If you’ve never built a computer before, it can be difficult because there are often hidden costs and potential compatibility problems. Before even starting the construction process, there are a lot of questions to be answered, like how much does it cost to build a pc.
The post will explain how much does it cost to build a pc.
Please continue reading for more information.
Table of Contents
How Much Is A PC?
PC prices range widely. With used parts, a basic PCfor everyday use can sometimes be put together for as little as $300. As you increase a PC’s specifications, the cost starts to rise. Utilizing the integrated graphics on an APU or CPU can save you money on a GPU you might not need, but there may be trade-offs.
The graphics card is the most expensive component of the computer. The cost of a GPU varies, with older or less capable models being significantly less expensive. The cost increases as your demand for power increases, just like with anything PC-related. So, a more expensive graphics card will be needed if you want to play the newest games in 4K.
How Much Does A Gaming Computer Cost To Build?
The price of a gaming PCis dependent on your personal budget and game requirements, just like any other PCor laptop. It can cost anywhere between $300 and $2000, but many people prefer to stay in the happy middle at about $700 to $1,000. A gaming PCis available for everyone, regardless of your financial situation or level of enthusiastism. For a more thorough explanation of pricing tiers, see our guide on How to Build a Gaming PC.
| Entry-Level/ Budget | Mid-Range | High-End | Enthusiast/ Extreme |
| – $300 Entry-Level Build | – $700 Gaming PCBuild | – $1500 Gaming PCBuild | – $3000 Gaming PCBuild |
| – $400 Entry-Level Build | – $800 Gaming PCBuild | – $2000 Gaming PCBuild | – $5000 Gaming PCBuild |
| – $500 Budget Build | – $1000 Gaming PCBuild | ||
| – $600 Budget Build |
You should typically plan to spend about 50% of your budget on the graphics card if you’re building a mid-tier or higher system. Don’t worry about spending all of your money on the GPU because it is the most expensive component of a gaming computer. The CPU has the potential to increase PCbuild costs, but as was already mentioned, this largely depends on your gaming needs. As older generation chips are still quite good for gaming, you could save money there and allocate more money for the graphics card.
It can sometimes be best to strike a balance between your components, but it’s important to remember that other, overlooked areas may significantly increase the cost of your project as a whole. In order to get the most out of your PC, you should probably look to include 16GB of fast RAM with it. RAM kits are currently reasonably priced. Although purchasing an SSD should be your main priority, storage may seem like a place where you can cut costs. A small-capacity SSD may seem like a good idea, but they can quickly fill up, with some modern games using more than 100GB.
So what is the price of constructing a gaming PC? Of course there are variations, but ultimately it comes down to the capabilities of the build you have in mind. You will probably need to spend quite a bit of money ($1,500+) if you want to play the most recent games at maximum settings and in the highest resolutions. It’s fortunate for competitive esports fans who demand high frame rates in their preferred shooters that low to mid-tier systems are capable of supporting 144+ FPS in 1080p that they don’t have to spend as much money.
Components Needed To Build A Gaming PC
The GPU and CPU will consume the majority of the budget in almost all systems because they are the most crucial components of any build. They are the topic of this article because they collectively control almost every operation that a contemporary computer performs.
Random Access Memory (ram)
Capacity and speed (measured in mHz) are the two parameters that are typically used to describe RAM. The more RAM you have, the more programs you can run, and the faster it is, the faster your processing speed. Many different configurations are possible. The significant ones are listed here.
- 1×8: 8GB total
- 2×8: 16GB total
- 2×16: 32GB total
- 4×8: 32GB total
- 4×16: 64GB total
16GB of ram is the golden standard at the time of writing. Games that require a lot of memory, like Apex, Warzone, Battlefield, etc., benefit from having 32GB.) but it’s more of a luxury than anything. 64GB is overkill in almost all scenarios. Since it is so simple to add a second stick of RAM in the future, 8GB of RAM is sufficient for systems with extremely low budgets. But as soon as you can, try to add an additional 8GB of RAM to your system.
Although RAM is almost always sold in sets of two or four, you can also buy single 8GB sticks. Here is an estimate of the typical cost.
