Unleash Hardcore Gaming on a Budget: Top 4 Builds under $500
Get ready to level up your gaming experience without breaking the bank! Discover the top 4 gaming builds under $500, including the best NVIDIA and AMD graphics card options From mid-tower to full-tower builds, we've got you covered FAQs also included
For years, gamers have debated whether it's better to design their own system or purchase one of the best prebuilt PCs. While it may be tempting for inexperienced PC builders to opt for a ready-to-go system, building a customized rig has become easier than ever before. Thanks to a plethora of online resources, compatible build configurations can be suggested, complete with links to purchase parts at the lowest prices possible. Key factors to consider when assembling a budget gaming rig include choosing between Intel or AMD processors, deciding whether to opt for a CPU with integrated graphics or a budget graphics card, and selecting a form factor that suits the user's needs. Regardless of the route chosen, these four budget gaming PC build options are perfect for those looking to dive into the exciting world of custom-made PCs.
Intel Core i3/GTX 1650 Mid-Tower Budget Gaming Build
Best NVIDIA Graphics Card Gaming Build Under $500
Get superior air flow and a sleek design with the Zalman T7 ATX Mid Tower PC Case, now available for only $55 on Amazon. This case comes with a front mesh panel and a transparent side viewing window, allowing for maximum airflow and an impressive display of your build. With 2 pre-installed 120 mm fans and compatibility with ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards, the Zalman T7 is the perfect option for any PC enthusiast. Don't miss out on this incredible deal and upgrade your PC today.
Looking for an affordable processor that can handle moderate-level gaming without bottlenecking? The Intel Core i3-12100F might just be what you're looking for. With 4 cores and 8 threads, this entry-level contender from Intel's 12th generation can keep up with today's games and offers you the option to upgrade to a faster processor by building on an Intel 600 or 700 series motherboard. Plus, you can save $10.02 by purchasing it at Amazon for $89.98 or even cheaper at $85 on Newegg.
The ASUS Prime H610M-E D4 Motherboard is an ideal choice for those looking for an entry-level motherboard with the H610 chipset. Originally designed for the 12th generation Intel CPU lineup, it has since received a bios update that enables it to support the 13th generation Intel processor lineup. You can purchase it for $100 at Amazon or $114 at Newegg.
Looking for a graphics card that won't break the bank? The PNY GeForce GTX 1650 with 4GB of GDDR6 memory and dual fans might just be your solution. Built with the latest NVIDIA Turing architecture, this card offers powerful features like variable rate shading, mesh shading, and multi-view rendering. Plus, with a low power requirement of just 300 watts, the PNY GeForce GTX 1650 doesn't even need a separate power connector on the card. Save $10 now and grab one for $180 at Amazon or Best Buy.
Looking for a high-quality memory that won't break the bank? Look no further than the TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 16 GB DDR4-3200 CL16 Memory. Not only is it a great value, but it's also compatible with both Intel and AMD motherboards. This memory is designed with a streamlined cooling module and high thermal conductive adhesive to ensure that it stays cool even during the most intense gaming sessions. Plus, with a lifetime warranty, you can rest assured that this memory will last you for years to come. Get it now for just $34 at Amazon or Newegg.
The Kingston A400 SSD offers a cost-effective solution for those looking to upgrade from slow and noisy hard drives. This 2.5-inch SSD is compatible with a wide range of notebooks and desktops, providing faster boot-up times and speedy file transfers. At just $17 on Amazon and $22 on Newegg, it's an affordable way to improve your computer's performance.
The APEVIA VENUS 450w ATX Power Supply is a cost-effective option for providing sufficient power to desktop PCs. It features a low-noise auto-thermally controlled 120 mm fan, ensuring minimal noise disruption during operation. The power supply also includes a variety of connectors, including a 20+4 pin main connector, 1 x ATX12V 4pin connector, 3 x SATA connector, 3 x 4 pin peripheral connector, and 1 floppy disk connector. At just $26 on Amazon, this power supply is a steal.
The cost of building a budget gaming PC with a lower-end NVIDIA graphics card comes to an estimated total of $497, and surprisingly, the compromises are few and far between. The Intel Core i3-12100F processor serves as the foundation of this build, and it is more than capable of powering a lower-end system. Introduced in late 2021 as part of Intel's 12th generation of CPUs, this quad-core processor provides an affordable alternative to pricier AMD chips such as the Ryzen 3 3100. Although the Intel Core i3-12100F is a locked chip that cannot be easily overclocked, the included stock cooler is sufficient for managing CPU temperatures.
