Introduction
When it comes to building a great gaming PC, most enthusiasts are constantly on the lookout for the perfect combination of performance and affordability. In a world where top-of-the-line hardware can burn a hole in anyone’s pocket, the challenge is to strike the right balance between cost and computing power. With a budget of $800, you can build a gaming PC that doesn’t cut corners in terms of performance. In this article, we’ll explore the components and build process that can help you create the ultimate $800 gaming PC.
The Processor (CPU)
The processor or CPU is the heart of any PC, gaming or otherwise. For an $800 gaming PC, the latest 11th Gen Intel Core i5-11600K processor (or the 5th Gen AMD Ryzen 5 5600X) is an excellent choice. With six cores and twelve threads, it can handle most modern games and applications with ease. Additionally, it has a base clock speed of 3.9GHz and can boost up to 4.9GHz, ensuring you get the best possible performance.
The Graphics Card (GPU)
The graphics card or GPU is arguably the most critical component for any gaming PC. With a budget of $800, you can get a mid-range GPU that can handle most modern games at 1080p or even 1440p. The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060Ti or the AMD Radeon RX 6700XT are some of the available options. With at least 8GB of GDDR6 memory, these GPUs also support advanced features like real-time ray tracing and DLSS, making them future-proof and ideal for next-generation gaming.
The Motherboard
The motherboard is the backbone of any PC, connecting all the components and ensuring they work seamlessly together. For an $800 gaming PC, we recommend the ASUS TUF Gaming B560-Plus Wi-Fi ATX motherboard. It supports the latest 11th Gen Intel CPUs and has all the essential features like Wi-Fi connectivity, a fast ethernet port, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A and Type-C ports.
The Memory (RAM)
For a modern gaming PC, a minimum of 16GB of RAM is essential. We recommend the Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB DDR4-3200 desktop memory kit. It is fast, reliable, and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. With low profile heatsinks, it also fits most CPU coolers, ensuring compatibility with most motherboards.
The Storage (SSD)
The storage device is an essential component of any PC. For an $800 gaming PC, we recommend the Kingston A2000 1TB NVMe SSD. It is fast, reliable and has enough space to store your games, applications, and multimedia files. With read and write speeds of up to 2200MB/s and 2000MB/s, respectively, it ensures fast boot times and game loading times.
The Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The power supply unit or PSU is often overlooked, but it is a critical component that determines the stability and longevity of your PC. With an $800 budget, we recommend the Corsair CX650F RGB 650W 80+ Bronze power supply. It is reliable, efficient, and features RGB lighting, which adds a touch of flair to your build.
The Case
Finally, the case is what holds all the components together, and it should be both functional and stylish. We recommend the NZXT H510 compact ATX mid-tower case. It is sleek, minimalist and features a tempered glass side panel that showcases your build. It also has excellent cable management options, ensuring a clean and tidy build.
Conclusion
Building a gaming PC with a budget of $800 is no small feat, but with the right components and some careful planning, it is possible to create a machine that offers both performance and affordability. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully and choose the components that suit your specific needs. With a little patience and effort, you can build the ultimate $800 gaming PC that will provide you with countless hours of gaming enjoyment.
