So you’re ready to stretch deep into that wallet and build a serious gaming machine, and you don’t know where to start. Well, I can help with that. In this ever-changing world of prices and models and rapidly-changing PC environments, it can be tough to keep up with the newest, much less the best. But, research can be a tricky proposition, digging past the hype and every salesman tactic in the book and sometimes even a brand-name bias to find the best components you can get for your gaming machine. So have no fears; we’re here to help.
Today I’ll be going over the best gaming pc build under $800, which is a substantial advance on a premium modern console. This system will naturally blow through any recent game and give you a solid footing in extremely beautiful games, with smooth gameplay and high graphical fidelity.
As in my other guides, I’ll detail the individual parts required for each computer. There are seven of them. And each of them is a vital part of the overall matrix that, when bound together, becomes your machine. I’ll list the parts below, of course, with my choices for each item and a description of why I chose them. But, in the meantime, here’s a summary of the core parts; but if you’re already familiar, keep moving.
Processor – This is the most critical part of any good gaming pc and powers everything in the build. It makes sure everything works in order and is the central component.
Graphics Card – This is probably the most accessible component to understand since the clue is in the name. The graphics card’s job is to power the graphics on your screen, which, as you can imagine, is also an essential component that is rather expensive.
Memory – This task set by the memory is to store your data temporarily. They don’t store everything saved in your computer but instead keep smaller amounts of data to ease the pressure on your CPU.
The Motherboard – You can think of the motherboard as a mothership. When building your PC, you will house all your components on the motherboard.
Storage Suite – Not to be confused with RAM, the storage suite is for your hard drive. There are different types at varying prices, and if you want to splash out the cash for an SSD, this will increase the overall speed of your gaming pc.
Power Supply – I know I said the CPU was, but the Power Supply is also right up there. The Power Supply Unite or PSU diverts all the power around your PC, and without it, your build is going to suffer.
The Case – No doubt you will know what this is. It’s the part everybody sees and makes your Gaming PC stand out. It protects your hardware, and a good one can keep it cold inside and quiet.
Contents
- 1 Which is the best gaming PC for 800?
- 2 Best Gaming PC Under 800
- 2.1 1) AMD Ryzen 5 2600
- 2.2 Or the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
- 2.3 2) EVGA GeForce GTX 1650 Super SC Ultra Gaming
- 2.4 Or the ZOTAC Gaming Geforce GTX 1650 OC Gaming Graphics Card
- 2.5 3) Crucial BX500 480 GB
- 2.6 Or the Kingston A400 480GB SSD
- 2.7 4) TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan RGB DDR4 16GB (2x8GB) 3600MHz
- 2.8 Or the Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3200MHZ
- 2.9 5) EVGA BQ 80+ Bronze 500W Semi-Modular PSU
- 2.10 Or the Thermaltake TR2 600 W ATX Power Supply
- 2.11 6) Zalman S4 PC Case
- 2.12 Or the NZXT H510- Compact ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case
- 2.13 7) ASRock B450M Pro4 AM4 Motherboard
- 2.14 Or the ASUS Prime B450M-A-II Motherboard
- 3 Considerations for the Best $800 Gaming PC Build
- 4 Remember the Peripherals
- 5 An Easier Route? The Prebuilt Gaming PC Top Options
- 6 Gaming PC Build FAQ
- 7 Final Thoughts
Which is the best gaming PC for 800?
Best Gaming PC Under 800
1) AMD Ryzen 5 2600
- System ram type: DDR4_sdram
There has been for many years now something of an epic battle between AMD Ryzen and Intel Core in the field of solid, reliable CPU production. These competing titans have, in many ways, struggled to maintain their market share while carving out distinct niches within the PC building community. And, in the past couple of years, the rise of AMD Ryzen (no pun intended) has brought a healthy dose of competition and a shot of new tech to the market, which is good for everybody.
For under $200, the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a great mid-range CPU for the build. It still maintains the general gaming PC’s strength of AMD chips for its price. It’s fast, efficient, potent, and keeps cool, all while running on only 65 watts, and most importantly, it won’t bottleneck our GPU at all. All in all, a thoroughly impressive processor and a solid way to start your gaming adventures. At 3.4GHz with a max boost potential of until 3.9GHz.
Or the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
- Features best-in-class graphics performance in a desktop processor for smooth...
