computer parts name

Computers have become essential to our lives for education, work, gaming, or entertainment. If you’re new to computers or want to brush up on your knowledge, the first step is to understand all computer parts names in English with pictures.

This detailed guide will walk you through all major and minor components of a computer system—internal and external, along with images and functions.

1. Monitor (Display Screen)

Monitor image
Image: @pexels

  • Name: Monitor

  • Function: Displays the output from the computer. Think of it as the screen where you view everything from videos to text documents.

  • Types: LCD, LED, OLED, 4K, curved monitors.

2. CPU (Central Processing Unit)

CPU
Image: @Pexels

  • Name: CPU

  • Function: Known as the “brain” of the computer, it performs all logical, arithmetic, and control operations.

  • Popular Brands: Intel, AMD

3. Motherboard

Motherboard
Image: @Pexels

  • Name: Motherboard

  • Function: The main circuit board where all hardware components are connected. It ensures communication between CPU, RAM, GPU, and other components.

  • Socket Types: ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX

Check: Best Motherboards For Ryzen 7 3700x For PC

4. RAM (Random Access Memory)

 

  • Name: RAM

  • Function: Temporary memory that stores data and programs currently in use. More RAM = smoother performance.

  • Common Sizes: 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32 GB+

5. Hard Disk Drive (HDD) & SSD (Solid State Drive)

Hard Disk Drive
Image: @amazon
SSD
Image: @pexels

  • Name: Hard Disk / SSD

  • Function: Permanent storage for OS, apps, videos, games, and files.

  • Types: HDD (cheaper, slower), SSD (faster, more expensive), NVMe (very fast SSD)

💡 Bonus Tip #1:

“SSDs can boost your PC speed by up to 10x compared to traditional HDDs. For better performance, install your operating system on an SSD.”

6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Power Supply Unit
Image: @amazon

  • Name: Power Supply

  • Function: Converts electricity from the wall socket into usable power for the internal components.

  • Wattage: Usually ranges from 300W to 1000W for gaming setups

7. Graphics Card (GPU)

Graphics Card
Image: @Flipkart

  • Name: Graphics Card

  • Function: Handles all visual output—images, video rendering, 3D modelling, gaming visuals, etc.

  • Popular Brands: NVIDIA, AMD

8. Keyboard

Keyboard
Image: @pexels

  • Name: Keyboard

  • Function: Input device for typing and command execution

  • Types: Mechanical, membrane, wireless, ergonomic

9. Mouse

Mouse
Image: @pexels

  • Name: Mouse

  • Function: Navigation device that lets you click, drag, and scroll

  • Types: Wired, wireless, optical, laser

10. Cabinet (CPU Case)

Gaming Cabinet
Image: @amazon

  • Name: Cabinet / Tower Case

  • Function: The outer shell that houses all internal parts—motherboard, RAM, CPU, etc.

  • Designs: Full tower, mid tower, mini tower

💡 Bonus Trivia #2:

“The word ‘CPU’ is often misused to mean the whole desktop computer. In reality, CPU is just one tiny chip inside the motherboard!”

11. Cooling Fan / Heatsink

Cooling Fan

  • Name: Cooling Fan / Heatsink

  • Function: Prevents overheating by drawing heat away from components like the CPU and GPU

  • Add-ons: Liquid cooling systems for gaming PCs

12. Sound Card (Optional)

Sound Card

  • Name: Sound Card

  • Function: Enhances audio quality; now often integrated on the motherboard

  • Use: Useful for music producers and gamers

13. Optical Drive (Rare Nowadays)

Optical Drive

  • Name: CD/DVD Drive

  • Function: Used to read/write CDs and DVDs

  • Current Use: Mostly obsolete due to USBs and streaming

14. Network Card / Wi-Fi Adapter

Wi-Fi Adapter

  • Name: Network Interface Card

  • Function: Enables internet connectivity via Ethernet or wireless networks

  • Built-in: Most modern motherboards have this integrated

💡 Bonus Tip #3:

“If your PC doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi, you can easily add a USB Wi-Fi adapter—no internal installation needed!”

15. Speakers

Speakers

  • Name: Speakers

  • Function: Output audio for music, videos, games

  • Types: 2.1, 5.1, soundbars, Bluetooth speakers

16. Webcam (External/Integrated)

Webcam

  • Name: Webcam

  • Function: Captures video for calls and recordings

  • Built-in: Found in most laptops

  • External: Higher quality, often used by streamers

17. Microphone

Microphone

  • Name: Microphone

  • Function: Captures voice and sound input

  • Use: For calls, podcasts, gaming, voice commands

18. UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)

UPS
Image: @flipkart

  • Name: UPS

  • Function: Backup power supply that prevents data loss during outages

  • Bonus: Allows time to save your work during blackouts

💡 Bonus Trivia #4:

“A UPS can increase your computer’s lifespan by protecting it from power surges, voltage drops, and sudden shutdowns.”

Conclusion

Whether you’re assembling a PC, learning computer basics, or simply curious, knowing all computer parts in English with images helps you:

  • Understand how each component works

  • Troubleshoot minor issues yourself

  • Make smarter buying decisions

 

 FAQs

Q1. What are the names of the 5 basic parts of a computer?
A: Monitor, CPU, Keyboard, Mouse, and Storage (HDD/SSD)

Q2. What is the heart of the computer?
A: The CPU is the computer’s heart (or brain).

Q3. Which part stores data permanently?
A: The Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or SSD stores data permanently.

Q4. Can a computer run without a GPU?
A: Yes, if the CPU has integrated graphics. Otherwise, a GPU is necessary for display output.