Building a Budget-Friendly PC on a 700 Budget
Are you looking to build a budget-friendly PC on a budget of $700? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through selecting the right components for your needs, ensuring that you can build a robust and reliable gaming system without breaking the bank.
Component Selection for Your Budget Gaming PC
I understand that picking components for a PC can be a daunting task. However, in this case, I have compiled a list of affordable and high-performing components that will fit your $700 budget perfectly. Here's a breakdown of the recommended setup:
Processor
Intel Core i3 13100F - 118.99 USD
Intel's Core i3 13100F is a solid choice for an entry-level gaming PC. It offers good performance for the price, making it an excellent starting point for your build.
Motherboard
Gigabyte B760M DS3H - 119.99 USD
Gigabyte B760M DS3H is a reliable and affordable motherboard that meets the needs of a budget gaming PC. It offers support for the latest AMD and Intel processors and includes essential hardware monitoring features.
RAM
Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) - 37.99 USD
16GB of RAM is a must-have for any modern PC, providing ample memory for multitasking and gaming. Corsair Vengeance LPX is a well-regarded brand that offers reliable performance and stability.
Storage
Samsung 980 Pro 1TB NVMe SSD - 59.99 USD
Samsung 980 Pro is a high-speed NVMe SSD that will significantly improve the performance of your system. It offers fast read and write speeds, making your PC feel snappier and more responsive.
Graphics Card
Sapphire RX 6600 - 219.99 USD
The Sapphire RX 6600 is an excellent choice for budget gaming. It delivers solid performance in most modern games and is powerful enough to handle lightweight applications and occasional streaming.
Power Supply
Thermaltake 600W 80 SIL Verified Power Supply - 49.99 USD
Thermaltake's 600W power supply ensures a stable power delivery to your components, while the 80 SIL certification guarantees efficiency and reliability.
Case
Fractal Design Pop Air Mini - 89.99 USD
The Fractal Design Pop Air Mini is a compact yet robust case that provides ample airflow and easy cable management. It is an excellent choice for building a mini-ITX or small form factor PC.
Building Your PC: Tips and Tricks
Building your own PC offers a lot of satisfaction and control over the components you choose. Here are some tips to help you build your own budget-friendly PC:
Repurposing Components
Repurposing components from old, used systems can be a great way to save money. You can often find a decent case, monitor, and video card on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local second-hand stores. Look for components with DVI, HDMI, or DisplayPort connectors, as these are more compatible with modern systems.
Quality Components
Investing in quality mainboard and processor is crucial. Brands like Asus, Gigabyte, and MSI are well-regarded for reliability and performance. Opt for models with plenty of PCIe slots if you plan on expanding in the future.
Processor Bias
If you are leaning towards AMD processors, you might find them to be more economical for equivalent performance compared to their Intel counterparts. The stock “Wraith” cooler for AMD processors is generally very efficient and runs cooler than the stock Intel cooler, which is often perceived as garbage.
Conclusion
With the right components, you can build a budget-friendly PC that will serve you well for years to come. Remember, while a new console may offer comparable performance to certain AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards, building a more powerful gaming PC gives you the flexibility to play a broader range of games and enjoy a more customized experience.
By carefully selecting each component and understanding the trade-offs, you can create a system that meets your needs without stretching your budget. Happy building!