- 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
- 4.4 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 19 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform
Another much newer offering from AMD is their Ryzen 5 5600G. You must be thinking that the MSRP of this processor might mean exceeding your $800 for building a custom gaming PC. As you may know, the global chip shortage has caused a price hike and scarcity that has made the gaming PC build overview bleak. Nevertheless, the AMD Ryzen 5600G brings exceptional performance in its current price range.
This piece is no slack as it competitively challenges another popular CPU, Intel Core i5 -11600K, in processing power. However, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G is compatible with Radeon software and brings more to the table in gaming. This compatibility arises from its Radeon RX Vega 7 graphics engine as its integrated graphics processor. So if you want to build the best $800 gaming PC, this processor is a worthy option.
Moreover, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 G has six cores and 12 threads while having one of the most affordable prices on the market for a capable processor. After all, many options in its price bracket lack an integrated graphics processor. In addition, the 16 MB L3 cache, a base clock of 3.9 GHz and a boost clock of 4.4 GHz increase the viability of this chip in low-impact multiplayer gaming that requires high refresh rates.
Although this chip sports the AMD Socket AM4, it is not compatible with as many motherboards as previous generations. Still, it comes with extra hardware in the Wraith Stealth coolers. Hence, you get more value in the box, typical of AMD offerings in the gaming world.
2) EVGA GeForce GTX 1650 Super SC Ultra Gaming
- Real Boost Clock: 1755 MHz; Memory Detail: 4096 MB GDDR6
- All-new NVIDIA Turing architecture to give you incredible new levels of gaming...
- Dual fans offer higher performance cooling and low acoustic noise
- Built for EVGA Precision x1 All-metal backplate, pre-installed
Here it is, the absolute unit running all of our games. Sadly, as a foreword, I have to say that Graphics Card prices might still be in flux and will be a bit until the market calms down. But with that in mind, while you may check and find 1060s graphics cards costing a bit more, it’s just as likely you’ll find one even cheaper than this or better performing, though don’t expect too much. So with that in mind, let’s cover the EVGA GeForce GTX 1650 and find out what makes it so special.
For its price range, the GTX 1650 has shown to be one of the most powerful and commended Graphics cards in its group. Its performance is backed by 4GB GDDR6, with a boost clock of up to 1755 MHz. It can attempt to run 4k games, but preferably, you should consider using slightly lower resolutions to run at higher frame rates. For 1080p, you are well in your zone.
Or the ZOTAC Gaming Geforce GTX 1650 OC Gaming Graphics Card
- New Turing Architecture
- 4GB 128-bit GDDR6
- Super Compact 5.94-inch Card, Fits 99% of Systems
- Dual slot, 4K Ready, PCI Bus Powered
ZOTAC, an Nvidia AIB Partner, is no stranger to PC gaming as they have been coming up with GPUs that fall in the mid-range and high-end market segments. The ZOTAC Gaming Geforce GTX 1650 OC is a popular option and represents the last line in their GTX 16xx series. This product is an excellent example of excellent value in price vs. performance thanks to its wide compatibility with different builds and low cost.
The Zotac Geforce GTX 1650 OC has 4700 million transistors packed onto a 200mm2 surface thanks to the 12 nm technology based on TU117 architecture. In addition, you get 896 CUDA cores that you can boost to 1695 MHz with a base performance of 1485 MHz. Plus, this graphics card features a DisplayPort 1.4, Dual Link-DVI-D and HDMI 2.0b for connectivity.
If you are looking for a relatively high-end 1080p/1440p PC build, this 4K ready graphics card has what it takes to deliver. For starters, the 4GB of GDDR6 VRAM and a memory clock of 12 GB/s use a 128-bit bus width capable of 128.1 GB/s for the bandwidth. In addition, your purchase comes with the Icestorm 2.0 cooler. This hardware features a single 90 mm fan and an aluminum heatsink on the GPU. Plus, these essentials do not significantly increase the width to ensure the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 1650 OC remains compact.
You will not find any backplate on this graphics card. Instead, you will use the PCIe 3.0 slot to get a low 75 watts of power from the motherboard. However, the manufacturer recommends getting a power supply of at least 350 watts to juice this capable boy up when gaming. So, if you want to build a VR-ready gaming PC that is not power demanding, this product is your best bet.
3) Crucial BX500 480 GB
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness
- 300% faster than a typical hard drive
- Improves battery life because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical...
- Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world's memory and storage technology for 40...
At $800, we’re finally going to be able to get some impressive speed in our gaming pc build. In addition, adding an SSD (Or Solid-State-Drive) will dramatically decrease our boot-up times and loading times for certain applications and games. The only drawback of SSD’s is their low capacity and high price. Don’t worry, though; we’ve found the right balance between the two. However, we will talk about some more traditional storage first quickly.
Because of the limited size of more affordable SSD’s, we’re going to need an auxiliary hard drive. (Also known as an HDD or “Spinning Disk” Hard Drive.) These “spinning disk” drives have the advantage of being a tried-and-true technology, and their age means savings for us. Hard drive prices continue to fall, and I can’t think of a better example for this phenomenon than the Crucial BX500 GB.
This deal just keeps getting better and better. It’s a compact hard drive with a 2.5” form factor for a compact price.
Now onto the fun part, the SSD. Due to their high price-per-gig, high-capacity SSDs, some might believe not to be a good idea for any gaming pc build at this range. But with the current change in times and the availability of more quality branded ones in the market, I will use a smaller, more affordable, 480 GB SATA SSD from Crucial.
The Crucial BX500 480 GB is an affordable package at around 50 bucks, but don’t let its affordability fool you. This SSD is packing sequential read and write times of 540MB/s, which places it firmly in the competition among rival manufacturers like Corsair. In addition, the 2.5” size means we’re going to have plenty of space to share with our secondary drive.
Adding this SSD will take our OS boot times from minutes to seconds. Just remember, if possible, to set up your documents, pictures, movies, and music folders, so they are routed to your secondary drive.
Or the Kingston A400 480GB SSD
- Fast start up, loading and file transfers. A400 has a 7 millimeter form factor...
- More reliable and durable than a hard drive
- Multiple capacities with space for applications or a hard drive replacement;...
- Capacity: 480GB, Interface: SATA Rev. 3.0 (6Gb/s) with backwards compatibility...
For reliable and affordable storage, Kingston A400 480GB is a must-have when doing an $800 gaming PC build. Regarding price vs. performance, this product gets you a PC build for $800 as the standard-sized 2.5 inch SSD boasts of a 7mm form factor and a SATA Rev. 3.0 interface with backward compatibility to the 2.0. In addition, the 1600 TB written and 3-year warranty ensures reliable performance until you decide to get a better one.
Although the triple-level cell NAND chips on the Kingston A400 is not as long-lasting or as fast as MLC versions, it is still durable. It uses a Phison S11 controller since it lacks a DRAM. In addition, it has a terabytes written rating of 160, which tells us about the drive’s lifespan. Spreading this warranty limit over the 3 years gives you approximately 146 GB of data written every day. This figure means your $800 gaming PC build will not require replacements quickly.
Regarding performance, the Kingston A400 can beat high-end MLC NAND drives two years older when it comes to sequential read speed. Also, numerous reviews have found that the sequential read and write speeds typically measure higher than the manufacturer’s claim. However, random ones fell below what was advertised.
4) TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan RGB DDR4 16GB (2x8GB) 3600MHz
- Simple design to perfectly protect the cooling module
- High thermal conductive adhesive
- Supports Intel & AMD motherboards
- Selected high-quality IC, Supports XMP2.0
You may recognize this guy from, well, probably all of my other builds. It’s true; I’m a fan! I’ve rarely used much else in my computers, and occasionally I’ll see a different brand’s standard memory sticks with better timings or a bit less on the price tag, but I always come back to Team group T-Force. The Vulcan is especially a solid unit with a long and storied past of use by consumers across the market, with solid performance and a typically low rate of busted RAM. You can do worse, though I’ll say, as you may be interested in something similar from G.Skill or Crucial, who usually make good stuff, be prepared to do a little research and make sure you get something at the best speed and performance mark for the price you pay.
As before, the stick is compatible with most motherboards and setups in general, with little to no effort needed to make them work with any system. It also comes in a few different colors and LED, and like any other RAM stick, you can easily upgrade it by buying a second one at any time down the road and slotting it in place next to the first. If you want to start with a better RAM built-in, choose this two-pack kit as it is cheaper than buying two sticks separately.
Or the Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3200MHZ
- Hand-sorted memory chips ensure high performance with generous Overclocking...
- Vengeance LPX is optimized for wide compatibility with the latest Intel and AMD...