- 1×8: ~$35
- 2×8: ~$70
- 2×16: ~$120-150
- 4×8: ~$160
- 4×16: ~$275
The higher clock speeds of four pack RAM typically result in a slight increase in the cost per unit.
How much will RAM cost when building a computer? Expect to pay $35 to $250 in total for RAM.
Solid State Drive (ssd) / Hard Disk Drive (hdd)
Although solid state drives and hard disk drives are listed here, they serve the same purpose; the ways in which they do so vary. If you’re new, it might be a little confusing to see two different parts listed here. Both HDDs and SSDs are in charge of storing data, including the system’s OS (operating system). An SSD essentially stores data electronically, whereas an HDD essentially stores data mechanically.
In general, SSDs are faster, quieter, more dependable, and have a longer lifespan, but they cost significantly more than HDDs with the same or even more storage. As such, an SSD is a non-essential “quality of life” component. However, high-quality, high-storage SSDs are now significantly less expensive, so you should really think about incorporating one in your build. Load times are greatly reduced when your system’s operating system and games are installed on SSDs.
The majority of motherboards also have multiple SATA ports, enabling you to simultaneously connect multiple drives. As a result, connecting both an SSD and an HDD is not only feasible but also a sensible option.
The Seagate BarraCuda HDD is recommended. The 2TB model is a trustworthy drive and can be found on Amazon for as little as $50 USD, sometimes even less. If your line of work doesn’t require much more or you just play a lot of games, there isn’t any reason to look elsewhere. In that case, a 4TB model costs $75, and an 8TB model costs $150.
You can stop at an HDD if you’re on a tight budget and not worry about an SSD. But you ought to give it some thought if you have the cash available. 500GB Depending on the brand, SSDs cost $50 to $75 USD. (Note: Although not the subject of this article, many SSD manufacturers have been “exposed” for slowing down their SSDs’ write speeds. For a few dollars more, think about investing in a reputable brand.
You can also choose to completely omit the HDD and instead, if you have the cash, purchase a high capacity SSD. If this is the path you want to take, a 2TB SSD will run you about $200 USD, and a 4TB SSD will run you about $400 USD.
What is the price of an SSD or HDD? In conclusion, you can spend as little as $50 or as much as $450 on the storage for your system.
Power Supply (psu)
How much power your chosen power supply needs will depend on the type of build you’re doing. To help you decide what size power supply you require, check out OuterVision’s PSU calculator. In general, 650–750 watts is advised because it will give you plenty of room for future upgrades.
Additionally, if you have extra cash to spare, invest in a fully modular power supply. Your life will become so much simpler as a result.
What is the price of an electrical supply? Depending on the wattage and efficiency (as indicated by its 80 Plus rating), a PSU will cost you between $60 and $150.
Graphics Card (gpu)
One of the most expensive parts of any build is frequently the graphics card. This is especially true given the state of the economy today. I previously mentioned a “worrying trend”. The GPU market is affected by that unsettling trend.
Without going into great detail, at the time of writing, Ryzen and NVIDIA both released their newest, top-of-the-line graphics cards. There is little reason to think about other models if you’re looking to purchase a new graphics card. So, what’s the issue?
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a worldwide shortage of chips, which has in turn caused a worldwide shortage of chips, one of the essential components of GPUs. It’s not surprising that the GPU market has been turned upside down given the recent crypto mining craze, where people profit from owning and buying Graphics Cards in large quantities.
It’s gotten so bad that the 3080, which originally sold for $700, is now listed for close to $1,500 on Amazon. Similar to the higher end 3070, the lower end 3070, which originally sold for $600, is now listed on Amazon for $1,100. Even cards that are four years old have occasionally sold for more than their original retail value.
As a result, unless you’re fortunate enough to obtain a card directly from NVIDIA, you’ll be required to pay a premium. And this is assuming that the cards are even available; when a new batch is released, they typically sell out in a matter of minutes. So what choices do you have?
You can buy from a reseller, then. If you’re lucky, the final cost will be about the same. To keep low supply cards out of the hands of scalpers, members of the hardware community frequently purchase in bulk whenever possible. The extra cards will then be resold by them at little to no markup. Although these people are the exception, not the rule, you might occasionally find a kind person selling the card for its original retail price.
