How Much Does a Gaming PC Cost? Off The Shelf vs Building

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A good gaming PC should give you the best gaming experience with fast game loads and higher refresh rates. Learn how much does a gaming PC cost?

We discuss the different features gaming PCs have and their benefits. We also compare costs for already built vs. building gaming PCs.

Let’s dive in.

Is a Gaming PC Worth It?

Yes. a gaming PC is worth it—especially when you are a die-hard gamer who likes to play every AAA title. Gaming PCs give you a better upgrading and customizing experience, making it simple. 

Also, a gaming PC can have better graphics and frame rates than a regular computer and can be upgraded and customized. That gives PCs an advantage over consoles.

Thanks to the robust graphics card, you may play games at the highest possible resolution without experiencing slowdown or frame dips. Every play session is lightning-quick and incredibly fun.

But you can also do more with a gaming PC. You could easily do heavy-duty computing activities like video editing, graphics design, or 3D modeling.

If you have a gaming PC, you benefit from the following:

• Lag-free gameplay. The latest NVIDIA GeForce GTX graphics cards and the high refresh rates of gaming PCs make for a flawless gaming experience at 60 frames per second in 4K resolution.
• High performance. Computers built for gaming provide a powerful Intel Core i5 or i7 quad-core processor that can efficiently run the latest and greatest games.
• Quality visuals. The high-end graphics cards in gaming PCs allow for extremely clear and crisp visuals.
• Cooling technology. Dedicated gaming PCs have cutting-edge cooling systems that keep your hardware from overheating, even after hours of use.
• Faster loading speed. The solid-state drives (SSDs) in today’s gaming PCs allow quick game loading and virtually eliminate lag even when playing the most demanding games.

Based on all these features, do you think a gaming PC is worth it? It sure is.

How Much Does a Good Gaming PC Cost 2023

A good gaming PC in 2023 costs between $500 and $4,000. There are two types of prebuilt gaming PCs:

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) 

Original Equipment Manufacturers are HP, Dell, Acer, and Lenovo. They manufacture proprietary parts that they use to assemble a gaming PC. The downside, however, is that the components are not always universally compatible. But it makes their gaming PCs cheaper than SI gaming PCs.

Another downside is that the PCs may be challenging to upgrade.

SI (system integrator)

System Integrator gaming PC is the result of companies like Skytech Gaming which assemble standard PC components PC builders use to create a gaming PC. For instance, they could take a graphics card, a motherboard, power supply from the best manufacturers.

These PCs are best for gamers who want to take apart their gaming PCs to do some upgrades.

So before you invest your money in a gaming PC, you need to distinguish between the two.

What Are the Specific Features to Look for When Choosing a Gaming PC?

Invest in a high-end personal computer with a robust (CPU) central processing unit and (GPU) graphics processing unit. You also need to consider the RAM, cooling, and hard drive.

Let’s discuss these features in detail.

Central Processing Unit

In video games, the central processing unit (CPU) executes the game’s instructions and analyzes user input. The computer’s central processing unit handles everything from interacting with NPCs to the running environment and combat simulations. A multi-core CPU has many more processing cores than a single-core CPU.

The CPU is also responsible for passing information to the PC’s GPU.

Cores are the individual processing units in a CPU that read, interpret, and run the programs. Having extra cores on your CPU means it can handle more tasks at once. The Core i5 makes a perfect build, whereas the Core i7 provides top performance.

GPU

When it comes to personal computer play, the graphics processing unit (GPU) is crucial. You’ll require a GPU to play every modern video game. A robust graphics processing unit also helps with frame rates and overall gaming fluidity.

A 3D image requires your computer to perform a lot of calculations. The graphics processing unit (GPU) handles a game’s visuals and computing power.

The CPU can focus on more intricate tasks, like managing the computer’s inputs and outputs, thanks to the GPU’s fast processing of these calculations.

A mid-range graphics card will suffice for 1080p gameplay at 60 fps. However, you will require a high-end GPU for 4K footage at 120 fps.

RAM

A computer’s random-access memory (RAM) is crucial for any game. Compared to computers with less memory, those with more RAM are faster and more responsive. During prolonged processing, random-access memory serves as a cache. 

You’ll need at least 8 GB to play games, although 16 GB is preferable. If you frequently switch between applications, 32 GB is ideal.

Hard Drive

The performance of your hard drive may affect how you play games. A fast SSD can reduce game loading times and increase system responsiveness. However, a slow HDD can add extra wait time that can mount up to minutes.

Modern games can take up anywhere from 20GB to 180GB of storage space on a hard drive. So you should be fine if your HDD is fast enough to accommodate the graphics.