- A low-profile height of just 34mm ensures that vengeance LPX even fits in most...
- A high-performance PCB guarantees strong signal quality and stability for...
Another top option for your new $800 gaming computer RAM, Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB, comes in numerous colors to compliment your current setup. It also has a small form factor, a height of 34 mm. Hence, it is a fantastic low-profile choice for the best $800 gaming PC build.
Aside from aesthetics, performance is key for gaming. The Corsair LPX features a custom PCB for boosting functionality and gives you plenty of leeway for overclocking. In addition, each IC has been screened to ensure it has the capacity for offering peak performance. The PCB design allows it to effectively manage the heat with help from the aluminum heat spreader. Your ICs will function well because of the cooling system. Unfortunately, you do not get a fan with this purchase.
Furthermore, the manufacturer has gone to great lengths to ensure the compatibility of the Corsair LPX with most motherboards on the market. So, whether you are upgrading your current setup or building an $800 gaming computer, you are covered. Additionally, Vengeance features XMP 2.0 support. This feature ensures you do not experience lockups or drops in performance because you can use one setting to install and set things up.
Finally, whether you are using if you are looking for a higher frequency, low power consumption and wider bandwidth, the Corsair DDR4 stick is worth it. In addition, the manufacturer provides a limited lifetime warranty for your purchase to help protect your investment in better performance.
5) EVGA BQ 80+ Bronze 500W Semi-Modular PSU
- EVGA 500 BQ "great quality, Great value"
- 80 plus Bronze certified, with 85 percentage efficiency or higher under typical...
- Fan Size/ Bearing: 120 millimeter fluid Dynamic Bearing quiet and intelligent...
- Heavy duty protections, including OVP, UVP, OCP, OPP, and SCP
For the power supply here, I’ve chosen EVGA BQ 80+. Although they’re a company I’ve tested multiple times, I can’t find anything wrong with this PSU. For starters, it gives us a little flex room with 500 watts, at the same price as many other unreliable systems, and of course, because this is my build guide, it’s 80+ Bronze certified to make sure it runs and performs the best it can without putting your system at any kind of risk.
As an extra, the EVGA BQ comes with semi-modular cables, which are a handy feature for those less experienced in cable management or with smaller builds. Also attached is a 3-year Warranty to go with its efficient power and reliability.
Or the Thermaltake TR2 600 W ATX Power Supply
- Cable management optimized - elongated cables enable enthusiasts and Power users...
- Intelligent 120mm cooling fan - large 120mm cooling fan with intelligent...
- Designed with powerful graphic card support in mind - so you want to play the...
- Peace OF mind Warranty - all Thermaltake power supplies, not just the premium...
Looking for PSUs may seem like a bland endeavor because there aren’t many features to be excited about. Nevertheless, the right purchase means ensuring you can build a rounded 1080p / 1440p VR-ready gaming PC that can draw the necessary power. With the Thermaltake TR2’s relatively high power output in its price range, you get enough juice for your intensive needs. Plus, you can have a system that will be able to handle 1440p / 4K gaming at max settings, as the 600 watts give you enough headroom for overclocking your setup.
Moreover, your budget-to-high end 1080p/1440p PC build will not be annoyingly loud when you are merely browsing the internet. The Thermaltake TR2 features an intelligent fan that only throttles when gaming and operates at a whisper when doing something light. Plus, the 12 mm cooling fan has what it takes to ensure thermal efficiency.
Proper cable management help keep your setup near while ensuring that no wires block the air intake of your fans and prevent optimal cooling. Th Thermaltake TR2 comes with a compartment you can use to keep away extra lengths. In addition, it has extra-long cables that go to your numerous attachments and specific accessories. Consequently, you can store the ones you do not use. Th s cable management feature is one of its selling points as other options in its price range may lack the capability.
Finally, the design of the Thermaltake TR2 includes dual 12v rails that help you connect your graphics card for support. Pl s, this reputable brand provides a 5-year warranty and numerous safety features for your peace of mind. For instance, it has short-circuit, overvoltage and power protection. It is one of the parts you can keep when upgrading your setup to play a modern game at max settings.
