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10 Best Cheap Gaming Pcs 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

Alienware Aurora Gaming Desktop ACT1250 - Intel Core Ultra 9 285 Processor, Liquid Cooled, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, 1000W Platinum Rated PSU, Win 11 Home - Clear Panel

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,316
Processor (CPU)
Graphics Card (GPU)
RAM

Most important from
106 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The combination of the RTX 5080 and Intel Ultra 9 285 delivers exceptional gaming performance, effortlessly maxing out graphics settings while maintaining smooth frame rates.
Graphics Card (GPU)
The combination of the RTX 5080 and Intel Ultra 9 285 delivers exceptional gaming performance, effortlessly maxing out graphics settings while maintaining smooth frame rates.
RAM
Upgrading components like memory and storage is straightforward thanks to accessible layouts, though the proprietary motherboard limits mainboard replacement and there are fewer DIMM and M.2 slots than larger builds offer.
Storage
Upgrading components like memory and storage is straightforward thanks to accessible layouts, though the proprietary motherboard limits mainboard replacement and there are fewer DIMM and M.2 slots than larger builds offer.
Cooling System
Thermal management is impressive, with the liquid cooling system keeping CPU and GPU temperatures well within safe limits even during intense, prolonged gaming sessions.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The power supply is a robust 1000W Platinum-rated unit, ensuring stable and reliable energy delivery under heavy loads, and standard components are used where possible to ease future upgrades.

The Alienware Aurora ACT1250 is a powerful gaming desktop equipped with a top-tier Intel Core Ultra 9 285 processor and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 graphics card, making it well-suited for modern, demanding games. With 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM and a spacious 1TB SSD, it offers smooth multitasking and quick load times. The inclusion of a 240mm liquid cooling system helps keep temperatures low during long gaming sessions, which is a big plus for performance and hardware longevity. It also comes with a robust 1000W Platinum-rated power supply that ensures stable energy delivery even under heavy load.

Customizable lighting and the Alienware Command Center software add a nice touch for gamers who enjoy personalizing their setup. The price point and design suggest it targets gamers willing to invest beyond the budget category. The CPU speed of 1.9 GHz may seem low but likely reflects modern multi-core efficiency rather than raw clock speed. Also, at nearly 34 pounds and over 18 inches tall, it’s less portable than smaller gaming PCs.

For someone looking for a budget-friendly gaming rig, there are less expensive options with lower-tier components. However, if you want a ready-made, high-performance desktop that can handle the latest games and content creation without much compromise, this Alienware unit delivers solid value and reliability backed by Dell’s onsite service.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,316
Processor (CPU)
Graphics Card (GPU)
RAM

Most important from
106 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The combination of the RTX 5080 and Intel Ultra 9 285 delivers exceptional gaming performance, effortlessly maxing out graphics settings while maintaining smooth frame rates.
Graphics Card (GPU)
The combination of the RTX 5080 and Intel Ultra 9 285 delivers exceptional gaming performance, effortlessly maxing out graphics settings while maintaining smooth frame rates.
RAM
Upgrading components like memory and storage is straightforward thanks to accessible layouts, though the proprietary motherboard limits mainboard replacement and there are fewer DIMM and M.2 slots than larger builds offer.
Storage
Upgrading components like memory and storage is straightforward thanks to accessible layouts, though the proprietary motherboard limits mainboard replacement and there are fewer DIMM and M.2 slots than larger builds offer.
Cooling System
Thermal management is impressive, with the liquid cooling system keeping CPU and GPU temperatures well within safe limits even during intense, prolonged gaming sessions.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The power supply is a robust 1000W Platinum-rated unit, ensuring stable and reliable energy delivery under heavy loads, and standard components are used where possible to ease future upgrades.
#2

Alienware Aurora Gaming Desktop ACT1250 - Intel Core Ultra 7 265F, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070, 1000W Platinum Rated PSU, Windows 11 Home, Clear Panel - Black

Rating
9.1
Processor (CPU)
Graphics Card (GPU)
RAM

Most important from
106 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Customization errors can occur; some buyers have received an i7 instead of the selected i9 processor, requiring returns and additional payments.
Graphics Card (GPU)
Running Escape from Tarkov at 135+ FPS on ultra settings with 2K 200Hz resolution shows this PC handles demanding games smoothly.
RAM
With 32GB of fast 5600MHz RAM, memory capacity is more than sufficient for gaming and multitasking.
Storage
The system supports easy upgrades, including additional NVMe storage and cooling options like a 240mm AIO liquid cooler.
Cooling System
Uninstalling bloatware and switching Alienware software to performance mode with medium or high fan speeds enhances the experience.

