This guide explores affordable pre-built gaming PCs, offering five excellent options (four desktops and one handheld). Building your own PC can be costly and time-consuming, so pre-built systems offer a convenient alternative. While budget options may not include top-tier components like an RTX 5090, they still deliver impressive performance for 1080p gaming, with some even handling 1440p. These PCs also offer upgrade potential for future enhancements.
TL;DR: Top Budget Gaming PC Picks
### Alienware Aurora R16
3See it at Dell### HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop
4See it at HP### MSI Codex R2
5See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### CLX Set
5See it at CLX### Asus Rog Ally Z1
1See it at Amazon
Budget PCs often utilize GPUs like the RTX 4060, Intel Arc B580, or AMD Radeon RX 7600, providing solid performance for the average gamer. Higher-end options like the RTX 4070 are possible with a mid-range CPU. All selected PCs offer high frame rates at 1080p, and some excel at 1440p.
For further savings, explore current gaming PC deals.
AnswerSee ResultsExpert contributions: Ural Garrett, Danielle Abraham, Georgie PeruDetailed Reviews:
1. Alienware Aurora R16: Best Under $2000
### Alienware Aurora R16
3Compact, high-performance system capable of 1440p gaming. See it at Dell.
- Specs: Intel Core i7-14700F CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD.
- Pros: Excellent aesthetics, unique cooling.
- Cons: Proprietary components may limit future upgrades.
A strong contender, offering a powerful configuration at a competitive price. The compact design is a plus, but the proprietary components are a consideration for long-term upgraders.
(Reviews of HP Omen 25L, MSI Codex R2, CLX Set, and Asus ROG Ally Z1 follow a similar structure, detailing specs, pros, cons, and key features. Due to length constraints, I've omitted the detailed repetition here. The original text provides this information.)
How Much to Spend?
A budget of $1000-$1500 is ideal for a balanced system. However, even lower budgets can yield great results with strategic component choices (e.g., last-generation GPUs). Prioritize the graphics card, followed by CPU and RAM. SSD storage is recommended, and a reliable power supply and cooling are crucial for longevity.
FAQs (similarly omitted due to length, but present in the original text.)
Best Budget Gaming PC (UK)
### Budget Power Victus by HP 15L Gaming Desktop
2See it### Powerful GPU HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop
0See it