A prebuilt gaming PC is an option because it saves time compared to building your own. However, if you’re serious about gaming, it’s worth it to splurge on a bespoke PC because it’ll look cooler and run smoother than a generic machine. Building a PC may also be less expensive for some people. But, in reality, how much does a gaming PC cost?
Everything a computer needs can be bought in a store or online for a cheaper price. As we go along, we will discover the real cost of a gaming PC. This will help you budget your gaming needs and requirements.
Customizing Your PC: How Much Does a Gaming PC Cost in 2022?
You need to put together a desktop laptop, but you have no idea how much you should budget for it. Unfortunately, there is no clear response to how much does a gaming PC cost. You can get a gaming computer for anywhere between $300 and $2,000.00. The cost of a gaming PC, like that of any other type of computer, depends on how it will be used. This section will list several potential configurations for a gaming PC. This article is for anyone looking to buy a gaming PC.
Gaming PCs for Budget ($300 – $700)
When shopping for a low-cost gaming computer, don’t assume that you can get away with subpar performance. You can get a passable 30 frames per second on most recent games at low to medium settings.
Motherboards with Intel Core i5-9400F processors, GeForce GTX 1660 graphics cards, Gigabyte Z390 UD motherboards, and 16GB of DDR4 RAM are all on sale. There is also a 500 GB solid-state drive offered.
Gaming PCs in the Mid-Range ($700 – $1200)
The moniker may be misleading, but a mid-range gaming PC will be more than capable of running numerous games at ultra-settings at frame rates approaching 60 fps. Prices for mid-tier gaming PCs typically range from $700 to $1200. With that money, you can acquire a high-end graphics card like the Nvidia RTX2060 and a 9th-generation Intel Core i7 processor.
Gaming PCs for High-End Gaming ($ 1200 and beyond)
If you’re not just a hobbyist and want to be productive, spend at least $1,200. To construct a top-tier gaming computer, you’ll need robust hardware. Some examples are the Nvidia 2080 Super or the ASUS TUF Z390-Plus graphics cards, both of which are compatible with the 9th generation Intel Core i9 processor. If you’ve got the chops, you can simply dispatch your foes with the help of this PC.
Tips for Constructing a Custom Video Game Computer
Purchasing a gaming PC is not a decision to be made on the fly. Some of the variables that may determine the final cost of a dedicated gaming PC include:
Significant Internal Components
After getting a feel again for the big picture of your computer’s situation, we can go into the specifics. These are the inner ware you’ll need for your gaming rig:
1-The Processor
The microprocessor (or CPU) is the “brain” of your gaming PC, performing the necessary arithmetic and processing to make your games playable.
Rule of thumb: If you’re building a gaming PC, go for the fastest CPU you can afford. A quad-core processor, however, should be sufficient for gaming optimization.
The 5600x, which costs $300, is a superb gaming CPU (in conjunction with a GPU). Above that, costs typically level off at around the $900 mark. to prevent your GPU from being slowed down too much and to save money. Then you should carefully examine how powerful a CPU you actually need.
2-A Motherboard
Computers can’t function without the motherboard, the central circuit board to which all other parts connect, and which serves as the chassis for the machine. Your motherboard needs a CPU socket and RAM expansion slots.
You can get a compatible motherboard for about $125 if you’re prepared to update the BIOS. Remember that this is likely the final CPU upgrade cycle for these motherboards, so you may need to buy a new one if you decide to change your CPU in the future. It’s possible to spend $200-$300 on a more future-proof motherboard.
3-A Power Supply Unit
A power supply, which feeds electricity to your gaming PC’s many parts, is one of the most expensive necessities. A power supply should be able to handle all your components and any future additions. Always seek a power source with more wattage than you expect to require, just in case.
4-Random Access Memory (RAM)
RAM temporarily stores information on a computer. More RAM means a more fluid gaming experience on your custom gaming PC. However, how much memory (RAM) is ideal for playing games? At the very least, you’ll need 8 GB for everything to run smoothly, and we strongly advise upgrading to 16 GB.
