Gaming computers are specifically designed for playing graphics-intensive modern video games smoothly. When shopping for an affordable gaming rig, getting the right specs is key to avoiding lag, juttering and having a world-class experience.
This article explores the difference between regular and gaming PCs, factors to consider when choosing budget gaming desktops or laptops, top recommended options between $800-$1500, and tips for enhancing gameplay without spending a fortune.
What Makes Gaming Rigs Different?
Gaming places heavy demands on computers that typical daily work does not. The latest blockbuster titles require strong single-threaded and multi-threaded CPU muscle, not to mention serious graphics rendering power that mainstream notebook and desktop chips do not possess.
Let‘s examine how a purpose-built gaming machine differs from a regular laptop or tower:
- Higher-end CPUs – Gaming computers utilize more powerful processors like Intel Core i7/i9 and AMD Ryzen 7/9 chips with 6, 8, 12 or more cores. A Core i3 or Ryzen 3 won‘t cut it for smooth 60+ FPS.
- Dedicated GPU – Having a quality discrete NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon graphics card with its own video memory is vital versus depending on a weak integrated GPU that uses regular RAM.
- Abundant RAM – 8GB RAM allows basic gaming, but 16-32GB ensures ample capacity so other tasks aren‘t competing for memory when playing games.
- Faster storage – SSDs or hybrid SSHDs provide faster load times versus traditional hard drives. Multi-drive setups further accelerate storage speeds.
- Advanced cooling – Gaming rigs have specialized fans, heat sinks, heat pipes and sometimes liquid cooling to sustain high FPS for hours without thermal throttling.
- Ergonomic designs – Gaming laptops feature gamer-centric keyboards, adjustable panels, comfortable port placement while gaming desktops boast slick cases with easy component access.
As a result, a quality budget gaming computer will provide noticeably faster responsiveness, sharper graphics and an overall superior level of performance for popular games compared to a regular work desktop or notebook.
What to Look for in an Affordable Gaming Desktop or Laptop
Building or shopping for a gaming PC involves more scrutinization of specs versus picking a mainstream system focused on everyday tasks like web browsing. Key factors include:
CPU
For ideal 1080p gaming, an Intel Core i5 quad core chip like the i5-11600K or a Ryzen 5 model such as the Ryzen 5 5600X provide excellent performance at moderate pricing. Those wanting smoother 1440p gaming or future-proofing may wish to consider pricier Core i7 and Ryzen 7 CPUs.
Below are examples of minimum, sweet spot and high-end CPUs for gaming:
| CPU Grade | Intel | AMD |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Core i3-10100 | Ryzen 3 3100 |
| Sweet Spot | Core i5-11400 | Ryzen 5 5600X |
| High-end | Core i9-11900K | Ryzen 9 5950X |
GPU
The graphics card plays the biggest role in gaming performance and visuals. $800 prebuilt gaming computers and laptops will feature GPUs like the GTX 1660 Ti, RTX 2060 or Radeon RX 6600 XT suited for 1080p gameplay. More premium rigs over $1,500 incorporate GPUs like the RTX 3070 and RX 6800 XT to enable sharper 1440p gaming.
Here are some current GPUs capable of running modern games very smoothly:
| NVIDIA | AMD |
|---|---|
| RTX 3060 Ti | Radeon RX 6700 XT |
| RTX 3070 Ti | Radeon RX 6800 |
| RTX 3080 | Radeon RX 6900 XT |
At minimum 4GB of video memory is needed, but 6-8GB VRAM models provide ample headroom.
Storage
SSDs are strongly recommended over traditional hard drives for drastically faster boot/load speeds. 500GB provides enough capacity for a few leading games at once. Getting both an SSD + HDD combo allows smaller apps on the SSD while less load-time dependent games and media can reside on the HDD.
RAM
16GB DDR4 RAM is the sweet spot for gaming while multitasking, but 8GB suffices for gaming-only use without streaming/recording. 32GB RAM is best for future-proofing.
Connectivity
Look for HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2a and abundant USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 ports to hook up all your gaming peripherals and external monitors without needing dongles. Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 GbE LAN provide lag-free multiplayer gaming connectivity.
Acoustics
Multiple quiet fans paired with solid airflow-optimized chassis design ensure gaming desktops and laptops remain quiet enough for comfortable extended use.
Beyond hardware, consider display resolution, refresh rates, keyboard quality, aesthetic design, software and more when evaluating a gaming system.
Gaming Desktops vs. Laptops – Which is Better?
