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Summary
Experts recommend grounding yourself before handling electronics like your PC components.
However, an anti-static wristband provides extra protection and is inexpensive and easy to use.
But is this really necessary?
What even is it?
What Is an Anti-Static Wrist Strap?
If you touch metal, you’ll pass the electricity to the metal.
iFixit makes a variety of products for any kind of DIY and repair enthusiasts, and its anti-static wrist strap is one of the best options out there — and also great for gamers building a PC.
To avoid this, anti-static wrist straps exist.
Do You Really Need an Anti-Static Wrist Strap?
It’s highly recommended to ground yourself, at least immediately before handling electronics.
However, whether you really need one is another debate in itself.
The answer is, not really.
It’s recommended, but not necessary.
Let’s say the worst possible scenario happens.
You didn’t ground yourself properly, and you hear a zap after touching your motherboard.
You just gave it an ESD.
Will your rig be okay?
Spoiler alert: It’s likely that you’re actually completely fine.
A discharge may have any kind of effect on an electrical component depending on where it actually strikes.
You might have unintended, very minor side effects, such as a non-functioning RAM slot.
It might not even have an effect at all or a noticeable effect at least.
Should You Use an Anti-Static Wrist Strap?
As we mentioned before, they’re not essential to build a PC.
But if you have one, it could save you from disaster.
And to top things off, you’re wearing your favorite socks, or your favorite fluffy slippers.
