Introduction
Building a gaming PC has emerged as a widespread and admired leisure activity, as many individuals aspire to enjoy their gaming experience on their own terms. However, creating a high-performance gaming setup comes with a hefty price tag, causing it to be unaffordable for most people. The good news is that it is possible to construct a gaming PC within a limited budget, without compromising on performance.
This article intends to offer a comprehensive and detailed guide on how to build a gaming PC while keeping expenses at a minimum. It is natural to feel overwhelmed by the thought of creating a PC from scratch, but we will simplify the process by breaking it down into straightforward steps. From selecting the appropriate components to piecing them together to construct a fully functional gaming PC, we will provide assistance throughout the entire procedure.
Whether you are a seasoned PC builder or a first timer, our guide will help you create an affordable gaming setup that delivers an exceptional gaming experience, without burning a hole in your pocket. So, fasten your seatbelts and let’s embark on this exciting journey of building your very own gaming PC!
Step 1: Set a Budget
When embarking on the task of creating a budget for building a gaming PC, the initial and fundamental step is to establish a financial limit. This crucial first step will aid in determining the total amount that can be expended on the computer’s components and the level of performance that can be expected from it.
In the matter of setting a budget, practicality and realism are essential factors to consider. It is ill-advised to overspend and procure a gaming PC that surpasses your budgetary constraints. However, a budget that is too low may result in a gaming PC that falls short of your desired performance expectations.
Fortunately, it is feasible to construct a budget gaming PC with as little as $500. For improved performance, a budget closer to $1,300 may be necessary. It is important to keep in mind that the prices of PC components may vary depending on a variety of circumstances, such as sales, promotions, and availability. Therefore, it may be prudent to be on the lookout for discounts and sales to save some funds.
A viable method to determine your budget is to evaluate your requirements and preferences. Contemplate the category of games you wish to play, their system requirements, and the level of performance you wish to achieve. If you intend to play games that demand advanced graphics capabilities, a greater portion of your budget should be allocated to the graphics card. Conversely, if you prefer to play casual games that do not necessitate a substantial amount of processing power, some funds can be conserved on the processor and graphics card.
An additional aspect to keep in mind when setting a budget is the computer’s potential upgradability. As you utilize your gaming PC, you may desire to enhance its capabilities in the future to keep pace with the latest games and technology. Therefore, it would be beneficial to invest in components that can be upgraded without having to replace the entire computer.
Setting a budget is of utmost importance when constructing a budget gaming PC. It facilitates the determination of the total amount that can be spent, which components to prioritize, and what level of performance can be expected. It is essential to maintain a practical and realistic approach when establishing a budget and keep future upgradability in mind. In the subsequent stage, we shall delve into selecting the appropriate processor for your budget gaming PC.
After setting an initial price tag for both the parts themselves and their labor costs (if applicable), consider adding in any optional extras like extra RAM/SSD storage drives or extra monitors as well.
Step 2: Choose the Right CPU & Video Card
Once you’ve decided on a video card, it’s time to choose the right CPU. CPUs are the brains of your computer, and they have a lot to do with how fast your PC can run games and other applications.
CPUs can be split into two categories: clock speed and number of cores. A higher clock speed generally means better performance than a lower one, but only if both have similar numbers of cores (or “cores”). The best gaming CPUs tend to be ones with high core counts because they’ll be able to handle more tasks at once—but there are other factors at play too. For example, some chips may have better power efficiency than others; therefore saving money on electricity bills could also help save money on buying an expensive new chip from Intel or AMD!
Step 3: Pick the right Motherboard
When it pertains to fabricating an economical gaming PC, the selection of a fitting motherboard is paramount. The motherboard is the chief printed circuit board that interconnects all the other constituents of your PC. Absent it, your PC will not competently operate. Therefore, it is indispensable to choose a motherboard that corresponds to your needs and is congruous with your preferred Central Processing Unit (CPU).
Initially, one must contemplate the compatibility of the motherboard with the CPU. Distinct CPUs require distinct categories of motherboards, therefore it is pivotal to ensure that they are consistent with one another. To illustrate, if you select an Intel processor, you will necessitate selecting a motherboard with an LGA 1151 socket. Conversely, if you choose an AMD processor, you will need to select a motherboard with an AM4 socket.
In addition to compatibility, one must also contemplate the features one requires in a motherboard. Some of the key features to ruminate on consist of assistance for high-velocity memory, manifold USB ports, and expansion slots. The quantity and category of expansion slots on the motherboard will regulate what additional constituents you can supplement to your PC in the future.
A well-received option for an economical build is the MSI B450 Tomahawk MAX motherboard. This motherboard is compatible with the latest AMD Ryzen processors and supports high-velocity DDR4 memory. It also arrives with manifold USB ports, encompassing Type-C, which is increasingly becoming prevalent.