Searching through the aftermarket is another choice, if you’re willing to sacrifice performance. You may not always require cutting-edge hardware, depending on your use case. For instance, 2D platforming games will run just fine on older GPUs if that’s what you mostly play. Depending on the situation, you might not even require a GPU (more on that later).
In what range does a graphics card fall? A graphics card should cost you, on average, between $200 and $3,500. (But in a typical market, these figures would be much lower.)
Central Processing Unit (cpu)
While a Graphics Card is arguably more important than a CPU, the kind of CPU in a system typically determines what the purpose of that system is overall. The majority of a system’s operations are carried out by the CPU, as the name implies, and various CPUs are designed with specific functions in mind.
In some cases, a CPU can even do the work of a GPU. An integrated graphics card, also known as an iGPU, is a feature of these CPUs. There is no need to purchase a “normal” CPU if all you need the computer for is web browsing. Depending on the game, the integrated GPU will perform more than adequately and frequently produce a playable gaming experience. A CPU with an iGPU can be as cheap as $100 if all you need it for is web browsing, while one that can run games will cost about $250.
The 5600x, which starts at $300 USD, is a fantastic place to start if you’re looking for a CPU designed specifically for gaming (in conjunction with a GPU). Prices tend to level off around the $900 mark on the higher end. In order to avoid putting a financial strain on your GPU and to maximize cost savings, you should think about how powerful your CPU actually needs to be.
In what range does a CPU fall? A CPU will generally cost between $100 and $900.
Motherboard (mobo)
A motherboard is just as essential to a computer’s operation as any other component because it is necessary for it to function. Additionally to allowing the various components of a PCto communicate, it is in charge of power distribution.
Verify that the other components you chose are compatible with your motherboard.
Making sure that your motherboard and CPU are compatible with one another is crucial. With very few exceptions, the other components are cross-platform compatible.
Keep in mind that you might need to update the BIOS depending on the board you choose. Although it’s a straightforward procedure, you can always buy a motherboard that is compatible without having to carry out an update.
Compatible motherboards can be purchased for about $125 if you have the skills and desire to update the BIOS. Keep in mind that for most of these motherboards, this is the last upgrade cycle they will be supported—meaning that, if you upgrade your You might need to buy a brand-new motherboard if your CPU breaks down eventually. A more dependable motherboard can cost between $200 and $300.
What is a motherboard’s price? A motherboard should cost anywhere between $120 and $300.
Computer Case
For your PCbuild, picking the ideal PCcase is crucial. You can only build a certain type of system based on the case you select. It’s also important to keep in mind that not all cases will be able to accommodate all systems. The main parts of your system might not fit in all cases because they come in all different sizes and shapes.
Additionally, some cases perform better than others at keeping your system cool. Additionally, an improved airflow PCcase will typically cost more.
How much is a computer case? Spending ranges from $50 to $200.
Cpu Cooler
It’s a little trickier with this one. There are two prominent categories of CPU coolers: liquid-cooled and air-cooled. Only All in One (AIO) coolers and air coolers will be taken into consideration for the purposes of this article. Remember that some CPUs come with an air cooler; depending on your use case, it might be sufficient on its own.
There is liquid in All in One coolers. Before installing one, think about the risks.
How much is the CPU cooler? Spend between $80 and $200 on an AIO. Expect to pay between $45 and $100 for an air cooler.
Case Fans
On an individual basis, case fans will differ. It is possible for a computer case to ship without any pre-installed fans. Additionally, various cases can accommodate fans of various sizes and numbers. Additionally, the cost of a fan can vary depending on its size, airflow capacity, and presence or absence of RGB lighting.
From $10 for inexpensive 120mm fans to $20 for 140mm RGB fans, case fans range in price.
Other Peripherals
You’ll also require a monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, and either a headset or a set of speakers in addition to your actual PC. Similar to your components, there is a wide range of performance available for peripherals, so prices can vary significantly.
A monitor will typically cost you the most; they can cost anywhere from $100 to thousands of dollars.
From $20 to $30 to $200 to $300, keyboards, mice, and headsets can be purchased. See more about Can I Turn My Old Gaming PC Into A NAS?
