Buying well · Price comparison
How to compare PC component deals
Match the exact model, work out the delivered cost and check who is selling before treating a lower price as a better offer.
Covers model numbers, delivery, condition and offer terms
The buying guide library
Buying guides
Practical checks for choosing PC parts and comparing offers. Start with the question you need to answer.
Build planning · Compatibility
Check PC component compatibility
A practical checklist for CPU support, memory, graphics card clearance, storage connections and power supply cables.
Based on manufacturer documentation, with source links
Build planning · Processors
How to choose a CPU for your build
A checklist for matching a processor to a socket, memory type, BIOS version and cooler before you compare prices.
· 5 min read
Build planning · Graphics cards
How to choose a graphics card for your build
A checklist for display outputs, power connectors, card size and exact variant before you compare graphics card prices.
· 4 min read
Build planning · Power supplies
Power supply wattage and connectors: what to check
How to collect the documented power figures, match connectors and check size before you choose a power supply.
· 5 min read
Build planning · Cases and cooling
Case and cooler clearance: the checks that prevent returns
Compare the listed dimensions of case, cooler, graphics card, memory and power supply before you buy.
· 5 min read
Comparing two offers?
Start with the full model number, condition and total delivered cost. A broad product family is not enough to establish a like-for-like comparison.
Planning an upgrade?
Start with the hardware you already own. Gather its exact model numbers and manuals before choosing a replacement part.