If you want to play the latest games without spending a fortune, learning how to build a cheap gaming PC is the best skill you can have. The idea of building your own computer might seem scary, but it’s really just like assembling a set of high-tech, expensive legos. This guide will walk you through every step, from picking the right parts to turning it on for the first time. We’ll focus on getting the most performance for your money, so you can enjoy great gaming without breaking the bank.
How To Build A Cheap Gaming PC
Building a budget PC is all about smart choices. You won’t get the absolute top-tier performance, but you will get a machine that runs modern games smoothly at 1080p resolution, which is the sweet spot for most gamers. The key is balancing your budget across all the components, knowing where to save and where to spend a little extra for a big boost.
Why Build Instead of Buy?
Pre-built PCs are convenient, but they often cut corners on parts you can’t see, like the power supply or motherboard. When you build it yourself, you control every component. This means:
- Better overall quality for the same price.
- Easier to upgrade in the future.
- You gain valuable knowledge about how your computer works.
- No paying for bloatware or assembly fees.
Setting Your Budget and Expectations
First, decide how much you can spend. “Cheap” can mean different things, but a solid 1080p gaming PC typically starts around $600-$800. For this guide, we’ll aim for the middle of that range. Remember to budget for a monitor, keyboard, and mouse if you don’t already have them.
At this price, you’re targeting 60+ frames per second (FPS) on High settings for most games. You might need to use Medium settings for the most demanding new titles. That’s a fantastic gaming experience that feels smooth and looks great.
The Core Components You Need
Every PC is built from seven essential parts. Understanding there role is the first step to picking them.
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU is the brain of your computer. For gaming, you don’t need the most expensive one. A modern 6-core processor from AMD or Intel is the perfect starting point. The AMD Ryzen 5 series and Intel Core i5 series are the champions of budget builds.
2. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
This is the most important part for gaming. The GPU renders all the images you see. In a budget build, this is often where you’ll spend the largest chunk of your money. AMD’s Radeon RX 6000/7000 series and NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 3000/4000 series offer excellent budget options. Look for last-generation models; they often provide incredible value.
3. Motherboard
The motherboard is the backbone that connects everything. You need to choose one that is compatible with your CPU. For budget builds, a B-series motherboard (for Intel) or a B-series motherboard (for AMD) offers all the features you need without extra cost.
4. Memory (RAM)
16GB of DDR4 RAM is the standard for gaming today. It’s affordable and plenty for almost every game. Make sure you get two 8GB sticks (a dual-channel kit) for better performance. Speed is less important than capacity at this level.
5. Storage (SSD)
You must get a Solid State Drive (SSD). It makes your system and games load incredibly fast compared to an old hard drive. A 1TB NVMe SSD is ideal and has become very affordable. You can always add more storage later if you need it.
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Do not cheap out on the power supply! A bad PSU can fail and damage your other components. Look for a reputable brand (like Corsair, Seasonic, or EVGA) and a unit rated 80 Plus Bronze or higher. 550-650 watts is plenty for most budget systems.
7. Case
The case holds everything. You want one with good airflow to keep your components cool. Many budget cases come with fans pre-installed, which is a nice bonus. Make sure it’s compatible with your motherboard size (usually ATX or micro-ATX).
Sample Budget PC Parts List
Here’s an example of components that work well together. Prices change daily, so use this as a template.
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 or AMD Radeon RX 7600
- Motherboard: B550 Chipset Motherboard
- RAM: 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3200MHz
- Storage: 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD
- PSU: 650W 80 Plus Bronze
- Case: Mid-tower with mesh front panel
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
Now for the fun part: putting it all together. Set aside a few hours in a clean, well-lit space with a table.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Tools
You only need two tools: a Phillips-head screwdriver and zip ties for cable management. Put on an anti-static wrist strap if you have one, or just touch the metal frame of your case frequently to ground yourself. Lay out all your components and read the manuals, especially the one for your motherboard.
Step 2: Install the CPU
Open the CPU socket lever on the motherboard. Align the CPU with the socket (look for a small golden triangle marking on one corner). It should drop in place without any force. Then, close the lever to secure it. This step is simpler than it sounds.
Step 3: Install the CPU Cooler
Most CPUs come with a stock cooler that’s good enough for budget builds. Apply a small pea-sized amount of thermal paste to the center of the CPU if the cooler doesn’t have it pre-applied. Then, follow the cooler’s instructions to clip or screw it onto the motherboard. Connect its small power cable to the header labeled “CPU_FAN”.
Step 4: Install the RAM
Push down the plastic clips at the ends of the RAM slots. Align the notch on the RAM stick with the one in the slot. Press firmly on both ends until the clips snap back up by themselves. Install your two sticks in the slots your motherboard manual recommends, usually the 2nd and 4th slots from the CPU.