6) Zalman S4 PC Case
- Bezel Design For Optimal Airflow
- Full Acrylic Tinted Side Panel Shows Your Custom System In Style
- High-Strength Chasis and Premium Black Coating for Corrosion Protection
- User Friendly Case I/O
Zalman is a brand I’ve come to rely on several times in my build history; I’ve never had a part of theirs let me down. The S4 is a really solid deal, especially for the price point. Plus, it has a surprising wealth of optional little features for something in the eighty-dollar-or-under range, such as a bezel design for optimal airflow, adequate space for drive bays and storage are just a few of those features. It even comes stock with two built-in 120mm fans, perfect for the starter who doesn’t want to worry about upgrading them, and a cheaper starting point for fan enthusiasts who want to add a couple more.
And though it might not matter, it’s a very attractive case, with available tempered glass to showcase those LED lights and a neat setup. On the plus side–and more importantly–it feels and is built well; none of the parts feel cheap, and it’s overall a pretty sturdy case. I’d recommend it since this is a recommendation.
Or the NZXT H510- Compact ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case
- New features: Front I/O USB Type-C Port and Tempered glass side panel with...
- Enhanced cable management: Our patented cable routing kit with pre-installed...
- STREAMLINED COOLING: 2 Aer F120mm fans included for optimal internal airflow and...
- Motherboard support: Mini-ITX, MicroATX, and ATX
Another wise recommendation in the eighty-dollar-or-under range is the NZXT H510 Compact ATX Mid-Tower Case. The design ensures it does not take up much space while guaranteeing you will not forgo any features. In addition, the sleek and modern look includes a continuous tempered glass panel on one side. This easy-to-install panel allows you to show off your RGB lights.
Moreover, this case has pre-installed pathways to help with managing the wires. The patented cable-routing kit ensures your setup remains neat. Thanks to the straps and channels, the NZXT brand is popular with builders since it makes wiring intuitive and simple.
Furthermore, the H510 has two Aer F120 mm built-in fans and multiple vents for effective internal airflow. Three airflow options ensure you get a well-rounded 1080p/1440p competitive gaming experience without worrying about cooling. Additionally, the front panel and PSU intake vents have air filters that you can remove.
If you are interested in installing a water cooling system, the removable bracket allows you to use radiators up to 240 mm. Thus, you can decide on closed or custom-loop to maintain favorable temperatures within the case.
For convenience, if you want to build a gaming PC for 2021, you need your peripherals/accessories to go and connect seamlessly to your station. Whether you want to hook up external storage or transfer files to your phone, the case you get should accommodate these connections hassle-free. The NZX H510 encapsulates modernity by providing ports on the front panel for easy access. You get USB-C and USB 3.1 Gen2 connectors for your peripherals and accessories.
7) ASRock B450M Pro4 AM4 Motherboard
- Socket AM4 Digi Power design 9 Power Phase design Supports 105W Water Cooling...
- Country of origin : China
- Memory 4x DDR4-3200+(OC)/2933/2667/2400/2133 DIMM Slots Dual Channel ECC Non-ECC...
- Slots 2x PCI-Express 3 0 x16 Slots (one runs at x8) 2x PCI-Express 2 0 x16 Slots...
If you are building your very first gaming PC, an easy-to-use motherboard will take plenty of stress away from figuring out where things should go. Admittedly, you can find numerous tutorials with step-by-step walk-throughs of how to set everything up. As such, th ASRock B450M Pro4 will not leave you scratching your head trying to figure out the right way to install the accessories. Plus, your purchase includes the A-Tuning software with an improved interface that offers plenty more utilities and features to get you started.
Moreover, you do not have to worry about power surges causing your setup to malfunction. This budget-friendly motherboard comes with full spike protection to keep your components safe from damage when the unexpected occurs. For your pea e of mind, you also get access to the ASRock app shop with live updates for more convenience. Hence, you c n optimize your gaming PC and ensure everything is up-to-date.
The pure black Sapphire appearance of the PCB is not the only thing to get excited about. The motherboard is not susceptible to humidity changes causing electrical shortages since the high-density glass fabric minimizes the gaps between individual layers. In addition, the two-ounce copper materials in the layers ensure you get an energy-efficient PCB that does not get too hot and allows for overclocking.
If you are interested in crip and clean audio, the ELNA audio capacitors in this motherboard bring features that audiophiles will love. After all, t e leakage current is 3 micro-Amperes that minimizes noise levels. Plus, this b ard struts well-made capacitors that are guaranteed to last a long time.