The Alienware Aurora Gaming Desktop ACT1250 is a powerful option that leans toward high-end rather than budget. It features an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor running up to 5.3 GHz, capable of handling modern games and multitasking. The standout is its NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 with 12GB of the latest GDDR7 memory, offering excellent graphics performance for smooth gameplay and future-proofing for upcoming titles.

With 32GB of DDR5 RAM, this PC provides plenty of memory for demanding games and streaming simultaneously. Storage-wise, the 1TB SSD means fast load times and ample space for games and apps. Cooling is addressed with an optional 240mm liquid cooler, which helps keep temperatures stable during long sessions, enhancing reliability and performance. The power supply is a strong 1000W platinum-rated unit, ensuring clean and consistent energy delivery for all components.

The system runs Windows 11 Home and includes Alienware's Command Center software for customizing lighting and performance profiles, adding a personalized touch. The chassis design is sleek with customizable RGB lighting, which gamers often enjoy. The desktop is heavier and larger than typical budget PCs and may be more expensive than what some consider "cheap." It also lacks an optical drive, which isn't a major issue for most gamers. This Alienware Aurora PC is a solid choice for gamers looking for strong performance and future-ready specs, though it may stretch the budget of those seeking strictly entry-level gaming machines.

Rating
9.1
Processor (CPU)
Graphics Card (GPU)
RAM

Most important from
106 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Customization errors can occur; some buyers have received an i7 instead of the selected i9 processor, requiring returns and additional payments.
Graphics Card (GPU)
Running Escape from Tarkov at 135+ FPS on ultra settings with 2K 200Hz resolution shows this PC handles demanding games smoothly.
RAM
With 32GB of fast 5600MHz RAM, memory capacity is more than sufficient for gaming and multitasking.
Storage
The system supports easy upgrades, including additional NVMe storage and cooling options like a 240mm AIO liquid cooler.
Cooling System
Uninstalling bloatware and switching Alienware software to performance mode with medium or high fan speeds enhances the experience.
#3

Lenovo Legion Pro 7i – Gaming Laptop - Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX – 16" 2.5K WQXGA OLED Display – 240Hz Refresh Rate – GeForce RTX™ 5070 Ti GPU – 32 GB Memory – 1 TB Storage – 3-month PC GamePass

Rating
8.8
Processor (CPU)
Graphics Card (GPU)
Cooling System

Most important from
29 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Performance is staggering, effortlessly handling every modern title with high frame rates and smooth multitasking thanks to the powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and RTX 5070 Ti GPU.
Graphics Card (GPU)
Performance is staggering, effortlessly handling every modern title with high frame rates and smooth multitasking thanks to the powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and RTX 5070 Ti GPU.
Cooling System
Thermal management is impressively effective, keeping the laptop cool and quiet even under heavy load without uncomfortable heat on the keyboard or charger.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The 400W charger supports sustained high performance without power throttling, ensuring consistent gaming and workload capabilities.

The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i is a powerful gaming laptop ideal for gamers seeking high performance without reaching the highest price tiers. It features a strong Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor with 24 cores, delivering fast and efficient performance for gaming and multitasking alike. The dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti graphics card with 12 GB VRAM ensures smooth visuals and supports advanced effects like ray tracing, enhancing game visuals even in demanding titles.

Equipped with 32 GB of DDR5 RAM running at 6400 MHz, the laptop can handle multiple tasks and heavy games without slowing down. Storage includes a generous 1 TB solid-state drive, offering quick load times and ample space for games and files. The 16-inch 2.5K OLED screen with a 240Hz refresh rate provides crisp, vivid colors and ultra-smooth gameplay visuals, perfect for competitive gaming or immersive experiences. The Legion Coldfront: Vapor cooling system combines advanced vapor chamber technology and quiet fans to maintain low temperatures during long sessions, preventing performance drops from overheating.

