Building your own gaming rig can be a daunting task, and the costs of components can add up quickly, even when trying to save money. Fortunately, there are several best prebuilt gaming PCs that won't break the bank. While opting for a budget option means you won't get the latest top graphics card like an RTX 5090 or a high-end CPU, most gamers will find these to be overkill anyway. Our team of experts has meticulously tested and researched a variety of gaming PCs, selecting five (four desktops and one handheld gaming PC) that offer both affordability and performance.
TL;DR: These Are the Best Budget Gaming PCs
### Alienware Aurora R16
3See it at Dell
### HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop
4See it at HP
### MSI Codex R2
5See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
### CLX Set
5See it at CLX
### Asus Rog Ally Z1
1See it at Amazon
Budget gaming PCs may not match the performance of high-end systems, but they still offer robust gaming experiences. Models equipped with GPUs like the RTX 4060, Intel Arc B580, and AMD Radeon RX 7600 are solid, affordable GPUs that should satisfy the average gamer. If you're willing to stretch your budget slightly, you could even opt for a more powerful RTX 4070 paired with an Intel Core i5. Even with mid-range components, these PCs can deliver high frame rates at 1080p for the best PC games, and some can handle 1440p. These systems also serve as excellent starting points, allowing for future upgrades to enhance performance.
For more information, check out our guide on the differences between gaming PCs and laptops.
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Alienware Aurora R16
The Best Budget Gaming PC Under $2000
### Alienware Aurora R16
3The Alienware Aurora R16 strikes a balance between compact design and powerful performance, capable of handling 1440p gaming effortlessly. See it at DellProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i7-14700FGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4070 SuperRAM16GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage1TB NVMe SSDWeight33.89 poundsSize16.56 x 7.75 x 18.05 inches (H x W x D)PROSStunning aestheticUnique cooling designCONSA little harder to upgrade and maintain than some other gaming PCsAlienware offers a compelling option for gamers looking for high performance without venturing into boutique PC territory. This configuration of the Alienware Aurora R16 packs an Intel Core i7 CPU and an RTX 4070 Super, all for under $2000, providing a competitive value compared to other brands.
The Aurora R16 is Dell's flagship gaming PC, designed to fit comfortably on any desk without occupying too much space. However, its compact size comes with a proprietary motherboard and power supply, which might be a consideration for those planning frequent upgrades.
With a 14th-gen Intel processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super, the Aurora R16 offers ample performance for most gamers, allowing you to max out games at 1440p. For those interested in 4K gaming, the 12GB of VRAM on the RTX 4070 Super might be a limiting factor in more demanding titles.
HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop
The Best Budget Gaming PC Under $1500
### HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop
4This PC, featuring an Intel Core i5 and Nvidia GTX 1660 Super, is well-suited for 1080p gaming and offers easy upgrade paths. See it at HPProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i5-14400FGPUNvidia GTX 1660 SuperRAMKingston FURY 16GB DDR5Storage512GB PCIe NVMe SSDWeight30.45 lbsSize6.50 x 15.59 x 17.64 inchesPROSGreat for 1080p gamingBeautiful white chassis, with ample airflowCONSOlder gen GPUThe HP Omen 25L, with its current-generation hardware, starts at around $1200, featuring a GTX 1660 Super—a GPU that's now two generations old. Despite this, it remains a solid budget choice, especially given the price increases in recent gaming PCs.
Although the GTX 1660 Super may not support the latest features like ray tracing or DLSS, it remains an excellent choice for 1080p casual gaming. The premium chassis enhances this package, offering superior airflow to keep components cool. The use of standard mounts for the motherboard and power supply ensures easy upgrades over time.
MSI Codex R2
Best Budget Gaming PC Under $1000
### MSI Codex R2
5A great option for 1080p gaming, with a spacious chassis that allows for easy upgrades. See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i5-14400FGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4060RAM16GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage1TB NVMe SSD (Gen 3)Weight21.3 poundsSize16 x 19 x 8.38 inches (H x D x W)PROSAttractive chassis designPlenty of room for upgradesCONSVery basic CPU coolerWhen seeking a gaming PC under $1000, compromises are necessary. The MSI Codex R2's main compromise is its cooling system, which features a basic air cooler suitable for the Intel Core i5-14400F but may need upgrading for more powerful CPUs.
The spacious chassis of the Codex R2 makes it an ideal starter system, allowing for easy upgrades. With an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060, this PC is well-equipped for 1080p gaming, ensuring you won't need immediate upgrades.
