdated drivers and firmware can lead to compatibility issues, reduced performance, and even system crashes. Regularly updating your drivers and firmware can help prevent these issues and improve your gaming PC's overall performance.

Adjusting In-Game Settings

Adjusting in-game settings can significantly impact your gaming PC's performance. Lowering graphics settings, such as reducing the resolution or turning off certain effects, can significantly improve performance, particularly on lower-end systems. However, adjusting settings too much can affect visual quality, so it's essential to find a balance between performance and aesthetics.

Enhancing Network Connectivity

Enhancing network connectivity is essential for online gaming. A poor internet connection can lead to lag, latency, and other issues that can significantly impact your gaming experience. Upgrading to a faster internet connection, using a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi, and optimizing your router's settings can help improve network connectivity and reduce these issues.

Gaming Software and Services play a crucial role in enhancing the gaming experience on your PC. In this section, we will discuss the various types of gaming software and services that can optimize your gaming setup.

Game Launchers/Platforms

Game launchers and platforms are essential for managing your game library and providing easy access to your games. Steam is currently the most popular game launcher, with over 120 million active users. Steam offers a vast selection of games, including new releases, classics, and indie titles. It also provides features like community forums, game news, and game achievements. Other popular game launchers include Epic Games Store, GOG Galaxy, and Origin.

Game optimization software can improve your PC's performance by optimizing your system settings for specific games. These programs can also help you to troubleshoot issues related to game performance. NVIDIA GeForce Experience is one such program that provides game optimization features and is compatible with most NVIDIA graphics cards. Other popular game optimization software includes AMD Radeon Software, Adrenalin and Razer Cortex.

Streaming and recording tools are essential for gamers who like to share their gameplay with others. OBS Studio is one such software that enables you to live stream your gameplay on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. It also offers features like scene transitions, webcam overlays, and audio mixing. ShadowPlay by NVIDIA is another popular streaming and recording tool that is integrated with GeForce Experience. It provides features like instant replay, recording, and broadcast.

Customizing and Personalizing Your Gaming PC

Personalizing and customizing a gaming PC is an essential aspect of building a perfect gaming setup. At Vibox, we understand the importance of customization and personalization, which is why all of our gaming PCs come with customizable options to make your gaming setup unique and tailored to your needs.

RGB Lighting and Aesthetics

RGB lighting has become a standard feature in gaming setups, and it's easy to see why. It adds a personalized touch and a unique style to your gaming setup. The best gaming PCs come with built-in RGB lighting, and they allow you to customize the lighting effects to your preference. You can choose from various colour schemes, patterns, and modes that best suit your gaming setup. Some gaming PCs even allow you to sync your RGB lighting with other peripherals, such as keyboards and mice, creating a unified and immersive gaming experience.

PC Case Modding

PC case modding is the process of modifying the physical appearance of your gaming PC case to make it unique and visually appealing. Case modding can range from simple changes such as adding custom stickers and decals to complex changes such as adding new panels, cutting out shapes, and installing new components. Some gamers also add water cooling systems and lighting to their gaming PC cases to make them stand out from the rest. Customizing your PC case to fit your personality and style is a great way to make your gaming setup more unique and personalized.

Custom Cable Management

Good cable management is essential for a clean and organized gaming setup. Custom cable management involves using custom cables and routing them in a way that makes your gaming setup look more organized and professional. Custom cables come in different colours and lengths, allowing you to choose the best ones that complement your gaming PC's colour scheme. Additionally, custom cable sleeves can also be added to provide extra protection and a clean look. Proper cable management not only enhances the aesthetics of your gaming setup but also improves the airflow in your gaming PC, reducing the risk of overheating.

When it comes to building a gaming PC, cost is always a consideration. Luckily, Vibox has a range of pre-built gaming PCs that cater to various budgets.

Vibox Entry-Level Gaming PC Setups

For those just getting into PC gaming or with a limited budget, Vibox's entry-level gaming PCs are a great option. These systems typically feature an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a budget graphics card like the Nvidia Geforce GTX 1050 Ti or AMD Vega 8.

One example of an entry-level Vibox gaming PC is the VI-45 GAMING PC , which has an AMD Rayzen 3- 3200G Quad processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, a 240GB SSD, and an AMD Vega 8 graphics card. This system costs around £386.

Vibox Mid-Range Gaming PC Setups

For those with a bit more money to spend, Vibox's mid-range gaming PCs offer better performance and more features. These systems typically feature an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a mid-range graphics card like the Nvidia GTX 1650.

An example of a mid-range Vibox gaming PC is the II-3 GAMING PC, which has an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, a 240GB SSD, and an Nvidia GTX 1650 Super graphics card. This system costs around £583.

Vibox High-End Gaming PC Setups

For those who want the best performance and features, Vibox's high-end gaming PCs are the way to go. These systems typically feature an Intel Core i7 or i9 or AMD Ryzen 7 or 9 processor, 32GB or more of RAM, and a high-end graphics card like the Nvidia RTX 3050 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT.

One example of a high-end Vibox gaming PC is the VIII-17 GAMING PC, which has an Intel Core i9-11900K processor, 32GB of DDR4 RAM, a 500GB NVMe SSD, and an Nvidia RTX 3060 graphics card. This system costs around £1028.

In conclusion, building the best PC setup for gaming requires careful consideration of the components, peripherals, and software that will enhance your gaming experience. Vibox is a reliable gaming PC retailer that offers fully customizable PCs with top-quality parts and personalized options. When selecting components, it is important to choose a high-performance CPU and GPU, sufficient RAM and storage, and an appropriate cooling system. In addition, selecting the right gaming monitor and accessories, optimizing performance, and choosing the right gaming software and services are essential. With Vibox's budget considerations and recommendations, you can build a gaming PC setup that fits your needs and preferences.