Are you a gamer on a budget looking for top-notch performance? You’re in the right place. Building a gaming PC for $800 might seem challenging, but it’s very achievable with the right selection of components. Whether you’re building it yourself or exploring alternatives, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating an $800 gaming PC that balances power, performance, and value.
What Can an $800 Gaming PC Do?
With a budget of $800, you’ll be able to build a rig capable of gaming at 1080p ultra settings or 1440p on medium-to-high settings, achieving smooth frame rates on most modern titles. This is the sweet spot for budget gamers who want affordability without sacrificing too much in visual fidelity or performance.
Essential Components for Your $800 Gaming PC
Building a good gaming setup means optimizing your CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, and motherboard within the budget. Here’s an example of an ideal build:
1. CPU (Processor):
- Choice: AMD Ryzen 5 5600 or Intel Core i5-12400F
- Reason: Both are excellent six-core processors for gaming and general productivity. They offer great compatibility with modern GPUs and ensure zero bottlenecks in most games.
2. GPU (Graphics Card):
- Choice: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT
- Reason: These GPUs handle AAA titles at 1080p and 1440p with ease. They also support ray tracing for incredible visuals.
3. RAM (Memory):
- Choice: 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 3200MHz RAM
- Reason: 16GB is the sweet spot for gaming, allowing smooth multitasking and ensuring future-proofing for upcoming games.
4. Storage:
- Choice: 1TB NVMe SSD
- Reason: An NVMe SSD provides lightning-fast load times for games and faster boot speeds compared to traditional hard drives or SATA SSDs.
5. Motherboard:
- Choice: MSI B550-A PRO (for AMD) or ASRock B660M PRO RS (for Intel)
- Reason: Both support the chosen CPUs, allow for future upgrades, and come with essential features like PCIe 4.0, M.2 slots, and plenty of USB ports.
6. Power Supply (PSU):
- Choice: EVGA 550W 80+ Bronze PSU
- Reason: Reliable, efficient, and capable of powering your components without issues.
7. Case:
- Choice: NZXT H510 or Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L
- Reason: Good airflow, sleek design, and easy cable management.
Approximate Cost: With smart shopping and occasional sales, you can get all these components for about $800.
Pre-Built vs. Custom-Built Gaming PCs
If you’re hesitant about piecing together a custom PC, pre-built systems are a fantastic alternative. While they might cost slightly more, they save time and effort. Look for pre-builts with similar specs (e.g., Ryzen 5 5600/RTX 3060) from trusted brands like CyberPowerPC or NZXT BLD.
Tip: Check online stores during seasonal sales or promotions for discounts on pre-built PCs that fit your budget.
The Upgradability Advantage
One of the major benefits of building an $800 gaming PC is future-proofing. Components like the PSU and motherboard allow for upgrades. Here’s what you could add in the future:
- Higher-end GPU for even better graphics.
- Additional storage, such as a 2TB SSD for a growing game library.
- Cooling upgrades, like liquid coolers for better temperature management.
Alternatives to Building a Gaming PC
If you’re looking for an alternative to a traditional gaming PC, handhelds like the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme are worth exploring. Currently discounted to $450, the ROG Ally boasts impressive specs:
- 1080p screen for crisp visuals.
- AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor for solid performance.
- 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, expandable via microSD card.
This unique handheld is portable and even functions as a desktop when paired with a docking station. It’s a great pick if you’re seeking versatility without the effort of a PC build.
Shop the ROG Ally here: $450 on Best Buy
Is the ROG Ally a Replacement for an $800 Gaming PC?
While the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme offers excellent portability and value, it’s best suited for casual gaming or on-the-go play. For dedicated gamers who value upgradability and the ability to play on higher settings, an $800 gaming PC is still the better option.
Final Thoughts
Building an 800-dollar gaming PC is a rewarding experience that can save you money while delivering performance capable of running today’s most popular games. By carefully selecting components and balancing raw power with affordability, you can create a setup that brings joy to gaming without overspending.
For gamers who want versatility or the simplicity of pre-built options, the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme or pre-assembled PCs provide fantastic alternatives.
