Cheapest Gaming PC: Budget-Friendly Picks for Gamers
Note: We have researched 13 gaming pcs for you.
Last updated on 17.07.24 um 02:22
When it comes to immersive gaming experiences, power and performance are key, but they often come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, the landscape of gaming technology offers options that won't break the bank. This guide is for those who want to dive into the gaming realm without emptying their wallets.
Navigating the market for cost-effective gaming computers can be daunting, but we've done the legwork for you. We've scoured the tech scene to bring you a selection of PCs that balance affordability with the specs needed to run your favorite games smoothly. Read on to discover which setup might be the best fit for your gaming adventures and your budget.
Navigating the market for cost-effective gaming computers can be daunting, but we've done the legwork for you. We've scoured the tech scene to bring you a selection of PCs that balance affordability with the specs needed to run your favorite games smoothly. Read on to discover which setup might be the best fit for your gaming adventures and your budget.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: Skytech Gaming Nebula Gaming PC Deskt...
What to Look for in Cheapest Gaming PCs
Important criteria
-
Affordable price
-
Decent processor
-
Sufficient memory (RAM)
-
Adequate storage
-
Dedicated graphics card
-
Upgradeability
1.) Performance Components
When looking for the most affordable gaming PC, focus on the core components that affect gaming performance the most. This includes the CPU, GPU, and RAM. Ensure the processor is from a recent generation as it dictates the overall speed of the computer, and choose a dedicated graphics card that can handle current games at reasonable settings. Minimum RAM should be 8GB, but 16GB is recommended for a smoother gaming experience.
2.) Future Upgradability
Consider the potential for future upgrades when purchasing the cheapest gaming PC. Verify that the motherboard has additional slots for RAM and supports newer, more powerful CPUs and GPUs. This way, you can enhance the gaming performance later on without needing to replace the entire system. Also, check that the power supply unit (PSU) provides enough power for future components and has the necessary connectors.
Pictured: STGAubron Gaming PC Computer Desktop-...
3.) Storage and Load Times
Storage is another important factor; a solid-state drive (SSD) will offer faster game load times and overall system responsiveness compared to a traditional hard disk drive (HDD). While SSDs are more expensive, a smaller-capacity SSD for the operating system and frequently played games, supplemented by a larger HDD for additional storage, can be a cost-effective compromise.
4.) Build Quality and Cooling
Don't overlook the build quality and cooling solutions in a budget gaming PC. A well-ventilated case is essential for maintaining optimal temperatures and ensuring component longevity. Also, consider the quality of the case and included fans. A sturdy build can better protect internal components, and efficient cooling can prevent thermal throttling, which can impair performance during extended gaming sessions.
The Cheapest Gaming PCs of our Choice
Our Pick
CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC
Type/Color: Black
Features
- System: Intel Core i7-13700F 2.1GHz 8+8 Cores
- Intel B760 Chipset
- 16GB DDR5
- 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD
- Genuine Windows 11 Home 64-bit
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti 16GB Video Card
- 1x HDMI
- 2x DisplayPort
- Connectivity: 6 x USB 3.1
- 2 x USB 2.0
- 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet 10/100/1000
- 802.11AC Wi-Fi
- Audio: 7.1 Channel
- Keyboard and mouse
- Special feature: Tempered glass side case panel
- Custom RGB case lighting
- 7 colors gaming mouse
- 1 Year Parts & Labor Warranty, Free Lifetime Tech Support
2
Skytech Gaming Nebula Gaming PC Desktop –
Type/Color: Black
Size: 16GB DDR4 | 1TB NVMe
Features
- INTEL Core i5 13400F 2.5GHz (4.6GHz Max Boost) CPU Processor
- 1TB NVME SSD – Faster Than Traditional HDD
- NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4060 8GB GDDR6X Graphics Card
- 16GB DDR4 RAM 3200 Gaming Memory with Heat Spreader
- Windows 11 Home 64-bit Operating System
- 802.11 AC for wireless connectivity
- No Bloatware for a clean system
- Graphic output options: 1 x HDMI, 1 x Display Port
- USB Ports Including 2.0, 3.0, and 3.2 Gen1 Ports
- HD Audio and Mic for clear sound
