Building a mid range gaming PC can be an exciting, challenging and rewarding experience that doesn’t have to break the bank. Knowing how much you need to spend to construct a mid range gaming PC is essential, and there are several factors to consider when budgeting your build. Pricing can vary greatly depending on your particular setup, but in general you can get away with spending around 1000-1300 USD to make a decent mid range gaming machine.
The most important component in a gaming PC is the graphics card. Choosing a GPU should be the first thing on your list and will have the most significant impact on the cost of your build. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay around 400-600 USD for a mid range GPU like a GTX 1660 Super, RTX 2060 Super or Radeon RX5700.
Your CPU is another important component that you should take into account. Prices range from around 200 USD for an i3 9100f to as high as 600 USD for an i7 9700K, making it the second most expensive part of your build. You’ll also want to factor in a motherboard and RAM, both of which should cost around 200 USD if you shop carefully.
You’ll also need a decent power supply and chassis to complete the build. The PSU should be at least 500W and cost around 80 USD, while the case can be purchased for as little as 50 USD. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of a monitor and peripherals such as a mouse, keyboard, etc as well.
To summarize, you should expect to spend around 1000-1300 USD to build a decent mid range gaming PC. This should include a GPU, CPU, motherboard, RAM, power supply, and chassis. You will also need to factor in the cost of a monitor and peripherals for a complete setup.
How to Get the Best Deals on Components
Having the right components is essential for a quality gaming experience, and with the right know-how, you can get the best deals and save money on your mid range gaming PC build. Before you begin shopping, you should familiarize yourself with the pricing trends of different components. You should also be sure to do your research before making any purchase, as different retailers may offer different prices and deals.
When it comes to your components, you can also save money by buying used or refurbished parts. You may not always be able to get a warranty, but you can find some great deals this way and often get quality components for much less than the retail price.
You can also look for bundles, which are packages of components that are often offered at discounted prices. Bundles can be a great way to get all the components you need together at a cheaper price, and some retailers even offer pre-built bundles that are selection of components designed specifically for gaming PCs.
You can also save money by timing your purchases and taking advantage of seasonal and holiday discounts, as these are often great times to find deals on hardware and components. Additionally, be sure to take advantage of cashback programs and loyalty programs, which offer rewards for shopping that you can use to save money on future purchases.
Finally, be sure to compare prices and shop around to get the best deals. Take your time when researching components and don’t be afraid to wait if possible, as prices can fluctuate and you may be able to get a better deal if you wait it out.
What Parts are Essential to Build a Gaming PC
Building a gaming PC is a lot of fun, but for it to be functional and able to play modern games, there are certain components that you will need. The basics that you should include in any gaming PC build are a graphics card, CPU, motherboard, RAM, power supply, and a chassis.
A graphics card is the most important component for a gaming PC, as it will process the 3D visuals and ensure your gaming runs smoothly. You should look for a GPU that suits your budget and preferred game settings, whether that’s a high end card from one of the leading brands such as Nvidia and AMD, or a mid range card like the GTX 1660 Super or Radeon RX 5700.
Your CPU is the computer’s processor and is responsible for computing power and speed. You should choose a CPU that is capable of performing the tasks you need it to and that is compatible with your motherboard. You should also factor in the cost of your cooling solution if you choose to buy an overclocked model.
A motherboard should also be chosen with care and should fit within your budget and be compatible with the rest of the components that you choose. When it comes to RAM, you should opt for a pair of sticks containing at least 8GB, but 16GB is preferred for high end gaming.
Your power supply is responsible for supplying power for your components and should always be sufficient for your setup. Lastly, be sure to get a chassis that fits all the components you have chosen and suits your desired aesthetic.
What Kind of Peripherals Do I Need for a Gaming PC?
In addition to the main components, there are also some peripherals that you need to consider when building a gaming PC. These include a monitor to display your gaming, a gaming keyboard and mouse, and a gaming headset.
For your monitor, you should look for one with a good response time, refresh rate and resolution for your games. You should also consider the type of panel (TN, IPS, VA, OLED) and the size you need, as well as its viewing angles and additional features such as FreeSync/G-Sync.
Your keyboard and mouse also need to suit your gaming style and preferences. Mechanical keyboards often have the best response times and offer a range of customization options but can be expensive. A gaming mouse should also have a good preferred response time, as well as a comfortable design with adjustable settings.
Lastly, you may also want to invest in a comfortable gaming headset. A wired model is usually the best choice for gaming, as wireless headsets can suffer from lag, but it really comes down to personal preference.
What Software Should I Install on a Gaming PC
In order to get the most out of your gaming PC, there are certain pieces of software that you should install and configure. The first thing you’ll want to do is install an operating system such as Windows or Linux. Be sure to check the minimum requirements for the games you want to play and install the OS that is compatible with them.
You should also install some basic utilities such as an antivirus program and essential drivers. Keeping clean and up-to-date drivers can help ensure that your PC runs as efficiently as possible. You can also find some handy tools to help keep track of temperatures, overclock settings, and more.
You will also want to install any streaming or communication software that you intend to use, and any apps or tools associated with your favorite games. This can include game launchers, patch notes, and other tools that you need to stay up to date with the latest news and updates.
On top of this, you might also want to add software to help with video and photo editing, music production, and other tasks. Building a gaming PC can be a great way to increase productivity, as it offers more power and capabilities than a standard PC.
Tips for Building a Gaming PC
If you’re looking to build a mid range gaming PC, there are a few things that you should keep in mind throughout the process. Firstly, always read the reviews of each component that you’re considering before making any purchases, as this can help you make a more informed decision.
Since saving money is a priority when building a mid range rig, be sure to shop around and compare prices between different retailers. Also, unless you know exactly what you’re doing, it’s always wise to invest in a good set of instructions and/or seek advice from experienced builders.
Finally, if you’re not confident in your ability to complete the build yourself, consider enlisting the help of a professional. This can be a great way to ensure that the build goes smoothly, and many professionals offer competitive rates so it doesn’t have to be expensive. Above all, remember to have fun and enjoy the process.
