Crafting the Perfect Budget Gaming PC

Looking for top-tier gameplay without the hefty price? This guide walks you through building a cost-effective rig that delivers big performance.

1. Selecting the CPU

Opt for budget-friendly processors such as the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or Intel Core i5-12400F. These chips deliver solid frame rates without breaking the bank.

2. Choosing Your Graphics Card

Consider GPUs like the Nvidia GTX 1660 Super or AMD RX 6600 XT. They easily handle 1080p at ultra settings while remaining affordable.

3. Motherboard & Memory

Pick a B550 or B660 motherboard with robust VRMs. Pair it with 16GB of DDR4 RAM at 3200MHz for seamless gaming and multitasking.

4. Storage Strategy

Install a 500GB NVMe SSD for your operating system and favorite games, plus a 1TB SATA SSD for additional storage. This combo balances speed and space.

5. Power Supply & Cooling

Select a 550W 80+ Bronze PSU from a reputable brand. Use a stock CPU cooler or a budget air cooler to maintain safe temperatures under load.

6. Case & Peripherals

Choose a case with good airflow and cable management features. For peripherals, a reliable keyboard-and-mouse set under £50 offers excellent value.

7. Assembly & Validation

Follow each component’s manual, apply thermal paste correctly, and run benchmarks like Cinebench and 3DMark to confirm system stability.

By following these steps, you’ll end up with a high-performance gaming PC that stays within your budget. Happy building and gaming!