The ASUS Prime H610M-E D4 is an excellent match for the Intel Core i3-12100F and boasts impressive features, including PCIe 4.0 for the latest graphics cards and two M.2 storage slots. With the TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z 16 GB DDR4 memory only utilizing a fraction of the board's 64 GB capacity, this motherboard offers all the necessary ports and connectors for a budget PC build, including 10 USB ports that are either USB 3.2 Gen 1 or USB 2.0. Additionally, the inclusion of the PNY GeForce GTX 1650 4GB provides acceptable 1080p gaming performance while maintaining a low-power footprint, requiring only a 300-watt power supply with no separate power connection needed. The Apevia Venus 450-watt ATX power supply selected for this build is more than capable of powering the graphics card with ease, and the short length of the PNY GeForce GTX 1650 4GB allows for easier cable management in compact PC cases.
The Zalman T7 ATX Mid-Tower Case is the perfect choice for a budget gaming build. Not only does it offer ample room for expansion, but it also boasts a clear side window that gives it a premium look. Gamers can easily install up to four 2.5-inch hard drives, making it a great fit for the Kingston A400 480 GB SSD that's been selected for this configuration. With two 120 mm fans already in place, and the option to install up to eight more, the Zalman T7 offers excellent cooling capabilities. The mesh front panel, combined with the fan layout, ensures that temperatures will stay under control, even for this low-powered gaming rig.
AMD Ryzen 7 Micro ATX Budget Gaming Build
Best AMD Ryzen Integrated Graphics Gaming Build Under $500
Best AMD Ryzen Integrated Graphics Gaming Build Under $500
The AMD Ryzen 7 5700G is a versatile processor that can handle some MOBA titles and light gaming at 720P/1080P on medium graphics. While it's not a replacement for desktop GPUs, it does offer a full 8-core, 16-thread processor. However, it does have a smaller L3 cache compared to its 5700X and 5800X siblings in the Ryzen 7 5000 Series lineup, which results in limited PCI-E 3.0 speeds. At $168, it's a great value compared to its competitors at $67 on Amazon and $70 on Newegg.
The Gigabyte B550M K Micro ATX AM4 motherboard is a great choice for those looking to build a powerful PC. It supports a wide range of CPUs, including the AMD Ryzen 5000 Series, Ryzen 5000 G-Series, Ryzen 4000 G-Series, and Ryzen 3000 Series. With a sturdy power design, this motherboard ensures stable and reliable performance. Additionally, it offers support for HDMI 2.1, which means that you can enjoy 4K video playback with HDR. At just $85 on Amazon (or $100 on Newegg), it's an affordable option that won't break the bank. So if you're in the market for a new motherboard, the Gigabyte B550M K is definitely worth considering.
Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB DDR4-3600 CL18 Memory can be purchased at a discounted price of $42 from Newegg, while Amazon is selling it for $68. This high-performance memory is compatible with a wide range of DDR4 motherboards from both Intel and AMD. It features a durable aluminum heat spreader and premium quality PCB, making it perfect for gaming enthusiasts and overclockers alike. With a low profile height of just 34mm, this memory is an excellent choice for compact systems that require high-speed performance.
The TEAMGROUP MP33 512 GB M.2-2280 PCIe 3.0 X4 NVME SSD is available for $25 at Best Buy and $35 at Amazon, allowing you to save $10 no matter where you purchase it. Utilizing the latest generation of 3D flash memory, this compact and incredibly fast SSD can achieve read/write speeds of up to 1700/1400 MB/s, which is up to 3 times faster than SATA III. It also supports the latest M.2 2280 storage specification of next-generation Intel and AMD motherboards.
The Thermaltake Smart BM2 550W power supply is a wise choice for building efficient PCs, boasting an up to 86% efficiency rating. Featuring a 120mm Ultra Quiet fan, this power supply ensures maximum airflow without any distracting background noise. Plus, with a 5-year warranty, you can trust in the Thermaltake Smart BM2 550W to provide reliable power for years to come.
$40 at Amazon
Total Estimated Cost: $424
The concept of a budget gaming PC without a dedicated graphics card may be met with skepticism by some gamers, but the recent release of the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G in April 2021 has made integrated graphics more appealing than ever before. With widespread graphics card shortages, this option has become increasingly attractive. While it may not deliver 4K resolution for games like Cyberpunk 2077, the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G can certainly hold its own against budget graphics cards. This compact and affordable PC build is ideal for entry-level gamers with 1080p displays and limited desk space. Moreover, it has plenty of room for growth in case the builder decides to upgrade the GPU.