- Free Gaming Keyboard and Mouse included
- 4 RGB Fans for Maximum Air Flow
- Skytech Nebula Black Edition with Front Mesh
- 1 Year Warranty on Parts and Labor
- Lifetime Free Technical Support
- Assembled in the USA
- Capable of running popular games at Ultra settings
- 1080p Full HD resolution with 60+ FPS gameplay
In other categories
- Rank 7 of 20 in Most Powerful Gaming PC
Price Pick
HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer
Model: ProDesk
Type/Color: RGB
Features
- Professionally inspected and tested
- Refurbishing process with functionality testing
- Ships with relevant accessories and 90-day warranty
- Processer: Intel Core i5-6500 6th Gen
- Reliable and consistent performance
- RGB Lights manageable with Remote Controller
- Several modes for customizable setup
- Storage and Memory: Upgraded to 8GB DDR4
- 256GB SSD for quick boot-up
- Package Contents: Desktop Computer, Keyboard & Mouse, USB WiFi Adapter, Power Cord, Windows 10 Pro (64-bit)
In other categories
4
Alarco Gaming PC Desktop Computer Intel
Type/Color: Black
Features
- 6 RGB fan gaming PC with remote
- Intel Core i5-2400 3.10 Ghz processor
- GTX 750 4GB video card with DVI, HDMI, and VGA outputs
- 1 year warranty
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 2 in Coolest PC
5
Dell RGB Gaming Desktop Computer PC
Type/Color: Intel Core I5
Size: RGB Gaming GT 1030 + 24" FHD LED
Features
- System: Intel Core i5 up to 3.6GHz 4-Core | 16GB Memory | 512GB Solid State Drive
- 24 Inch Full HD LED monitor: High-Quality panel, quick refresh rate, and response time
- 1080p resolution for gaming and computing
- Smart Contrast for optimized image quality
- Customized Appearance, RGB Light, RGB Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse, RGB Headphone
- Connectivity: USB 3.0, RJ-45, Serial, USB Wi-Fi
- OS: Genuine Windows 10 Professional 64-bit - Multi-Language Supports
6
STGAubron Gaming PC Computer Desktop-RX 580 8GB
Type/Color: Black
Features
- Intel Xeon E5 3.5GHz 4-Core processor
- 16GB DDR4 Memory for smooth performance
- 512GB Solid State Drive for fast storage
- Genuine Windows 10 Home 64-bit included
- Powered by Intel XEON E5 V3 CPU Processor
- 16GB RAM for multitasking and fast apps
- Connectivity: RGB Fan x 3, 1x RJ-45
- 600M Wi-Fi & USB Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Special feature: RGB Keyboard, Mouse and Mouse Pad
- 1 Year parts & labor warranty included
- Free lifetime tech support for assistance
In other categories
7
Skytech Gaming Nebula Gaming PC Desktop –
Type/Color: Black
Size: 13400F | 3050
Features
- INTEL Core i5 13400F CPU Processor
- 1TB NVME SSD - Up to 30x Faster
- NVIDIA Geforce RTX 3050 Graphics Card
- 16GB DDR4 RAM 3200 Gaming Memory
- Windows 11 Home 64-bit OS
- 802.11 AC Wireless Connectivity
- No Bloatware for Improved Performance
- Graphic Output: HDMI, Display Port
- Variety of USB Ports Included
- HD Audio and Mic Support
- Free Gaming Keyboard and Mouse
- 4 RGB Fans for Maximum Airflow
- Skytech Nebula Black Edition Case
- 1 Year Warranty on Parts and Labor
- Lifetime Free Technical Support
- Assembled in the USA
- Capable of running popular games at Ultra settings
8
STGAubron Gaming Desktop PC
Model: ABR1222
Size: RX 550 4G
Features
- System: Intel Core i5 up to 3.7GHz 4-Core
- 16GB Memory
- 512GB Solid State Drive
- Genuine Windows 10 Home 64-bit
- Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 550 4G GDDR5 Video Card
- 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort, 1x DVI
- Connectivity: RGB Fan x 3
- 1x RJ-45, 1x Serial
- USB Wi-Fi, USB Bluetooth 5.0
- Special feature: RGB Gaming Mouse & Keyboard
- RGB Mouse Pad
- 1 Year parts & labor
- Free lifetime tech support
In other categories
9
Dell PC Treasure Box RGB Desktop
Type/Color: I5/16G
Size: Diamond Black
Features
- Intel Core i5 up to 3.6GHz 4-Core
- 16GB Memory
- 512GB Solid State Drive
- Genuine Windows 10 Professional 64-bit
- Multi-Language Supports
- 2 x USB 3.0
- 6 x USB 2.0
- 1 x RJ-45
- 1 x Serial
- USB Wi-Fi
- USB Bluetooth
- DVD
- Special Appearance
- RGB Light
- RGB Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse
- 1 Year parts & labor
- Free lifetime tech support
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 3 in Cheapest PC Box
- Rank 7 of 15 in Cheapest Desktop Computer
10
HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer
Model: ProDesk
Type/Color: Black
Features
- This product is professionally tested and refurbished.
- Comes with RGB LED lights on front panel.
- Processor: Intel Core i5-4570 Quad Core 3.20 GHz.
- 8 GB DDR3 RAM for smooth multitasking.
