Building a gaming PC can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this guide, we will break down the best budget gaming PCs of 2021, focusing on performance, value, and upgradeability. Whether you are a beginner looking to dip your toes into PC gaming or an advanced user looking to maximize your gaming potential, there is a build for everyone.
### Key Factors to Consider When Building a Gaming PC
Before diving into the best budget gaming PCs of 2021, it is essential to consider some key factors that will impact your build:
– **Budget Allocation:** Determine where to invest the most money for the best performance.
– **Gaming Resolution & Refresh Rate:** Consider your monitor choice and how it affects component selection.
– **CPU vs. GPU Balance:** Decide which component should take priority based on your gaming needs.
– **Upgradeability:** Choose components that allow for future upgrades.
– **Cooling & Airflow:** Ensure proper cooling to keep temperatures under control for long-term stability.
### Best Budget Gaming PCs of 2021
Let’s take a look at the best budget gaming PC builds for different price ranges:
#### Budget Build ($600 – $1000)
– **CPU:** Best Budget CPU – Offers good performance for 1080p gaming.
– **GPU:** Best Budget GPU – Handles most modern games at high settings.
– **RAM:** 16GB DDR4 – Minimum recommended for gaming.
– **Storage:** 1TB NVMe SSD – Fast load times and better system responsiveness.
– **Motherboard:** Compatible Budget Motherboard – Ensures future upgrade options.
– **Power Supply:** 600W – 750W 80+ Bronze – Provides stable power with efficiency.
– **Case:** Best Budget Case – Good airflow and cable management.
#### Mid-Range Build ($1000 – $1800)
– **CPU:** Best Mid-Range CPU – Great for gaming and multitasking.
– **GPU:** Best Mid-Range GPU – Handles 1440p gaming at high refresh rates.
– **RAM:** 32GB DDR5 – Future-proofing and better multitasking.
– **Storage:** 2TB NVMe SSD – Fast load times and extra space for games.
– **Motherboard:** Compatible Mid-Range Motherboard – Support for high-speed RAM and storage.
– **Power Supply:** 750W – 850W 80+ Gold – Ensures stability with room for upgrades.
– **Cooling:** High-end air cooler or AIO – Keeps temperatures low for better performance.
#### High-End Build ($2000+)
– **CPU:** Best High-End CPU – Top-tier performance for gaming and content creation.
– **GPU:** Best High-End GPU – Handles 4K gaming and ray tracing with ease.
– **RAM:** 64GB DDR5 – Future-proof and great for multitasking.
– **Storage:** 2TB+ NVMe PCIe 5.0 SSD – Ultra-fast load times and system responsiveness.
– **Motherboard:** High-End Motherboard – Supports overclocking and expansion.
– **Power Supply:** 1000W+ 80+ Platinum – Stable power for high-performance components.
– **Cooling:** Custom liquid cooling – Best for extreme performance and aesthetics.
### Performance Benchmarks & Expected FPS
– **1080p Gaming:** Expectations for esports and AAA titles.
– **1440p Gaming:** Performance gains from mid-range GPUs.
– **4K Gaming:** High-end GPUs handling ultra settings.
### Prebuilt vs. Custom Build – Which One Should You Choose?
– **Custom PC:** Best value, control over parts, easy to upgrade.
– **Prebuilt PC:** No assembly required, comes with support and warranty.
– **Who Should Get What?:** A breakdown based on user needs.
### Additional Build Optimization Tips
– Overclocking for extra performance.
– Cable management for airflow and aesthetics.
– RGB lighting and aesthetics customization.
### Final Thoughts
Choosing the right gaming PC build depends on your budget, gaming resolution, and upgrade plans. Whether you’re going for a budget-friendly 1080p build or a high-end 4K powerhouse, selecting the right components will ensure a smooth and powerful gaming experience.
💬 **What’s your ideal gaming PC build?** Let us know in the comments!
With these recommendations and tips in mind, you can unleash your gaming potential and enjoy a fantastic gaming experience on a budget in 2021.