If you’re asking yourself “where can I buy pre built gaming pc,” you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through all the best options, from major retailers to specialized builders, to help you find the perfect rig without the hassle of building it yourself.
Buying a pre-built gaming PC is a fantastic way to get into PC gaming quickly. You skip the complex assembly and get a system that’s ready to play right out of the box. But with so many places to shop, it can be confusing to know where to start.
We’ll break down the pros and cons of each type of retailer. We’ll also give you key things to look for in a gaming PC, so you can spend your money wisely and avoid any potential pitfalls.
Where Can I Buy Pre Built Gaming PC
You can purchase a pre-built gaming PC from several distinct types of retailers, each with its own advantages. The main categories are major online retailers, specialty PC builder websites, physical electronics stores, and general marketplaces. Your choice will depend on what you value most: price, customization, customer service, or the ability to see the product in person.
Major Online Retailers
These are the big-name websites that sell almost everything, including electronics. They are often the first stop for many shoppers due to convenience and fast shipping.
- Amazon: Offers a huge selection from hundreds of brands and third-party sellers. You can find everything from budget options to high-end monsters. Easy returns and Prime shipping are major pluses, but quality can vary between sellers.
- Best Buy: A great hybrid option. You can shop online or visit a physical store. They carry reliable brands like Alienware, HP Omen, and ASUS ROG. Their website often has detailed filters to narrow down by specs and price.
- Newegg: A retailer focused primarily on computers and electronics. They have a vast array of pre-built PCs from both big brands and smaller system integrators. Their search tools are excellent for tech-savvy users who want to filter by specific components.
Specialty PC Builder Websites
These companies focus solely on building computers. They offer the highest level of customization and often use high-quality, standard-sized parts.
- Origin PC: Known for high-end, fully customizable systems with excellent build quality and customer service. You pay a premium, but for a top-tier, unique machine.
- Maingear: Another premium builder with a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and clean wiring. They offer robust customization and good support.
- CyberPowerPC & iBuyPower: These are two of the most popular options for balanced price and customization. They frequently run sales and promotions, making them a go-to for good value. You can configure almost every part.
- Digital Storm: Offers well-built systems across a range of budgets, from more affordable to extreme performance. Their attention to detail is generally very good.
Direct from Major Brands
Companies that manufacture hardware also sell complete systems directly to consumers on their own websites.
- Dell (Alienware): Alienware is Dell’s gaming division. They have a distinct design and offer a complete ecosystem. Sales are common, but their systems can sometimes use proprietary parts that are harder to upgrade later.
- HP (Omen): HP’s Omen line provides solid performance at competitive prices, especially during sales. Like Dell, some models may have custom motherboards or cases.
- ASUS (ROG), MSI, Acer (Predator): These brands sell pre-builts featuring their own components. They are often well-designed and can be found on their sites and at other retailers.
Physical Retail Stores
Sometimes, you want to see a case in person or take a PC home the same day.
- Best Buy (In-Store): The most widespread option. You can see a limited selection of models on display and often take one home immediately.
- Micro Center: A paradise for PC enthusiasts. If you have one nearby, it’s worth the trip. They have an extensive selection of pre-builts from multiple brands and their own PowerSpec line, which offers great value. Staff are usually very knowledgeable.
- Local Computer Shops: Some local stores assemble and sell their own pre-built systems. This can lead to better customer service and support, though the selection might be smaller.
Marketplaces and Other Options
These platforms offer different buying experiences, from used gear to custom commissions.
- eBay: A source for new, open-box, and used pre-built PCs. You can sometimes find great deals on last-gen models or refurbished units from reputable sellers. Caution and careful review of seller ratings are essential.
- Costco / Walmart: These stores often carry a rotating selection of gaming PCs at good prices, especially during holiday seasons. The specs are usually more mainstream, but the value can be outstanding.
What to Look For in a Pre-Built Gaming PC
Knowing where to shop is half the battle. Knowing what to buy is the other half. Here are the key components to evaluate.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU is the brain of your computer. For gaming, you’ll want a modern processor from Intel (Core i5, i7, i9) or AMD (Ryzen 5, 7, 9).
- For a mid-range build, an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 is typically sufficient.
- For high-performance gaming, especially at higher resolutions, aim for an i7/Ryzen 7 or better.
- Check the generation (e.g., Intel 14th Gen, AMD Ryzen 7000 series). Newer generations offer better performance and efficiency.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The GPU is the most critical component for gaming. It renders the images on your screen. Nvidia (GeForce RTX) and AMD (Radeon RX) are the two main brands.
- Match the GPU to your monitor’s resolution and refresh rate. An RTX 4060 or RX 7600 is good for 1080p. For 1440p, look at an RTX 4070 or RX 7800 XT. For 4K, aim for an RTX 4080/4090 or RX 7900 XTX.
- Pay attention to VRAM (video memory). 8GB is a minimum for new games today, but 12GB or more is better for future-proofing.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
RAM is your system’s short-term memory. More RAM allows you to run more applications smoothly.
- 16GB is the current sweet spot for gaming PCs. It’s enough for almost all games.
- 32GB
- Look for DDR4 or the newer, faster DDR5. Speed (measured in MHz) also matters, but capacity is the primary concern.
Storage: SSD vs. HDD
Storage is where your operating system, games, and files live. Speed here drastically affects your overall experience.
- SSD (Solid State Drive): This is non-negotiable. Your PC must have an SSD for the primary drive (C: drive). It makes everything from booting up to loading games incredibly fast.