Things To Consider When Building A Gaming Pc
There are numerous factors to think about when selecting a gaming setup. These are some of the factors that could affect the price of a gaming PCsetup:
Games
Take into account the video games you currently play or would like to keep playing. For fluid gameplay, some RPGs like Far Cry and The Witcher will need more specialized gaming hardware than a standard computer.
For casual PCgamers, budget builds might be adequate. Popular games like Stardew Valley and Among Us can be played on laptops. A cheap gaming computer should be able to run it if it can.
Know-how
Here, you must choose between building and buying a gaming computer. Is it less expensive to build a gaming PC? Building your own computer can be more expensive than purchasing one.
It will take a lot of your time, and perhaps even some assistance, if you are an absolute beginner. The better option might be a $300 prebuilt gaming computer. Compared to building your own gaming PC, it is simpler and less expensive.
Aesthetics
Clear cases, color-changing light bulbs, and other mods are becoming more popular for gaming PC. Matching the colors of your gaming computer and space won’t cost much. The likelihood of discovering the best gaming computer at a reasonable cost without requiring customizations is higher.
Do I Need To Construct My Own Pc?
Though enjoyable, you are not required to partake. Find a local PChardware store to do it for you if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself. Usually, they’ll be eager to assist. As an alternative, you might consider purchasing a custom-built prebuilt PC, which is something that most significant manufacturers produce.
Manufacturers of custom prebuilt computers will add a markup to the price of each computer they sell, which is obviously done to cover labor costs. Therefore, by building your own gaming PC, you can typically save money and get more performance for your dollar. that being said, prebuilt computers often come with added benefits, such as software, testing, and warranties, so both options are more than acceptable.
Do PCGames Cost More Than Those For Consoles?
Yes, playing games on a console is typically much less expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. While you can generally get a good gaming experience for the same price when it comes to hardware, consoles now support 4K gaming, which is currently much more expensive on PC.
In PCgaming, there are many other places you can save money. While the cost of the hardware can vary, or even go up if you choose high-end hardware, the games are much less expensive. On the PC, there are numerous storefronts with ongoing promotions that let you purchase AAA titles for considerably less than $60. As gaming mice and keyboards are interchangeable regardless of brand, you also save money on peripherals.
Is Building A PCMore Affordable?
It is almost always less expensive to build your own custom PC, unless you are purchasing parts or an entire PCused. You won’t incur any labor expenses when constructing your own PC, which will keep costs low and let you add more components for the same price.
Labor costs are the main factor in why building your own PCis frequently less expensive. Prebuilt manufacturing firms should be allowed to charge for their labor because, at the end of the day, they are businesses with overhead and employees to pay. A prebuilt computer also has a ton of extra advantages, like software and testing, that are sometimes covered by the price.
How Much Time Does It Take To Assemble A Pc?
For the first time, it might take two to three hours. It can be completed in as little as an hour with assistance or experience, especially once you are an expert. You can significantly speed up the process by taking the time to prepare beforehand by watching videos and reading your manuals.
The total amount of time may be extended in some circumstances. If you purchase a subpar PCcase, you might discover that it isn’t ideal for the entire build procedure. Again, this will result in longer build times. A poor PCcase may also make cable management very difficult. Additionally, CPU coolers can differ from brand to brand, occasionally giving even seasoned builders a minor headache. Although the instructions are frequently straightforward, coolers like AIOs have a few extra steps, which again requires more time. Whatever happens, just take your time and enjoy the build; that’s what it’s all about.
How Challenging Is It To Construct A Gaming Pc?
It’s not too difficult, and everything has its place if you follow the directions and construct in a secure area. For example, you won’t unintentionally insert your GPU into your CPU slot. When in doubt, refer to both your motherboard manual and the manual for the component you’re trying to install. Usually, this will make everything clear and aid in your completion.
Beginners typically find the initial stages of the process to be the most challenging because they frequently run into compatibility problems. However, there is now a wealth of online resources available to guide you through these challenges. In order to assist you with these compatibility concerns and provide complete step-by-step instructions, we have created a how-to build a gaming PCguide.
Do I Need To Purchase Windows?