Power-wise, it supports 400W charging and has a 99.9Whr battery capacity, making it portable enough for gaming on the go with fast recharge times. The laptop weighs 5.65 pounds, which may limit portability compared to lighter models. While priced higher than entry-level gaming PCs, it is suited for users who prioritize performance and premium features. For those seeking a machine capable of smoothly running current and upcoming games with a great display and cooling system, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i stands out, especially for those valuing high refresh rates and solid build quality.

Rating
8.8
Processor (CPU)
Graphics Card (GPU)
Cooling System

Most important from
29 reviews

Processor (CPU)
Performance is staggering, effortlessly handling every modern title with high frame rates and smooth multitasking thanks to the powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and RTX 5070 Ti GPU.
Graphics Card (GPU)
Performance is staggering, effortlessly handling every modern title with high frame rates and smooth multitasking thanks to the powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and RTX 5070 Ti GPU.
Cooling System
Thermal management is impressively effective, keeping the laptop cool and quiet even under heavy load without uncomfortable heat on the keyboard or charger.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The 400W charger supports sustained high performance without power throttling, ensuring consistent gaming and workload capabilities.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Gaming Pcs

Choosing a gaming PC can be a daunting task, especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly option. The key is to find a balance between performance and cost. You want a machine that can handle your favorite games without breaking the bank. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications that affect gaming performance. Here's a breakdown of the most important specs to consider when shopping for a cheap gaming PC.
Processor (CPU)The CPU is the brain of your computer and plays a crucial role in gaming performance. It handles all the calculations and instructions needed to run your games. For gaming, you want a CPU with multiple cores and high clock speeds. Entry-level CPUs like those with 4 cores and clock speeds around 3.5 GHz can handle most games at lower settings. Mid-range CPUs with 6 cores and higher clock speeds (around 4 GHz) offer better performance for more demanding games. If you're into competitive gaming or playing AAA titles, aim for a CPU with 8 cores or more and clock speeds above 4 GHz. Your choice should depend on the types of games you play and how much multitasking you do while gaming.
Graphics Card (GPU)The GPU is responsible for rendering images, videos, and animations in your games. It's one of the most important components for gaming performance. Budget GPUs can handle older or less demanding games at lower settings. Mid-range GPUs offer better performance and can run most modern games at medium to high settings. High-end GPUs are designed for the latest AAA titles and can run games at ultra settings with high frame rates. Consider the resolution and frame rate you want to achieve in your games. If you're playing at 1080p, a mid-range GPU should suffice. For 1440p or 4K gaming, you'll need a more powerful GPU.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) is where your computer stores data that it needs to access quickly. For gaming, having enough RAM is essential for smooth performance. Most games require at least 8GB of RAM, but 16GB is recommended for better performance and future-proofing. If you multitask a lot or use your PC for other demanding applications, consider going for 32GB. The speed of the RAM also matters; look for RAM with higher MHz ratings for faster data access.
StorageStorage determines how much space you have for your games, applications, and files. There are two main types of storage: HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive). HDDs are cheaper and offer more storage space, but they are slower. SSDs are faster and improve loading times and overall system responsiveness. For gaming, it's best to have an SSD for your operating system and games, and an HDD for additional storage. Aim for at least 256GB SSD and 1TB HDD to balance speed and capacity.
Cooling SystemA good cooling system is essential to keep your PC running smoothly and prevent overheating, which can damage components and reduce performance. Budget gaming PCs may come with basic air cooling, which is sufficient for entry-level systems. Mid-range and high-end systems often have better air cooling or liquid cooling solutions. If you plan to overclock your CPU or GPU, invest in a more advanced cooling system. Consider your gaming environment and how much heat your system will generate.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)The PSU provides power to all the components in your PC. It's important to have a reliable PSU that can handle the power requirements of your system. Budget gaming PCs typically come with lower wattage PSUs, which are fine for entry-level components. Mid-range and high-end systems require higher wattage PSUs to support more powerful CPUs and GPUs. Look for a PSU with a good efficiency rating (80 Plus Bronze or higher) to ensure stable power delivery and energy efficiency. Consider the total wattage needed by your components and choose a PSU that provides a bit more than that to ensure reliability.

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