- NVMe SSD: A faster type of SSD that plugs directly into the motherboard. Look for this as your main drive.
- Capacity: A 1TB SSD is a great starting point. Many systems pair a smaller SSD (500GB-1TB) for the OS and games with a larger, slower HDD (2TB+) for bulk file storage.
Power Supply Unit (PSU) and Cooling
These are often overlooked but are vital for stability and longevity.
- PSU: A cheap, low-quality power supply can fail and damage other components. Look for a known brand (Corsair, Seasonic, EVGA) and an 80 Plus efficiency rating (Bronze, Gold). Wattage should be adequate for the components, usually 600W-850W for most builds.
- Cooling: Good airflow keeps components running fast and extends their life. Look for cases with mesh fronts and multiple fans. Liquid cooling is common for high-end CPUs but isn’t strictly necessary for most gamers.
Motherboard, Case, and Upgradability
The foundation that holds everything together matters.
- Motherboard: In pre-builts, this is often a custom or budget model. Ensure it has the ports you need (USB, audio).
- Case: Does it look good to you? More importantly, does it have good airflow? Glass side panels are popular for showing off components.
- Upgradability: This is a key advantage of builders like CyberPowerPC over some brand-name systems. Check if the case has room for more storage, if the motherboard has free RAM slots, and if the PSU has extra power cables for a future GPU upgrade.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Your PC
Follow these steps to make a confident purchase.
- Set Your Budget: Determine the absolute maximum you can spend. Remember to leave room for peripherals (monitor, keyboard, mouse) if you don’t already have them.
- Define Your Needs: What games do you want to play, and at what resolution/settings? A PC for competitive esports at 1080p is different from one for maxed-out 4K single-player games.
- Research Retailers: Based on your budget and desire for customization, pick 2-3 retailer types from the list above to focus on.
- Compare Specific Models: Find 3-4 PCs in your price range and compare their specs side-by-side. Use the “What to Look For” checklist above.
- Read Reviews: Look for professional reviews of the specific model and user reviews on the retailer’s site. Pay attention to comments about noise, thermals, and customer service.
- Check for Sales and Promotions: Pre-built PCs go on sale frequently, especially around holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day.
- Review Warranty and Return Policies: Understand the warranty length (1 year is standard), what it covers, and the return window in case something is wrong out of the box.
- Make the Purchase: Double-check your cart, ensure any custom options are correct, and complete the order.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A little caution can save you money and frustration.
- Overspending on the CPU, Underspending on the GPU: For gaming, the GPU is usually more important. Don’t pair an i9 with a budget graphics card.
- Ignoring the PSU: That “great deal” might have a no-name power supply. It’s a risk not worth taking.
- Forgetting About the Monitor: Buying a powerful 4K PC but connecting it to an old 1080p monitor means you won’t see the benefits. Make sure your monitor matches your PC’s power.
- Buying Based on Looks Alone: A cool-looking case with poor airflow will cause thermal throttling and lower performance.
- Not Considering Future Upgrades: If you think you might want to upgrade the GPU in 2-3 years, buy a system with a case and PSU that can handle a larger, more powerful card.
FAQ Section
Is it cheaper to build or buy a pre built gaming computer?
Currently, it can be very close, and sometimes pre-builts are cheaper due to bulk buying power. While building yourself gives you total control, a pre-built saves time, comes with a single warranty, and guarantees everything works together. For most people, the convenience is worth it.
Where is the best place to buy a prebuilt gaming PC?
There’s no single “best” place. For customization, use a specialty builder like CyberPowerPC. For convenience and fast shipping, Amazon or Best Buy are excellent. For the best in-person experience and advice, try Micro Center if ones near you.
What should I look for when buying a prebuilt gaming PC?
Focus on the GPU and CPU first, then ensure you have at least 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. Don’t forget to check the quality of the power supply and the cooling design of the case. Always read user reviews for the specific model.
Are prebuilt gaming PCs good for beginners?
Absolutely. They are the perfect choice for beginners. You avoid the stress of part compatibility, assembly, and troubleshooting faulty components. You get a ready-to-use system, which lets you start gaming and learning about PC hardware in a working environment.
How much should I spend on a pre built gaming PC?
A good starting point is between $800 and $1,200 for a solid 1080p gaming machine. For smooth 1440p gaming, plan to spend $1,200 to $2,000. High-end 4K systems typically start above $2,000. Set a firm budget before you start looking.
Do prebuilt gaming PCs come with Windows?
Almost always, yes. It’s usually included in the price and pre-installed on the SSD. Make sure it’s listed in the specs (Windows 11 Home is standard). Some ultra-budget systems might not include it, so it’s always good to verify.
Can you upgrade a prebuilt gaming PC?
In most cases, yes. However, upgradability varies. Systems from specialty builders and companies like CyberPowerPC use standard parts, making upgrades easy. Some brand-name systems (Dell, HP) may use proprietary motherboards or power supplies, which can limit your options later on.
Final Thoughts
Finding the answer to “where can i buy pre built gaming pc” is the first step toward joining the PC gaming community. The market is full of great options at every price level. By understanding the different types of retailers and knowing which components to prioritize, you can make a smart purchase that fits your needs and budget.
Take your time, compare your options, and don’t rush into a decision. The perfect gaming PC for you is out there, ready to be unboxed and powered up for your first session. With the information in this guide, you’re well-equipped to find it and start playing without any unnecessary hassle or confusion.