Windows will offer the best overall compatibility and support, but you are free to use Linux if you prefer. Having more and more support, Linux can offer a fantastic gaming experience. We recommend Linux Mint if you decide to use Linux to save money.
If you don’t already have a copy of Windows, you only need to purchase one. If you intend to purchase a pre-built computer, don’t worry; Windows is typically already installed.
Do I Need To Purchase A Wrist Strap And Mat For Anti-static Purposes?
We frequently advise novice builders to buy an anti-static wrist strap just to ease their minds and make sure they encounter as few issues as possible. No, it isn’t absolutely necessary. Many skilled builders might have an anti-static mat to set their components on, but that is about it.
Should I Purchase A Disc Drive?
No, unless you specifically require it for something. When installing Windows, most users only use their disc drive once. However, you can avoid the hassle of installing a disc drive that you’ll only use once if you have another PCand a USB stick on hand. By doing this, you can create a USB Windows installer. You can always purchase one later if you need one.
Must I Purchase Additional Case Fans?
Depending on your circumstances, this. Intake fans, which blow air into the case from the front, and exhaust fans, which blow air out the back of the case, are both advised. If you have both of those, you should be okay; feel free to increase the number of intake and exhaust fans as needed to reduce your computer’s temperature.
It is important to keep in mind that if your computer has a lot of high-end hardware, your internal temperatures will be higher. As a result, you should think about adding more fans, but keep in mind that these parts are made to withstand a lot of heat. Another thing to keep in mind is that if you purchase a cheap PCcase, they frequently only come with a single 120mm case fan. Your internal temperatures can be somewhat controlled by this one fan, but it is best to add more fans so that you at least have the previously mentioned intake/outtake configuration.
Do I Have To Purchase All Of My Components At Once?
No, not at all. You might even be able to assemble your PCbefore purchasing some components, and many people spread out their purchases over time. For instance, if you have all of the components of your computer except for the graphics card, you might be able to use the processor’s integrated graphics until you have enough money to purchase a GPU.
What Computer Parts Are Replaceable?
Everything should work in theory, provided you keep an eye out for any compatibility issues. It won’t work, for instance, if your motherboard is outdated and you are using older DDR3 RAM. Just be sure to plan ahead before purchasing components when replacing parts.
Double-check the compatibility of replacement parts before installing them. For instance, every couple of generations, CPUs and motherboards may come with new chipsets that prevent the use of components from earlier generations.
Which Is Better, A Prebuilt Gaming Computer Or A Custom Built Gaming Computer?
You might be debating whether it’s better to purchase a pre-built gaming computer or build your own now that you are aware of the requirements for doing so. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, so it really depends on what you’re looking for.
Pre-built Gaming Pc
A pre-built PCis the best option if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of putting one together yourself. The average cost for a budget gaming PCyou don’t have to build is between $800 to $1200, while high-end pre-built gaming PCs are more expensive. Let’s see their pros and cons:
Pros:
- There is no need for you to stress over compatibility or assembling everything yourself.
- Without having to worry about component compatibility or quality, you’ll be able to purchase a fantastic gaming PC.
- Any budget can find pre-built gaming computers.
Cons:
- It’s possible that you won’t be able to purchase the most potent gaming PC.
- Pre-built gaming PCs cost more than custom ones because of labor costs.
Custom Build Gaming Pc
If you’re looking for the most powerful gaming PCpossible, choosing between build vs buy gaming PCis an easy task, as this is where building your own PCis the way to go. Let’s see some advantages and drawbacks of building your own PC:
Pros:
- The best parts will be available for you to select, and you can customize your build to meet your individual requirements.
- By building your own PC, you’ll ultimately save money.
- The most potent gaming PCis available for purchase.
Cons:
- You’ll have to assemble it yourself and confirm that everything is compatible.
- To determine which components best meet your needs, you might need to conduct some research.
Decide whether you want the most powerful gaming PCpossible and are willing to put up with the hassle of building your own PCbefore deciding between a prebuilt gaming PCand a custom build PC. Plus, how much money you’re prepared to spend plays a significant role in your final choice.
FAQs
Build A Gaming PCIf You Can, Or Buy One If You Can’t?
Because you are not paying for a retail computer price or any warranties, building a PCis less expensive. Better specifications can frequently be built into your own PC, so spending more money might be worthwhile.
