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The Best Budget Gaming PCs of 2025

by Christian Mar 16,2025

Building your own gaming PC can be a real headache, and even if you're trying to save money, component costs can quickly spiral. Fortunately, there are some excellent pre-built gaming PCs available without breaking the bank. While budget options won't boast top-of-the-line graphics cards like an RTX 5090 or a high-end CPU, most gamers will find that kind of power overkill anyway. Our experts have rigorously tested and researched a wide range of PCs, narrowing the field to five affordable and capable choices (four desktops and one handheld).

TL;DR: Top Budget Gaming PCs

### Alienware Aurora R16

3See it at Dell### HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop

4See it at HP### MSICodex R2

5See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### CLX Set

5See it at CLX### Asus Rog Ally Z1

1See it at AmazonBudget gaming PCs naturally compromise on some performance. However, GPUs like the RTX 4060, Intel Arc B580, and AMD Radeon RX 7600 are solid, affordable options perfectly suitable for the average gamer. You could even splurge on a powerful RTX 4070 if you're willing to pair it with an Intel Core i5 processor. Even with mid-range components, all the PCs we've selected should easily achieve high frame rates at 1080p for most games, with some even handling 1440p smoothly. Remember, these are starting points; the beauty of an affordable gaming PC is the potential for future upgrades.

See our guide comparing gaming PCs and laptops.

For extra savings, check out the best current gaming PC deals.

What's the most crucial component in a budget gaming PC? ----------------------------------------------------------- CPUGraphics CardMemoryStorageOther

AnswerSee Results*Contributions by Ural Garrett, Danielle Abraham, Georgie Peru*

Alienware Aurora R16

A Top Budget Gaming PC Under $2000

### Alienware Aurora R16

3A compact yet powerful gaming rig capable of handling 1440p gaming.See it at DellProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i7-14700FGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4070 SuperRAM16GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage1TB NVMe SSDWeight33.89 poundsSize16.56 x 7.75 x 18.05 inches (H x W x D)PROSStunning designUnique cooling systemCONSA bit more difficult to upgrade and maintain than other PCsAlienware sits just below high-end boutique builders like Maingear and Digital Storm. With careful searching, you can find excellent deals. While highly configurable, this configuration offers an Intel Core i7 CPU and an RTX 4070 Super for under $2000. Competitors offer similar specs at lower prices, but for the budget, Alienware is hard to beat.

The Alienware Aurora R16 is Dell's flagship gaming PC, surprisingly compact and suitable for most desks. However, to achieve this small form factor, Dell uses a proprietary motherboard and power supply. This isn't a major issue for most, but consider it if you plan on frequent upgrades.

With a 14th-gen Intel processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super, upgrades are unlikely to be needed soon. This configuration easily maxes out most games at 1440p. The RTX 4070 Super's 12GB VRAM might limit 4K gaming in demanding titles.

HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop

An Excellent Budget Gaming PC Under $1500

### HP Omen 25L Gaming Desktop

4Equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor and Nvidia GTX 1660 Super graphics, this PC excels at 1080p gaming and is easily upgradeable.See it at HPProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i5-14400FGPUNvidia GTX 1660 SuperRAMKingston FURY 16GB DDR5Storage512GB PCIe NVMe SSDWeight30.45 lbsSize6.50 x 15.59 x 17.64 inchesPROSExcellent 1080p gaming performanceAttractive white chassis with good airflowCONSOlder generation GPUThe HP Omen 25L with current-gen hardware starts around $1200, featuring a technically two-generation-old GPU. While seemingly high for a "budget" PC, component prices have increased significantly. This PC offers a solid combination of an Intel Core i5-14400F and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super, easily handling 1080p gaming (though lacking ray tracing or DLSS).

The GTX 1660 Super, while older, remains a strong performer for 1080p casual gaming if ray tracing isn't a priority. The premium chassis boasts excellent airflow, keeping components cool. Unlike older PCs, it uses standard motherboard and power supply mounts, simplifying future upgrades.

MSI Codex R2

Best Budget Gaming PC Under $1000

### MSICodex R2

5Ideal for 1080p gaming with a spacious chassis for future upgrades.See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i5-14400FGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4060RAM16GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage1TB NVMe SSD (Gen 3)Weight21.3 poundsSize16 x 19 x 8.38 inches (H x D x W)PROSAttractive designAmple upgrade spaceCONSBasic CPU coolerSub-$1000 gaming PCs require compromises. The MSI Codex R2's main compromise is its basic CPU cooler, suitable for the Intel Core i5-14400F but needing replacement for more powerful CPUs.

