For tech enthusiasts, few things bring more satisfaction than assembling your own custom PC. Carefully selecting each component to maximize performance and aesthetics can be incredibly rewarding. However, deciding on compatible parts from the dizzying range of options available poses a daunting challenge even for seasoned builders.
Fortunately, a number of helpful PC builder web apps have emerged to simplify the process. These tools allow you to configure your perfect PC system from a huge database of components. They check for compatibility issues and even provide price breakdowns to keep your budget on track. Read on for an overview of some of the best web apps to utilize when planning your next PC build.
PCPartPicker
When it comes to PC builder tools, PCPartPicker reigns supreme in popularity. As a clean, intuitive web application, it makes part selection and list creation a breeze. Simply filter and browse by component category or use the system builder to have PCPartPicker automatically select parts that work together seamlessly.
One of PCPartPicker’s standout features is its compatibility check. Add parts to your list, and it will flag any glaring physical or performance issues between components. This helps prevent many rookie mistakes, though you’ll still want to double check dimensions for optimal fit. The platform draws pricing and availability data from dozens of online retailers in real-time as well, allowing you to score the best deals.
With an engaged community database of over 500,000 builds, PCPartPicker facilitates sharing and discovering inspiring rigs. For new builders unsure where to begin, browsing completed and vetted parts lists can provide great starting points to customize. The clean interface, wealth of data, and community resources make PCPartPicker an invaluable asset for your next PC project.
BuildCores
For those desiring an interactive and visual PC building experience, BuildCores delivers. This web app features a 3D workshop interface allowing you to digitally construct your own computer. Select from over 1,500 parts which you can visually arrange within a case model.
Helpfully, you cannot actually place components in incompatible configurations. If a component won’t fit or under/overpowers other parts, BuildCores prevents it from snapping into place. The software also analyzes the rig for sufficient cooling, power delivery, and bottlenecks. BuildCores rates completed systems on a scale from 1-100 for balance.
While not as robust in its vendor pricing lookups as PCPartPicker, BuildCores still estimates costs from Newegg and Amazon listings. It also generates a permanent shareable profile of your creation along with images. For a more game-like and engaging take on virtually assembling components, BuildCores lets your creative spirit run free.
NZXT BLD KitPicker
NZXT made its name crafting quality computer cases but has since expanded into complete systems. Its BLD KitPicker platform helps users bundle NZXT components and accessories for a streamlined building process. Enter your target budget into BLD KitPicker to access curated parts lists specifically from NZXT’s inventory.
The software highlights combo deals while filtering out incompatible products entirely unlike more open web builders. Since all kits feature NZXT parts and aesthetics, you can easily achieve a unified customized look. However, thetradeoff is less freedom to mix and match a wider variety of specialized components.
Once satisfied with your BLD KitPicker parts list, a click converts it into a cart on NZXT’s webstore for direct purchasing. For those seeking minimal effort or a quick building experience modeled exclusively after NZXT’s signature sleek style, BLD KitPicker fits the bill. Just know selection is much narrower than other apps which aggregate dozens of brands.
Configurators from PC Manufacturers
In addition to the wider market web apps, most major pre-built PC manufacturers operate their own configuration portals. These include Dell, HP, iBuyPower, CyberPowerPC, Origin PC, and more. The configurators allow you to customize and order one of their pre-selected base models rather than building from zero.
While limiting compared to open web builders, going through a system configurator ensures full compatibility. All parts equally carry the PC company’s warranty as well. Since manufacturers buy components in bulk directly from suppliers, pricing can also compete better than selecting individual retail parts yourself. Just don’t expect extensive personalization.
Consider manufacturer configurators as a middle ground between fully custom and off-the-shelf pre-builts. You still get to dictate some components such as the GPU, memory, and storage within set constraints. And you benefit from the manufacturers’ economies of scale and integration optimization. Try out a few configurators to see what specialty machines or deals might be possible through their channels.
Simplifying Your Dream Build
Building a custom gaming rig, media editing station, or other specialized PC still requires plenty of research and learning. But the above web apps help lift some of the legwork in selecting and ensuring compatible parts optimized for your needs and budget.
Start experimenting with various component and price combinations using these handy tools. Identify builds shared by others that resemble your goals. Pattern off what performs well, substituting parts here and there to make it your own creation. With the foundation solidified digitally, you can then confidently proceed to the physical construct and get lost gleefully in assembling your dream machine piece by meticulous piece.
The abundance of builder web apps now streamline what previously demanded studying magazines, forums, and hardware specifications for days on end. While most hardcore PC enthusiasts enjoy the research, if you want to shortcut to just ordering components known to play nice for a straightforward build, these tools now empower anyone to become a PC creator.