How Much Does A Respectable Gaming PCCost?
A good gaming PCcan run you anywhere from $600 to $5000. The performance must be compromised if you want one for less than $600. Alternatively, you could spend $5000 on a top-tier gaming PC, but most people won’t need this.
You can get a good 1080p gaming experience with a balanced PCfor less than $1000. To play games at 4K resolution or higher, you’ll need a good high-end graphics card.
How Come A Gaming Computer Costs So Much?
The potent graphics cards are one factor in a gaming PC’s high price. Another explanation is that they’re not as widely produced as desktops and laptops, so their parts cost more to make.
When you compare the components of a desktop or laptop computer to those in a gaming PC, the components are typically smaller and less expensive to produce.
Is Building A Gaming PCDifficult?
If you’re willing to move slowly and do some research, it’s really not that difficult. Follow the directions that come with the pieces, make sure you understand what you’re doing before you start, and seek help from videos or guides if necessary.
Checking the motherboard manual and the piece’s manual is a good place to start if you’re ever unsure. These might be able to help make things clearer.
Can A Novice Build A Pc?
Unexperienced individuals can build their own PCs, yes. You might find it useful to start by reading the PCbuilding tutorial before looking through the necessary PChardware.
What Should I Purchase First When Building A Pc?
Any devoted computer user will find building a PCto be an exciting project. Many people find the selection of the components, their assembly, and the installation of the operating system to be interesting tasks. To know what to buy first can be overwhelming when just getting started, though.
Every PCbuilder should be familiar with a few fundamentals. Knowing the type of computer they are attempting to build is crucial. When they shop, they should also keep their unique needs in mind.
In What Amount Of Time Does A Computer Typically Get Built?
For the first time, it might take up to two or three hours. With the right knowledge and assistance, especially if you are a good student, it can be completed in as little as an hour. Reading your manuals and watching videos can help you prepare more quickly.
The building process may take longer in some areas. Building your PCcan be challenging if your PCcase is subpar. Poor PCcases can also make cable management difficult, extending build times.
Even the most seasoned builder may encounter difficulties due to the different CPU cooler brands. AIO coolers may require a few extra steps, even though the instructions are typically straightforward. You should not rush, but rather take your time and enjoy the process.
Do I Require Additional Case Fans?
Whatever the case, it all depends. A front intake and a back exhaust fan each pull air into and out of the case, respectively. You won’t experience any issues whether you take one or both doses. You can add as many exhaust fans or intakes as you’d like to lower the temperature in your case.
High-end hardware may result in your PCoperating at a higher temperature, so be aware of this. You require additional fans as a result. There might only be a 120mm fan on a cheap PCcase. It is not advised to have an intake/outtake configuration, even though this fan might be adequate to lower your internal temperatures.
What Must I Purchase To Overclock?
To be able to overclock, you’ll need a motherboard and CPU that are compatible. To overclock, you can use Intel K, either an older AMD motherboard or AMD. However, certain chipsets are needed for Ryzen and Intel K CPUs. Before making a purchase, conduct thorough research if you intend to overclock.
Are There Any Tools I Need To Buy To Build A Pc?
Some people advise getting a wristband or antistatic mat if you’re looking for safety. While you work with them or install them, these will shield your computer’s components from static shock. Although this kind of damage is uncommon, you should be aware of it.
What Can I Replace?
Any component can be changed, but in theory you need to get in touch with Microsoft to make sure your Windows license is kept.
Do You Need To Purchase A Disc Drive?
It all depends on what you want to accomplish with your computer. If you need a disc drive, you need one. No, if you don’t intend to use it. Windows can be installed using a USB stick, even though the majority of people won’t do so with a disc drive. You can later buy an external disk drive.
Conclusion
These hypothetical builds are only used as costing examples. To make sure that the parts would, in theory, work together, we used PCPart Picker’s compatibility filter. But it’s your responsibility to make sure the different parts are compatible before you buy anything!
If you’re patient and do your research, building your first gaming PCcan be a great experience. So start browsing those websites. Although no one enjoys cable management, the ultimate gaming PCis the one you designed and put together yourself!
Thank you for reading.
