Building Your First Gaming PC Under $720 - A Comprehensive Guide

Building a gaming PC can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, especially when you have a budget to work within. In this guide, we will explore the essential components and offer tips to help you create a gaming PC that runs smoothly and efficiently for under $720, including taxes.

Part Selection and Pricing

The current market for budget gaming PCs is somewhat overpriced, particularly due to the pandemic. However, there are still some great deals available if you shop around and plan carefully.

Ryzen 3 3100 Processor: While it currently costs around $80 over MSRP, it is still a solid choice for budget gaming. The ASRock B550M Pro4 motherboard is a great option as it offers excellent future upgrade potential. This motherboard is listed for $115.

Case: The Montech Fighter ATX case is a great choice for better airflow and space for future upgrades. It is scheduled for release in July and is priced affordably, making it a suitable option.

RAM: DDR4-3000 RAM is recommended for stable performance. Ensure you have 16GB, and it is best to choose 3000 Mhz for the best gaming experience.

HDD and SSD: While you can purchase a hard disk later, a Fast WD Blue NVMe SSD and a SanDisk 120GB SSD for the boot drive are recommended. An additional 1TB HDD can be bought later to store more games and media.

Graphics Card: A GTX 1660 or 1660 Super is sufficient for 1080p gaming. The cost is around $220.

Power Supply: A 450W or higher 80 Bronze power supply is necessary. This can range from $40 to $60, depending on the brand.

Budget Considerations and Realistic Pricing

With the above components, the total before taxes would be around $705. After adding sales tax, you would end up paying around $740. This includes all the necessary parts for a fully functional gaming PC.

If your budget is strictly non-negotiable, adding the HDD later is a feasible option, enabling you to save a bit and still have room for a few AAA games.

Advice for Assembling Your Build

Building a gaming PC involves careful consideration and thorough research to ensure the best value and performance. Here are some additional tips to help you:

Research and Quality

Never buy refurbished components! Refurbished parts are always a gamble and can lead to issues down the line. Instead, invest in quality parts for your gaming PC.

Use online forums such as TomsHardware Forums to read reviews, suggestions, and benchmarks. Additionally, visit marketplaces like eBay to find used or refurbished components at potentially better prices. Always consider the risk when buying used parts.

Component Selection

Choose the Right CPU: If you are between AMD and Intel, research for the best value-to-money ratio. AMD processors are usually cheaper but may not outperform Intel processors in some gaming setups. Consider whether overclocking is necessary.

Decide on the Motherboard and RAM: Research the best motherboard that fits your budget and meets your needs. Ensure the RAM is compatible with the chosen motherboard. DDR4-3000 Mhz RAM is recommended for stability and performance.

Select a High-Performing GPU: Within your budget, the AMD RX 580 or NVIDIA GTX 1660/Ti are excellent choices for 1080p gaming. Make sure the GPU is from a reputable manufacturer and choose based on your specific needs.

Optimal Storage: Always use an SSD for Windows and system programs. An M.2 SSD, like Samsung's 970 Evo 500GB, is cost-effective and provides excellent performance. An additional 1TB HDD can be bought later if you need more storage space.

Final Components

If you are replacing an existing computer, consider reusing parts like speakers, a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and the case to allocate more budget to the essential components.

System Builder Tools and Tips

Utilize tools like PCClick's Build Your PC to compare parts, see build guides, and use the System Builder tool to get the best prices and estimated power requirements. Ensure you have the proper power supply, as oversizing by even 100W can provide more flexibility for future upgrades.

Consider future-proofing your build by choosing components that allow for upgrades. For instance, a B550 motherboard provides ample room for future CPU or GPU upgrades.

Lastly, focus on quality over aesthetics. RGB lighting can be flashy but is not necessary for the performance of your gaming PC.

Remember, the best gaming PC is one that meets your needs and provides a good gaming experience within your budget. Happy building!