External Components
The act of questioning: Can you tell me how much it would cost to assemble your own computer? Typically, they give the processor an excessive amount of attention to the detriment of other parts. Please remember to budget for the following items:
1-CPU Cooler
Every gaming PC needs a CPU cooler, a little device that sits atop the CPU and dissipates heat. A CPU cooler can direct the heat away from the central processing unit (CPU) and can prevent your processor from overheating. CPU coolers come in three varieties: air coolers, liquid coolers, and AIO (all-in-one) coolers.
2-Storage (Hard Drives and SSDs)
All your media files, like videos, pictures, and music, will be kept here. Having at least a single hard drive (or SSD) is required when constructing a gaming PC. However, extra storage drives can be added if necessary. Select an SSD that has at least 120GB of space if you can’t pay more.
3-A Graphics Card (GPU)
Your video card renders all the images and animations you see in games. But it’s recommended to purchase the most potent GPU within your means. Allocating more than 45 percent of your overall expenditure on the device is unnecessary.
The global shortage of chips, a necessary component of GPUs, was triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. The current crypto mining boom, in which people make money by buying and selling large quantities of graphics cards, has also had a significant impact on the GPU market.
4-A Monitor
Since this is what you’ll be staring at when gaming, it’s important to give it some thought in terms of size, quality, and refresh rate. The recommended resolution for a gaming monitor is 1920 x 1080 (Full HD), but you can obtain a higher-resolution display when you create a gaming PC if you desire. In general, a 27-inch monitor is ideal for gaming, though this number is flexible. Most users won’t notice a difference with a 60 Hz refresh rate, but serious gamers will want something faster.
5-A PC Case
Your gaming PC’s chassis is where all the parts live. Numerous options are available for situations, so picking one is entirely subjective. Since the speed of the computer is unaffected by whether or not you get a basic case, A costly one with lights but also many fans, or a perceived one, is the one component that really can help you save money when designing a gaming PC.
6-Keyboard, Mouse, Speakers
Many players claim that their gaming experience has been greatly improved. The addition of a gaming keyboard, mouse, and speakers, all of which are peripherals. You can get by with a standard keyboard and mouse if you’re really strapped for cash. If you want to have the best time possible, you should spring for some gaming-specific hardware that has flashy LED lights and unique aesthetics.
7-Case Fans
It is a case-by-case basis for how fans are used in each situation. Multiple fans may or may not be pre-installed in a computer chassis. It’s important to note that not all cases are created equal and that different sizes of fans require different sized cases. Different sizes, airflow rates, and the availability of customizable RGB lighting all contribute to a wide price range for fans. A case fan can cost anything from ten dollars for a basic 120mm fan to twenty dollars for a fancy RGB 140mm fan.
8-Computer Case
It’s crucial that you pick the correct computer casing for your custom PC. Which system you can construct is dependent on the use case you select. Don’t forget that not every setup will always be applicable.
Many different types of cases exist, and it’s possible that none of them will fit your system’s essential components. Additionally, not all covers are made equal in terms of keeping your computer at a consistent temperature. And typically, a PC case with greater airflow will cost more.
9-Other Peripherals
You will also need a computer monitor, a keyboard, a mouse, speakers, and a headset in addition to the computer itself. Like your components, peripherals come in a broad variety of performance levels, each with its own associated price. The costliest component is the monitor, which may run you anywhere from $100 to the thousands.
Initial Gaming PC Cost: A Reasonable Budget
A novice has a lot of leeway in terms of potential approaches, but they should remain vigilant and open-minded. It’s important to consider both your budget and the games you play when deciding which grade of gaming machine to purchase. Several varieties of affordable computers are on the market, with prices starting at less than $700.
The middle one cost less than $1,100, and the costliest one cost over $1,500. The odds of succeeding in getting what you want are dramatically increased. If you can articulate your desires clearly. If you want to get the most out of your money, build a gaming PC that is unique to your needs. It’s a good idea to spend money on a high-end gaming computer. We are here to assist you in obtaining the lowest possible cost and maximum price.
