Maybe you’ve just upgraded to a brand-new gaming PC, or perhaps you’re a bit of a tech hoarder and have way too much PC hardware just lying about. It can be hard to figure out what to do with all those parts.
So, you’ve just got a brand-new gaming PC, and you’re ready to battle it out in the latest AAA games! But what do you do with your old system? We’re breaking down five great ideas to give your tech a second life.
Media Centre
Have you got too many DVDs and CDs? Are you still pretending it’s the mid-2000s and cool to have an extensive DVD collection? A media centre/server might be the solution you never knew you needed. Let’s face it, it’s the age of the streaming subscription service. I mean, who wants to actually get up off the sofa…
There is plenty of free software out there that will turn your old PC into your own personal streaming service. What’s more, with software such as Plex Media Centre you can even watch your content on your phone, TV, PC and more. Whether you have a large selection of DVDs or digital content, you can easily stream from your own personal Netflix.
If you’re ready to become your own media service then you might want to think about changing out your old gamer PC case to something more sleek, modern, and that will look great on your TV stand. Such as the Kolink Rocket Mini-ITX Case!
Kolink Rocket Heavy Vented Edition Aluminium Mini-ITX Case
- Small form factor – Mini-ITX chassis
- 3mm tempered glass panel
- Aluminium construction
You’re gonna need some storage. Let’s be honest; we’re all data hoarders deep down, and why shouldn’t we be? After all, with the rate certain streaming platforms are removing media, physical copies of your favourite games and shows are a must-have.
Your favourite games could disappear forever, and there is almost nothing you can do about it. In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into the world of vanishing games, to find out where the titles we love are going.
If you’re ready to back up all those old episodes of your favourite shows, we’ve got you covered!
Seagate 4TB IronWolf NAS 5400RPM HDD 256MB Cache Internal Hard Drive
Lexar NS100 2TB SSD 2.5” SATA III Solid State Drive
Meow?
So, your hardware is ancient and hasn’t been used since the days of Counterstrike 1.6. Don’t worry, why not make your old beige monitor into the purrfect cat bed. That’s just what one Reddit user did for their feline friend. User u/anacaruso turned an old beautiful off white beige monitor into a comfy napping spot. Sadly, this probably won’t stop your cat from lying across your keyboard.
From a humble mod, all the way to esports infamy, Counter-Strike has come a long way, and with CS2 finally here, we’re taking a look back at the legendary history of Counter-Strike.
Make a Game Server
There is nothing better than jumping into some Minecraft with your friends. Whilst there are plenty of server hosting sites, nothing compares to having a persistent world with all of your mods, scripts and more, no matter the game.
With thousands of indie and AAA games all allowing you to host your own server from your PC, there is a massive appeal in turning your old system into a 24/7 for you and your friends to game on whenever you want. Your new server doesn’t have to be limited to just one game either, there are plenty of game servers that can run simultaneously in Windows, so there’s no need to install a new operating system.
Be Kind Rewind
So, you’ve got a brand spanking new spicy top of the line gaming PC. Whilst your old system might seem like too much hassle to sell or convert for another use, we’re 100% sure someone in your life would appreciate it more than anything. Older gaming PCs are still great for playing last-gen games, browsing the internet and much more!
This Earth Day, we’ve decided to celebrate some of the very best Earth-friendly tech that’s currently being developed.
Recycle
If no one wants your rig and it has surpassed its usability, it may be time to recycle. There’s no shame in shedding a tear or two for your old friend, but all good things must come to an end. When it’s time to say goodbye, don’t just throw your PC out of the nearest window… Unless the Road Runner is directly below. “Beep, Beep”.
Your PC and any electrical component will likely contain harmful materials that need to be disposed of safely! What’s more, a large part of the components in electronics can actually be recycled into new electronics helping to lower your carbon footprint. Visit your local council’s website to find out where you can drop off old electronics so they can begin their new life. If they’re lucky, their raw materials may one day be part of a PC again.
How do You Upcycle Your Old PC Hardware?
If you’ve got a clever use for old hardware, maybe you’re building a mech suit or becoming a 90’s hacker, let us know in the comments.
- 5 min read
Robert Mullane
Author
When not working, you'll find me in VR or losing in bottom-tier Valorant matches. I write about all topic's tech and gaming with a particular focus on representation in gaming, virtual reality, and LGBTQ+ themes. If you're still not fed up with me, you can also catch me over on the Overclockers UK TikTok and YouTube accounts.
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