So, you've just picked up a pre-built gaming PC—congrats! There’s nothing quite like setting up a new system and installing your favorite games. Buying a pre-built is an easy way to jump into the PC world, especially if you’re not ready to build one yourself. While assembling your own rig has its perks, there's no shame in letting a professional handle it. Pre-builts aim to provide a seamless experience right out of the box, but things can still go wrong. Whether you got yours from a boutique shop or a mainstream brand, mistakes can happen during assembly, and shipping a fully built computer can be risky. Here are five things you should check after receiving your new PC.
1. Inspect for physical damage
Check for any visible signs of shipping damage. If the box looks beat up, take a photo before unboxing it, and keep the packaging in case you need to contact customer support later. Once the PC is out, open the side panel and check inside. Shipping foam is often used to protect the parts, but things can still come loose. Look for any dangling cables, missing screws, or loose components. Use a screwdriver to ensure all motherboard and CPU cooler screws are tight, and check that your 12V CPU and 20+4 pin motherboard power connectors are fully plugged in. Missing or loose parts could lead to electrical shorts or poor performance.
2. Enable XMP / EXPO for better performance
XMP (or EXPO for AMD systems) is a crucial BIOS setting that ensures your RAM runs at its rated speed. Without it, you're likely leaving performance on the table, especially in gaming. Head into the BIOS, find the overclocking or memory settings, and enable the correct profile. XMP I usually sets the RAM to its rated speed and timings, while XMP II applies the motherboard manufacturer's recommended settings.
3. Update drivers
Pre-built systems are often cloned from a single image, which means drivers might not be up-to-date when you receive your PC. While Windows Update will take care of most, your GPU drivers might need a manual update. NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel each provide tools on their websites to ensure you have the latest drivers, which are key for stability and performance in games.
4. Fine-tune fan curves
Your system’s fans may be noisier than necessary if the default fan curve was left unchanged. Fan curves dictate how fast the fans spin relative to component temperatures. You can adjust them in the BIOS to optimize for quieter operation or better cooling, depending on your preference. If noise doesn’t bother you, focus on cooling performance; if it does, soften the fan speed increase to reduce noise.
5. Manage startup apps
Disabling unnecessary startup applications can improve boot times and reduce bloat. Go to Task Manager, check the Startup tab, and toggle off anything you don’t need to launch right away. Uninstalling unwanted apps can also free up system resources and make your PC feel snappier.
By taking these steps, you can ensure your new system is running smoothly and familiarize yourself with your hardware. This will help you feel more confident if you decide to upgrade or build your own system in the future.