If you’re ready to step into the world of PC gaming, but have a tight budget, it’s not impossible to find a high-performing rig for less than $1,000. While some of these pre-built systems may feature older GPUs, such as the RTX 3060, they’re still capable of running many of today’s newest games at 1080p without a hitch.
The Skytech Azure Gaming i5 is one of the best options for PC gamers on a budget, thanks to its mid-tower build that doesn’t take up too much space on your desk and its capable Intel Core processor with 16GB of RAM. This system also supports multiple M.2 and 3.5-inch storage drives, making it easy to upgrade its memory and storage capacity down the road.
Another great budget option is the CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme i7, which uses a relatively fresh 12th-generation Intel Core processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card for top-notch performance in both gaming and productivity. Plus, it’s built inside a stylish and thermally efficient Onyxia 2 case that has a tempered glass panel and exceptional airflow.
Finally, if you’re looking for a gaming PC that can double as a work machine, check out the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i. This incredibly versatile system features excellent 1080p gaming performance that even allowed us to run Cyberpunk 2077 at 77 fps on Ultra settings in our benchmark tests. Plus, it has a large platform that’s compatible with most professional-grade editing and creative products for the office. best budget gaming pc