Can You Upgrade an NZXT Pre-built PC?

A Comprehensive Guide to Upgrading Your NZXT Pre-built PC

Most pre-built PCs, including those from NZXT, are assembled using off-the-shelf components. This opens the door for various upgrades, particularly in terms of the processor (CPU) and random-access memory (RAM). However, the extent of these upgrades can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer.

Basics for Beginners: The NZXT Starter PC Series

NZXT is entering the market with its Starter PC Series, which includes three desktop models starting at $699, all featuring a two-year warranty and standardized parts. These starter systems are designed for users who are new to building and upgrading PCs. The concept of upgrading becomes even more appealing as users gain experience with desktop components.

General Upgrade Possibilities

The question of whether you can upgrade an NZXT pre-built PC is not a straightforward one. Most pre-built PCs, especially those not aimed at enthusiasts, may have limited upgrade capabilities, often limited to adding more RAM or another hard drive (SSD or HDD). Beyond that, you might find the ability to swap out the graphics processing unit (GPU) and central processing unit (CPU), even the power supply unit (PSU) if a more powerful GPU is required.

The Advantage of Custom Builds

The primary advantage of a custom-built PC is the flexibility and assurance that everything can be swapped out and upgraded over time. In my own custom-built system, I have upgraded from the first to the third generation of motherboard, along with corresponding components. This setup supports dual M.2 NVMe SSDs, with each M.2 SSD having 500GB of storage capacity. One is dedicated to the C drive, containing all programs, while the other is for video work files, providing optimal performance. I have also maximized my storage with a full range of hard drives, including half a terabyte (1TB) HDDs and 500GB SSDs. These drives house a variety of data, and I have even added four 2TB offline HDDs that are connected via a USB hub for archiving purposes. The upgraded 32GB RAM might also be upped to 64GB if my video editing software benefits from it.

Upgrade Considerations for Pre-built PCs

Please note, the upgrade process can be complex, especially for pre-built systems, which tend to use proprietary parts meant to prevent easy upgrades. For laptops, you will mostly be limited to upgrading RAM and the solid-state drive (SSD), and it might be expensive to unlock these options. For desktops, there may be some upgrade opportunities, although the warranty might be voided, and you would need to consider additional parts like a new power supply unit (PSU) and motherboard.

Factory Upgradable Options

Despite limitations, you can attempt to make certain upgrades on a pre-built PC. One common challenge is the proprietary nature of parts. Many manufacturers, such as Dell and HP, use custom power supplies and motherboards specific to their case designs. If you manage to swap the motherboard, you will also need a new power supply unit to match, as many of these systems are not designed for interchangeable components. Even if you can bypass these issues, upgrading the CPU is often necessary, and many users will want to upgrade the GPU as well for better performance.

Conclusion

While pre-built PCs from brands like NZXT offer convenience and ease of use, the flexibility and upgrade options available can vary widely. For most users, the best route to maximizing a pre-built PC is to consider the potential for upgrades upfront, possibly weighing the costs against the benefits. For those looking for ultimate customization and performance, building a custom PC from the ground up remains a superior option.