A Brief Guide on the Best Budget Gaming Setup for PC in 2024

Gaming has evolved from a niche hobby to a mainstream form of entertainment, with millions of players worldwide. However, building a gaming PC can be an expensive endeavor, especially for those on a tight budget. The good news is that with careful planning and smart choices, you can create a budget-friendly gaming setup that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank. This guide will walk you through every aspect of building the best budget gaming setup for PC in 2024, covering everything from hardware components to peripherals and optimization tips.Via Tom’s Hardware

Why Build a Budget Gaming PC?

Cost-Effectiveness

Building a budget gaming PC allows you to allocate your funds wisely, ensuring you get the best performance for your money. Pre-built gaming PCs often come with a premium price tag, but by selecting individual components, you can save significantly.

Customizability

A custom-built PC allows you to upgrade individual components as your budget and needs evolve. This modular approach ensures that your gaming setup remains relevant for years to come.

Performance

With the right components, a budget gaming PC can deliver impressive performance, capable of running the latest games at decent settings. Advances in technology have made it possible to achieve high-quality gaming experiences without spending a fortune.Via consumermentor.com

Key Components of a Budget Gaming PC

1. Processor (CPU)

The CPU is the brain of your gaming PC, handling all the calculations and instructions. For a budget gaming setup, you don’t need the most expensive processor, but you should aim for a balance between performance and cost.

Recommended CPUs for 2024:

• AMD Ryzen 5 5600X: Offers excellent multi-core performance and is great for gaming and multitasking.
• Intel Core i5-12400F: A budget-friendly option with solid gaming performance and efficiency.Via market.yandex.ru

2. Graphics Card (GPU)

The GPU is arguably the most critical component for gaming, as it handles rendering graphics and ensuring smooth gameplay. For a budget setup, you’ll want a GPU that offers good performance without costing a fortune.

Recommended GPUs for 2024:

• NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super: Provides excellent 1080p gaming performance at an affordable price.
• AMD Radeon RX 6600: Offers great value for money with solid 1080p and even 1440p gaming capabilities.Via internetteders.com

3. Memory (RAM)

RAM is essential for smooth multitasking and gaming performance. For a budget gaming PC, 16GB of RAM is the sweet spot, offering enough memory for most games and applications.

Recommended RAM:

• Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200: Reliable and affordable, with good performance for gaming.

4. Storage

Storage is where your games, operating system, and other files are stored. A combination of SSD and HDD is ideal for a budget gaming setup, providing both speed and capacity.

Recommended Storage:

• SSD: Samsung 970 EVO 500GB NVMe M.2 – Fast and reliable for your OS and frequently played games.
• HDD: Seagate Barracuda 2TB 7200 RPM – Affordable and spacious for storing larger games and files.Via plasticprogress.com

5. Motherboard

The motherboard is the backbone of your PC, connecting all the components. For a budget gaming setup, you’ll want a motherboard that supports your chosen CPU and has enough features for future upgrades.

Recommended Motherboards:

• MSI B550-A PRO: Compatible with AMD Ryzen processors, offering good features and expandability.
• ASUS Prime B660-PLUS D4: Supports Intel 12th Gen processors and provides a solid foundation for a budget build.Via market.yandex.ru

6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

The PSU supplies power to all your components. It’s crucial to choose a reliable PSU with enough wattage to support your setup.

Recommended PSU:

• EVGA 600 W1, 80+ WHITE 600W: Affordable and reliable, with enough power for most budget gaming builds.

7. Case

The case houses all your components and affects airflow and cooling. For a budget setup, choose a case that offers good airflow and enough space for your components.

Recommended Cases:

• NZXT H510: Sleek design with good airflow and cable management.
• Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L: Compact and affordable, with decent airflow and expandability.Via techall.ru

Peripherals and Accessories

1. Monitor

A good monitor is essential for an enjoyable gaming experience. For a budget setup, a 1080p monitor with a high refresh rate is ideal.

Recommended Monitors:

• AOC 24G2: 24-inch, 1080p, 144Hz, IPS panel – Offers excellent color accuracy and smooth gameplay.
• ASUS VG245H: 24-inch, 1080p, 75Hz, TN panel – Affordable and reliable for budget gaming.Via alikson.ru

2. Keyboard

A mechanical keyboard can enhance your gaming experience with better tactile feedback and durability.

