Build cheap gaming desktop computer

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Pick a fast and cheap processor CPU. Options are also available by Intel that usually carry more raw performance, but come with a larger price tag, like the i7 K. You'll want a good video card. It is recommended for newer games to operate well. The rule of thumb is that the graphics card takes up one third of the budget. Pick a case that you can afford. You'll want to save as much room as you can on the case.

Just make sure that the case has enough room for air-ventilation to prevent overheating. Hardware reviewers offer long lists that compare PC cases in component temperature and do in-depth reviews.

Pick a large and fast storage drive. HDDs use mechanical components which makes them cheaper, but also slower. SSDs are a newer technology which is very fast due to being free of moving parts. Pick a compatible motherboard. Just make sure it is fully compatible with your CPU and video card.

More expensive mainboards do not measurably increase performance, they provide you with advanced features. Pick enough RAM. Pick a speaker. Unless you are in need of a 7. Many gamers use headsets for their integrated microphone. Choose a monitor. Unless you are in need of a cinema, go for a 24" p monitor. Highly competitive games like CS:GO might profit from a high refreshrate Hz monitor, meaning the monitor can reproduce higher detail in moving objects.

You should check reviews to find out if your graphics card is fast enough for this to make a difference. Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article. Found the story interesting? Like us on Facebook to see similar stories. I'm already a fan, don't show this again. Send MSN Feedback. How can we improve? PC Gaming Computer. Gaming PC Tower. Liquid-Cooled Gaming PC. Digital Storm Gaming PC. PC Gaming Series.

Compact Gaming PC. Small Gaming PC Tower. Small Gaming Desk. Mini PC For Gaming. Small Gaming Laptop. Small PC Games. Smallest Gaming PC. The various upgrades to our budget rig draw more power than previous builds, so we've had to go with a slightly larger PSU. It's tough to go wrong with a power supply as long as you're sticking with a major vendor.

This non-modular unit from EVGA has more than enough juice for our needs. The fixed cable design does limit you somewhat in terms of expansion, but unless you're planning to put a second GPU in your rig, there's still modest headroom for overclocking if you choose to upgrade your CPU in the future.

However, you'll need to look at the best power supply units for PC gaming if you want to take your upgrades even further. Prefer to buy a prebuilt PC? Check out our guide to the best gaming PCs. Or, if you'd prefer to be portable, here are the best gaming laptops in We've settled on this relatively spacious and inexpensive case from Phanteks. It lacks many of the bells and whistles that a more expensive case can provide, but it gets the job done without cutting too many corners.

There is a certain temptation to max out your budget on a pretty looking case, but it's important to remember this piece of your build will have no impact on performance than the other stuff you should be spending money on. Buy something that does what you need it to do and is easy to work with.

One thing you might have noticed is that stock on a lot of PC components such as GPUs, CPUs, and even power supplies is pretty low and will be for at least another couple of months. Trust us; we are just as frustrated with all the hardware shortages as you are. The widgets below will update daily as retailers slowly restock their shelves. There are a few techniques to buying a new GPU in the silicon drought, but if you're in a rush, the best gaming PCs offer a shortcut since these system makers seem to be the only folks to have stock on the newer GPUs.