PCPartPicker

What is PCPartPicker

PCPartPicker is a popular online tool designed for people who want to build their own computers. Its main purpose is to simplify the process of selecting PC components. The platform provides a massive database of computer parts, such as CPUs, motherboards, memory, and graphics cards. Users can create a list of parts for their desired build, and the tool automatically checks if these parts are compatible with each other. It also compares prices for each component from various online retailers, helping users find the best deals. The website was founded in 2011 by Philip Carmichael and has become a standard resource for the PC building community, known for its reliability and comprehensive features.

PCPartPicker Features

• System Builder: This is the core feature. It allows you to create a virtual PC build by selecting each component one by one. The interface is organized by part category, making it easy to navigate.
• Compatibility Checker: As you add parts to your list, the tool automatically checks for compatibility issues. It will warn you if a selected CPU does not fit the motherboard's socket, if the RAM is not compatible, or if there are potential physical clearance problems.
• Price Comparison: PCPartPicker gathers real-time pricing information from many major online retailers. This lets you see the cheapest option for each part and for your entire build, helping you stay within budget.
• Wattage Estimation: The tool calculates the estimated total power consumption of your selected components. This helps you choose a Power Supply Unit (PSU) with enough wattage to run your system safely and efficiently.
• Build Guides: For users who are unsure where to start, PCPartPicker offers a collection of pre-made build guides. These guides provide balanced part lists for different budgets and purposes, such as entry-level gaming or high-performance workstations.
• Completed Builds Gallery: This section showcases PCs built by other users. You can see photos, the exact part lists used, and read about the builder's experience. It is a great source of inspiration and practical examples.
• Parametric Filters: This advanced search feature allows you to set specific criteria for a part without choosing a specific model. For example, you can set a filter for the cheapest 2TB NVMe SSD, and the tool will automatically find the best-priced option that meets those requirements.

PCPartPicker Pricing Plans

PCPartPicker is a completely free service for users. There are no subscription plans, premium tiers, or hidden charges. The website generates revenue through affiliate partnerships with the retailers it lists. When a user clicks a link to a retailer and makes a purchase, PCPartPicker receives a small commission at no extra cost to the user.

PCPartPicker Free Plan

The entire PCPartPicker platform is available for free. All users have full access to every feature, including the system builder, compatibility checker, price comparison, build guides, and community forums. There are no limitations on the number of builds you can create or save to your account.

How to use PCPartPicker

Using PCPartPicker is a straightforward process:

1. Navigate to the PCPartPicker website and click on "System Builder" or "Start a New Build".
2. You will see a list of component categories (CPU, Motherboard, Memory, etc.). Start by choosing a CPU.
3. After you select a CPU, the website will automatically filter the motherboard list to show only compatible options.
4. Continue this process for all other components: Memory (RAM), Storage, Video Card, Case, and Power Supply.
5. As you add parts, pay attention to the "Compatibility Notes" section at the bottom of the page. It will flag any potential issues.
6. The total price and wattage are updated in real-time at the top of the list.
7. Once your list is complete, you can save it to your profile, get a permalink to share it, or use the provided links to purchase the parts from online retailers.

Pros and Cons of PCPartPicker

Pros:

• Excellent Compatibility Checking: Automatically detects most hardware conflicts, preventing costly mistakes.
• Comprehensive Part Database: Includes a vast selection of components from nearly all manufacturers.
• Real-Time Price Tracking: Helps users save money by comparing prices from multiple stores.
• Strong Community: The build guides and completed builds gallery are valuable resources for inspiration and guidance.
• Completely Free: All features are available at no cost to the user.

Cons:

• Compatibility Is Not Guaranteed: While very accurate, the checker may miss some very specific physical clearance issues, like the height of a large CPU cooler in a small case.
• Can Be Overwhelming: The sheer number of options can be intimidating for complete beginners.
• Regional Availability: Price tracking is most effective for North America and parts of Europe; availability in other regions is limited.

PCPartPicker integrations

PCPartPicker is a standalone web application and does not offer direct integrations with other software platforms like project management or communication tools. Its primary form of integration is with PC component retailers, from which it pulls pricing and availability data. This allows users to see a consolidated view of the market and click through to purchase items.

PCPartPicker Alternatives

• Pangoly: A similar PC building website with a clean, modern interface. It also offers compatibility checking and build guides.
• BuildMyPC: A simple and user-friendly tool that guides beginners through the process of selecting parts for their first PC build.
• Newegg PC Builder: An official tool from the retailer Newegg. It is easy to use but is limited to components available in Newegg's inventory.
• Logical Increments: This site offers a different approach. Instead of a custom builder, it provides a chart of tiered builds at various price points, showing what performance to expect from each tier.

PCPartPicker API

PCPartPicker does not provide a public API for general developer use. Access to their data and services via an API is typically reserved for official partners and affiliates. There is no public documentation or process for obtaining an API key for individual projects. Businesses or developers interested in a potential partnership should contact PCPartPicker directly through their official business contact channels to inquire about API access.

PCPartPicker Affiliate program

PCPartPicker does not offer a traditional affiliate program for individuals to promote the PCPartPicker website itself. The company's business model is based on being an affiliate for various retailers like Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy. They earn commissions when users click through from their site to a retailer's site and make a purchase. If you are an influencer or run a website and wish to partner with them, it is best to contact their business or marketing department directly to discuss potential collaboration opportunities.