When it comes to PC gaming, having a top-notch gaming PC can elevate your experience to new heights.
The optimal performance from a high end machine is game changing, and with ever increasing numbers of PC gamers in the world there have never been more people looking for the right setup.
However, the pursuit of cutting-edge performance often comes with a hefty price tag, leaving many gamers yearning for a balance between affordability and performance power.
Fortunately, the market is brimming with budget-friendly gaming PCs that offer an exhilarating gameplay experience without breaking the bank.
But which to go for? That’s where I come in.
Top PC Picks for Cash Strapped Gamers
Let’s not waste any time, let’s dive right into some of the top contenders in this category. These systems have been meticulously selected based on their performance, value proposition, and overall gaming capabilities.
HP Victus 15L
The HP Victus 15L is a standout choice for gamers seeking an affordable yet capable gaming PC. Despite its budget-friendly price tag, this compact powerhouse packs a punch with its 10th-generation Intel Core processors and robust NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards.
One of the standout features of the HP Victus 15L is its compact design, making it an ideal choice for gamers with limited desk space too. Additionally, its front-facing ports offer convenient access to essential connections, enhancing the overall user experience.
While the chassis may not be the most robust, the HP Victus 15L delivers solid 1080p gaming performance, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience for most titles. With its balance of affordability, power, and portability, the HP Victus 15L is an excellent entry-level gaming PC for budget-conscious gamers.
Expect to pay between £600-£700.
Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 8 (AMD)
For AMD enthusiasts seeking a budget-friendly gaming PC, the Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 8 (AMD) is a compelling choice. This compact tower combines the reliability and cost-effectiveness of AMD components with a generous selection of ports, making it a versatile option for both gaming and productivity tasks.
While the Lenovo Legion Tower 5 Gen 8 (AMD) may not be capable of running the latest AAA titles at the highest settings, it delivers a smooth performance for the majority of games when configured with appropriate graphical settings.
Its compact footprint and efficient design also make it an excellent space-saving solution for gamers with limited desk space. It’s a brand you can trust too.
Expect to pay in the region of £1,100.
Acer Predator Orion 3000
The Acer Predator Orion 3000 is a budget-friendly gaming PC that strikes a great balance between affordability and performance. Available in a range of configurations, the base model comes equipped with a capable GPU and Intel Core i5 processor, backed by 16GB of RAM – a solid foundation for an immersive gaming experience.
Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the Predator Orion 3000 boasts a thoughtful design with vented panels for optimal thermal performance. Additionally, its compact chassis and sleek aesthetics, complete with RGB lighting and a triangular power button, add a touch of gaming flair to your setup.
While the Predator Orion 3000 may not be the most powerful gaming PC on the market, it offers a compelling entry point for gamers seeking a little more than the basics but without breaking the bank. It comes with plenty of potential for future upgrades as your needs evolve too.
Expect to pay something like £1,000.
Lenovo Legion Tower 5i
The Lenovo Legion Tower 5i is a versatile gaming PC that excels in both gaming and productivity tasks. With its advanced specifications, this tower delivers impressive 1080p gaming performance, capable of handling even the most demanding AAA titles with ease.
One of the standout features of the Legion Tower 5i is its efficient cooling system, which ensures optimal thermal performance during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, its sleek design with a glass side panel and RGB lighting adds a touch of sophistication to your gaming setup.
While the Legion Tower 5i may not be the most budget-friendly option on this list, its exceptional performance and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for gamers seeking a balance between work and play.
These can get expensive with additional features, but for between £1,200-£1,500 you will have yourself an impressive machine.
HP Omen 25L
The HP Omen 25L is a minimalist gaming PC that delivers solid 1080p gaming performance in a sleek and attractive package. With its white colourway and minimalist design, this gaming PC is sure to complement any gaming setup with its understated yet stylish aesthetic.
Under the hood, the HP Omen 25L packs a punch, capable of running most games at the highest graphical settings while maintaining smooth frame rates. Its tool-less access and decent port selection further enhance the overall user experience.
While the base configuration of the HP Omen 25L may not be the most affordable option, it offers a compelling balance of performance and aesthetics for gamers seeking a minimalist yet capable gaming PC.
One of these can be yours for between £900-£1,100.
The Pursuit of Optimal Performance
When it comes to budget gaming PCs, striking the right balance between performance and affordability is paramount. While these systems may not boast the latest and greatest hardware, they are meticulously designed to deliver a satisfying gaming experience within their price range.
One of the key considerations is the graphics processing unit (GPU), which plays a crucial role in rendering stunning visuals and maintaining smooth frame rates. Budget gaming PCs often feature mid-range GPUs from reputable manufacturers like NVIDIA and AMD, ensuring that gamers can enjoy their favorite titles with respectable graphical fidelity.
Complementing the GPU is the central processing unit (CPU), which handles the computational workload of games and other applications. Budget gaming PCs typically incorporate capable CPUs from Intel or AMD, ensuring efficient multitasking and seamless gameplay.
Additionally, these systems often prioritize ample RAM and speedy solid-state drives (SSDs) to enhance overall system responsiveness and loading times, further contributing to an enjoyable gaming experience.
Compact and Stylish Designs
Contrary to popular belief, budget gaming PCs are not limited to bland and bulky designs. Many manufacturers have embraced sleek and compact form factors, making these systems not only space-saving but also visually appealing.
With their compact chassis, budget gaming PCs can seamlessly integrate into various living spaces, whether it’s a cozy apartment or a dedicated gaming den. Furthermore, some models feature eye-catching designs with RGB lighting and tempered glass panels, adding a touch of aesthetic flair to your gaming setup.
Upgrading and Future-Proofing
While budget gaming PCs may not boast the latest and greatest hardware, many of them are designed with upgradability in mind. This feature allows gamers to gradually enhance their systems over time, extending their lifespan and ensuring they remain relevant in the ever-changing gaming landscape.
By opting for a budget gaming PC with an upgradable architecture, gamers can invest in more powerful components as their needs evolve or as new gaming titles demand higher specifications.
This approach not only maximizes the value of their initial investment but also provides a cost-effective path to future-proofing their gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gaming PC on a low budget?
When it comes to finding the best gaming PC on a low budget, the HP Victus 15L stands out as a top contender. This compact powerhouse offers unbeatable value for money, combining powerful processors and NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards capable of delivering smooth gameplay at 1440p resolution.
What type of PC is best for gaming?
When choosing a gaming PC, the most crucial factor to consider is the graphics card. The graphics industry is booming for this reason, expected to hit $39 billion by 2029. Ideally, you should aim for a PC equipped with a fairly recent graphics card from NVIDIA (RTX 3000 series, RTX 4000 series) or AMD (Radeon RX 6000 series, Radeon RX 7000 series). Additionally, ensure that the PC has at least 16GB of RAM, a modern processor (Intel Core 11000 series or AMD Ryzen 5000 series and above), and ample SSD storage for efficient game loading and performance.
Is it better to build or buy a gaming PC?
The decision to build or buy a gaming PC ultimately depends on your preferences and circumstances. Building a custom gaming PC allows for precise customization and control over individual components, but it can be challenging to source the necessary parts, especially during times of component shortages. On the other hand, buying a prebuilt gaming PC from reputable manufacturers offers a more straightforward and convenient approach, albeit with less customization options.