Or the ASUS Prime B450M-A-II Motherboard
- AMD AM4 Socket : Compatible to Ryzen 5000, 3rd/2nd/1st Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs
- Designed for Productivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2 with 10Gbps ultra-fast transfer speed,...
- Optimized Cooling: VRM and PCH heatsink with extensive surface, thermal pads...
- Built to Last: all-round protection with LANGuard, DRAM overcurrent protection,...
If you plan to use AMD Ryzen CPUs, the ASUS Prime B450M-A-II motherboard features AM4 socket compatibility to ensure you are covered even when you go for an upgrade. Furthermore, the design of this piece emphasizes productivity thanks to the onboard M.2 support, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 slot, HDMI 2.0B, DVI/D-Sub and four DIMMs. Consequently, this setup allows you to install a maximum of 128 GB of DDR4 memory. Plus, you are sure of support for overclocking the system.
To ensure your hardware components do not overheat the system, the ASUS Prime comes with a PHC and VRM heatsink that extends throughout a significant chunk of the surface. In addition, you get thermal pads that transfer heat from the hotspots towards the dissipating heatsink. Plus, this motherboard gives you the freedom to control fans for high heat efficiency when gaming on ultra settings and low-volume operation when doing light tasks.
Furthermore, the numerous safety features on this motherboard make the price point more inviting. For example, your purchase gives you access to LANGuard for stable signal delivery to avoid lagging in competitive gaming and SafeSlote Core for a fortified expansion slot. Plus, you get overvoltage and overcurrent protection along with multiple safeguards for your components.
Finally, the simple BIOS flashback process ensures you do not start twiddling your thumbs before you start plugging in your components. Plus, the safe UEFI BIOS update procedure lets you perform updates when you have not connected your CPU or memory sticks. You can find the software free to download from the ASUS support site.
Considerations for the Best $800 Gaming PC Build
a). Think of the Future
These pandemic era times have caused a price vs. performance battle that requires buyers to make more concessions when looking for budget-friendly options for an $800 gaming PC build. Admittedly, our recommendations might border on the plus side of the budget due to the constraints mentioned. Nevertheless, such compromises may be essential to get a gaming PC easily capable of delivering a smooth experience.
Consequently, your build needs to be future-proof to ensure you are not back on the market soon for more parts than you need. So, do your hardware choices allow you to add more powerful components down the line? If you are going for reliable performance on today’s latest title games, it is essential to consider whether your setup can play at the same level in a few years.
Since this scenario is quite unlikely, consider whether you can easily upgrade your system for faster and more capable components. After all, s ch considerations can ensure you do not make any unnecessary purchases and lose money.
b). Beyond Gamin Performance
If you are not merely looking for a 1080p or 1440p gaming experience, you need to consider your system’s performance when it comes to working on numerous tasks, running a live stream or editing a video. Of course, A D is known for a beefier processor with multithreading for extra virtual cores to pick up the workload. This design ensures you get a better gaming experience when compared to when you build Intel Core i5 based PCs.
c). Is it an Easy Build?
Of course, not everyone is decent with a screwdriver, so the recommendations above offer an easy experience when setting up. From the case to the motherboard, you will not spend hours on the web trying to figure out how to place your components correctly. Additionally, the cable management features in the cases and PSUs we have looked at go a long way to simplify getting things started.
Moreover, if you are interested in customizing various aspects of the build, our recommendations provide you with ample freedom to do so. Also, ensuring optimum airflow is critical to realizing the kind of gaming performance worth your money. Consequently, some of our recommendations come with GPU and CPU cooler options without spending extra.
Still, it is vital to get essentials like an affordable thermal paste as this can boost the gaming performance when you are squeezing the most out of your system. In addition, some top choices include stock coolers to avoid straining your $800 gaming PC budget.
d). Extra Power?
When building a budget gaming PC for 2021, overclocking is essential as it allows you to get more power from your components. Unfortunately, low-priced options may have a base performance cap that may make it impossible to use ultra settings on a 1080p/1440p VR-ready gaming station. Thus, looking for processors that allow for overclocking and motherboards that can support it is a wonderful place to start.
Nevertheless, when overclocking, it is vital to consider that you will be pushing your components far beyond the standard operating metrics. Thus, aftermarket coolers may be a must-buy to ensure you do not fry your hardware trying to get the kind of gaming performance seen on high-end 1080p/1440p PC builds. In addition, the procedure to overclock certain components must not be a head-scratcher as people with little knowledge may end up doing more harm than good.
e). How Does it look?