- 256 GB SSD storage for apps, photos, music, and movies.
- No dedicated graphics card, but can be added.
- Perfect for remote learning and multitasking.
- Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit Operating System installed.
In other categories
- Rank 5 of 15 in Cheapest Desktop Computer
11
HP RGB Gaming PC Desktop Computer
Model: Tower
Type/Color: Black
Size: RX 580
Features
- Suitable for gaming, study, home, business, editing
- Capable of running popular games at 60+ FPS
- Intel Core i7 processor with 16GB memory
- Multiple connectivity options and video card
- Features RGB Case Lighting and Gaming Mouse & Keyboard
- Includes 1 year parts & labor and free lifetime tech support
12
HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer
Type/Color: 16G/512G SSD
Size: GT 1030 + TW Designed
Features
- System: Intel Core i5-6500 up to 3.6GHz 4-Core | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB Solid State Drive | Genuine Windows 10 Professional 64-bit
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030 2G GDDR5 Video Card | 1x HDMI | 1x VGA | 1x DVI
- Connectivity: USB 3.1 | USB 2.0 | 1x RJ-45 | 600M Wi-Fi | Bluetooth 5.0
- Special feature: RGB Case Lighting | RGB Gaming Mouse & Keyboard
- 1 Year parts & labor | Free lifetime tech support
13
STGAubron Gaming Desktop PC
Model: ABR1222
Type/Color: 16G/512G/RTX 2060 6G
Features
- This computer is versatile for gaming, study, home, and business tasks.
- Suitable for photo and video editing, streaming, and trading.
- Capable of running popular games with 60+ FPS.
- System specs: Intel Core i5, 16GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Windows 10 Home.
- Connectivity: RGB Fan x 3, RJ-45, Serial, USB Wi-Fi, USB Bluetooth 5.0, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6G GDDR6 Video Card, HDMI, DisplayPort.
- Special feature: RGB BlueTooth Sound Bar, RGB Gaming Mouse & Keyboard, RGB Mouse Pad.
- Includes 1 Year parts & labor, Free lifetime tech support.
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Find Your Ideal Budget Gaming PC Today
Budget-Conscious Beginners
Starting out in the gaming world doesn't have to break the bank. Discover a selection of gaming PCs designed for new players looking to enter the arena without a hefty price tag. Ease into your gaming journey with a computer that balances cost and performance.
Casual Gamers
Casual gamers need a solution that handles popular titles without the need for high-end specs. Find affordable PCs that offer a smooth gaming experience on your favorite games, without unnecessary extras inflating the cost.
Value Seekers
Seeking the best deal? Explore gaming PCs that deliver reliable performance and solid graphics without compromising your budget. Get the most out of every dollar with systems optimized for value.
Hardware Savvy Shoppers
For those who know their way around PC components, but want to save on costs, look for customizable gaming PCs. Start with a cost-effective base and upgrade components as you go, according to your needs and budget.
Questions You Might Ask
When buying a gaming PC, the key components to consider include the CPU (central processing unit), GPU (graphics processing unit), RAM (random access memory), storage (SSD or HDD), motherboard, power supply unit, cooling system, and the case. The CPU and GPU are the most crucial for gaming performance.
The GPU, or graphics card, is one of the most important components for a gaming PC. It is responsible for rendering images and delivering the visual performance needed for smooth and high-quality gaming experiences. A powerful GPU can significantly improve game visuals and frame rates.
An SSD (Solid State Drive) is generally preferred for gaming over an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) due to its faster read and write speeds, which lead to quicker loading times and a more responsive system. Many gamers opt for a combination of both: an SSD for the operating system and frequently played games, and an HDD for additional storage needs.
For gaming, 16 GB of RAM is typically recommended for a balance between performance and cost. However, 8 GB can suffice for less demanding games. If you plan to do more intensive multitasking or play the latest games at high settings, 32 GB or more may be beneficial.
Yes, one of the benefits of a gaming PC is the ability to upgrade components. You can upgrade your GPU, increase RAM, add additional storage, or even replace the motherboard and CPU for better performance. Just make sure your power supply can handle the upgrades and that the new components are compatible with your existing setup.
Currently Active Poll
How to Choose the Cheapest Gaming PC: A Guide
Our Pick: CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC
Ready to dive into the exciting world of gaming without breaking the bank? This guide will navigate you through the essentials of choosing the most affordable gaming PC that delivers performance without compromising on the thrill of gaming. We understand that gaming is an immersive experience, and we're here to help you strike the perfect balance between cost and quality. Let's get you setup for an epic gaming journey!
Understanding the Basics
The heart of a gaming PC lies in its components. Understanding what makes a PC gaming-worthy is the first step in discerning a good deal from a dud. Primarily, focus on the central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), random access memory (RAM), and storage. An adequate gaming experience requires a balance between these components.
