Introduction
While it may seem complicated, it is entirely possible to enjoy a powerful gaming experience on a budget. Thanks to technological advancements, both large and compact PCs can offer impressive gaming performance without costing a fortune. A gaming system for around $800 can meet your needs, whether you’re a casual gamer or just discovering your passion for gaming. While custom and pre-built towers offer more upgrade options and higher gaming performance, mini PCs are space-saving solutions with surprising performance. Based on space requirements, power requirements, and future upgrade plans, this guide examines the best gaming PCs under $800 to help you make your decision. Whether you value portability or performance, there’s an option for everyone.
Why choose a gaming PC for under $800?
A gaming PC under $800 is the ideal choice for budget-conscious gamers who want to enjoy a powerful experience. Here are a few reasons why this price range offers excellent value for money:
Affordability meets performance:
In this price range, you get systems with solid processors and graphics cards that can easily handle popular games in 1080p. The key is to find the right balance between performance and cost so that you only pay for what is necessary.
Target audience:
This price range is great for beginners or as a second PC. Mini PCs are ideal for people with limited space, frequent travellers or those living in small apartments. Custom and pre-built towers, on the other hand, allow for easy expansion of components, making them a great solution for anyone looking to upgrade their system in the future.
Gaming Performance:
Cheaper gaming PCs are by no means underpowered and can run many games at decent frame rates. Thanks to advances in technology, even inexpensive components now offer features like high refresh rates and stable frame rates. Gamers can play popular titles like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and CS2 smoothly at medium to high settings without compromising their gaming experience.
So a gaming PC under $800 doesn’t mean compromising on quality. With careful selection, you can build a powerful gaming system that not only handles current games but also allows for future upgrades. Whether you prioritize space, mobility, or performance, the customization options are plentiful, so you can find the best solution for your lifestyle and gaming preferences.
Criteria for choosing the best gaming PC under $800
When buying a gaming PC for $800, you want to make sure you choose components that offer the best value for money. Here are the most important factors to consider:
Graphics card (GPU):
The GPU is the heart of a gaming PC. A good choice is the AMD RX 6650 XT, which can easily handle 1080p gaming at high settings. It ensures smooth gameplay and supports technologies such as AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) for enhanced graphics.
Processor (CPU):
A powerful processor is essential for the entire system. The AMD Ryzen 5 5600 with its Zen 3 architecture and six cores/12 threads offers excellent single-core performance and smooth multitasking – perfect for gaming and other applications.
RAM & Storage:
16GB of DDR4 RAM or more with a higher clock speed like 3600MHz is ideal to enable smooth multitasking and minimize loading times. A 1TB NVMe SSD is a good choice for fast booting and enough storage for games and applications.
Build quality & cooling:
Make sure the PC has a sturdy build and an effective cooling system. Good air circulation and high-quality cooling components prevent overheating and ensure that performance remains consistent even during intensive gaming sessions.
Compact design for mini PCs:
If space is an issue, mini PCs are an alternative worth considering. Models like the Geekom A6 are extremely compact, yet offer powerful integrated graphics units and high energy efficiency.
With these criteria, you can find a gaming PC that is not only inexpensive but also powerful enough to meet your gaming needs – a perfect balance of performance, efficiency and future-proofing.
Top 3 Pre-Built Gaming PCs Under $800
It can be difficult to find a reliable pre-built gaming PC for $800 or less, but some great options offer good value for money:
- CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR: This PC is known for its strong performance. It comes with an Intel Core i3 processor and an NVIDIA GTX 1650 graphics card. This allows most games to be played in 1080p with solid frame rates. The system has 8GB of RAM and a 500GB SSD, allowing for fast loading times and smooth multitasking.
- iBUYPOWER Gaming PC: This PC uses an AMD Ryzen 3 processor and a Radeon RX 550 graphics card, offering a good balance between performance and price. With 8GB of RAM and a 240GB SSD, it’s ideal for gamers who enjoy games like Fortnite and CS: GO. The striking chassis design is complemented by customizable RGB lighting.
- Skytech Archangel: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and a GTX 1650 graphics card, this PC is built for reliable gaming performance. With 8GB of RAM and a 500GB SSD, it ensures fast loading times for games and applications. The stylish design and effective cooling system make the Archangel a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers.
These pre-built systems provide a strong gaming base for gamers looking for high performance at a low price while still having room for future upgrades.
