Top affordable gaming PC options for 2021
Top affordable gaming PC options for 2021
Hey everyone - I'm trying to find a new PC for a young gamer who mostly plays Minecraft. Our old machine can't handle the latest version (1.17), so I need something under $600 that supports Windows 11 and lets the GPU be upgraded later. I'm also checking out these options:
https://www.newegg.com/ibuypower-ar...of...6883227936
https://www.newegg.com/ipason-3200g/p/3D...ion=gaming pc&cm_re=gaming_pc-
-Product&quicklink=true
Any suggestions would be really helpful!
Of the two options, the 3200g PC stands out as the superior choice.
For gaming purposes, the graphics card plays a crucial role.
The Ibuypower is unsuitable for gaming.
The GT710 graphics offers only half the performance of the 3200g.
If you decide to purchase a pre-built PC, expect limited upgrade flexibility.
The included power supplies are restricted to the components already installed.
Upgrading the graphics card later typically demands a new power supply.
8gb storage might be a constraint, and adding RAM could pose compatibility issues.
Regarding Windows 11, I don’t have concerns at the moment.
What was your previous PC?
Can it be improved to address the latest release problems?
Please share the make/model of your current parts if you’re aware.
I think you might be able to upgrade it and reuse some components.
Would you...
Of the two options, the 3200g PC stands out as the superior choice.
For gaming purposes, the graphics card plays a crucial role.
The Ibuypower is unsuitable for gaming.
The GT710 graphics offers only half the performance of the 3200g.
If you decide to purchase a pre-built PC, expect limited upgrade flexibility.
The included power supplies are restricted to the components already installed.
Upgrading the graphics card later typically demands a new power supply.
8gb storage might be a constraint, and adding RAM could pose compatibility issues.
Regarding Windows 11, I don’t have concerns at the moment.
What was your previous PC model?
Can it be modified to address the latest release problems?
Please share the make/model of your current parts if you’re aware.
It seems you might be able to upgrade and repurpose some components.
Would you consider starting a build or upgrade project together?
Thank you for your detailed reply. The present PC is a fully integrated unit (monitor and CPU), which means upgrading isn't feasible. I'm keen to build something together with my son, though I'm worried about success! If building is an option, could you share a concise list of components to purchase? Thank you again for your support!
If you know the make and model of your all-in-one unit, it can offer a clear sense of what kind of improvement would be beneficial.
To provide a basic reference, the I3-10100 is a solid gaming processor that comes with basic HD630 graphics.
HD630 offers roughly double the performance of the 710 graphics found in the ibuypower selection mentioned earlier.
https://www.newegg.com/intel-core-i3-101...klink=true
Recent increases in Intel processor prices are linked to the ongoing scarcity of dedicated graphics cards.
Here’s a summary of the i3-10100 as a gamer:
Intel Core i3-10100 Review – Affordable 4c/8t
This budget Comet Lake processor introduces HyperThreading, delivering a 4c/8t core setup. Our evaluation compares the i3-10100 against AMD Ryzen 3 3100 and 3300X in the techpowerup review.
A strong long-term choice would be the i5-11400 with HD730 graphics, offering roughly three times the capability of the GT710.
Here’s a review of the I5-11400F:
Intel Core i5-11400F Review: The New Value Champ
Pairing the i5-11400F with a B560 motherboard creates an appealing build, being notably more affordable than the Core i5-11600K/Z590 and still under budget.
www.techspot.com
The F-series processors typically exclude built-in graphics, making them slightly more economical.
Minecraft isn’t a highly GPU-dependent game, so integrated graphics should suffice initially, helping you identify potential upgrade needs.
Most LGA1200 motherboards are suitable.
You can find options under $100, but a B560-based board like this is recommended for around $110:
https://www.newegg.com/p/N82E16813119385
Consider purchasing 16GB upfront in a 2 x 8GB configuration.
A g.skil 3000 speed unit for $77 is also worth considering.
Are you a human?
www.newegg.com
Avoid purchasing low-cost power supplies.
Your required power will depend on the graphics card you ultimately select.
Here’s a useful chart:
http://www.realhardtechx.com/index_archivos/Page362.htm
A 550W unit can support powerful graphics cards.
In most cases, a 650W unit is only slightly more expensive.
Here’s a seasonal 550W model for $85 with a 7-year warranty – the 650W version is around $90.
Are you a human?
www.newegg.com
Feel free to over-provision your PSU by about 20%.
This ensures better room for future graphics upgrades.
It will operate cooler, quieter, and more efficiently across its performance range.
The PSU will draw only the power it needs, irrespective of its maximum capacity.
You’ll need a case; most models are compatible.
Fractal design options are reasonably priced at around $55:
https://www.newegg.com/black-fractal-des...6811352068
They are available in various colors.
The kinked case size matches the motherboard referenced, fitting 4 expansion slots on a MATX and 7 on an ATX.
You can reuse your existing monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Don’t stress over assembling the PC – plenty of guides are available online.
Check the case and motherboard manuals thoroughly before starting.
These communities can be very useful if you run into issues.
I will never build without an SSD for the "C" drive again. It speeds everything up significantly.
A minimum of 240gb is required, enough for the operating system and a few games.
If you can go up to 500gb, you might never need a hard drive at all.
With the drop in SSD prices, even 1tb is now reasonable.
It’s not certain if you can reuse the monitor.