Best Budget Gaming Desktop for PC Gamers

Anton

Published:

Category: Custom Gaming PC

Gone are the days when PC gaming was only reserved for people who could afford high-end gaming PCs. Thanks to technology, the world of processors and graphics is more penetrable, resulting in the higher production of budget gaming PCs. This means that you don't have to use up all your savings to enjoy playing your favorite games on your desktop.

Even when you are working with a tight budget, the best budget gaming desktop should allow you to immerse yourself in popular computer games. However, this means that you may have to make a few compromises, such as not having access to the highest setting or the highest screen resolution. Nevertheless, you will get relatively good performance at 1080p and 1440p gaming.

Building your own budget gaming PC takes time and might end up being more expensive than some of the prebuilt gaming pcs on our list. However, since there are various prebuilt gaming PC options on a budget to choose from on the market, we have come up with a list of the best budget gaming pcs and a few factors to consider before buying.

Contents

Which are the Best Budget Gaming PCs?

1. CyberpowerPC Xtreme Gaming PC

16%
CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC, Intel i5-10400F 2.9GHz, GeForce GTX 1660...
9,162 Reviews
CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC, Intel i5-10400F 2.9GHz, GeForce GTX 1660...
  • System: Intel Core i5-10400F 2.9GHz 6-Core | Intel B460 Chipset | 8GB DDR4 |...
  • NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super 6GB Video Card | 1x HDMI | 1x DisplayPort
  • Connectivity: 6x USB 3.1 | 2x USB 2.0 | 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet 10/100/1000 |...
  • Special feature: Tempered Glass Side Case Panel | RGB Case Lighting | RGB 7...

CyberpowerPC offers fantastic value for a prebuilt gaming PC of its price. It features an Intel Core i5-10400F processor with a clock speed of 2.9GHz 6-Core. In addition, this desktop boasts Intel B460 Chipset, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 500GB PCI-E NVMe SSD. These traits make it best for pc gaming and definitely worth your money.

The graphics compressor is NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super with a 6GB graphics video card RAM. The good thing is that it is easily upgradeable to adjust to your varying gaming needs. The graphic settings range from high to ultra, so whether you're battling on Fortnite or playing Battlefield V, this budget gaming PC has got you covered.

Another aspect that makes the CyberpowerPC Extreme best for PC gaming is that it features 2 USB 2.0 ports and 6 USB 3.1 ports, making it easy for gaming connectivity. The desktop also has one HDMI and display port and supports WiFi and ethernet connectivity. In addition, this gaming PC features a special tempered glass side case panel for protection.

  • Pros
  • Features a tempered glass panel for protection
  • High performance
  • Inbuilt red led fans
  • Cons
  • Low SSD
  • Basic RGB case lighting
  • The overall design is not great

2. Acer Aspire TC-895 Desktop

9%
Acer Aspire TC-895-UA92 Desktop, 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10400 6-Core Processor,...
2,238 Reviews
Acer Aspire TC-895-UA92 Desktop, 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10400 6-Core Processor,...
  • 10th Generation Intel Core i5-10400 6-Core Processor (Up to 4.3GHz)
  • 12GB 2666MHz DDR4 Memory; 512GB NVMe M.2 SSD; 8X DVD-Writer Double-Layer Drive...
  • Intel Wireless Wi-Fi 6 AX200 802.11ax Dual-Band 2.4GHz and 5GHz featuring 2x2...
  • 1 - USB 3.2 Type C Gen 1 port (up to 5 Gbps) (Front); 5 - USB 3.2 Gen 1 Ports (1...

The Acer Aspire 10th generation desktop has an Intel Core i5-10400 processor and clock speed of up to 4.3ghZ, enabling it to process and run data quickly. In addition, it boasts 12GB 2666MHz DDR4 RAM, 512GB NVMe M.2 SSD storage and 8X DVD-Writer Double-Layer Drive (DVD-RW). So it is no surprise that this gaming pc tops our list. If you are looking for a budget affordable pc that will provide optimum performance, this pick is for you.

This Acer desktop runs on Intel UHD Graphics 630 with a graphics card RAM size of 0.1 GB, making it one of the best machines for PC gaming. It weighs 14.02 pounds with 13.78 x 6.42 x 13.39 inches dimension and has a standing screen display size of 0.1 inches. In addition, this budget gaming PC works on Windows 10 operating system.

This Aspire series budget pc features 1 - USB 3.2 Type C Gen 1 port (up to 5 Gbps) on the front, 5 - USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (1 on the front and 4 in the rear), 2 - USB 2.0 Ports (Rear) and 2 - HDMI Ports. The ports are more than enough to connect your gaming accessories with ease. In addition, for your WiFi needs, the desktop supports Intel Wireless Wi-Fi 6 AX200 802.11ax Dual-Band 2.4GHz and 5GHz, featuring a 2x2 MU-MIMO technology. It also allows a Bluetooth 5.1, 10/100/1000 Gigabit connection and Ethernet LAN.