An additional factor to consider when selecting a motherboard is its form factor. The form factor designates the magnitude and configuration of the motherboard, which, in turn, affects the size of your PC case. Common form factors encompass ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX. ATX is the largest, whereas Mini-ITX is the tiniest. It is critical to choose a form factor that corresponds to your PC case and has sufficient capacity for all your constituents.
To sum up, the selection of an appropriate motherboard is critical when building an economical gaming PC. Ensure that it is congruous with your selected CPU and comprises the features you require, such as support for high-velocity memory and manifold USB ports. Deliberate on the form factor and ensure that it corresponds to your PC case. The MSI B450 Tomahawk MAX is a prevalent option for an economical build, but research and compare different alternatives before making a final verdict. In the next step, we will delve into how to select the fitting graphics card for your budget gaming PC.
Step 4: Select the appropriate RAM
Now that you’ve selected your processor and motherboard, it’s time to turn your attention to the RAM.
Selecting appropriate RAM is a vital step when constructing a budget-friendly gaming PC. RAM or random access memory is responsible for storing data that your computer is presently utilizing. The more RAM you have, the better performance you can expect from your computer as it can store more data.
When choosing the right RAM, several factors must be considered. One such factor is the amount of RAM you require. For a gaming PC constructed within a budget, it is recommended to have a minimum of 8GB of RAM. However, if you wish to enjoy a smooth gaming experience with no lag, it is advisable to go for 16GB or more.
The clock speed of the RAM is another essential factor to consider when selecting the appropriate RAM. Clock speed is the rate at which the RAM operates and is measured in MHz (megahertz). Higher clock speeds result in faster data transfer rates, which means better overall performance. Look for RAM with a clock speed of at least 2400MHz, but if your budget allows, opt for RAM with a higher clock speed.
DDR or Double Data Rate is a type of RAM that has been in use since the early 2000s. DDR4 is the current standard for modern PCs and has significant improvements over its predecessors. DDR4 RAM is faster, more power-efficient, and can handle higher bandwidths than DDR3 and DDR2.
There are different types of DDR4 RAM available, such as DDR4-2133, DDR4-2400, DDR4-2666, DDR4-3000, DDR4-3200, and DDR4-3600. The number after DDR4 signifies the clock speed of the RAM. As mentioned earlier, higher clock speeds result in better performance, but they also come at a higher cost.
In addition to the clock speed, the timings of the RAM are also essential. RAM timings refer to the latency between the memory controller and the RAM. The lower the timings, the faster the RAM will respond. However, lower timings come at a higher cost.
When selecting RAM for your budget-friendly gaming PC, finding a balance between clock speed, timings, and the cost is critical. DDR4-2400 or DDR4-2666 RAM with a CAS latency of 16 or lower is a good starting point.
Apart from RAM, there is another type of memory called ROM or read-only memory. ROM stores firmware and other critical software required to boot your PC. Unlike RAM, ROM is non-volatile, meaning it retains its data even when the PC is turned off.
In conclusion, choosing the appropriate RAM is crucial when constructing a budget-friendly gaming PC. Consider the amount of RAM required, clock speed, timings, and the DDR type. DDR4 is the current standard for modern PCs and offers significant improvements over its predecessors. When selecting RAM, look for a balance between clock speed, timings, and cost, and do not forget to factor in the cost of other components when setting your budget. In the next section, we will discuss how to choose the right graphics card for your budget-friendly gaming PC.
Step 5: Choose the Right Graphics Card
Once you’ve decided on your CPU, it’s time to choose the right graphics card. The selection of a graphics card is a momentous decision. The graphics card, which is also referred to as a GPU, is the one accountable for the rendering of the images, videos, and other visual aspects that you encounter on your computer display when gaming.
Two prominent manufacturers of graphics cards exist in the market: Nvidia and AMD. Both proffer a wide array of choices for gamers, however, it is of great significance to select a card that suits your requirements and financial plan. The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super and the AMD Radeon RX 580 are both remarkable choices for a budget gaming PC.
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super is categorized as a mid-range GPU that provides excellent performance for its price. It was constructed with Nvidia’s Turing architecture and contains 6GB of GDDR6 memory. The GTX 1660 Super can handle most modern games with ease at 1080p resolution and medium to high graphics settings. Moreover, it has a low power consumption rate, which makes it an energy-efficient option.
On the contrary, the AMD Radeon RX 580 is slightly older compared to the GTX 1660 Super, but it is still a good choice for budget gaming builds. It has 8GB of GDDR5 memory and can deal with most games at 1080p resolution with medium to high graphics settings. It also has AMD’s FreeSync technology, which can eradicate screen tearing and stuttering.
Ultimately, the preference between the two aforementioned cards hinges on the individual’s predilection and budget. Researching and comparing the specifications and costs of various GPUs are crucial in order to find the most fitting one for you.
