The best budget gaming PCs allow you to get your hands on a solid gaming setup without breaking the bank. While it’s tempting to chase the newest graphics cards, CPUs, and motherboards, there’s a smarter way to approach this.
Jump to a detailed look at the best budget gaming PCs, or check the list below:
TL;DR Best Budget Gaming PCs
Instead of splurging on the latest tech, consider a budget-friendly gaming PC that’s still more than up to the task of handling your favorite games. By making savvy choices, you can trim down your expenses without sacrificing the gaming performance you crave.
You can also see our guide on the differences between gaming PCs and laptops.
The Best Budget Gaming PCs
1. HP Victus 15L
Budget AMD Power
Pros:
- Different configurations depending on budget
- Upgrade potential
Cons:
- Low RAM and storage on base specs
Available in two colors, silver and white, the cheapest configuration for the Victus by HP 15L has a configuration that starts somewhere around $700. This configuration gets you an 8-core AMD Ryzen 5 5600G, AMD RX 6400, 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256 GB SSD storage. This is good enough to run popular esports games like Warzone and Rocket League at respectable frame rates.
There are other options to push the specs up a bit more including a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER and 16GB RAM for under $800. The case also has enough room to be upgradeable as well.
2. CLX Set
Esports Capability in an Affordable Package
Pros:
- Lifetime labor warranty
- Decent FPS
Cons:
- Restricted to 1080p gaming
One of the most helpful things about CLX’s online store is that the configuration tool will give potential buyers an estimated frame rate average at 1080p. For the $600 CLX Set, comes with an impressive package. This includes a 6-core AMD Ryzen 5 5600G, AMD Radeon RX Vega 7, 16GB DDR4 and 1 TB SSD storage.
According to the configuration tool, this setup can provide 80 frames per second at 1080p on Fortnite. Meanwhile, Apex Legends can get up to 45 fps at the same resolution. Like many CLX builds, the Set comes with a lifetime labor warranty and lifetime support.
3. HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop
If a Powerful GPU Is Important
Pros:
- Powerful dedicated GPU
- Stylish case
Cons:
- Very small SSD
For under $900, the Omen 25L comes with respectable system specs. The rig comes with a 6-core Intel i5, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050, 8 GB DDR4 and 256 GB SSD. For around $200 more, you can bump the RAM up to 16GB and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060.
Regardless of the configuration, the Omen 25L is upgradable as well. Like many desktops from Omen, the Gaming Hub grants gamers multiple performance and RGB lighting options as well.
4. CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR
Entry-Level VR Budget Gaming PC
Pros:
- VR-capable
- Includes keyboard and mouse
Cons:
- Low warranty on parts
The $1,100 CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR features a configuration that’s built for low-mid tier VR and is perfect for pairing with one of the best VR headsets. On its own, it works as a respectable gaming PC. This setup features a 6-core Intel i5, 8GB DDR4 RAM, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super and 500GB SSD storage.
There are also some extras like an included mouse and keyboard. Featuring a one year warranty on parts and labor, the gaming desktop also comes with free lifetime tech support.
5. Skytech Shadow
A Well-Rounded Gaming PC for Beginners
Pros:
- Room to upgrade
- RGB fans
Cons:
- Power supply could be beefier
If you’re looking for an entry-level machine that still packs a powerful punch, the Skytech Shadow offers some respectable specs for those looking to enter the PC gaming landscape. There’s a 6-core Intel i5 12th gen processor matched with Nvidia Geforce RTX 3060 Ti graphics, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and 1 TB SSD storage.
This alone should allow for some mid-to-high settings gaming and high refresh rates at 1080p. You’ll also find four RGB fans to keep things frosty and a tempered glass side panel to show off components, while the case is roomy for easy upgrades.
6. iBUYPOWER SlateMR281Av2
Best Budget 1080p Gaming PC
Pros:
- Tempered glass case
- Includes keyboard and mouse
Cons:
- Low warranty on parts and labor
At $1,000, the iBUYPOWER SlateMR281Av2 features some respectable specs including a 6-core AMD Ryzen 5, GeForce RTX 3060, 16GB DDR4 RAM and 500GB storage. The case itself has tempered glass with RGB lighting alongside an additional gaming keyboard and mouse.
There are also other configurations available for more that can spruce up the power for several hundreds dollars more. Meanwhile, there’s also a one year warranty on parts and labor.
7. Asus ROG Strix G16
A Feature-Rich Intel and Nvidia Combo
Pros:
- Extremely stylish
- Good performance
Cons:
- Costs over $1,000
Aside from its undeniably stylish look, which really is eye poppingly awesome, the Asus ROG Strix G16 comes packed full of decent hardware that won’t stretch your budget too much. For $1,200, you’re getting a 13th-Gen i7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, Windows 11 Home pre-installed, and an RTX 3060. This will allow you to play the latest games on max settings, offering a solid build that you can upgrade later down the line.
The SSD storage is the perfect companion for gaming performance, allowing you to run apps and games quickly. You might need to increase the size in the future, but it’s a great starting point where you can install several large games and other files. And thanks to the case you’re getting in this purchase, there’s plenty of room to expand and upgrade when your budget allows for it.
8. Acer Predator Orion 3000
Best Nvidia RTX 3060 Gaming PC Under $1,250
Pros:
- High frame rates
- Customizable RGB lighting
Cons:
- Low-quality keyboard and mouse
Acer’s Predator Orion 3000 comes with a lot packed in. Performance wise, the gaming desktop comes with a beefy 12-core Intel i7, GeForce RTX 3060, 16GB DDR4 and 512GB SSD for storage.
