Building a budget gaming PC in 2021 is possible, and the process isn’t as complicated as many people think. It takes a little time, research and some creative engineering, but with the right hardware and software, you can build a powerful gaming rig without breaking the bank. Here’s how to get started:
1. Do your research. While gaming PCs are not that hard to build, it still requires thoughtful consideration and proper planning. Read up on what components you need, the differences between different processors, which graphics cards are best for your budget, and finally, what type of casing and cooling you’ll require in order to keep your components from overheating.
2. Get the required parts. Start by gathering all the necessary components: motherboard, RAM, CPU, graphics card, power supply, etc. You can find affordable options if you shop around. Choose components that will function well together and be compatible with each other. Be sure to research and read reviews to ensure you’re getting the best quality at the best price.
3. Choose your OS. Decide between Windows or Linux to control your gaming PC. Most budget gaming PCs are built with Windows, which comes in several versions and editions. For a far less expensive option, consider Linux. It is an open-source operating system that has become more and more popular with gamers in recent years.
4. Choose your accessories. Keyboards, mice and other peripherals are essential for gaming PCs. You don’t have to spend a fortune to find good quality equipment, but you should be sure to check reviews and ratings before buying.
5. Find a reliable power source. Power supplies are often overlooked, however this is a critical component for any gaming PC build. Look for a reliable, reputable brand with proven reviews.
6. Assemble the parts. After you’ve got all the components, it’s time to put it all together. Be sure that all parts are correctly connected, as incorrect installations can lead to hardware damage and even worse, data loss.
7. Test and calibrate. After you’ve put everything together and verifying that all the hardware is correctly installed, it’s time to fire it up and test your gaming PC. Install the games you intend to play and check all the resolutions, basic settings and other aspects.
Best Hardware for Budget Gaming PC 2021
As mentioned above, planning is key when selecting the best budget PC build. Do your research on the components and make sure they will work together. Choose components that offer the best bang for your buck, like an Intel Core i5 processor and an Nvidia GTX 1060 graphics card. Look for discount codes, or even used parts to help keep your build budget-friendly. Consider the required cooling and power requirements, as you don’t want your new gaming rig to overheat or fry itself.
Furthermore, if budget is a concern, opt for slower RAM. You can save money and still get a totally playable gaming experience. Lastly, one of the most important investments for any gaming rig is the power supply. Make sure you get one that’s reliable, with the wattage necessary to run your rig and its components.
Choosing the Right Operating System for Your Budget Gaming PC 2021
Operating systems are an important part of your budget gaming PC build. If you’re going with Windows, choose an edition suitable for gaming. Windows 10 is a good option and will provide a great gaming environment. Linux, on the other hand, is an open-source OS that is free to download and use. While it offers similar gaming experience as Windows, choosing the right Linux distro can be a daunting task. Research your different options carefully to determine which one would be best suited for your budget PC build.
Best Accessories for Budget Gaming PC 2021
Now that you’ve got the foundation of your gaming PC build, it’s time to add the accessories that make gaming fun. Mouse and keyboard are the most important; you’ll want a quality set that is highly responsive and comfortable. Look for reviews online to find the best fit. Other important accessories include headsets, gaming controllers, webcams and monitors. Again, these don’t need to be expensive, but look for reviews and choose high quality brands to ensure you don’t sacrifice gaming performance for a good price.
Upgrading Your Budget Gaming PC 2021
Upgrading your gaming PC is one of the best ways to improve gaming performance without breaking the bank. Start by installing the latest software updates and using basic maintenance strategies to get the most out of your PC. Then, upgrade components like your graphics card, RAM or processor to get an overall better gaming experience. When choosing parts to upgrade, be sure to select components that are compatible with the rest of your setup, and be sure to do the research to ensure you’re not buying an inferior part.
Troubleshooting Budget Gaming PC 2021
As with any PC build, things can go wrong. Common problems include driver-related issues, power problems and hardware malfunctions. Drivers and BIOS need to be kept up-to-date, and you should use a software suite like DriverAgent to make sure all the necessary drivers are installed properly. Utilize resources like forums, research papers and instructional websites to troubleshoot any errors or glitches you experience with your budget gaming PC.