The AMD Ryzen 7 5700G CPU pairs perfectly with the Gigabyte B550M K Micro ATX motherboard, which supports a wide range of Ryzen CPUs from 3000 to 5000 series. Since this build does not include a dedicated graphics card, it is crucial that the motherboard provides all the latest video outputs. Thankfully, the Gigabyte B550M features two HDMI 2.1 ports that are HDCP 2.3 compliant with full HDR support, as well as a single DisplayPort 1.4 connection. The motherboard also has dual M.2 slots, which is where the lightning-fast TEAMGROUP MP33 512 GB M.2-2280 PCIe 3.0 SSD is installed. To ensure optimal performance during intense gaming sessions, the Corsair Vengeance LPX 16 GB DDR4 low-profile RAM is perfect for fitting into a Micro ATX case. The unique heat spreader design helps keep the temperature under control.
The Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L is the ideal choice for this budget PC build that prioritizes simplicity over extravagance. This Micro ATX case is designed to accommodate a graphics card up to 14.1 inches, but even without one, it doesn't look too spacious. Its compact size makes it a perfect fit for a small desk or home entertainment center, and it can be positioned vertically or horizontally. The I/O panel can be installed in various locations around the edges of the case, adding to its versatility. Although the edge-to-edge clear side window is made of acrylic rather than tempered glass, the overall appearance of the case is impressive for its price. The case comes with a single fan installed, but the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G's stock cooler and the absence of a hot graphics card should keep temperatures under control.
While the Thermaltake Smart BM2 500-watt White Certified PSU may seem like overkill for a system that consumes only 150 watts, it's an excellent choice for a low-power budget PC. It provides the flexibility to add a graphics card or other components in the future, and its 120 mm fan is whisper-quiet, making it ideal for movie-watching or gamers who are sensitive to background noise.
Radeon RX 6500 XT Mid-Tower Budget Gaming Build
Best Radeon RX 6000 Series Gaming Build Under $500
Designed with gamers in mind, the Thermaltake Versa H22 ATX Mid-Tower case strikes the perfect balance between expansion space and compactness. Featuring perforated metal mesh front and top panels, heat dissipation is rapid and efficient. The H22 accommodates a wide range of Micro ATX and standard ATX motherboards, making it a versatile option for all types of builds. Snag it for $52 on Amazon or $55 on Newegg.
Looking for a power-efficient CPU? Look no further than the Intel Core i3-10100F. With a base frequency of 3.60 GHz and max turbo frequency of 4.30 GHz, this quad-core 10th Generation Comet Lake processor is a great option for those looking to save on power consumption. Plus, it's compatible with LGA 1200 motherboards. And at just $69 on Amazon and $71 on Newegg, it's an affordable choice as well.
The ASUS Prime H510M-E LGA1200 Micro-ATX Motherboard is a high-performance motherboard that has been optimized for use with Intel's 10th and 11th-generation CPUs. With features like PCI 4.0, a 32 Gbps M.2 storage slot, and USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A ports, it has everything you need to build a powerful and reliable system. The motherboard also comes equipped with a PCI heatsink and Fan Xpert 4 software, which work together to ensure that your system stays cool and performs at its best. At $104 on Amazon and $117 on Newegg, the ASUS Prime H510M-E is an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a high-performance PC.
The MSI Gaming AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT Graphics Card is a powerful option for gamers and professionals alike. With a clock speed of 2.83 GHz and four gigabytes of GDDR6 memory on a 64-bit interface, this graphics card delivers impressive performance. It connects via PCI Express 4.0 x4 and supports a maximum resolution of 8K at 7680 x 4320 pixels. The card features one DisplayPort 1.4a and one HDMI 2.1 connector, making it easy to set up a double monitor configuration. Additionally, the card comes with a reinforced backplate for added durability and a dual TORX FAN 4.0 setup for optimal cooling. At just $149 on Amazon and $180 on Newegg, this graphics card is an affordable option for those in need of a high-performance solution.
Get blazing fast performance with Patriot Viper Steel DDR4 16GB (1 x 16GB) 3200 MHz RAM. Featuring a custom aluminum heat spreader, this memory ensures optimal temperature management for uninterrupted performance. Its XMP 2.0 support allows for easy overclocking, making it a great choice for gamers and power users. Get it now for just $34 on Amazon and save $2. Upgrade your system and experience lightning-fast speeds with Patriot Viper Steel DDR4 RAM.
Say goodbye to sluggish 3.5-inch hard drives and experience lightning-fast performance with the Crucial BX500 480GB SSD. Boasting Micron 3D NAND technology, this SSD offers exceptional boot-up and read/write speeds that are three times faster than a typical hard drive. Get yours now for only $25 at Amazon or $31 at Newegg and take your gaming experience to the next level. Save $20 on this game-changing SSD today.
