When it comes to gaming computers, a US$1,000 [AU$1,463] gaming PC build is probably the sweet spot. It can take on any title at 1080p at high refresh rates.
There are a lot of parts that can be crammed into a $1,000 gaming PC build. However, there are not many value-oriented PC components that are worth getting.
To make sure that new PC builders make the best out of their money, here are some of the best PC parts to get today.
1. Processor – Ryzen 5 3600
The first thing to consider when building a new computer is the processor. This time, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is the best choice.
Why not go for an Intel processor?
The Intel Core i5-9400f is the direct competitor of the Ryzen 5 3600. Sure the Intel processor has the edge on single-core performance. However, the majority of games today rely heavily on the graphics card. This renders the single-core advantage of the i5-9400f negligible.
The Ryzen 5 3600 has six cores and 12 threads. It is a very viable option for those who want to start streaming on Twitch, YouTube, or Facebook.
Moreover, Ryzen 5 has a better cooler and overclocking headroom. There is the more expensive Ryzen 5 3600X, but a little overclock on the 3600 makes it on par with the 3600X.
Ryzen 5 is priced at around $160, making it a great budget option.
2. Motherboard – Gigabyte X570 Gaming X
The Gigabyte X570 Gaming X is an excellent looking motherboard that delivers great features as well.
The X570 platform supports PCIe 4.0, next-gen AMD support, built-in Wi-Fi, and RAM compatibility with higher speeds. Having the PCIe 4.0 compatibility ensures a future-proof build.
This motherboard also has a lot of SATA ports and plenty of connectivity ports.
The Gigabyte X570 Gaming X is available for around $170. Some retailers sell this for as low as $150.
3. Memory – Corsair Vengeance LPX 16gb 3600Mhz (2x8GB)
There are memory sticks out there that are fine as long as it fits the budget. However, it is better to opt for a higher clocked memory due to the Ryzen platform. Ryzen processors are proven to work better with high-speed RAM.
The Corsair Vengeance LPX memory is a tried and tested RAM option. Getting the 16GB dual-channel bundle brings a lot of value. The 16GB of memory will not be used to the max as of the moment. But, games develop so fast, and it is nice to have ample headroom.
The low profile memory makes sure that there are no clearance issues when it comes to the cooler. Some memory sticks are too large and may interfere with air coolers.
This memory module is available for $70.
4. Graphics Card – MSI Gaming RTX 2060 Super
The MSI Gaming RTX 2060 Super is one of the value-oriented mid-range graphics cards available today. It is a great balance between price to performance.
This video card can easily max out the majority of games at 1080p without dropping below 60FPS. Lighter titles such as DoTA 2, Valorant, and League of Legends will easily reach 200FPS or more.
Having the RTX 2060 also enables ray tracing. It is not as rampant now, but it is not bad to be ready as of the moment.
The MSI Gaming RTX 2060 will also support 4K gaming. It will not have the same performance as 1080p, but lowering down some settings will make games playable.
This video card retails for around $400, depending on the seller.
5. Storage – Samsung 860 QVO 1TB
PC builds usually have a boot drive and storage drive. But this time, the Samsung 860 QVO 1TB will serve both purposes.
The Samsung 860 QVO is a great drive with read-write speeds of around 520MBPs. It also frees up additional cables in the build for better airflow.
However, do limit the PC building to this SSD. If a dual drive system is preferred, then go for it.
This SSD one of the best. It is just hard to resist as it only retails for $125.
6. Power Supply – Seasonic Focus 550 80+ Gold
Do not skimp on power supplies ever. Go for 80+ bronze rated or higher.
The Seasonic Focus 550 Gold is a great PSU on a budget. It is not on the super affordable side. But for $140 it is a very reliable and powerful power supply.
Having 550 watts of power is enough for this build with headroom for expansion in the future.
This PSU is only semi-modular, though. But it is better than having a fully modular PSU with a lower rating.
7. Case – Deepcool Matrexx 50
The case takes most of the budget cut to reach the max $1000 gaming PC build. The Deepcool Matrexx 50 is a stunning case for $50. The aesthetic is taken care of by the tempered glass front and side panels.
This mid-tower case has enough expansion slots for upgrades. It has a PSU shroud to hide cables. But there are no rubber grommets for hiding connector cables.
That’s it for the $1000 gaming PC build. Do take note though that prices frequently fluctuate due to the pandemic. However, this is a great baseline on what kind of parts to get. Just mix and match whatever fits the budget at the moment.
Featured image courtesy of Deepcool Matrexx, All other images used courtesy of AMD, Gigabyte, Corsair, MSI, Samsung, Seasonic, Deepcool