Building a PC is essential for an architect or architecture student because most of our work is done and shared digitally. A good PC serves as a crucial tool for an architect. However, for students who are beginners in the PC-building world, it can be challenging.

Our architectural programs are quite heavy, and your computer may experience lag if its configuration is not optimal. I always recommend purchasing the best configuration within your budget. However, for students, it's wise to start with a moderately priced PC initially. This allows you to learn how to use a PC for architectural purposes effectively.

We require a balanced PC overall. In our daily work, we utilize the CPU and GPU equally. When building a PC, determining your budget is the first step. Aim for a balanced configuration within your budget, where all components work together efficiently, distributing the workload evenly.

In this post, I will suggest a mid-range budget PC configuration:

Motherboard: For the motherboard, consider a B or Z series DDR5 wifi-enabled motherboard. For a mid-range setup, the B760 DDR5 wifi motherboard is suitable. If you plan to overclock your CPU, opt for a Z series motherboard. Pay close attention to the motherboard’s heatsink, as it is crucial for managing heat generated during our workload.

CPU: Choose between an i5 or i7, prioritizing the latest generation available in the market for future-proofing. I recommend the i5 13/14 Gen CPU. Overclocking may not be necessary at the student level, so opting for a locked CPU can save money.

RAM: RAM is often underrated but crucial for our PC. Aim for at least 16 GB, with a strong recommendation to upgrade to 32 GB if possible. Choose DDR5 RAM for your system and divide your total RAM into two sticks for better performance.

GPU: For a budget setup, I recommend the RTX 3060 12 GB. Despite being an older model, it performs well and provides ample VRAM for handling large files. It’s essential to maintain a balance between CPU and GPU for efficient use.

Storage: Aim for at least a 1 TB SSD for your main storage, with the option to add additional SSDs for increased storage capacity.