Monitor

The gaming monitor impacts the player’s and the game’s overall performance. You want to look for a faster refresh rate in a monitor. That shows how fast the screen is refreshed to reflect new visual data.

Cooling

Because processing units and graphics processing units (GPUs) slow down when exposed to high temperatures, cooling improves your PC performance. Standard operating component temperatures are between 60 and 70 degrees Celsius (140 and 158 degrees Fahrenheit).

Is $1000 a Good Price for a Gaming PC?

Yes. $1000 is a reasonable price for a gaming PC. You can get a gaming PC that gives you a perfect display and lag-free gaming experience. The $1,000 price point is where you should start looking for a gaming PC for the long haul.

Is It Cheaper to Build a Gaming PC in 2023?

Yes. It is cheaper to build a gaming PC in 2023. One could argue that the cost of building a gaming PC has increased recently. That’s because components for gaming computers are more expensive recently. While this is true, you can still purchase second-hand parts, which are way cheaper. You can also shop around for deals. Also, you could save more by only spending on parts that matter to you.

How Much Does a Gaming PC Cost to Build

There’s a wide range of possible expenditures when assembling a gaming PC. A reasonable starting point for a low-cost construction project is between $500 and $1,000. Everything in between is open, with the price reaching $2000 and beyond.

How Much Is a Gaming PC and Monitor?

A decent gaming computer and monitor should cost between $500 and $1000. Additionally, a high-end gaming PC can cost $2000+. Purchase a gaming PC and monitor that will satisfy your overall gaming needs.

Best Value for Money Gaming PC

OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop PC

The OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop GT15-0015na PC is the gaming PC with the best value for money.

This gaming PC comes with Core i7 Processor, which supports action-packed gaming and provides dazzling graphics. You don’t have to worry about overheating as it is equipt with a 120mm fan.

The best part is that you can customize and upgrade the Omen 25L. This feature allows you to replace internal components in the future.

Specifications

• Processor: Core i7
• Hard Disk Type: SSD
• Hard Drive: 1 TB
• RAM: 16 GB
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
• Operating System: Windows 10

Pros

• Silent system. So you don’t get a lot of noise while gaming.
• Seamless gaming experience

Cons

• Not perfect for heavy-duty tasks as it overheats fast
• You’ll need to use external audio software if you want high-quality sound. Considering because of the subpar quality of the onboard audio system.

Check the OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop’s latest prices on Amazon

YEYIAN Kunai X12 Gaming PC Desktop Computer

The YEYIUN Kunai X12 gaming PC is an all-computer with a Windows 11 operating system. You can do video editing and other heavy-duty tasks whenever you are not playing your favorite video game.

Enjoy fast game loads and lag-free action. All this is thanks to the PC’s Core i7 CPU model, 16 GB RAM, and 1 TB memory capacity. YEYIUN Kunai X12 is also equipt with The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti 8 GB GDDR6. These graphics allow for maxing out your overall gaming experience.

Specifications

• Processor: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti 8 GB GDDR6
• RAM: 16 GB DDR4
• Hard Disk Type: SSD
• Operating System: Windows

Pros

• Fast game loads and high refresh rates
• Easy to upgrade
• Max out on all graphic settings

Cons

• Users complain of malfunctions

Check the YEYIUN Kunai X12 gaming PC’s latest prices on Amazon

HP Omen 25L AMD Ryzen 7

If you’re looking for a powerful gaming desktop, go no further than the HP Omen 25L AMD Ryzen 7, with an AMD Processor and stunning visuals. You may customize this computer to your specifications with no effort and no special tools. The PC also has a 120mm front fan that ensures your graphics are not compromised by heating.

Specifications

• Processor: Ryzen 7
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home
• Graphics Brand: AMD
• RAM: 16 GB
• Hard Disk Type: HDD
• Hard Drive Size: 512 GB

Pros

• Nice design
• Easy to set up
• Outstanding performance with frames up to 200 fps, depending on your resolution.

Cons

• It may not support 4k resolution
• Difficult to upgrade because of the small case size
• Locked settings adjustments
• Overheats

Check the HP Omen 25L AMD Ryzen 7’s latest prices on HP

Best Entry-Level Gaming PC

AVGPC Q-Box Series Gaming PC – 4.6 GHz

The visually striking AVGPC Q-Box Series Gaming PC is affordable and can easily handle the demands of most current AAA titles. The AVGPC Q-Box Series Gaming PC has a one terabyte hard drive (TB), a 500-gigabyte HDD, a 3.8 GHz ryzen_7 processor that is generally reliable but has some rough edges, and 16 gigabytes of RAM.