Cheap vs Expensive Gaming Setup
Using the available data, you must verify that your current spending plan is adequate to play the games you desire and achieve the desired performance levels. In the event that your funds fall short of meeting the bare minimum, you may want to consider fabricating your own machine out of refurbished or salvaged components.
Cheap Gaming PC Pros & Cons
If you’re short on cash, a low-end system can be a stopgap for PC gaming. These setups typically cost between $600 and $1200 USD. These PCs are fine for playing older games or multiplayer online battle arenas, but they may not be the best option for someone who wants to play the most recent open world role-playing games or tactical shooters.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Less expensive | Maybe not able to handle virtual reality |
| Produce less thermal energy | Typically, unsightly and aesthetically unsound |
| It’s more likely to be a used item at this pricing | Possibly cannot play the newest games |
Expensive Gaming PC Pros & Cons
Premium gaming PCs are more expensive than their budget counterparts, but they often deliver much superior performance in a wide range of gaming scenarios. You should expect to spend an average of $1,500 to $2,000 USD to create a powerful gaming computer.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Streaming-ready and -ready-to-stream | Higher electrical bill demands |
| Infinite visual detail without compromise | Usually, you’ll have to construct it yourself |
| Better performance thanks to increased frame rates | Causes a noticeable increase in temperature in a room |
Average Price of Cheap Gaming PC
A low-cost personal computer (PC) is a great way to dip your toes into the gaming world without spending a fortune. You can improve your system’s performance over time by upgrading individual parts, such as the hard drive, processor, and graphics card. It’s smarter to buy a low-end gaming PC for $300–$800 USD right now and upgrade it later as funds permit.
On online marketplaces like Craigslist and eBay, you can find great prices on complete systems or individual components to use in your PC upgrade. These are typically used as they have been removed from other PCs whose owners are upgrading to newer models. They can be a great bargain if you’re on a tight budget.
Average Price of an Average Gaming PC
Expensive rigs have a much wider price range now that we’re talking about amounts greater than $800 to $1,000 USD. At this point, you should prioritize the longevity of your components, the cooling of your high-end components, the scalability of your system’s memory, and the design of your machine.
These systems will employ modern GPUs, CPUs, and motherboards, all of which are found in high-end PCs. There will be generational differences in both price and performance, with the most recent components being the most expensive and the oldest ones still functional but performing at a reduced level.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is it okay to use a gaming computer for everyday tasks?
In the same way that a standard PC can run any program or do any work, so can a gaming PC. Since gaming PCs typically have superior visuals and processing power to standard PCs, they can be ideal for intensive, multi-program processing.
Q: How long do gaming PCs last?
There is typically a four-to-five-year lifespan for a gaming PC before its components become too old to run the latest games at their optimal settings. A gaming computer can survive anywhere from 7-10 years under typical use, including light gaming at medium graphic settings.
Q: Is $1000 good for a gaming PC?
You can get an excellent pre-built gaming PC for $1,000 that can handle most games at 1080p. It is also possible to construct a gaming computer from scratch for under $1000. Because of a potential shortage, it might be necessary to purchase a used graphics card or computer processor.
Q: Does the electricity consumption of a gaming PC tend to be high?
Some gaming PCs can consume six times as much power annually as a standard computer. This figure shifts depending on the PC’s hardware and operating system. Using newer, more efficient components and limiting dust accumulation are two other ways to cut down on energy consumption.
Q: Which is a gaming laptop or a gaming PC?
Compared to dedicated desktop gaming PCs, gaming laptops often have weaker hardware. They’re also more delicate and breakable. Because of space and cooling limits, only the most capable CPUs can be used in laptops.
Final Thoughts
The cost of making a computer is susceptible to change due to a number of factors. Due to the rarity of identical hardware components in any two computer builds, there is no universally applicable answer. Building an internet-capable computer can be done for as low as $300.
The cost of putting together a gaming PC might range from as little as $1,000 to as much as $10,000 or more. Anything in the middle can have a wide range, perhaps reaching $4,000 or more. The user’s needs are the primary consideration.
