Want to get the most gaming power on a tight budget? Follow this detailed guide to assemble a PC that punches well above its price point without breaking the bank.
1. Picking Your Processor
Look at affordable CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 5 5500 or Intel Core i5-11400F. Both offer solid in-game performance and keep your build cost-effective.
2. Selecting a Graphics Card
Consider options such as the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super or AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT. These GPUs handle 1080p gaming on high settings for most modern titles at a budget-friendly price.
3. Motherboard & Memory Choices
Choose a B550 or B660 motherboard with reliable power delivery and useful features. Pair it with 16 GB of DDR4 RAM at 3000–3200 MHz to ensure smooth multitasking and gameplay.
4. Storage Setup
Install a 500 GB NVMe SSD for your operating system and frequently played games, and add a 1 TB SATA SSD for additional storage—striking a balance between speed and capacity.
5. Power Supply & Cooling
Select a dependable 550 W PSU rated 80+ Bronze or higher. Use a stock cooler that comes with Ryzen CPUs or opt for an affordable aftermarket air cooler to maintain safe operating temperatures.
6. Case & Essential Peripherals
Pick a budget-friendly case with good airflow and cable management options. For peripherals, you can find quality keyboard and mouse bundles under £50 that provide solid performance without extra cost.
7. Assembly & Stability Testing
Follow the motherboard’s instructions carefully, apply thermal paste correctly, and run stability tests using tools like Prime95 and Unigine Heaven to ensure a reliable build.
By adhering to these recommendations, you’ll build a gaming PC that maximizes value while delivering impressive performance. Enjoy your new system!