DIY - Customize and Build Your Own Computer - The Easy Way Article

1. CPU
We will start from the heart of the computer, the processor (CPU). All the system built around it, so choose carefully.
You have 2 main companies, Intel and AMD. The only real difference is the price. AMD's processors are mostly cheaper, and for my opinion they are also more stable. Processor has 2 parameters to keep in mind, how many cores it has, and it's speed.
Ask yourself, what exactly I'm going to do with this computer?
Basic User - For basic user, like internet surfing, files downloading, watching movies, using Office software, etc., you can choose the one core processor (like Pentium, Celeron, Sampron, etc.).
Semi Pro User - If you are using more than 3 programs at the same time, take dual core processor (Athlon X2, Core 2 Due, etc.), it will give you more stability and power.
Pro User - For images and video editing use also a dual core processor, but pick a high memory size (RAM) later.
Heavy User - And if, only if, you are the crazy user, who is going to install games and heavy graphic programs, choose more than 2 cores. You have today up to 16 cores on one processor (Phenom II X6, Core i7, etc.).
After you will choose the right processor, the one who will fit your needs, you can go and choose the mother board.
Company preferred: AMD.
2. Motherboard
This part is the board that connects all together. The CPU, Memory, Hard Drive, etc., so here choose the right one. You have to choose one that will support your CPU. There is many kinds of CPU connectors type (AM2 Socket, etc.), so it has be match and compatible. Take one with more than 4 USB inputs (and 2 more for front case connector), you will need it.
Basic User - Since you have no need for complex graphic calculations, pick one with graphic card on-board, this way you can save money. Two memory slots are enough too.
Semi Pro User - Same as Basic User.
Pro User - Editing videos and images takes a lot of memory space, so buy one with more than 2 channels of memory. As for the graphic card, it doesn't matter. Just buy graphic card with more than 256MB of memory (and disable the one on board if exist).
Heavy User - Same as the Pro User, except that you will need a 512MB graphic card.
Company preferred: Asus, Gygabyte.
3. Memory
The memory isn't there just for thinking space, it gives a lot more. The speed and performance depends on it too.
Basic User - 2GB will do the job, but, if you want a little more speed pick 3GB-4GB (for 3GB you need motherboard with 4 and more slots).
Semi Pro User - Same as Basic User.
Pro User - Consider of using 6GB and up.
Heavy User - 8GB and up.
Company preferred: Corsair, Samsung.
4. Hard Drive
Most of people needs only one, but in case you are working with it, make one for programs installations (Windows, Office, Adobe products, etc.), and one for your work (Documents, Images, Videos, etc.). The size is really matter here, because more size gives more space, means less time to look for stuff, means speed.
Basic and Semi Pro Users - 320GB to 500GB SATA.
Pro and Heavy Users - 750GB to 2TB SATA/PATA.
Company preferred: Seagate, Western Digital.
5. CD/DVD/BlueRay
Pick the one (or more) from the kind you want/need and that's it...
Company preferred: Sony, LG.
6. Case/Power Supply
Search online for power supply calculator and get an idea of the power you need. most users uses 300Watt to 450Watt of power. The case can be slim/micro if the motherboard is. So the size will be depends on the motherboard.
Company preferred: None.
7. Keyboard/Mice/Cam
Take whatever you like. you can find them in less than $30 all;).
Company preferred: None.
8. Screen
Bigger is better for everyone.
Company preferred: Acer.
That's it guys. I hope you will enjoy your new computer. This guide is good if you know how to build a computer and you have an idea of how it works