Step 6: Get a Suitable Power Supply
It’s paramount not to disregard the potency of the power supply unit (PSU). The PSU has the responsibility of supplying electricity to every component of your computer. Without an appropriate PSU, your computer will not function correctly or may even be unable to turn on.
When picking out a PSU, it is crucial to ensure that it has adequate wattage to power all the components. A 500W PSU is typically adequate for a budget gaming computer, but it is prudent to verify the power requirements for your specific components. Some high-end graphics cards may necessitate a higher-wattage PSU.
Furthermore, you should also deliberate on the efficiency rating of the PSU. An 80 Plus certified PSU should be the minimum target, as it denotes that the PSU is at least 80% efficient at a standard load. A greater efficiency rating signifies less wasted energy and reduced electricity bills.
Regarding brands, Corsair, EVGA, and Seasonic are some of the most sought-after and trustworthy PSU manufacturers. These brands offer an array of PSUs to satisfy different budgets and requirements. It is imperative to select a PSU from a reputable brand to guarantee that it is trustworthy and safe to use.
Regarding the form factor, the majority of PSUs are fashioned to fit into regular ATX cases. Nevertheless, if you are constructing a smaller form factor computer, you may require a smaller PSU that is designed for mini-ITX or micro-ATX cases.
Power supplies can be expensive, especially if you’re buying one from a manufacturer like EVGA or Corsair. They also tend to be on the larger side compared to other components in your build (usually somewhere between 400W-700W).
Overall, when selecting a PSU for your budget gaming computer, ensure that you contemplate the wattage, efficiency rating, brand, and form factor to ensure that it is a fitting and trustworthy option for your build.
Step 7: Pick a Suitable Case
Now that you have all the parts, it’s time to pick out a case. Make sure that you have enough space for your components and all of their cables, as well as room for any upgrades in the future. Also consider how easy it will be for you to install the motherboard, power supply unit (PSU), video card(s) or other expansion cards into the correct slots on your new PC build. Finally, check out reviews of cases online before deciding which one best suit your needs—you can find plenty of information about each model online HERE.
The Total Cost of Building a Powerful Gaming PC
| ITEM | PRICE |
| CPU | $349.00 |
| Video Card | $389.99 |
| Motherboard | $169.99 |
| RAM | $57.99 |
| Graphics Card | $119.98 |
| Power Supply | $54.99 |
| PC Case | $104.99 |
| TOTAL COST | $1,246.93 |
Step 8: Install the Components
Now that you’ve assembled all of your parts, it’s time to install them.
- Install the motherboard. A motherboard is a piece of electronics that holds everything together, including CPU and RAM slots, power connectors and fans or vents for cooling down heat produced by components in the computer’s processor and graphics card.
- Install the CPU (Central Processing Unit). The central processing unit (CPU) is what runs all other parts of your gaming PC; it converts data from analog forms into digital equivalents so they can be processed by other chips on their way through your machine before being displayed on screen as text or images in games such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive or League of Legends (LoL). The faster this happens—meaning how many instructions per second available for execution—the smoother performance will be throughout gameplay sessions where high levels demand more than usual speed from hardware components like CPUs without laggy response times between events happening simultaneously across multiple screens at once during gameplay sessions like first person shooters where players must react quickly enough not only against enemies but also take advantage when possible openings appear during combat situations where there’s plenty going on around them too!
Step 9: Install the Operating System and Drivers
Once you’ve completed the hardware, it’s time to install the operating system and drivers.
- Install the operating system. You can choose between Windows 11,10, 8 or 7 depending on what you prefer; all have their own pros and cons (and are updated regularly). If you’re using a PC for gaming purposes only, stick with Windows 10 as it’s more stable than its predecessors and offers better performance when it comes to gaming. The only downside is that it doesn’t come preloaded with many games like its predecessors did—but fear not! There are plenty of other places in this guide where I’ll show how to get your favorite titles installed on your new rig so don’t worry about missing out on anything by going straight into #10 below!
- Install the drivers needed for each piece of hardware connected via USB ports such as keyboard, mouse etc… Some USB devices need additional software programs installed before they will work properly with Linux distributions such as Ubuntu 16 LTS edition which uses open-source components instead of proprietary ones found within Microsoft Corporation’s products (Nvidia Corporation).
Step 10: Enjoy Your New Gaming PC
Now that your gaming PC is built and ready to go, it’s time to enjoy some of the benefits of having a powerful machine at your disposal. You can now play games on it, stream videos from Netflix or YouTube, or do other things that would otherwise require a lot more power than what you have now.
If you want more power in general—and there’s no reason not to—you’ll need to upgrade whenever possible. That might mean adding another graphics card (or two) so that video games look even better than before; adding more RAM; upgrading the processor; etcetera…
Conclusion
So, now that you know how to build a gaming PC, it’s time to start building your own. We hope this guide has been helpful and we wish you lots of fun with your new rig!