Step 5: Prepare the Case
Remove both side panels. Install the power supply in its bay, usually at the bottom-rear of the case. Fan facing down if the case has a vent, or up if it doesn’t. Don’t screw it in fully yet, just get it positioned. Also, install the case fans if they aren’t already in.
Step 6: Install the Motherboard
First, screw in the motherboard standoffs that came with your case. They create space between the board and the metal case. Then, carefully lower the motherboard with the CPU and RAM already installed onto the standoffs. Screw it in using the provided screws. Don’t overtighten them.
Step 7: Install the Storage
For an M.2 SSD, locate the slot on your motherboard (it’s a small horizontal slot). Remove the tiny screw, insert the SSD at a slight angle, and press it down, securing it with the screw. For a 2.5-inch SSD, you’ll mount it in a drive bay and connect it with a SATA data cable and power cable.
Step 8: Install the Graphics Card
Remove the metal slot covers on the back of your case that align with the PCIe slot on your motherboard. Open the PCIe slot clip. Align the GPU with the slot and push down firmly until you hear the clip click. Screw the GPU’s bracket into the case to secure it.
Step 9: Connect All the Cables
This is the trickiest part, but the motherboard manual is your best friend. You need to connect:
- The large 24-pin power cable from the PSU to the motherboard.
- The 8-pin CPU power cable to the top of the motherboard.
- The 6+2 pin PCIe power cables to the graphics card.
- The SATA power cables to any 2.5″ drives.
- The front-panel cables (power switch, reset, USB, audio) to the small pins on the motherboard. The manual has a detailed diagram for this.
Step 10: Cable Management and First Boot
Use zip ties to bundle cables together and route them behind the motherboard tray if your case allows. Good airflow depends on tidy cables. Double-check all connections. Then, plug in your monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Connect the power cable and turn on the PSU switch. Press the power button on your case.
If everything is connected right, fans will spin, lights will come on, and you’ll see a screen asking you to install an operating system. If nothing happens, don’t panic. Re-check every cable, especially the front-panel power switch connection.
Installing Software and Drivers
You’ll need a USB drive with Windows installation media on it. You can create this on another computer using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool. Boot from the USB, follow the prompts to install Windows on your SSD.
Once Windows is setup, the final step is installing drivers. Download the latest drivers for your graphics card from NVIDIA or AMD’s website. Your motherboard’s support page will have drivers for things like audio and chipset. Windows Update will handle alot of the rest automatically.
Where to Save and Where to Spend
- Save on: The CPU cooler (use the included one), fancy RGB lighting, ultra-fast RAM, an expensive motherboard with features you won’t use, and the case (as long as it has good airflow).
- Spend on: The graphics card (your #1 priority), a reliable power supply, and a decent SSD. These give you the most direct performance and reliability benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to install the I/O shield (the metal plate for ports) before the motherboard.
- Not pushing RAM in all the way until the clips snap.
- Using too much thermal paste.
- Not connecting both power cables to the motherboard (the 24-pin and the 8-pin CPU).
- Building on a carpet or without grounding yourself (static electricity risk).
FAQ Section
How cheap can you build a gaming PC?
You can build a very basic 1080p gaming PC for around $500-$600, but the $700-$800 range offers a much better balance of performance and longevity. Going lower often means making big sacrifices on the GPU or other critical parts.
Is it hard to build a PC on a budget?
It’s not hard, but it requires research. The physical assembly is straightforward. The real challenge is picking the right parts that work together and offer the best value for money. Following a guide like this one makes the process simple.
Can you build a cheap gaming computer that can be upgraded later?
Absolutely! That’s one of the biggest advantages of building yourself. Choose a motherboard with extra RAM slots and future CPU support. Get a case with room for more fans and storage. Start with 16GB of RAM and a good power supply, and you can upgrade the GPU and CPU years down the line.
What is the most expensive part in a budget gaming PC?
Almost always, the graphics card (GPU) will be the single most expensive component. It’s responsible for the visual performance in games, so it’s where a large portion of your budget should go. A close second is often the CPU.
Do I need to buy Windows?
You can download and install Windows for free from Microsoft and use it without a license. The downside is you’ll have a watermark on your desktop and some personalization features will be locked. A legitimate license is recommended for long-term use.
Final Thoughts
Building a cheap gaming PC is an incredibly rewarding project. You end up with a machine that is more powerful and personal than any pre-built option at the same price. The process teaches you alot, and it makes future upgrades or troubleshooting much less intimidating. Remember to take your time, watch a few video tutorials if you get stuck, and enjoy the process. Once you hit the power button and load up your first game, you’ll see it was all worth the effort.