THE ULTIMATE

Strap in as we divulge 20 more tips on how to become the next master PC builder

By Zak Storey

HERE AT MAXIMUM PC, we’re specialists when it comes to, you know, building PCs. It is our bread and butter, and we’ve been doing it for a heck of a long time now. This journalist alone has logged no less than 63 separate build logs in these hallowed pages, and built many more. Along the way, we’ve picked up a ton of tips and tricks to make the process as painless and seamless as possible.

It’s this knowledge, these ingrained, subtle refined notions and ideas, that have turned even the most challenging of concept system builds into paltry, simple, and easy-to-produce machines of mayhem. They can be crafted on a whim, and knocked out in less than a few hours. Here, we’ll be divulging all that information to you.

We’ve scoured the team’s collective brains and come up with no less than 41 tips and tricks to really max out your next build, or at least make you think about tidying up your current one. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, a gamer or a 3D renderer, there’s something for everyone in Maximum PC’s 2024 occasionally annual builder’s manual.

[21] SSD OR SUPER-SLICK DOODADS

For modern M.2 SSDs, installation couldn’t be simpler. Identify where your M.2 slots are, and remove any heatsinks in place (they’ll likely have tiny screws, and be closest to your CPU, or below the PCIe slots on your motherboard). Then, similar to your RAM, locate the notch on the M.2 and the bump in the slot. Slide your M.2 stick in, being sure to secure it if there’s any latch or screw mechanism there. Once done, replace the heatsink, making sure to remove the thermal pad film for maximum performance.

Also, ensure that you’re installing your drive in the correct slot. Some M.2 slots will be PCIe 5.0 standard, while some may be 4.0, depending on the location and spec of your motherboard. Typically, the fastest M.2 slot will be the one closest to the CPU, and the slowest will be the one furthest away or on the back.

[22] CUSTOM CABLING CONUNDRUMS

Cables can be tricky. Generally speaking, if you’re installing a traditional modular power supply, always install your cables into the PSU prior to securing it into your case—it’s just a little bit easier. Likewise, if you can get custom cables, definitely go for it—they add a hint of pizazz to any build, and if you really splash the cash, you can get custom-length ones to minimize cable management issues, too.

There are also a few neat tips and tricks we can recommend. If you’re working in a budget or tight chassis, and your CPU cable isn’t long enough, as long as it’s well insulated, try running it between the motherboard and standoffs. It might be a bit of a tight squeeze, but it can help to hide a messy cable. If you don’t have cable management space, it will ensure that it’s not trailing directly up through your build.