Introduction to PC Cable Costs

When building a personal computer (PC), many components come with their own set of cables. Understanding what cables you need and the associated costs can help streamline your build and ensure a smooth setup process. This article delves into the costs and configuration of cables in a PC build, providing valuable insights for enthusiasts and beginners alike.

Standard Cables Included in Motherboard and PSU

Unless you require custom-made cables, standard cables are usually included with the motherboard and power supply unit (PSU) as part of their package. These typically include SATA cables, which are essential for connecting storage devices like hard drives and SSDs, and power cables from the PSU, which provide the necessary power to various components in your PC.

Cost of PSU Cables

The PSU often comes with a basic cable set. For a lower-end PSU, this might be a sleeved set costing around $20. However, if you opt for a more aesthetically pleasing setup (like bare wire or high-quality sleeved cables), you might need to budget for something more expensive.

Many other components also come with their own necessary cables. However, in a typical build, you can expect to include around 5 cables or less. If you find that you need longer cables or additional ones, you may need to purchase them separately. Each additional SATA cable can cost anywhere from $2 to $4.

Avoiding Additional Cable Costs

The good news is that, for the most part, the cables you need to build a PC are usually already included with your motherboard and PSU. You only incur additional costs for cables if you require more than what is provided or if you need longer cables.

For example, if your motherboard needs an extra SATA cable to connect to a secondary storage device or if you need a longer cable to reach a component (such as an external monitor), you may have to purchase these separately. The cost for such extra cables is minimal, typically between $2 and $4 per cable.

Additional Considerations

If you're wondering about the cost of connecting your system to a monitor, this is usually not part of your PC build costs. A cable for this purpose, such as a HDMI or DisplayPort cable, would cost you around €10 at most, making it a negligible expense in the overall equation.

In conclusion, the initial cost of cables in a PC build is minimal due to the inclusion of necessary cables with the motherboard and PSU. However, specific needs or aesthetic preferences may require additional investments. Always check the package of your components to see what cables are included and plan accordingly.