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10 Best Cheap Gaming Pc 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MSI Codex Z2 Gaming Desktop: AMD R7-8700F, GeForce RTX 5070, 32GB DDR5, 2TB m.2 NVMe SSD, USB Type-C, VR-Ready, Windows 11 Home : A8NVP-436US

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,120
Processor (CPU)
RAM (Memory)
Cooling System

Most important from
121 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Delivers powerhouse-level gaming performance at a budget-friendly price, easily running favorite games at 100-140+ fps in 1440p.
RAM (Memory)
Includes practical features like a Wi-Fi antenna and ample memory capacity to handle modern games smoothly.
Cooling System
Cooling system keeps the PC extremely silent, even during heavy gaming sessions, with fans that are barely audible.
Case
The case is simple and functional, though some users consider swapping it for a more visually appealing option.

The MSI Codex Z2 Gaming Desktop packs a strong punch for gamers on a budget, with its AMD Ryzen 7 8700F CPU and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 GPU. This combo offers solid performance to handle modern games smoothly at high settings, especially thanks to the 12GB of dedicated graphics memory. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM is more than enough for gaming and multitasking, giving you plenty of speed and responsiveness.

Storage-wise, the 2TB NVMe SSD provides fast loading times and ample space for games, files, and software. The desktop includes USB Type-C and a good number of other USB ports, which is great for connecting peripherals. Its Windows 11 Home operating system is user-friendly and ready for gaming out of the box.

Cooling is well thought out with an ARGB air cooler plus four system fans that help keep temperatures down during extended gaming sessions. The case is simple but functional, featuring customizable RGB lighting to add some style. This desktop is VR-ready and supports high resolutions, making it versatile for gaming and everyday use. It represents a solid choice if you want a capable gaming PC without spending top dollar, although users who want to upgrade heavily in the future might want to carefully consider component compatibility.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,120
Processor (CPU)
RAM (Memory)
Cooling System

Most important from
121 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Delivers powerhouse-level gaming performance at a budget-friendly price, easily running favorite games at 100-140+ fps in 1440p.
RAM (Memory)
Includes practical features like a Wi-Fi antenna and ample memory capacity to handle modern games smoothly.
Cooling System
Cooling system keeps the PC extremely silent, even during heavy gaming sessions, with fans that are barely audible.
Case
The case is simple and functional, though some users consider swapping it for a more visually appealing option.
#2

GMKtec M5 Plus Gaming Mini PC Ryzen 7 5825U (Upgraded 7430U/ 5700U), 32GB RAM 1TB SSD Dual NIC LAN 2.5GbE Desktop Computers Office Home, Triple 4K Display, WiFi 6E, USB3.2, USB-C, BT 5.2, DP, HDMI 2.0

Rating
9.8
Processor (CPU)
Cooling System

Most important from
744 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The 8-core processor and 32GB RAM ensure fast performance, even when multitasking or gaming, with document retrieval being lightning fast.
Cooling System
Despite some fan noise, adjusting the power mode in Windows 11 can make the unit quieter without heat issues.

The GMKtec M5 Plus Gaming Mini PC presents itself as a compact but potent option for those in search of a budget-friendly gaming computer. With the AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, which has 8 cores and 16 threads, this mini PC offers a noticeable performance boost compared to its predecessors. This CPU is well-suited for casual to mid-range gaming, as well as office productivity tasks. Complementing the CPU is the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics, which, while not as powerful as a dedicated GPU, can handle mid-range gaming and 4K video playback, making it a good fit for users who don't require top-tier graphical performance.

The unit comes with 32GB of DDR4 RAM, which is substantial for gaming and multitasking, and a 1TB PCIe SSD that ensures fast load times and ample space for games and applications. The storage can be expanded up to 4TB, offering flexibility for future upgrades.

Networking capabilities are robust, featuring dual NIC LAN with 2.5GbE support, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring fast and reliable connections for online gaming and streaming. Furthermore, the ability to connect up to three 4K displays is a boon for multi-screen setups, enhancing both productivity and immersive gaming experiences. However, there are trade-offs with this compact form factor. The integrated graphics might limit the system's performance for demanding AAA gaming titles, making it less suitable for hardcore gamers seeking high frame rates and ultra settings. Additionally, while the mini PC's size is convenient, it also means limited upgrade paths compared to a full-sized desktop.

The GMKtec M5 Plus is ideal for gamers on a budget who prioritize a balance of performance and portability, and who are satisfied with mid-range gaming capabilities. Its strong connectivity options and comprehensive warranty support make it a reliable choice for everyday computing and moderate gaming tasks.

Rating
9.8
Processor (CPU)
Cooling System

Most important from
744 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The 8-core processor and 32GB RAM ensure fast performance, even when multitasking or gaming, with document retrieval being lightning fast.
Cooling System
Despite some fan noise, adjusting the power mode in Windows 11 can make the unit quieter without heat issues.
#3

MSI Aegis R2 AI Gaming Desktop: Intel Ultra 9 285, Geforce RTX 5070Ti, 32GB DDR5, 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD, Air Cooling, USB Type C, VR-Ready, Window 11 Home: C2NVR9-1452US

Rating
9.6
Processor (CPU)
Cooling System
Case

Most important from
11 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The machine impresses with its powerful performance, handling video editing and demanding tasks effortlessly.
Cooling System
Setup is smooth and the system runs quietly, maintaining cool temperatures during extended use.
Case
The design is clean and visually appealing, both inside and out, with customizable RGB lighting adding a stylish touch.