The SilverStone ET550-B Power Supply is a cost-effective choice that offers impressive efficiency and a range of features typically found in pricier options. Its sleek all-black flat cables allow for easy cable management without the unsightly clutter of wires. Plus, it's available for just $60 on Amazon, making it an affordable option for those on a budget.
For gamers on a budget who want a PC with a Radeon graphics card, there is an affordable configuration available that meets their needs. This budget gaming PC build starts with the powerful and energy-efficient Core i3-10100F, which may not be the newest processor on the market, but its value when paired with a low-end dedicated graphics card is hard to beat. While the Intel Core i3-10100F can be overclocked, the benefits are minimal, and most new PC builders should stick with the base clock speed of 3.60 GHz and the stock cooler. At only 65 watts, the low-power CPU leaves room for more power-intensive components in any build.
The ASUS Prime H510M-E Micro-ATX motherboard is an excellent choice for this budget gaming rig, teaming up seamlessly with the Core i3-10100F processor. Boasting a 10th and 11th generation Intel CPU-compatible LGA 1200 socket, the motherboard is equipped with user-friendly software and sophisticated temperature and fan speed monitoring capabilities, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. With only one M.2 slot available, this system opts for a Crucial BX500 SSD with a capacity of 480 GB, connected to one of six SATA 6GB/s ports for storage. The MSI AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT OC graphics card is equally impressive, featuring a boosted clock speed of up to 2.82 GHz when paired with the PCIe 4.0 slot on the Prime H510M-E motherboard. Although it offers only two HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a connections, the graphics card is power-efficient and performs exceptionally well at 1080p, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious gamers.
The Thermaltake Versa H22 is a great option for those looking to build a budget gaming PC with a Radeon graphics card. Although it doesn't have a clear side window like the H18, the H22 has convenient tool-free installation features and excellent ventilation thanks to its metal mesh panels and rear exhaust fan. As your gaming needs grow, the H22 has the ability to accommodate a longer graphics card and up to seven expansion slots.
AMD Ryzen 5 Full-Tower Budget Gaming Build
Best Full-Tower Gaming Build Under $500
The Enermax Makashi MKII Full-Tower Case is the perfect choice for gaming enthusiasts who are new to building their own PC. This case has ample space for Extended ATX (E-ATX) motherboards, up to 6 hard drives, and 8 fans. The tempered glass side window not only adds to the overall aesthetics, but it also allows users to keep an eye on their expensive components. Additionally, the LED strips lining the front of the case provide a unique look, with addressable RGB effects that are compatible with the most popular lighting ecosystems.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600G processor is a great choice for those on a budget, priced at $122 on Walmart and $260 on Amazon. With its 6-Core 12-Thread configuration, it offers impressive performance for its price point. What sets it apart is the integrated Radeon graphics, which can compete with lower-end dedicated graphics cards. Additionally, Precision Boost Overdrive and Precision Boost 2 features allow for overclocking, providing even more power to the user.
The ASRock X570 Steel Legend is a high-performance motherboard that is designed to support AMD 2000 to 5000 series processors for enhanced gaming experiences. Its 10-power phase design ensures extreme durability, while the DDR4 memory up to 4666+(OC) allows gamers to enjoy seamless multitasking. With HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, the motherboard also supports AMD Quad CrossFireX and CrossFireX technology for superior graphics.
The G.Skill Aegis 16 GB DDR4 memory is the perfect choice for gamers who crave high-performance and durability. It meets DDR4 standards and is incredibly energy-efficient, with a voltage rating of just 1.2V-1.35V. You can find it for $150 on both Amazon and Newegg.
The Silicon Power 1TB NVMe M.2 PCIe 2280 SSD, available for purchase at Amazon for $30, boasts impressive read and write speeds thanks to its use of the PCIe Gen 3x4 interface. This SSD also utilizes the NVMe 1.3 + HMB protocols, providing users with scalable bandwidth and exceptional low latency performance.
The Cooler Master Elite 600W V3 ATX power supply is a great choice for those looking for an efficient and reliable option. With an impressive 75 percent efficiency rating at a typical 50 percent load, this power supply won't let you down. Additionally, it can handle high temperatures and extreme humidity levels, making it adaptable to any conditions.
