Shopping For a Gaming Computer Cheap? Don’t Go Wrong With a Pre-Built System

If you’re shopping for a gaming computer cheap, you can’t go wrong with a pre-built system. These PCs typically run from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on the hardware and configuration. With the GPU shortage slowly fading, prices are dropping.

You may be tempted to save even more by piecing together your own gaming computer, but that can be risky right now due to supply chain issues and a lack of readily available components. Buying a pre-built system can ensure that you have the best possible configuration for your budget, and it can also save time and hassle.

When shopping for a gaming rig under $1000, the most important consideration is the central processing unit (CPU). You want a CPU that can handle current and future games at high frame rates. This will require a recent generation Intel or AMD processor, or one from an older generation that can still handle modern games at lower settings.

The next important component is the graphics card (GPU). You want a GPU that can support at least high definition (HD) resolution and smooth motion at 60 frames per second (fps). You should avoid systems with outdated GPUs, but if you’re on a tight budget you can get away with a cheaper model.

You should also prioritize storage, opting for a combination of an SSD for operating systems and frequently played games and a large hard drive for storing less-frequently accessed data. Having enough storage space will ensure that you have plenty of room to install new games and updates.

Finally, the RAM should be at least 16GB to allow for smooth multitasking and gameplay. Having enough memory will help with performance and allow you to install more demanding games.

If you’re on a tight budget, it’s also worth considering a gaming laptop instead of a desktop PC. These laptops offer the same processing power as desktop computers but can fit more easily into your bag or backpack. You’ll need to invest in a good quality monitor to enjoy your laptop’s gaming potential, though.

With the 2020 graphics card shortage easing, it’s becoming easier to find PCs with affordable GPUs. You can pick up a mid-range rig for around $1,200 that will handle popular FPS and MOBA games on a 1080p monitor with reasonable settings.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider this gaming computer from iBuyPowerPC. It’s a well-rounded rig that balances performance and price, and it features a 13th generation Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, a 500GB SSD, and a GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card. You’ll need to upgrade the monitor, but that’s not a deal-breaker. Alternatively, you could opt for a more expensive build with a more powerful processor and a higher-end GPU for a few hundred dollars more.