Top Gaming Mini PCs Under $800: Mainly GEEKOM Mini PCs
Mini PCs are ideal for mobile gaming as they are small yet powerful. Here are some of the best options under $800:
- GEEKOM A6: Featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 6800H processor and Radeon 680M graphics unit, the A6 is a compact powerhouse that delivers impressive performance for its size. It comes with 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity tasks.
- GEEKOM MiniAir 12: This budget-friendly device features an Intel Celeron processor and UHD graphics. It is suitable for light gaming and everyday tasks. The mini PC comes with 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD.
These mini PCs combine powerful performance with portability, making them perfect for gamers with limited space or those looking for a flexible and compact solution.
Should you buy a pre-built PC or build one yourself?
The decision between a pre-built gaming PC and a home-built system largely depends on your priorities, technical knowledge, budget, and plans.
Pre-built PCs:
Pre-built systems are convenient because they are ready to use right out of the box and offer a certain level of reliability. They are ideal for people who prefer a no-fuss setup without any technical know-how. A major benefit of a pre-built PC is the warranty as well as customer support, which provides additional peace of mind. However, these systems are often less flexible in terms of customization and upgrades, and sometimes you pay a premium for the convenience.
Home-built:
Building your gaming PC offers maximum freedom in choosing components. You can choose each component based on your budget and gaming needs, which often results in better performance compared to pre-built PCs. This option is ideal for tech enthusiasts who want to customize their system. It’s also easier to upgrade later. The downside is that building a PC takes time and technical knowledge, and problems can arise that need to be solved.
If you’re looking for a time-saving and hassle-free solution, a pre-built PC is the best choice. However, if you prefer a customized experience and are willing to get to grips with the technical side of things, building your own can be a cheaper and more flexible solution. Ultimately, the decision depends on your gaming goals, technical skills, and future upgrade plans.
Tips for Optimizing Your Budget Gaming Setup
Getting the most out of your gaming experience on a budget requires strategic decisions. Here are some tips to optimize your setup:
- Incremental upgrades: Start with a solid base and gradually improve your system as the budget allows by adding a more powerful GPU or more RAM. A gradual upgrade can significantly increase performance without requiring a large investment right away.
- The right monitor choice: Choose a monitor that best complements your system’s capabilities. A 1080p display with a reasonable refresh rate offers a good balance between performance and cost. The KOORUI 24E3 is a budget-friendly but colour-accurate option for gaming.
- Budget-friendly peripherals: Invest in affordable but high-quality peripherals that will enhance your gaming experience. The Redragon K552 mechanical keyboard and Logitech G305 wireless mouse are two tried-and-tested options that won’t break the bank.
- Cooling and maintenance: Make sure your system has effective cooling to ensure consistent performance. Keep the case clean and regularly remove dust to avoid overheating. Also, consider replacing the thermal paste to ensure optimal heat dissipation.
- Software optimization: Always keep your drivers up to date and adjust in-game settings to achieve a good balance between graphics quality and performance. Disable unnecessary background processes to free up system resources and improve overall performance.
By following these tips, you can maximize your budget gaming setup and enjoy an impressive gaming experience without having to compromise.
Conclusion
With the right choice, a satisfying gaming experience can be achieved even with a budget of just $800. Both pre-built systems and home-built PCs have their advantages. Pre-built PCs are ready to use and easy to use out of the box, while home-built systems offer more customization options and long-term upgrade flexibility.
Mini PCs are ideal for gamers looking for a compact and portable solution. Despite their small size, they offer impressive performance. By choosing the right components and making strategic upgrades, you can maximize your system’s performance without breaking your budget.
The final decision depends on your individual needs and plans. By purchasing high-quality components and planning carefully, you can create a gaming setup that is not only fun to use but also offers great value for money. No matter which route you choose, a well-optimized setup is the key to a great gaming experience.
FAQs
Can I play AAA games on a mini PC under $800?
Yes, but you may need to lower the resolution to 720p or adjust the settings to medium to low to ensure smooth gameplay.
What gaming performance can I expect from mini PCs?
Mini PCs like the GEEKOM A6 offer decent performance for light to medium gaming and can easily run popular titles at medium settings.
By carefully adjusting settings and setting realistic expectations, mini PCs can provide a satisfying gaming experience at a reasonable price.