  • Pros
  • Has two RAM slots that allow for upgradeability
  • Super affordable
  • Features several ports for flexibility 
  • Cons
  • Difficulty with upgrading the power supply
  • The keyboard is basic and not backlit
  • The fan is too loud when it comes on

3. SkyTech Shadow 3.0 Gaming Desktop

25%
SkyTech Shadow 3.0 Gaming Computer PC Desktop - Ryzen 5 3600 6-Core 3.6GHz, RTX...
2,132 Reviews
SkyTech Shadow 3.0 Gaming Computer PC Desktop - Ryzen 5 3600 6-Core 3.6GHz, RTX...
  • AMD Ryzen 5 3600 6-Core 3.6 GHz (4.2 GHz Turbo) CPU Processor | 1TB SSD
  • GeForce RTX 3060 GDDR6 12GB Graphics Card (Brand May Varies) | 16GB DDR4...
  • 802.11AC | No Bloatware | Graphic output options include 1 x HDMI, and 1 x...
  • Heatsink & 3 x RGB Fans | Powered by 80 Plus Gold Certified 600 Watt Power...

If you are looking for a great value PC with optimum performance, this SkyTech shadow 3.0 desktop could be it. It features an AMD Ryzen 5 3600 processor with a clock speed of 6-Core 3.6 GHz (4.2 GHz Turbo). In addition, this gaming computer boasts Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphics coprocessor with a stunning 12 GB graphics card RAM.

As far as storage goes, this budget PC has a 1TB SSD to store all your demanding games as well as other files. In addition, the SkyTech computer has 16GB DDR4 3000MHz RAM for gaming memory. Furthermore, the shadow 3.0 cheap gaming PC offers high to ultra settings, crisp 1440p Full HD resolution and smooth 60+ FPS gameplay.

Connectivity is key in any gaming PC. Therefore, this computer has several graphic output options, including 1 HDMI and 1 display port. Additional ports vary but included are USB Ports in the range of 2.0 3.0 and 3.2 gen1 Ports. In addition, the SkyTech PC has tempered glass to offer screen protection. 

  • Pros
  • Has extra RAM slots for upgradeability
  • Offers a 1440p screen resolution
  • Has 5 faans that keep the PC cool at all times
  • Supports ultra settings for gameplay
  • Cons
  • Some users have reported that the SSD failed easily

4. Acer Aspire TC-885 Desktop

Acer Aspire TC-885-UA92 Desktop, 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9400, 12GB DDR4, 512GB...
1,560 Reviews
Acer Aspire TC-885-UA92 Desktop, 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9400, 12GB DDR4, 512GB...
  • 9th Generation Intel Core i5-9400 Processor (Up to 4. 1GHz)
  • 12GB DDR4 Memory, 512GB SSD & 8x DVD-Writer Double-Layer Drive (DVD-RW)
  • 802. 11AC Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet LAN & Bluetooth 5. 0
  • 1 - USB 3. 1 Type C Gen 2 port (up to 10 Gaps), 1 - USB 3. 1 Gen 2 port, 1 - USB...

This Acer 9th Generation desktop from the Aspire series features an Intel Core i5-9400 Processor with a clock speed of up to 4. 1GHz. It also has an integrated graphic coprocessor of Intel UHD Graphics 630. In addition, it boasts a 12GB DDR4 RAM gaming memory coupled with a 512GB SSD and 8x DVD-Writer Double-Layer Drive (DVD-RW).

This budget laptop allows 802. 11AC Wi-Fi connectivity with an included port for Gigabit Ethernet LAN and Bluetooth 5. 0. The desktop has a VGA port, 2 HDMI ports, 4 USB 2.0 ports, 1 USB 3.1 gen 1 port, 1 USB 3.1 gen 2 port and 1 USB 3.1 type C gen 2 port with up to 10 gaps.

The desktop's dimensions are 13.78 x 6.42 x 13.39 inches to provide a good screen real estate for gaming. However, if you are looking for a PC that offers versatility even outside of gaming, this Acer Aspire desktop is an excellent choice.

