How to Build the Best Budget Gaming PC

Building your own gaming PC might sound intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. Especially when you’re on a budget. 

Whether you’re a total beginner or just looking to ditch overpriced prebuilt machines, we’ve teamed up with Eneba to walk you through building the Best Budget Gaming PC from scratch without burning a hole in your wallet.

Why Build Instead of Buy?

Prebuilt gaming PCs might seem convenient, but they often come with inflated prices and sub-par parts. When you build your own rig, you get full control over the performance, aesthetics, and upgrade paths. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to game on a machine you assembled yourself.

The trick is knowing where to put your money. For example, you don’t need a $500 GPU to run today’s most popular games. With smart choices and a bit of research, you can build the Best Budget Gaming PC for less than the cost of a new console.

Step 1: Define Your Budget and Gaming Goals

Before you buy any components, think about your gaming needs. Are you into competitive shooters like CS2 and Valorant, or AAA blockbusters like Cyberpunk 2077? Maybe just casual indies and retro emulators?

Your gaming preferences should shape your budget. An entry-level gaming rig can be built for $500–$700. If you’re focusing on eSports titles, you can build for even less.

Step 2: Choose the Right Parts (Without Overspending)

Here’s what you’ll need:

• CPU – AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel i3/i5 (12th Gen) for excellent price-to-performance
• GPU – A used GTX 1660 Super or a new Radeon RX 6600 is great for 1080p gaming
• RAM – 16GB DDR4 is the sweet spot
• Storage – A 500GB NVMe SSD keeps load times lightning-fast
• Motherboard – Choose one compatible with your CPU and with room to upgrade
• Power Supply – 80+ Bronze certified from a reliable brand
• Case – A basic mid-tower with decent airflow gets the job done

Not sure where to buy parts or how to save? Communities like Reddit’s r/buildapc or curated build guides can help. And for digital resources like game codes, OS keys, or budget-friendly software – be sure to check trusted online marketplaces.

Step 3: Assemble Like a Pro (Even If You’re a Noob)

Think of your PC build as a high-stakes LEGO set. Follow step-by-step videos on YouTube to guide you through every connection. Don’t forget thermal paste on the CPU cooler, and always double-check your power connections before booting up.

Patience is key here. Take your time, enjoy the process, and celebrate the moment that BIOS screen pops up for the first time.

Step 4: Install Your OS and Get to Gaming

Once your build powers on, it’s time to install your OS. Most go with Windows, but Linux-based systems like SteamOS are gaining popularity. After that, install all the necessary drivers and start loading up your favorite launchers like Steam, Epic, or Battle.net.

Johnny Peterson