$66 at Amazon $77 at Newegg
Total Estimated Cost: $483
The majority of budget gaming PC builds typically don't include full-sized tower cases or ATX motherboards. However, this AMD Ryzen integrated graphics build offers the most expandability and storage capacity, thanks to the affordable full-tower Makashi MKII case, which can accommodate up to six 3.5" or 2.5" hard drives. We've included a 1 TB Silicon Power NVMe M.2 SSD for the operating system and games that benefit from its fast read and write speeds. If a gamer only plans on using one or two additional hard drives, a more compact build may be a better option. Despite the added cost of a full-tower ATX build, this parts list includes an AMD Ryzen 5 series 5600G CPU with integrated graphics, and the spacious Makashi MKII case allows for installation of a low to mid-range dedicated graphics card in the future. This system can handle many games at 1080p without compromising on detail levels, just like our AMD Ryzen 7 PC.
The ASRock Steel Legend X570 motherboard used in this Ryzen build is a step up from the B550M options, providing access to PCI Express 4.0 connectivity and additional high-speed SATA connections. The board's VRM and power phases also offer greater potential for overclocking CPU and RAM. However, it's important to note that a BIOS update may be required for proper compatibility with AMD 5000 series CPUs, and those uncomfortable with BIOS flashing may prefer a B550M motherboard instead. With eight SATA 3 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 10 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and HDMI and DisplayPort connections on the rear I/O shield, the ASRock X570 motherboard is a powerful option that exceeds the needs of most budget builds. Additionally, it supports the Polychrome SYNC lighting protocol for customizable RGB effects.
The G.Skill Aegis DDR4-2666 memory, with a capacity of 16GB, is ideal for gamers who demand the most from their systems while still being highly energy-efficient. To power this AMD Ryzen 5000 series build, a Cooler Master Elite PSU with a 600-watt capacity is included, making it capable of supporting multiple hard drives or a modest GPU in the future. The Makashi MKII, though not the largest full-tower case available, provides ample space for cable management, making it a great choice for those seeking a budget gaming PC in a larger form factor. While some compatibility issues may require BIOS updates that could intimidate novice users, the effort is well worth it to create a top-notch budget gaming PC.
More Budget Gaming Build Choices Than You Bargained For?
Despite the rising prices of everyday items, it is still possible to build a capable gaming PC for under $500. There are numerous successful approaches to creating the ultimate budget gaming PC without breaking the bank.
When it comes to the CPU, some gaming builds rely on 10th or 12th generation Intel Core i3 processors, while others opt for AMD 5000 series processors with integrated Radeon graphics. The choice between the two has significant implications for the rest of the system's configuration.
Our first build, for example, utilized a mid-tower PC with an Intel Core i3-12100F CPU and a PNY GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card. The case chosen, the Zalman T7, is spacious enough to hold a dedicated graphics card and up to four 2.5" hard drives.
The second budget-friendly gaming PC build takes a unique approach by incorporating an AMD Ryzen 7 5700G processor with integrated graphics. This eliminates the need for a separate graphics card and significantly reduces the overall cost. However, the use of a micro ATX form factor with the Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L case and Gigabyte B550M K motherboard limits storage options and future expandability to some extent.
For gamers who want a system that can adapt to their increasing budget, the final build featuring the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G CPU and MAKASHI MKII Full-Tower case is the perfect match. Despite the absence of a Radeon or NVIDIA graphics card, this PC comes equipped with some top-notch components, including the ASRock X570 Steel Legend motherboard. The combination of this X570 motherboard and full-tower case allows for the addition of a large number of 2.5" or 3.5" hard drives that can be filled with games or media.
Each of the PCs recommended in this guide offers a unique form factor to accommodate gamers with varying amounts of space in their gaming setups or media rooms. While these builds may not provide the full experience of 4K gaming right out of the gate, their flexibility allows for more serious gaming performance as a gamer's budget grows.
FAQ
Q: Is it cheaper to build your own gaming PC, rather than to buy a prebuilt system?
Opting to purchase each component individually can often result in cost savings compared to buying prebuilt options. Furthermore, this approach allows for the opportunity to learn how to replace parts independently, rather than incurring expensive repair costs or purchasing a brand new system altogether.
Q: What should I consider when assembling a custom gaming PC?
Putting together your own gaming PC requires careful consideration of several factors such as your budget, the types of games you prefer, the desired resolution for gaming, and the amount of space available for either a full tower or compact system.
Q: What are the most critical components of a gaming PC?
To build a powerful gaming PC, it's important to consider several key components, including the processor, motherboard, case, and graphics card. While the graphics card may have the biggest impact on your budget, it's crucial to ensure that all parts are compatible and will fit in your chosen case. By carefully selecting each component, you can create a high-performance gaming rig that will provide an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience.