The spacious chassis makes upgrading straightforward, making it perfect for beginners. The Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 is excellent for 1080p gaming, eliminating the need for immediate upgrades unless aiming for 1440p or 4K.

CLX Set

Best Budget Gaming PC Under $800

### CLX Set

5A powerful PC with a 6-core processor, decent graphics, 16GB RAM, and 1TB storage.See it at CLXProduct SpecificationsCPUAMD Ryzen 5 5600G 3.9GHz Hexa-Core GPUAMD Radeon RX Vega 7 integrated graphicsRAM16GB DDR4-3200 Storage1TB NV2 NVMe SSDWeight27 lbsSize14.37 x 7.48 x 14.37 inchesPROSLifetime labor warrantyGood gaming performance despite integrated GPUCONS1080p onlyThe CLX Set is highly customizable, but even the base configuration ($599) is great for 1080p gaming. It features a 6-core AMD Ryzen 5 5600G processor and AMD Radeon RX Vega 7 integrated graphics (no ray tracing or DLSS). It achieves around 80 fps in Fortnite and 95 fps in Apex Legends at 1080p.

16GB of DDR4 RAM ensures smooth performance, and 1TB storage is sufficient for several games. Components are easily upgradeable thanks to the spacious, tool-less case. The CLX Set includes a lifetime labor warranty and support.

The Best Gaming PC Deals

Lenovo Legion Tower 5 AMD Ryzen 7 7700 RTX 4070 Ti Super Gaming PC with 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD (Use Code: EXTRAFIVE)- $1,527.49Acer Predator Orion RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Gaming Desktop- $1,749.99HP OMEN 35L RTX 4060 Ti Gaming Desktop- $1,219.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PC- $1,349.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Gaming PC- $1,099.99### Asus ROG Ally Z1

7 Images5. Asus Rog Ally Z1

Best Budget Handheld Gaming PC Under $500

### Asus Rog Ally Z1

1An excellent Steam Deck alternative running Windows 11.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCPUAMD Ryzen Z1GPUIntegrated AMD Radeon GraphicsRAM16GB DDR5Storage512GB SSD M.2Weight608gSize11.02 x 4.37 x 0.83 inchesPROSPortableExcellent displayCONSTechnically not a desktop PCThe Asus ROG Ally isn't a traditional desktop PC, but it's the best option for sub-$500 PC gaming. The AMD Z1 chip handles most games at 1080p (medium-to-low settings). Its portability is a significant advantage.

Affordable current-gen PC components are scarce at this price point. While cheaper PCs exist, they often compromise on quality, resulting in a poor gaming experience. The Ally offers a great alternative in the current market.

High GPU prices have impacted the affordability of desktop gaming PCs, but handheld options are filling the gap.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming PC?

Your Gaming PC Budget? ---------------------------------------------------- $500$800$1,000$1,500$2,000+

AnswerSee ResultsFor most, $1000-$1500 provides a balance between budget and performance. However, even lower budgets can yield solid results. Consider last-generation cards like the RTX 3050 for significant cost savings without sacrificing performance.

Prioritize the graphics card, crucial for visual quality. An NVIDIA GTX or AMD Radeon card offers a good balance. High settings might be impossible, but decent frame rates are achievable.

A quad-core CPU (Intel or AMD) and at least 8GB of RAM are sufficient. Upgrading these components is worthwhile if budget allows.

Storage is important, but upgradable. SSD storage (ideally M.2) is recommended for faster load times. Start with sufficient space and upgrade later.

A reliable power supply and cooling system are essential for stability and longevity, enabling future upgrades rather than replacements.

A well-balanced system with good performance and minimal unnecessary features is key when choosing a budget gaming PC.

Budget Gaming PC FAQs

What's a reasonable budget for a gaming PC?

Prices range from $600 to $2000+, but a decent PC can be found for under $1000.

Are gaming PCs worthwhile for casual gamers?

Casual gamers might not need to spend a fortune. However, gaming PC specs are sufficient for everyday tasks and creative projects, often outperforming laptops.

Is buying or building a PC cheaper?

Pre-built PCs are easier but potentially more expensive. Building your own can be cheaper but requires technical knowledge and carries a risk of component damage. Building offers greater customization.