The average cost of a gaming PC is not cheap, but making use of newer technologies and components, prices have started to come down. In general, the average price of a gaming PC is between $600 and $1,000, depending on the components you require. It is important to note that there is no single component that will make a gaming PC ‘better’, but having the right combination of powerful, capable, and efficient components can help you find the best gaming PC for your needs.
The central component in a gaming PC is the graphics card. This key component is responsible for generating all of the incredible visuals, for games and applications alike. Depending on your graphic requirements, the price of a graphics card can range from around $100 to about $1,200. The more powerful and capable the graphics card, the higher the price tag.
Processors are another essential component of a gaming PC, and the cost can vary based on the performance. Core i3 processors start at around $60, while Core i7 processors can cost up to $400. The processor you select will be determined largely by your budget and the performance you are seeking.
The other components in a gaming PC are just as important, and can also increase the cost. Memory is rated in terms of Gigabytes (GB) and can cost anywhere from $25 to $100 per Gigabyte; Hard drives are rated in terms of Terabytes (TB) and cost around $50 to $100 per Terabyte; the power supply unit (PSU) will usually cost around $60; and lastly, a decent gaming case is usually around $50.
Aside from the components mentioned previously, there are a few ‘extras’ that can add to the cost of a gaming PC. Adding a compatible sound card can increase the audio performance, and can cost around $50. The monitor is also essential for any gaming PC setup, and prices can range from under $100 to over $500.
Finally, you will also need to factor in operating system costs, as the majority of gaming PCs come without an OS pre-installed. Windows 10 can be bought for around $120, or you can opt for a budget Linux based operating system. As you can see, the cost of a gaming PC can quickly add up, and so it is important to decide on a budget and tailor your components accordingly.
Comparing Price Ranges Of Gaming PCs
When looking for the best gaming PC to suit your budget, it is important to compare price ranges. A good starting point would be to look at the more affordable mid-range options, as these will provide adequate performance for most games, whilst also keeping the price within a reasonable limit. Whilst more powerful gaming PCs with top of the range components are available, the price will be much higher.
Most mid-range gaming PCs will have an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of memory, and a mid to high-end graphics card. This type of setup should be able to handle most modern titles, and can usually be purchased for between $600 and $1,000. If you are willing to spend slightly more, you can opt for a slightly more powerful processor or an upgrade to a higher end graphics card.
The budget gaming PC market is also growing as more manufacturers offer entry-level systems for well below the $600 mark. These budget gaming PCs typically feature an AMD processor, 4GB of memory, and dedicated graphics. The performance levels achievable from these budget systems may not be able to handle more demanding games, however they are a great solution for casual gamers.
The majority of high-end gaming PCs consist of a powerful processor, at least 16GB of memory, and a top of the line graphics card. Prices for these gaming beasts start at around $1,500 and can go as high as $2,500 and more. Extremely powerful gaming PCs can cost much more, but unless your budget allows, it might be wiser to save up and invest a larger amount in the future.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Gaming PC
When choosing a gaming PC there are a number of factors to consider. The most important of these is your budget, as this will determine the type of components you can purchase. Whilst buying the most powerful and expensive gaming PC available may seem like the best option, it may not necessarily be the best choice.
Think carefully about the performance you require, as each component has an effect on the overall performance of the gaming PC. For example, if you require better graphics performance then you may wish to opt for a higher end graphics card. Whist if you require faster loading times then a faster hard drive or an SSD would be the better option.
Ultimately, the choice of gaming PC will be dependent on your budget and the performance you require. You may need to make some sacrifices depending on your budget, however there are plenty of options available to suit most people’s needs. It is important to do your research and decide on the correct balance of performance and cost.
Upgrading The Components Of A Gaming PC
When building a gaming PC, it is important to ensure that the components are compatible and are performing at their best. To ensure this, you may wish to consider upgrading the components of your gaming PC. Most components in a gaming PC are upgradable, with the most common components being the graphics card, processor and memory.
Graphics cards are highly upgradable, and newer graphics cards can provide more power and improved overall performance. When purchasing a new graphics card, make sure you check that it is compatible with your motherboard and power supply. Processors and memory can also be upgraded. Most gaming PCs will have a socketed processor, allowing you to upgrade to the latest and most powerful models. Memory can be upgraded too, however the type of memory module you need will depend on the motherboard.
When upgrading, it is also important to consider your power supply. Older power supplies may not be able to handle the increased power demand of newer components. If you are upgrading a mid-range gaming PC, then you may be able to get away with your existing power supply, however you will often need to upgrade to a more powerful model if you are looking to upgrade to higher-end components.
Finally, you may also wish to upgrade your existing gaming case. A new gaming case can provide better airflow, cooling and cable management, making it easier to upgrade and maintain your gaming PC. Good cases can range from around $50 to over $200, depending on your budget and the features you require.
When Is A Good Time To Upgrade A Gaming PC?
If you’re wondering when is a good time to upgrade your gaming PC, then the answer will depend on your budget and usage. If your current system is already capable of running modern games at a playable frame rate then there may not be a need to upgrade, however if you are finding that your games are becoming outdated, then you may wish to consider upgrading.
If you are considering upgrading, then you should first take the time to research the latest components and find out what you need. Check if any of your existing components are upgradeable, and think about which additional components you may need. Depending on your budget, you may wish to upgrade components in stages, for example you may be able to upgrade your graphics card now, and then upgrade other components further down the line.
When upgrading, you should also consider the cost of your new components, as these can add up quickly. Make sure your budget allows for the components you require, and take the time to shop around to compare prices. If you are shopping online, then make sure you read customer reviews, as this can provide a good insight into the quality of components.
Finally, if you are purchasing components in person, then you should always come prepared. Bring a list of the exact components you need and pay close attention to the technical specifications. This will help ensure you get the right components for your gaming PC.
