If you’re reading this in 2021, then congrats, you’ve picked what will likely be the worst time in history to get into PC gaming, thanks to the microchip shortage. No need to fear, though. There are still options available and many other key aspects that you will need to account for before buying the supplies you will need. So, without further ado, here’s our list of things first-time gaming PC buyers need to know.

Figure Out Why You Want One

Sure, we know you want it for gaming, but what type of gaming? If you are going to be playing a lot of competitive online games, you’ll want to have a monitor with a high refresh rate. If you prefer beautiful single-player games, then a high-powered graphics card will need to be your top priority. Maybe you are looking at getting into the streaming craze. If that’s the case, then you’ll need a good-quality mic, video camera, and possibly a capture card. There are tons of other options for PC gaming, so make sure you nail down what you want your PC for before you start buying parts for it.

Decide Which Type To Get

Most people who game on a PC go the build-your-own route. This is the best way to get exactly what you’re looking for. Plus, PCs are quite fun and rewarding to build. However, the skyrocketing GPU prices have made starting from scratch almost impossible—that is, unless you’re okay with buying a graphics card that is three times above MSRP.

Luckily, most prebuilt PCs haven’t increased too steeply in price since the chip shortage. This is because most people who are trying to get a GPU already own a PC. Not many people are dedicated enough to buy a whole PC, strip it for the graphics card, and sell off what’s left behind. While you won’t be able to get everything that you wanted inside of it, you will get a decent PC for a reasonable price, which you can upgrade later once the market resettles.

Design Your Ideal Gaming Space

Now comes the fun part of the things first-time gaming PC buyers need to know: setting up your room for the PC. Whether it’s your bedroom or an office, you’ll want to make sure you pick a space that is well circulated and free of a lot of dust and dander, since those factors can affect your PC’s performance.

Next, you’ll want to find a solid desk that will be functional while still having some style to it. More PC gamers have recently been looking to standing desks. Sitting all day for work and play isn’t great for your body, so being able to play a relaxing game on your feet is a great option to have. There are many aspects to consider when buying a standing desk, so make sure you do your research before making the investment.

After all of that is done, it’s time to stylize it. Set out a few gaming-related statues and pin up some RGB lighting. Do whatever you need to make your gaming setup feel like it’s uniquely yours.