The performance of computer components can be measured in gigahertz and gigabytes, but the whole is not necessarily equal to the sum of its parts. Determining if a computer is "fast" is difficult because the same hardware configuration can feel fast or slow depending on how the parts interact and how you use the computer. If you want your computer to be fast, you'll need to focus on getting the right parts to work together.
SummaryThe Central Processing Unit (CPU) Random Access Memory (RAM) Hard Disk Drive (HDD) vs. Solid State Drive (SSD) Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Motherboard / Front Side Bus (FSB) Software So what will make my computer fast?Disclaimer :there are exceptions to everything; the generalizations below all assume different levels of real-world use by average people.
When a human is solving a puzzle, they often need to pass information through their brain while storing other items for later use in their short-term memory. Having more RAM basically increases your computer's short-term memory, allowing more programs to do more things at the same time.
Unlike the processor, the quantity (more gigabytes!) If you decide between different generations, the newer is always better:DDR4 is better than DDR3, etc.
Filling lots of RAM will definitely make computers run faster. (And it's by far the easiest thing to upgrade.) However, keep in mind that the benefits will start to diminish after a certain point unless the extra RAM is accompanied by a capable processor. to make full use of it.
This one is simple:SSDs are almost always faster and better. They cost a bit more and are limited to smaller sizes, but other than that, even low-end SSDs will deliver significant performance boosts to just about any computer. They are generally quieter, cooler, more reliable, less prone to shock and more energy efficient, and they are relatively easy to upgrade.
The main types (as of August 2018) are single layer cells (SLC), multi-layer cells (MLC), and triple-layer cells (TLC). The general rule here is that more layers per cell =cheaper, shorter and slower lifespan. "Slow" is a relative term, though - they're all fast compared to hard drives.
In general, graphics cards are the luxury add-ons of the computing world. If you play newer video games, work with a lot of graphics applications, or mine cryptocurrency, you need a good GPU, but otherwise your computer will run fine on low-end hardware.
A GPU is a processor specifically designed for graphics. The main thing to look for here is the bandwidth or memory integrated into the GPU. Higher is always better in this case - GDDR4 beats DDR4, GDDR5 beats GDDR4, and so on - but you generally won't need a huge amount, so don't worry about getting the most gigs. If your intended use is high-end, you may also want to consider CUDA cores, shaders, fan types, and thermal power design (TDP) values to maximize your efficiency.
The motherboard is what connects most of your major components, but it's really not vital for speed. Individual components can usually send data to it as fast as they want, although sometimes some high-end (especially custom) systems will benefit from a faster front side bus (FSB) connection in order for the computer to take full advantage of a high-powered CPU. In general, average users don't have to worry about it.
When it comes to software, there are a few things to consider:
Ultimately, if you want to make your computer fast, the most important thing to consider is how you will use the computer. Minimal users can get away with minimal specs and feel fine, while editing video on a low-spec computer will feel like wading through molasses. A good CPU, decent amount of RAM and an SSD will provide all the speed an average user needs, but if you have more intense needs you'll need to do some research to make sure your system is up to snuff. P>
Image credit:nVidia G71 GPU, Motherboard