Recommended Keyboards:

• Redragon K552: Affordable mechanical keyboard with RGB lighting and solid build quality.
• Corsair K55 RGB: Membrane keyboard with customizable RGB lighting and dedicated media controls.

3. Mouse

A good gaming mouse offers precision and comfort, crucial for competitive gaming.

Recommended Mice:

• Logitech G502 HERO: High-precision sensor, customizable buttons, and adjustable weights.
• Razer DeathAdder V2: Ergonomic design, high DPI, and reliable performance.Via sportskeeda.com

4. Headset

A gaming headset provides immersive audio and clear communication with teammates.

Recommended Headsets:

• HyperX Cloud II: Comfortable, with excellent sound quality and a detachable microphone.
• SteelSeries Arctis 5: RGB lighting, clear audio, and a retractable microphone.

5. Speakers

If you prefer speakers over a headset, there are budget-friendly options that still deliver good sound quality.

Recommended Speakers:

• Logitech Z313: 2.1 speaker system with a subwoofer for enhanced bass.
• Creative Pebble V2: Compact and affordable, with USB-powered audio.Via Evetech

Building Your Budget Gaming PC

Step 1: Planning and Budgeting

Before purchasing any components, determine your budget and prioritize the most critical parts (CPU, GPU, and RAM). Allocate your funds accordingly, ensuring you get the best performance within your budget.

Step 2: Purchasing Components

Once you’ve planned your build, start purchasing the components. Look for deals, discounts, and bundles to save money. Consider buying from reputable retailers to ensure quality and warranty coverage.

Step 3: Assembling the PC

Assembling a PC can be intimidating, but with careful attention to detail, it’s a manageable task. Follow these steps:Via Youtube

1. Prepare the Case: Remove the side panels and install the PSU, ensuring all cables are routed neatly.
2. Install the Motherboard: Secure the motherboard to the case using standoffs and screws.
3. Install the CPU: Carefully place the CPU into the socket and secure it with the retention mechanism.
4. Install the RAM: Insert the RAM sticks into the appropriate slots, ensuring they click into place.
5. Install the GPU: Insert the GPU into the PCIe slot and secure it with screws.
6. Install Storage: Mount the SSD and HDD in the designated drive bays and connect them to the motherboard.
7. Connect Cables: Connect all power and data cables, ensuring everything is securely connected.
8. Close the Case: Reattach the side panels and ensure all screws are tightened.

Via Youtube

Step 4: Installing the Operating System

Once the PC is assembled, install the operating system (OS). Windows 10 or 11 is the most common choice for gaming. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Step 5: Installing Drivers and Software

After installing the OS, download and install the latest drivers for your components (GPU, motherboard, etc.). Install essential software, such as antivirus, game launchers (Steam, Epic Games Store), and any other tools you need.

Via robots.net

Step 6: Optimizing Performance

To get the most out of your budget gaming PC, follow these optimization tips:

1. Update Drivers: Regularly update your GPU and other drivers to ensure optimal performance.
2. Adjust In-Game Settings: Lower graphics settings in demanding games to achieve smoother gameplay.
3. Overclocking: If comfortable, overclock your CPU and GPU for additional performance (ensure proper cooling).
4. Background Processes: Close unnecessary background processes to free up system resources.
5. Cooling: Ensure proper airflow and cooling to prevent overheating and maintain performance.

Via cmcompressor.com

Future Upgrades

One of the advantages of building your PC is the ability to upgrade components over time. As your budget allows, consider upgrading the following:

1. GPU: Upgrade to a more powerful graphics card for better gaming performance.
2. CPU: Upgrade to a higher-end processor for improved multitasking and gaming.
3. RAM: Add more RAM if you find yourself running out of memory during gaming or multitasking.
4. Storage: Add additional SSDs or HDDs for more storage capacity.
5. Cooling: Upgrade to better cooling solutions (air or liquid) for improved thermal performance.Via internetteders.com

Building a budget gaming PC

Building a budget gaming PC in 2024 is entirely feasible with careful planning and smart choices. By selecting the right components and optimizing your setup, you can enjoy a high-quality gaming experience without spending a fortune. Whether you’re a casual gamer or an aspiring esports competitor, this guide provides all the information you need to create the best budget gaming setup for your needs. Happy gaming!