If you're aiming for affordability, you need to identify which components offer the best performance for the least cost. You don't necessarily need the latest CPU or the highest-end GPU to enjoy many games. Instead, look for the sweet spot in previous generation hardware that can still pack a punch.
RAM is another critical component. Aim for at least 8GB, though some modern games may require more to run smoothly. For storage, a solid-state drive (SSD) can dramatically improve game load times but may come with a higher price tag. A combination of a smaller SSD for your operating system and most-played games with a larger hard drive for storage is often a cost-effective solution.
The Importance of Upgradeability
Opting for a budget PC doesn't mean you need to be stuck with outdated hardware forever. Choose a system with the potential for upgrades. This can be more cost-effective in the long run, as you can upgrade individual components when necessary or when you have more financial flexibility.
Pay attention to the motherboard specifications. It should support additional or more powerful components you may want to add later, such as more RAM slots, support for newer GPUs, and extra ports for peripheral devices. The power supply should also have enough overhead to accommodate future upgrades.
A spacious case can also be a boon for upgradeability. It not only ensures adequate airflow (crucial for cooling high-performance gaming components) but also leaves room for larger GPUs or additional storage. Investing in a case with good cable management options can also simplify any future upgrades or maintenance.
Where to Make Compromises
When shopping on a budget, it's important to know where you can skimp and where you can't. Peripheral components like the case, keyboard, and mouse can often be less expensive without a significant impact on gaming performance. Similarly, while flashy RGB lighting and tempered glass panels are attractive, they don't enhance the actual gameplay.
Sound is an area where many budget PCs cut corners, but if you have a decent set of headphones or speakers, onboard audio will suffice. Network capabilities are also often built into motherboards, meaning a separate network card isn't usually necessary unless you require advanced features.
One thing you shouldn't compromise too much on is the power supply unit (PSU). A low-quality PSU can lead to instability or potentially damage components. It's wise to choose a PSU from a reputable manufacturer and ensure it provides enough power for your system's requirements with a little room to grow.
Finding the Best Deals
To make your money stretch further, it's crucial to shop smart. Keeping an eye on sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday can lead to significant savings on PC components and systems. Also, consider buying refurbished or open-box items from reputable sellers who offer warranties.
Join online communities and forums that focus on PC building and gaming. They can be goldmines of information on deals, and members often share when components or systems go on sale. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, though, as they can sometimes lead to scams.
Lastly, don't underestimate the value of building your own PC. Purchasing individual components on sale and assembling the system yourself can save you money and give you a deeper understanding of your machine. Plus, you'll have the pride of knowing you built your gaming rig from the ground up.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In this section, we provide a curated selection of resources for those interested in the Cheapest Gaming PC. This includes a variety of trusted test reports and insightful recommendations gathered from authoritative expert forums. Our compilation is systematically organized into four distinct categories for your convenience: expert reviews, forum discussions, Reddit threads, and informational videos. These links have been chosen for their relevance and usefulness on the topic.
Dec 6, 2023 — Price: If affordability is your concern, most decent gaming PCs start around $700 to $1,000. For that price, you're looking at basic specs such ...
3 days ago — Best gaming PC deals · HP OMEN 40L with RTX 4060: $1,000 · CyberPowerPC with Radeon RX 6600: $780 · Lenovo Legion Tower 5i with RTX 3060: $800.
Nov 9, 2023 — Best $1,500 PC Build for Gaming ; CPU, Intel Core i5-13600KF, $285 ; Motherboard, Gigabyte Z790 UD AX, $169 ; GPU, Nvidia RTX 4070, $569 ; RAM...
Jun 27, 2021 — Of the two, the 3200g pc is the better buy. For gaming, the graphics card is all important. The Ibuypower is a terrible gamer. The GT710...
forums.pcgamer.com
I recently decided to build myself a budget gaming desktop. Got tired of console gaming. And the first game and one of my reasons for the ...
If you want a budget PC youll probably need twice that. You can get a cheaper Gpu on eBay for like $80 (like a Radeon 570 or something), but ...
$6000 for a PC is ridiculous. Under $1000 budget an Xbox is still your best option. But (and of course, this is speculation based on everything...
New to build PC's and want to build a budget gaming PC. ; CPU, AMD Ryzen 5 5600 3.5 GHz 6-Core Processor, $134.98 @ Newegg ; Motherboard, ASRock ...
Need something that is good with video editing/multi tasking and can run games like Fortnite, Apex at a good FPS rate. My budget is gonna be at...
Best Gaming PC 2023 For Every Budget! - YouTube
The Best Prebuilt Gaming PC in 2023! No matter what your budget is, this video will help you figure out what the right gaming PC for you is.