Specifications

• Processor: 3.8 GHz ryzen_7
• RAM: 16GB DDR4
• Processor Speed: 3.8 GHz
• Hard Disk Type: SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10
• Hard Drive Size: 500 GB

Pros

• Great value for money
• The reliable graphics processing unit

Cons

• You cannot play all task-demanding games at max settings
• There’s no dedicated GPU

Check the AVGPC Q-Box Series Gaming PC’s latest prices on Amazon

Alarco Gaming PC Desktop Computer Intel i7

The 16GB of DDR3 RAM will provide more than enough performance for casual gamers, doubling the baseline for most games. The Alarco Gaming PC Desktop Computer Intel i7 features a 3.4GHz Intel core i7 2600 processor. That makes it suitable for playing most games in medium settings.

With a graphics card like the NVIDIA Geforce GTX 750 4GB, you may expect to get at least 30 frames per second. And in some games, you may even go up to 60fps.

Specifications

• Processor: Core i7-2600
• Hard Disk Type: ‎HDD
• Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
• Hard Drive Size: 1 TB
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750
• RAM: 16 GB

Pro

• Great performance running games
• Can run heavy-duty tasks outside of gaming
• High refresh rates
• Easy to set up

Cons

• You can only run some heavy-duty games under maximum settings

Check the Alarco Gaming PC Desktop’s latest prices on Amazon

Skytech Archangel 3.0 Gaming PC Desktop

This Skytech Archangel 3.0 Gaming PC Desktop is Pre-Configured and ready for use right out of the box. Simply plug it in and start using it! With the GTX 1050 Ti, you can play the most popular titles with high settings and at least 60 FPS. 

But the PC can also help with other tasks like creating content. Video rendering for platforms like YouTube and Twitch should be a breeze with the GPU. Although it depends on the load a task places on the PC.

Specifications

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3100
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti
• Hard Disk Type: SSD
• RAM: 8G DDR4
• Hard Drive Size: 500 GB
• Operating System: Windows 10

Pros

• Sufficient overall specs to play the vast majority of games at reasonable quality levels
• Easy to set up

Cons

• It does not have the front flash-card reader or USB-C ports 

Check the Skytech Archangel 3.0 Gaming PC’s latest prices on Amazon

Best Premium Gaming PC

Corsair ONE i300

When it comes to compact gaming PCs, the latest iteration, the Corsair ONE i300, is by far the most outstanding.

The Intel Core i9-12900K processor, the latest DDR5 RAM, and graphics processing units (GPUs) up to the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti provide this compact PC with unrivaled capability. It’s completely liquid-cooled, runs silently, and looks sleek, just like previous Corsair One models.

Specifications

• Processor: Intel Core i9-12900K
• RAM: 32 GB DDR5
• Processor Speed: 5.2 GHz
• Boot Drive Type: SSD
• Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
• Graphics Card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti
• Boot Drive Capacity: 2 TB

Pros

• Outstanding performance
• This series features a lovely metal look and silent functioning.
• Wi-Fi 6E and DDR5 memory

Cons

• Quite expensive
• Less upgradeable than a regular desktop

Check the Corsair ONE i300’s latest prices on Amazon

Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop PC

Compared to previous models, the Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop PC, Intel Core i7-12700KF, has a refined chassis, better airflow, and reduced noise. NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics are pre-installed in the Alienware Aurora R13 to provide fast performance. 

The Alienware Aurora R13 is based on the industrial design of Legend 2.0. Compared to its predecessor, the Aurora R12, it is up to 9% quieter under heavy CPU load.

Specifications

• Processor: Core i7-12700KF
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070
• Hard Drive Size: 1 TB
• Hard Disk Type: HDD
• RAM: 16 GB
• Operating System: Windows 11

Pros

• A distinctive modern design
• The price-performance ratio is good.
• Lots of inputs and outputs, plus it’s simple to update
• Maintains a tranquil silence

Cons

• 120mm CPU cooler slows down time-consuming work performance
• Upgrading is difficult because of the need for unique components

Check the Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop PC’s latest prices on Amazon

CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC

High-performance Intel Core processors and lightning-fast DDR RAM allow the Gamer Xtreme VR series to breeze through processing-heavy games and applications. Examples of this include HD video playback and video games.

 The Gamer Xtreme series, with its powerful discrete video cards, ensures lag-free gaming and multimedia experience.

The CyberPowerPC desktop is an excellent choice for gamers interested in virtual reality. The Gamer Xtreme VR is the best gaming PC you can get without breaking the bank and can run the newest titles.

Specifications

• Processor: 2.1 GHz Core i7
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
• RAM: 16 GB
• Hard Drive Size: 1 TB
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home

Pros

• Outstanding performance
• Elegant shell with programmable LED illumination

Cons

• High power usage

Check the CyberPowerPC desktop’s latest prices on Amazon

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