This guide explores affordable pre-built gaming PCs, offering five options (four desktops and one handheld) that deliver excellent value. Building your own PC can be costly and time-consuming, but these pre-built options provide solid performance without breaking the bank. While they may not boast top-of-the-line components like an RTX 5090, they're more than sufficient for most gamers.

TL;DR: Top Budget Gaming PCs

### 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 AmazonThese budget PCs utilize GPUs such as the RTX 4060, Intel Arc B580, and AMD Radeon RX 7600, offering excellent performance at 1080p, with some capable of handling 1440p. The beauty of these affordable PCs lies in their upgrade potential.

For additional savings, explore current gaming PC deals.

Key Component in a Budget Gaming PC?

CPUGraphics CardMemoryStorageOtherAnswerSee ResultsReviewed by Ural Garrett, Danielle Abraham, Georgie Peru

Detailed Reviews:

1. Alienware Aurora R16: Best Under $2000

### Alienware Aurora R16

3Compact, high-performance system featuring an Intel Core i7-14700F CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU. Excellent for 1440p gaming. Note: Proprietary components may limit future upgrades. See it at Dell.

2. HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop: Best Under $1500

### HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop

4Solid 1080p gaming PC with an Intel Core i5-14400F CPU and Nvidia GTX 1660 Super GPU. Features a well-ventilated chassis for easy upgrades. See it at HP.

3. MSI Codex R2: Best Under $1000

### MSICodex R2

5Ideal for 1080p gaming with an Intel Core i5-14400F CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU. Spacious chassis allows for future component upgrades. Consider upgrading the CPU cooler. See it at Amazon and Best Buy.

4. CLX Set: Best Under $800

### CLX Set

5Excellent value with an AMD Ryzen 5 5600G CPU and AMD Radeon RX Vega 7 integrated graphics. Suitable for 1080p gaming. Features a roomy case for easy upgrades and a lifetime labor warranty. See it at CLX.

5. Asus ROG Ally Z1: Best Handheld Under $500

### Asus Rog Ally Z1

1A powerful handheld gaming PC running Windows 11, offering a portable alternative. See it at Amazon.

Current Gaming PC Deals:

• Lenovo Legion Tower 5
• Acer Predator Orion
• HP OMEN 35L
• Dell XPS (two configurations)

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-gen GPUs). Prioritize the graphics card, then CPU and RAM. SSD storage is recommended. A reliable power supply and cooling system are crucial for longevity.

FAQs:

• Reasonable budget: $600-$2000+, but a decent PC can be found under $1000.
• Worth it for casual gamers? Yes, even casual gamers benefit from the performance and versatility of a gaming PC.
• Buy or build? Pre-built is easier, but building can be cheaper if you're technically inclined.

Best Budget Gaming PC (UK):

### Budget Power Victus by HP 15L Gaming Desktop

2See it### Powerful GPU HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop

0See it