The cases included in the recommendations feature a tempered glass side that allows you to showcase your setup with water cooling and RGB lights. The aesthetic plus can let your PC take center stage on your gaming station, and you can show off the cable management in your rig. Although looks may not be the point of going for budget-friendly options, it helps that you can still have a neat-looking build at no extra cost.
Remember the Peripherals
Monitor: ASUS VS247H-P 23.6" Full HD
- LED Monitor 23.6 inch with 1920x1080 resolution and Quick response time of 2ms...
- 50,000,000:1 ASUS Smart Contrast Ratio dynamically enhances the display's...
- Exclusive Splendid Video Intelligence Technology automatically optimize image...
- Response time 2ms (Gray to Gray), pixel pitch 0.272mm, inputs of HDMI, DVI and...
My best computer gaming monitor pick is the ASUS VS247H-P 23.6” display because of the collection of gaming-oriented features for the price point. First, you get a 2 ms response time that gives you a smooth gaming experience for starters. Next, you get an LED backlight that adds energy efficiency without compromising luminance.
Furthermore, the slim design lets you save plenty of space thanks to the built-in power adapters. If you are interested in setting up a multi-display build, the connectivity options have your back. Plus, the impressive contrast ratio gives you a lifelike experience.
Mouse: Logitech G502 Hero
- Hero 25K sensor through a software update from G HUB, this upgrade is free to...
- 11 customizable buttons and onboard memory: Assign custom commands to the...
- Adjustable weight system: Arrange up to five removable 3.6 grams weights inside...
- Programmable RGB Lighting and Lightsync technology: Customize lighting from...
High DPI, RGB lights 6 buttons at a minimum and customizable options are essential when buying a mouse. The Logitech G502 Hero is a must-have when it comes to enhancing your gaming experience. Plus, the pr ce makes it quite attractive if you are hard-pressed for cash.
You can adjust the weight system by arranging five weights inside the device. You can add or remove them until you are satisfied with the feel of the mouse in your hand. In addition, you can program the RGB lights using Lightsync technology to match your style or mood while gaming.
Furthermore, the 11 customizable buttons with built-in memory let you decide the fingers to use and what to use them for. Plus, you can add up to five profiles to save when engaging with different titles. Finally, you will get a mechanical switch to give you more crisp feedback when rapidly clicking.
WiFi Adapter: TP Link Archer T6E
- Lightning Fast Speed: AC1900 wireless speed with the next generation 80211ac...
- Ultimate Range: High gain antennas ensure superior range and stability
- Beamforming Technology: Delivers a more targeted and highly efficient wireless...
- SuperSpeed USB 3.0: Provides up to 10x faster than USB 2.0
Super-fast wireless connectivity becomes essential if you cannot get a wired internet connection to your PC build. After all, you would not want lags to cause your undoing when competitively gaming. The TP-Link Archer T6E features dual-band connectivity for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz for more options.
Moreover, the antennas are built to provide an extensive range and a stable signal. You can use SB 3.0 to connect your computer, which gives you more flexible deployment and faster speeds. Plus, the WPS button ensures you do not have to remember the password when connecting a new device. Unfortunately, this option does not support Linux-based systems.
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
![Windows 10 Pro Upgrade [PC Online Code]](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41qidpquuEL.jpg?f=auto)
- Upgrade Windows 10 Home Device to Windows 10 Pro (Check System Requirements)...
- With Windows 10 Pro, you get comprehensive security, business-class tools,...
- More built-in protections, including, BitLocker(3), advanced encryption...
- Access all your files, folders and apps from virtually anywhere, on any device...
Since some gaming titles can run on Linux-based systems, the free operating system is a fantastic option for those with strict budgets and building a PC for the first time. Variations like Ubuntu allow you to save money while accessing some of your favorite games.
Although buying Windows 10 is expensive, the DirectX 12 support gives you access to many more games. In addition, installing an operating system is not difficult, so you do not have to worry about complicated steps if you are new to the PC building circles.
An Easier Route? The Prebuilt Gaming PC Top Options
Unless you have a strict budget, are pretty picky with your preferences or want to get a gaming rig urgently, you cannot go wrong with either building or going with a prebuilt gaming PC option. Of course, doing it yourself gives you more choices for customizing the setup, but an assembled one offers more reliability, and you will finish much quicker.
