Purchasing the right gaming PC is an important decision for gamers. With steady technological advancements, the hardware required to run games has also become more complex and expensive. While knowing how much to spend on a gaming PC varies from person to person, there are some key things to consider. The cost of a gaming PC will usually depend on current hardware prices, the type of games you want to play, how often you play, and how long you expect to keep the computer.
The operating system and CPU are the two most important components of any gaming PC. Most gaming PCs should include at least 8 GB of RAM and a dedicated graphics card. The graphics card is essential for running the latest PC games. It is also a good idea to invest in a reliable power supply unit to ensure uninterrupted gaming.
The next factor to take into account is the type of games you plan to play. Different games require different specs. For example, an AMD Ryzen 5 and Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 will be sufficient to run most modern PC games. Or, if you are planning on playing more demanding games such as Battlefield V, then a more powerful processor might be necessary.
It is also important to consider the amount of storage you will need. For modern games, it is usually recommended to store them on an SSD. This will ensure that you experience minimal loading times. An SSD of 250-500 GB should be sufficient for most gamers.
You also need to factor in the cost of accessories, such as a monitor, gaming keyboard and mouse, soundcard, and gaming headset. A good gaming monitor should have a decent refresh rate and, if possible, support for variable refresh rate (VRR). For gaming keyboards and mice, look for precision and comfort.
Lastly, it is recommended that you shop around for the best possible deals and get an extended warranty. Some retailers may provide discounts or deals when purchasing several components in one go. On average, a good gaming PC should cost between $800-$1200.
Factors To Consider
Before purchasing a gaming PC, you should consider the type of PC games you plan to play and the graphics settings you will need. Research the latest hardware releases and compare their individual prices and performances. Gaming PCs are a combination of components and performance, so you must balance both to get the best experience.
If you want to play the latest AAA title games without any major performance drops, then you should consider getting at least 8GB RAM and an Nvidia GeForce GTX970 graphics card or AMD Radeon R9 390 with a Core i7 processor. For a more powerful system, a configuration with 16GB RAM and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 480 paired with a Core i7-7700K would be recommended.
It is also worth noting that, depending on the type of games you play and the settings you play them at, you may need to invest in a more powerful GPU or CPU. If you are serious about gaming, then you should also consider investing in an overclocking-capable processor and/or an aftermarket cooling solution.
Of course, you should also factor in the cost of the PC case, power supply, and any additional components you may need. A good quality gaming PC can cost upward of $1500.
Durability
When buying any PC, you should always consider device durability. This especially applies to gaming PCs. Gamers tend to use their PCs more intensively than the average user and hardware will endure greater wear and tear over time. As such, you should invest in hardware that is within your budget but performs well and is reliable.
These components should also come with a reasonable warranty, in case something goes wrong. The main components of the PC, such as the processor, graphics card, and power supply requiring the most attention. These are usually the components that are the most expensive.
You should also consider the wattage and efficiency rating of your power supply to ensure that the PSU won’t overload your system. The most popular power supplies are typically between 600 and 900 watts. Lastly, you should look for a case that provides good cooling and airflow. This is essential for cooling down the components inside the case during intense gaming sessions.
Getting The Most Out Of Your PC
You can also get the most out of your gaming PC by investing in a good quality monitor. Having an adjustable refresh rate is important for gaming and ensures smoother frames. You should also look for a monitor that has a low response time and low input lag. These features found in a good quality gaming monitor provide smoother in-game movement and improve your overall gaming experience.
Of course, gaming is not just about the PC itself. Having the right peripherals is just as important. A good gaming keyboard and mouse have fast response time and accuracy, while a comfortable gaming mouse and headset can make the gaming process more enjoyable. It is also a good idea to have a gaming chair.
Overall, buying a gaming PC can be a daunting task. It is important to do your research and consider all the components you will need before making a purchase. It is also important to look for deals and discounts to get the best value for money. On average, a good gaming PC should cost between $800 and $1500.
Technology Advancements
With the rapid advancement in technology, gaming PCs are becoming increasingly powerful. With the introduction of new processors, graphics cards, and technologies such as ray tracing, games are becoming increasingly sophisticated and immersive. In turn, this has driven up the cost of gaming PCs as hardware needs to be more powerful to keep up.
The industry is also constantly updating hardware and components so gamers can get the most out of their gaming experience. This has been especially true of GPUs, which have seen significant advancements over the last few years. In addition, SSDs have become much cheaper and more accessible, allowing gamers to store games, applications, and other data with faster loading times.
However, it must be noted that these advancements have also led to a rise in PC gaming prices. On average, good-quality gaming PCs can cost as much as $1500, depending on the components included. While more expensive PCs offer more powerful components and a better overall gaming experience, they may not be necessary for all gamers.
Budget Shopping
Another important factor to consider when buying a gaming PC is the budget. Some gamers may want to invest in a high-end PC, while others may be on a tight budget. Fortunately, there are several options available for budget-conscious gamers.
You can find prebuilt gaming PCs that come with powerful components at an affordable price. Some online retailers also offer discounts and deals on various components. Doing research and comparing prices is always recommended before making a purchase to ensure you get the best value for money.
Another option for budget-conscious gamers is to build their own PCs. While this does require more knowledge and experience, it can be a great way to get a custom-built PC with the components you want at a fraction of the cost.
For those on a tighter budget, you can also look for used or refurbished gaming PCs. These can cost significantly less than new gaming PCs and still provide good performance. Just make sure that the gaming PC you are getting has all the components you need and is in good condition.
