How to make a cheap gaming computer?

How to Make a Cheap Gaming Computer?

In this article, we’ll guide you on how to create a budget-friendly gaming computer that won’t break the bank. Building a gaming computer can seem like a daunting task, but with a few simple steps and the right guidance, you can have a powerful gaming rig at a fraction of the cost of buying one from a store.

Understanding What You Need

Before we dive into the components, it’s essential to understand what you need to make a good gaming computer. Here are the basic components that are essential for a gaming PC:

Component Minimum Specifications
CPU Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3
Motherboard Compatible with CPU
RAM 8 GB DDR4
GPU Dedicated graphics card with 4 GB VRAM
Storage 500 GB SSD ( Solid-State Drive)
Operating System 64-bit Windows 10

Picking the Right CPU

A good CPU is the brain of your gaming computer. Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 are good options for a budget gaming PC. Here are some points to consider:

  • Clock Speed: Aim for at least 3.2 GHz to ensure smooth performance.

  • Cores and Threads: 4 cores with 8 threads is a good starting point for a budget gaming PC.

  • Power Consumption: Look for a CPU with a low to moderate power consumption to reduce costs and heat generation.

Selecting the Motherboard

The motherboard is the primary component that connects all the other parts of your PC together. When choosing a motherboard:

  • CPU Compatibility: Ensure that your CPU is compatible with the motherboard.

  • Ram Capacity: Opt for a motherboard that can handle 8 GB to 16 GB of RAM.

  • Chipset: AMD motherboards often feature more advanced audio and USB options. Intel motherboards, on the other hand, have better overclocking capabilities.

  • Connectivity: Make sure your motherboard has multiple USB ports, HDMI/DisplayPort, and Ethernet connectors.

Memory (RAM): Important But Often Overlooked

8 GB of RAM is a must for any gaming PC. DDr4 is the latest type of RAM that is widely supported. For a budget gaming PC, it’s better to opt for a single stick of 8 GB RAM instead of a pair of 4 GB sticks, as it will provide better bandwidth.

The Graphics Card (GPU): The Most Important Component for Gaming

The GPU is what separates a gaming PC from a standard desktop. 4 GB of VRAM is the minimum required for playing most modern games at high settings.

Some budget-friendly GPU options:

  • NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650

  • AMD Radeon RX 550

  • NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030

Storage (Hard Drive or Solid-State Drive)?

A Solid-State Drive (SSD) is highly recommended for its blazing fast read/write speeds and low power consumption. 500 GB of SSD storage is sufficient for most gaming requirements. If you can’t afford a dedicated SSD, a 512 GB hybrid hard drive would also suffice.

Building the Rest of the System

Here’s what you need to complete the system:

  • Power Supply: ATX power supply with an efficiency rating of at least 80%. 300-350 watts should suffice for most budget gaming PCs.

  • Case: A well-ventilated case with enough space for the components.

  • Cooling: Stock cooling (provided by the CPU or GPU manufacturers) should be sufficient for most budget gaming PCs.

  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home is a good choice.

Assembly and Installation

With your components ready, it’s time to start assembling the PC. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Ground Yourself: Static electricity can damage your components, so it’s essential to ground yourself before handling them.

  2. Assemble the CPU and Motherboard: Carefully apply a small amount of thermal paste to the CPU die (the top surface), and secure it to the motherboard.

  3. Add RAM: Insert the RAM into their designated slots, making sure to line them up correctly.

  4. Connect Power Cables: Attach the power cables to the power supply and the motherboard.

  5. Add Storage: Connect the SATA cable from the motherboard to the hard drive or SSD.

  6. Install Graphics Card: Remove the graphics card from its protective packaging, and secure it to the case.

  7. Install OS: Insert the Windows 10 DVD, and follow the installation instructions.

  8. Install Drivers: Download and install the latest graphics and sound drivers from the manufacturers’ websites.

  9. Boot up the System: Plug in your PC, and watch it come to life for the first time!

Budget Gaming PC Example

Here’s a breakdown of a budget gaming PC:

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 3200U (£130)

  • Motherboard: ASRock B450M-HDV (£30)

  • RAM: Corsair 8 GB DDR4 (1333 MHz) (£30)

  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Super (£120)

  • Storage: Western Digital 512 GB Hybrid Hard Drive (£30)

  • Power Supply: FSP Hydro PT 300W 80+ Bronze (£30)

  • Case: Fractal Design Meshify C (€50)

  • Cooling: Stock cooling (included with the CPU and GPU)

  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home (£120)

Total Cost: £580

In conclusion, building a gaming computer can be an affordable and rewarding experience with the right guidance. By following the above steps, you can create a powerful gaming rig that can handle modern games at decent settings without breaking the bank. Remember to be patient, take your time, and assemble your PC with care.

Leave a Comment