The MSI Aegis R2 AI Gaming Desktop is a powerful machine equipped with an Intel Core i9 processor running at 3.7 GHz and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti graphics card with 16GB of VRAM, making it well-suited for gaming and demanding tasks like video editing. It comes with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, which is more than enough for smooth multitasking and modern games. Storage is generous with a 2TB NVMe SSD, offering plenty of space and fast load times.

The cooling system is thoughtfully designed, featuring an RGB air cooler on the CPU plus four case fans to keep temperatures in check during long gaming sessions. The black tower case is simple but includes customizable RGB lighting for style. USB connectivity is strong, including six USB 3.0 ports and USB Type-C, which is handy for new peripherals.

The Aegis R2 provides excellent performance and features for gamers who want a ready-to-go desktop that can handle modern games and VR without struggle. It suits those looking for a balance of power, storage, and style without needing to build their own PC.

Rating
9.6
Processor (CPU)
Cooling System
Case

Most important from
11 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The machine impresses with its powerful performance, handling video editing and demanding tasks effortlessly.
Cooling System
Setup is smooth and the system runs quietly, maintaining cool temperatures during extended use.
Case
The design is clean and visually appealing, both inside and out, with customizable RGB lighting adding a stylish touch.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Gaming Pc

Choosing the right gaming PC can be a daunting task, especially if you're on a budget. The key is to balance performance with cost, ensuring you get the best value for your money. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications that affect gaming performance. Here’s a breakdown of the most important specs to consider and how to choose the right ones for your needs.
Processor (CPU)The CPU is the brain of your computer and is crucial for overall performance. For gaming, a multi-core processor with a high clock speed is important. CPUs are often divided into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end. Entry-level CPUs are suitable for less demanding games and basic tasks. Mid-range CPUs offer a good balance for most modern games, while high-end CPUs are for those who want the best performance for the latest and most demanding titles. If you play games that are CPU-intensive or plan to stream, a mid-range to high-end CPU is recommended.
Graphics Card (GPU)The GPU is responsible for rendering images, videos, and animations, making it one of the most critical components for gaming. GPUs are categorized into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end. Entry-level GPUs can handle older or less demanding games at lower settings. Mid-range GPUs are suitable for most modern games at medium to high settings. High-end GPUs are for those who want to play the latest games at the highest settings with smooth performance. Choose a GPU based on the types of games you play and the resolution you want to play at.
RAM (Memory)RAM is where your computer stores data that it needs to access quickly. For gaming, having enough RAM is essential for smooth performance. Most gaming PCs should have at least 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for many games. However, 16GB is becoming the standard for modern gaming, providing better performance and future-proofing. If you multitask or use memory-intensive applications alongside gaming, consider opting for 16GB or more.
StorageStorage affects how much data you can store and how quickly your system can access it. There are two main types: Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and Solid State Drives (SSDs). HDDs are cheaper and offer more storage space, but are slower. SSDs are faster, which means quicker load times for games and the operating system, but they are more expensive per gigabyte. A common setup is to use a smaller SSD for the operating system and frequently played games, and a larger HDD for additional storage. Choose based on your storage needs and budget.
MotherboardThe motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all components of your PC. It determines what hardware you can use and how much you can upgrade in the future. When choosing a motherboard, ensure it is compatible with your CPU and has enough slots for RAM, GPUs, and other peripherals. Consider future-proofing by selecting a motherboard that supports the latest standards and has room for expansion.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)The PSU provides power to all the components in your PC. It’s important to choose a reliable PSU with enough wattage to support your system, especially if you plan to upgrade components in the future. PSUs are rated by their wattage and efficiency. A higher wattage PSU can support more powerful components, while higher efficiency ratings (like 80 Plus Bronze, Silver, Gold) mean better energy use and reliability. Calculate the total power consumption of your components and choose a PSU that provides a bit more than that.
Cooling SystemGaming PCs generate a lot of heat, so a good cooling system is essential to maintain performance and longevity. There are air coolers and liquid coolers. Air coolers are generally cheaper and easier to install, suitable for most users. Liquid coolers offer better cooling performance and are quieter but are more expensive and complex to install. Choose based on your performance needs and whether you plan to overclock your CPU or GPU.
CaseThe case houses all your components and affects airflow and cooling. Cases come in various sizes: Full Tower, Mid Tower, and Mini Tower. Full Towers offer the most space and are good for high-end builds with multiple GPUs and extensive cooling systems. Mid Towers are the most common and offer a good balance of space and size. Mini Towers are compact and suitable for smaller builds but may have limited space for upgrades. Choose a case that fits your components and has good airflow to keep everything cool.

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