The Predator Orion 3000 also comes with an additional keyboard and mouse. Through the included PredatorSense app, you’ll be able to make changes to performance to RGB lighting. All of that is backed by a one year warranty with free tech support.
9. Lenovo Legion Tower 5i Gen 8
Best Budget Gaming PC With a Large SSD
Pros:
- DDR5 RAM
- Customizable RGB lighting
Cons:
- Lacks front USB-C port
Lenovo’s Legion Tower series has earned a reputation for being some of the best entry-level gaming desktops available. Although this pick is at the higher end of the budget market, the Legion Tower 5i Gen 8 comes packing some impressive specs that may just be worth the splurge. From its 16-core 13th-gen Intel i7 processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics to the fast 16 GB DDR5 memory and 1TB SSD storage, you’ll be good to play pretty much every title at its highest settings in 1080p with respectable frame rates in 1440p as well.
All that performance prowess is maintained thanks to a healthy dose of cooling, including a mesh panel on the chassis and three 120mm fans. Lenovo doesn’t forget style with the Legion Tower 5i Gen 8, so you can customize the RGB lighting through the Lenovo Vantage app, which also allows you to personalize performance settings.
10. Asus Rog Ally
Best Handheld Gaming PC
Pros:
- Portable
- Stunning display
Cons:
- Not strictly a desktop PC
Versatile, easy to use, and portable, the Asus Rog Ally hands-down has to be the best handheld gaming PC. No, it’s not a desktop PC, but it seriously packs a punch when it comes down to gaming performance. Running on Windows 11, the Ally is capable of running your favorite games from different platforms, like Steam, GOG, Xbox Game Pass, and more.
The 120Hz 1080p touchscreen uses AMD FreeSync technology to reduce screen tearing. Games run buttery smooth thanks to the console’s Ryzen Z1 CPU and LPDDR5 RAM. If you want a portable gaming PC that’s not really a PC, but works like one, the Asus Rog Ally is a great alternative.
11. MSI Codex R
Best Budget RTX 4060 Gaming PC
Pros:
- 4060 GPU
- Stylish RGBs
Cons:
Fill to the brim with powerful specs like a 13th-Gen i5 processor, RTX 4060 graphics card, and plenty of storage, the MSI Codex R offers great value for money. Yes, it’s more than $1,000, but you do get a lot of performance for the price. While you do sacrifice the next generation of RAM in this configuration, you could easily purchase this setup and upgrade in the future. It gives you a great base to work from.
The stylish case and RGB fans look stunning, even down to the ARGB air cooling. This gaming PC comes pre-installed with Windows 11, and even includes a keyboard and mouse. You can connect multiple monitors to it as well, thanks to the HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort ports.
How to Pick the Best Budget Gaming PC
If you’re wondering how to choose the best budget gaming PC, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Being on a limited budget means you’ll need to prioritize the components that matter most for gaming performance. While it’s easy to get caught up in latest and greatest hardware, remember that you don’t always need top-of-the-line specs to enjoy a decent gaming PC.
Start by focusing on the graphics card, as it plays a crucial role in determining the visual quality of your gaming experience. Look for a graphics card that offers a good balance between performance and price, such as an NVIDIA GTX or AMD Radeon series card. While you may not be able to run games at ultra-high settings, a mid-range graphics card should be more than capable of handling most titles at decent frame rates.
Next, think about the CPU and RAM. A decent quad-core processor from Intel or AMD paired with at least 8GB of RAM should be sufficient for most gaming needs. If you can squeeze a little extra budget into upgrading either of these components, it will be well worth it in the long run.
Storage is another important consideration when choosing a budget gaming PC. However, as long as your motherboard supports multiple storage slots, then you can upgrade your storage more down the line. As long as you have enough space for the games you want to play initially, you can get away with lower storage to start with. Make sure you opt for a gaming PC with SSD storage, ideally M.2, as this will reduce boot and load times.
Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of a good power supply and cooling system. A reliable PSU will ensure stable and efficient power delivery to your components, while adequate cooling will help prevent overheating and extend the lifespan of your hardware. This means your gaming PC will last for years to come, allowing you to upgrade it, rather than replace it.
Finding a well-balanced system that offers good gaming performance without unnecessary frills is essential when picking the best budget gaming PC.
FAQs
What Is a Reasonable Budget for a Gaming PC?
Gaming PCs can range in price, anywhere between $600 to $2,000+. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, you can get a decent gaming PC for around, or under, the $1,000 mark.
Is a Gaming PC Worth It for a Casual Gamer?
If you’re a casual gamer, you might not want to spend a lot on your first gaming PC. However, bear in mind that the specs required for a gaming PC will be plenty for everyday tasks too. If you use your PC for work or creative projects, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the performance you get compared to say, a laptop.
Is It Better To Buy a PC or Build One?
Buying a pre-built PC is an easier option if you don’t want to build one. Building a PC can often be cheaper in the long-run, however, if you’re not comfortable researching how to build one, it could be more hassle than it’s worth. Similarly, if you touch a component in the wrong way, or install it incorrectly, you could end up wasting a lot of money.
If you do have the technical know-how and feel comfortable building a PC, however, you’ll have much more control over the components, allowing you to fully customize it to your liking.