Should You Build?
Building allows you to fine-tune your components since you can handpick them off the line. In addition, you can remain within your budget while still getting the performance you need. Plus, you can take your time with your build to ensure you only get the components you want when they are in stock or go for refurbished options.
A unique system can be exhilarating to build, although you need to be prepared for stressful times, especially during your first time. Still, you c n find plenty of help online to get you through.
Should You Buy?
An $800 prebuilt gaming PC option may not have the specs you want, but there are numerous advantages you can look forward to. For starters, you get warranty service and support from the manufacturer. Also, you ha e peace of mind that professionals have tested the setup to ensure buyers get value.
You can also save money on pre-installed software like an operating system and get some exclusive components to your build. Additionally, you can get access to components that are not sold separately. Still, a compromise on customization may be in the works as you will not make as many tweaks to the gaming rig. Ultimately, the route you choose to take boils down to a personal choice that would be easy or convenient for you. Still, we ha e some recommendations for prebuilt options below.
Prebuilt gaming PCs in the $800 Price Point
1. HP Pavilion Desktop PC
- PROVEN-PERFORMANCE – Made for the modern family, the HP Pavilion Desktop PC...
- DURABLE AND STYLISH – Ditch the dull black box with a polished silver PC that...
- AMD PROCESSOR AND GRAPHICS – Whether you are playing the latest games,...
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – With 16 GB of RAM, everything from multitasking to...
The polished silver finish on the HP Pavilion Desktop PC looks stylish and ditches the monotonous black tones common in most cases. So, this tower will fit well into any space. In addition, you can save money on the operating system as this option comes with Windows 11 Pro that has a 1-year warranty.
In terms of performance, this des top comes with an AMD Ryzen 5700G processor and AMD Radeon DDR4 Graphics Card with 16 GB of memory. Plus, the 512 GB S D for internal storage makes the pot a little sweeter. Finally, if you are an audiophile, the 5.1 channel surround sound output allows you to immerse yourself in the grooves.
2. SkyTech Blaze II Gaming PC
- AMD Ryzen 3 3100 3.6GHz (3.9GHz Max Boost) CPU Processor | 500GB SSD – Up to...
- GTX 1650 4GB GDDR6 Graphics Card (Brand may vary) | 8G DDR4 3200 Gaming Memory...
- 802.11AC | No Bloatware | Graphic output options include 1 x HDMI, and 1 x...
- 3 x RGB RING Fans for Maximum Air Flow | Skytech mATX Mid-Tower Tempered Glass...
The SkyTech Blaze II Gaming PC has you covered if you want a cool and flashy option. The tempered glass panels and the RGB lighting give it a futuristic look that you can tweak to fit any setting. Plus, you can upgrade the components without compromising the performance of your setup.
On gaming experience, the AMD Ryzen 3 3100 processor, 500 GB SSD and 3 120 mm fans for optimal cooling. Of course, you can order yours with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4 GB or a different brand. Nevertheless, this option’s design and build quality may make many of you opt to buy instead of building your own.
Gaming PC Build FAQ
1. Is an 800 dollar gaming PC build worth it?
Whether you choose to build or buy a PC in the $800 range, you will likely land on a reliable setup. Admittedly, the price hikes may pose an issue, especially when looking for reliable chips. However, the overall purchase can play recent games on the highest settings on a 1080p monitor.
2. Should I focus on the GPU or CPU for streaming?
If you use software encoding for your stream, you will use up more CPU. Alternatively, hardware encoding supported streaming requires a beefy GPU. There are pros and cons to each method, and you can determine the best one for you based on the games you want to play and the budget you can set aside.
Final Thoughts
Being something of a higher-end builder myself, I was surprised by how flexible a PC can be in this price range. Mind you, it is $800, but that’s not too much of an investment considering the result. It’s a worthwhile machine and the kind PC gamers tend to give a cool nickname–though I’ll leave that to you. The Ryzen 5 2600 and the EVGA GeForce GTX make for a solid pairing, both the price of a lesser component while filling out the upper mid ranges of high-end PC graphics, together to tackle even recent gaming giants with decent framerates. Assuming a standard setup running the highest settings possible on 1920×1080 resolution, I couldn’t find a single game that dropped below 60 fps. So, overall not a bad build for the price. Not at all. And for the hardcore, you can always buy a more expensive GPU and clap it right inside.
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