  • Pros
  • Affordable
  • Has a good design and outlook
  • Has 2 HDMI ports to allow for more than one screen to be connected
  • The RAM is upgradeable up to 32GB
  • Cons
  • Has no fan case, so the desktop heats up fast
  • Has bloatware

5. HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop

HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650, Intel Core i5-10400F, 8 GB...
748 Reviews
HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650, Intel Core i5-10400F, 8 GB...
  • FREE UPGRADE TO WINDOWS 11 (1) (when available, see below)
  • CUSTOMIZABLE AND COMPACT – This sleek, space-saving tower allows you to expand...
  • 4K READY – Outstanding performance and immersive multimedia entertainment with...
  • STUNNING GRAPHICS – With the all-new NVIDIA Turing architecture and 4 GB GDDR5...

The HP Pavilion is a sleek and customizable desktop that offers room for upgrades in the Omen Command Center. In addition, this desktop has stunning graphics that feature the new Nvidia GeForce GTX and GDDR5 dedicated gaming memory. These graphics specs boost the overall desktop's performance allowing for fast, smooth and efficient output.

If you are looking for a 4K-ready gaming PC, you might consider getting the HP Pavilion gaming desktop. This is because it has an Intel Core i5-10400F processor and DDR4 memory with 8 GB RAM. This allows you to enjoy gaming with 4K visuals and without any delays or lagging.

In addition, the HP Pavillion series gaming PC offers plenty of storage with 256 GB of PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive storage space. The PC also supports gaming connectivity by allowing a WiFi 5 WLAN adapter and a Bluetooth 4.2 port. Additionally, it has reliable external ports for USB types A and C and headphones.

  • Pros
  • Dual display support
  • Optimum CPU performance
  • Affordable
  • Has a sleek design
  • Cons
  • Only has 1 RAM stick
  • The storage space could be higher to store more games

How To Choose The Best Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo

a) Mouse Type

The best wireless mouse will have a rubberized or texturized grip with a contoured, ambidextrous design hence allowing you to easily and comfortably use it for long periods of time. There are other types of mice that might only be suitable for right-handed users so be sure to look out for mouse design. It is also important to take time to consider the size of the mouse in relation to the size of your hand. Having a mouse that’s too big or too small can have a big impact on your gaming and comfort. So it’s important to pick a mouse that fits you and your gaming or working style.

b) Battery Life

A large majority of keyboards and wireless mice are powered by AA or AAA batteries. There are a few that may be rechargeable and there are even some solar-powered options that only need light to operate hence you don’t have to worry about changing the batteries at all. The best wireless keyboards can usually run between 15 months and 3 years with one set of batteries.

The best wireless mouse options usually range between 8 months and 2 years. However, this is all dependent on how well you take care of your mouse and how much you use it. If you plan on using your wireless mouse frequently for gaming, make sure to select those with the longest battery life while also considering overall reliability.

c) Keyboard Shape and Design

Wireless keyboards come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, weights, and designs. If you are prone to wrist fatigue or you use your computer a lot, you should consider a wireless keyboard with a textured wrist rest and an ergonomic design. If an ergonomic keyboard is too expensive, you can always look for an adjustable keyboard. The aim is to ensure not to get repetitive strain injuries like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome that often requires surgery to fix.

For those that enjoy and prefer to keep their workspaces neat and as tidy as possible, there are plenty of options for simple, clean and slim keyboards. For those looking for the best gaming keyboard that will ensure that you are comfortable throughout your hours of gaming, you should be on the search for a powerfully constructed keyboard with integrated wrist rests.  

d) Key Switches

Keyboard switches have a significant impact on the life, performance as well as personality of the keyboard. There are three types of keyboard switches. Dome, Scissor, and Mechanical.

Rubber dome switches place rubbery silicone below the keys hence to get softer buttons, you have to press all the way. They are less durable due to the wear and tear of the rubber. Scissor switches are the dwarf ones that you get on keyboards. They last longer than dome switches and work faster. Mechanical switches are what is most relevant for gamers. They are clicky, tactile ones that work at the slightest touch. They last the longest, can be easily replaced, and have the fastest performance. They are however the noisiest. The downside is that there are hardly any wireless keyboards and mouse combos that pack mechanical switches.

e) RF and Bluetooth Mouse

Though both transmit signals over 2.4GHz frequency, the RF mouse will make use of a USB connection in order to transfer the radio frequency signals instead of Bluetooth. A Bluetooth mouse, however, requires that you have working Bluetooth connectivity on your device. A USB-based mouse is compatible with any computer that has a USB port.

f) Key Features

A lot of keyboards come with a range of programmable hotkeys that allow you to assign certain buttons to open frequently used apps in a matter of seconds. There are some keyboards that also come with easy to access multimedia keys that allow you to adjust the volume, screen brightness and so much more without causing any disruption to what you are doing on the screen.

g) Price

When it comes to electronics, it all comes down to your budget. A keyboard and mouse is considered to be a consumable item. The aim is to work within your budget and find what works for you.

Anton