How to Build Your Own Gaming Laptop

Building your own computer is a satisfactory way to save money and ensure that your machine is built in exactly the specifications you would like. The benefits are twofold; most machines that you purchase in a store won't ever come quite the way you want them to, and they will also come loaded with software you don't need or want. Secondly, it's enjoyable to be able to show your friends the computer you built yourself. Building a laptop is no exception. For the hardcore gamer, building their own machine means they'll get the most out of every game they play. But before you go out and start buying and ordering parts, be sure to consider the following.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A laptop case
• RAM
• A hard drive
• A processor
• A sound card or a good pair of headphones.
• A video card
• A network card

1. Get yourself a laptop case that you're comfortable with. Empty desktop computer cases can be purchased (in limited variety) at stores like Best Buy. However, laptops are different. You'll more than likely have to purchase your case online, but there will be a wide variety to choose from. The only downside is you won't be able to hold it in your hands before you make the purchase. Get something that suits your needs. If you want to be able to take your laptop with you wherever you go, be sure to get something sleek, as long as it can fit all the other parts you're about to buy.

2. Buy a fast processor and lots of RAM. In computer gaming, speed is everything. With game specifications advancing the way they are, you don't want the hot new game six months from now to shutter every few seconds while you try to play it. The more RAM you buy, the better. A fast processor is also a must. This will also save you an upgrade down the road if you buy a lot now.

3. Get a high-end video card. Second only to speed, graphics are hugely important in computer gaming. If you're building your own machine, there is no excuse to not get the best graphics card you can buy. It'll improve the gaming experience overall, and make sure you're getting maximum clarity whenever you play.

4. Buy a big hard drive. The installation size of computer games gets bigger and bigger with every new release, so make sure that you get a hard drive big enough to handle as many games as possible. You don't want to be caught without enough space to play whatever game you've just purchased.

5. Consider how you want to listen to your games. A good sound card is a must, as more and more games are relying on excellent sound design to create a "total immersion" experience for the gamer. With your sound card you can get a high end pair of portable speakers, or a nice pair of headphones. Sometimes a $100 pair of headphones will work better than any set of laptop speakers. Plus, it means you can play as loud as you want no matter what time of day or night it is.

6. Purchase a network card. Many, many games nowadays offer the ability to play with people all over the world on the internet. The easiest way to do this is to ensure that you can connect to the internet wherever you go, which means you're going to need a network card.

Tips & Warnings

• Building your own laptop can be beneficial in a variety of ways, but don't expect to save a lot of money compared to buying one off the shelves of your local retailer. Any money saved will be minimal, and often you'll end up spending a little bit more than you would on a pre-made model.