CLX Set
Best Budget Gaming PC Under $800
### CLX Set
5This PC offers solid performance with a 6-core processor, integrated graphics, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. See it at CLXProduct SpecificationsCPUAMD Ryzen 5 5600G 3.9GHz Hexa-Core GPUAMD Radeon RX Vega 7 integrated graphicsRAM16GB DDR4-3200 Storage1TB NV2 NVMe SSDWeight27 lbsSize14.37 x 7.48 x 14.37 inchesPROSLifetime labor warrantySolid gaming performance, despite integrated GPUCONSOnly suitable for 1080pThe CLX Set offers a customizable gaming experience, with its base model priced at just $599. It features an AMD Ryzen 5 5600G and AMD Radeon RX Vega 7 graphics, capable of delivering smooth gameplay at 1080p in titles like Fortnite and Apex Legends.
With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the CLX Set ensures smooth multitasking. The 1TB of storage provides ample space for your game library. Its toolless case design facilitates easy upgrades, and the lifetime labor warranty adds peace of mind.
The Best Gaming PC Deals
Lenovo Legion Tower 5 AMD Ryzen 7 7700 RTX 4070 Ti Super Gaming PC with 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD (Use Code: EXTRAFIVE)- $1,527.49Acer Predator Orion RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Gaming Desktop- $1,749.99HP OMEN 35L RTX 4060 Ti Gaming Desktop- $1,219.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PC- $1,349.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Gaming PC- $1,099.99### Asus ROG Ally Z1
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5. Asus Rog Ally Z1
Best Budget Handheld Gaming PC Under $500
### Asus Rog Ally Z1
1The Asus ROG Ally offers a portable gaming solution that runs Windows 11, making it an excellent alternative to the Steam Deck. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCPUAMD Ryzen Z1GPUIntegrated AMD Radeon GraphicsRAM16GB DDR5Storage512GB SSD M.2Weight608gSize11.02 x 4.37 x 0.83 inchesPROSPortableStunning displayCONSTechnically not a desktop PCThe Asus ROG Ally, though not a traditional desktop, is an excellent choice for those looking to play PC games on a budget. Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1, it can handle most games at 1080p on medium-to-low settings, offering a portable and versatile gaming experience.
With the current market trends, securing current-generation PC components under $500 is challenging, making the ROG Ally a smart choice for budget-conscious gamers.
How Much Should I Spend on a Gaming PC?
For most gamers, a budget between $1,000 and $1,500 strikes the right balance for a reliable gaming PC. If your budget is tighter, you can still find a solid gaming rig, but it's crucial to prioritize components wisely. Opting for a last-generation graphics card like the RTX 3050 can significantly reduce costs while still providing strong performance.
Start by prioritizing the graphics card, as it heavily influences gaming performance. Aim for a balanced GPU like an NVIDIA GTX or AMD Radeon series. While ultra-high settings might be out of reach, these cards can handle most games at respectable frame rates.
Next, focus on the CPU and RAM. A reliable quad-core processor from Intel or AMD, paired with at least 8GB of RAM, should suffice for most gaming needs. Upgrading either component can significantly enhance your system's longevity.
Storage is another key consideration. Opt for a PC with SSD storage, ideally M.2, to reduce boot and load times. If your motherboard supports multiple storage slots, you can always upgrade later.
Finally, don't overlook the importance of a good power supply and cooling system. A reliable PSU ensures stable power delivery, while adequate cooling prevents overheating, extending your hardware's lifespan and allowing for future upgrades.
Finding a well-balanced system that offers solid gaming performance without unnecessary frills is key when choosing the best budget gaming PC.
Budget Gaming PC FAQs
What is a reasonable budget for a gaming PC?
Gaming PCs can range from $600 to $2,000+. However, a decent gaming PC can often be found for around $1,000 or less.
Is a gaming PC worth it for a casual gamer?
For casual gamers, a gaming PC can be a worthwhile investment, especially if it's also used for work or creative projects, offering superior performance compared to a standard laptop.
Is it cheaper to buy a PC or build one?
Buying a pre-built PC is easier, but building one can be more cost-effective in the long run. However, building a PC requires technical knowledge and can be riskier if components are mishandled or installed incorrectly.
Best Budget Gaming PC UK
### Budget Power Victus by HP 15L Gaming Desktop
2See it
### Powerful GPU HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop
0See it
