Are you interested in getting a gaming PC but don’t want to break the bank? Building an affordable yet powerful gaming PC is a highly practical and rewarding approach. In this guide, we’ll explore the best prebuilt and custom-built options available under $700, with a focus on configurations that won't exceed $1000.
Exploring Prebuilt Gaming PCs with the Z440
For those like you who are interested in prebuilt gaming PCs, the Intel Z440 with a 6-core E1530 at 3.5 GHz, a GTX 1060 graphics card, and 32 GB of RAM is a great option. This configuration is not only cost-effective but also comes in at around $400, making it an excellent value. The inclusion of an NVMe adapter card makes it even more versatile, allowing for smooth booting and quick system recovery.
Advantages of Building Your Own PC
While prebuilt PCs have their advantages, building your own offers a significant level of control and potential for cost savings. Unlike prebuilt PCs, building your own allows you to choose the exact components you need, ensuring that your PC meets your specific requirements. It’s akin to a do-it-yourself (DIY) project, where you can find numerous step-by-step guides on platforms like YouTube. Moreover, you get to familiarize yourself with your hardware, enhancing your long-term ownership experience.
Best Prebuilt Gaming PC: HP Z230
In my experience, the HP Z230 is undoubtedly one of the best prebuilt gaming PCs on the market. The Z230 comes with an i7-4790 CPU, 16GB DDR3-1600 RAM, and a 400W power supply with a single 6-pin PCIe power cable, which can accommodate higher-end GPUs like the RTX 3060. However, opting for a GTX 1070, 1660 Super, or an RX 6600/560T would be more financially viable. A 2TB SATA SSD would be ideal, although a 1TB system drive and 1TB game drive can be combined for around the same price.
Finding Value for Your Money
While the global silicon shortage has made purchasing a gaming PC more expensive, it is still possible to find deals if you know where to look. However, your expectations should be tempered as you likely won’t find a truly cutting-edge setup under $1000. Instead, aim for a system that can serve you well now and provide options for future upgrades.
The Best Budget AMD CPU Options
If you lean towards AMD processors with integrated graphics, the Ryzen 4650G, 4600G, or 3400G are excellent choices. These CPUs offer low-end gaming capabilities for modern AAA titles, though you shouldn’t set your expectations too high. The key is to find a decent graphics card later on to significantly boost your system performance. For future-proofing, avoid major brand names like HP, Dell, or Lenovo, as their proprietary or low-quality components can hinder upgrades. Building your own system or getting a custom build is usually the best route, as builders often know what will work best for you and can offer valuable guidance.
Conclusion: Building an affordable yet powerful gaming PC requires careful consideration of your budget and long-term needs. By choosing the right components and following a few key tips, you can create a gaming PC that not only meets your expectations but also stands the test of time.