Gamers choosing between a gaming tower and gaming notebook should weigh factors like:
Gaming Desktops
Pros
- Offer better performance and upgradeability for the money
- Can equip beefier graphics cards not possible in laptops
- Provide easy access to components for upgrading
- Run more quietly with superior cooling capabilities
- Wide range of size options – from console-sized mini towers to full towers
Cons
- Not portable and must occupy ample desk space
- Displays, keyboards/mice must be purchased separately
- Big tower cases can be heavy, difficult to transport
Gaming Laptops
Pros
- All-in-one portable package needing just one power plug
- Simpler setup – no cable management headache
- Can game anywhere with the best battery powered models
- Typically sport high-refresh rate built-in displays
- Occuppy less space – ideal for small rooms and frequent travelers
Cons
- More expensive than equivalent-powered desktops
- Offer less future upgradability
- Often run hotter due to cramped form factors
- Limited to smaller GPU options than full sized desktop cards
- Bulkier and heavier than mainstream laptops
Now let‘s explore some of the top recommended budget tower and notebook picks…
9 Solid Prebuilt Budget Desktops and Laptops
These $800 to $1500 gaming computers have been chosen based on delivering excellent 1080p gaming muscle now and great upgradability down the line.
I‘ve focused on models offering a balance of strong specs and good reviews from experts and buyers for being well-built and reliable.
Top Value Desktops
Here are a few highlight affordable prebuilt gaming tower picks:
SkyTech Chronos Mini
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3600 6-Core CPU
GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super 6GB
RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz
Storage: 500GB SSD
This compact gaming desktop provides smooth 1080p performance powered by AMD’s excellent Ryzen 5 paired with NVIDIA’s venerable GTX 1660 Ti graphics. There’s ample and fast 16GB RAM plus a responsive 500GB SSD.
Reviewers praise the Chronos Mini for its great cooling, slick RGB case design, included gaming mouse/keyboard and budget price making it a fantastic value.
Price – $899
HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop
CPU: Intel Core i5-10400F
GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super 6GB
RAM: 8GB DDR4-2666 RAM
Storage: 256GB SSD + 1TB HDD
HP‘s latest affordable Pavilion gaming tower delivers reliable 60+ FPS 1080p gameplay with Intel and NVIDIA‘s well-proven hardware. The GTX 1660 Super handles modern titles admirably.
There‘s a speedy SSD for the OS paired with a high capacity mechanical drive. This keeps cost down while still offering quick boots/loading. Reviewers praise its performance, expandability and quiet fans.
Price – $949
CLX Set Gaming Desktop
CPU: Intel Core i5-11400F 6-Core Rocket Lake CPU
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti 8GB
RAM: 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4-3200mhz RAM
Storage: 500GB SSD
The RTX 3060 Ti makes this CLX rig stand out for incredible 1080p and 1440p frame rates in the latest AAA games. Paired with Intel‘s 11400F hexa core CPU, it plays new titles like Elden Ring with high settings fluidly. There are abundant USB ports plus tool-less entry for easy upgrades.
Reviewers praise the SET systems for their expandability, clean internal design, whisper quiet fans and outstanding customer support.
Price – $1,299
Outstanding Laptops
If desiring top-tier performance in a portable form factor, these gaming notebooks deliver the goods without being overly bulky.
Acer Nitro 5
CPU: Intel Core i5-11400H
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop GPU 4GB dedicated
Display: 15.6", 1080p 144Hz IPS
RAM: 16GB DDR4
Storage: 512GB SSD
Acer‘s Nitro 5 hits the sweet spot blending productivity and gaming prowess. Shoppers praise its bright 144 Hz screen, very solid performance for popular online shooters and RPGs, comfortable keyboard and impressive 6 hour battery life. At 5.07 pounds, it strikes a nice balance between power and portability.
Price – $999
ASUS TUF Dash 15
CPU: Intel Core i7-11370H 3.3 GHz
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU 6GB dedicated
Display: 15.6”, 1080p 144Hz IPS
RAM: 16GB DDR4
Storage: 512GB SSD
This portable 15-inch ASUS drives quick frame rates with Intel‘s new 11370H CPU that clocks up to 4.8GHz. The RTX 3060 GPU renders demanding games smoothly even with ray tracing enabled. Reviewers are impressed by its color accurate, 300 nit display with Adaptive Sync. A large battery delivers nearly 6 hours of runtime for taking your gaming on the road.
Price – $1,299
Gigabyte AORUS 15P
CPU: Intel Core i7-11800H 8 Core
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop GPU 8GB GDDR6 dedicated
Display: 15.6", 1440p 165Hz IPS
RAM: 16GB DDR4-3200
Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
This flagship AORUS 15-inch gaming notebook excels with Intel‘s amped up i7-11800H octa-core CPU and NVIDIA‘s powerful 140W RTX 3070 Laptop graphics. It drives silky smooth frame rates in the most demanding titles even at 1440p resolution thanks to Optimus advancing switching. There‘s abundant SSD storage and memory. Reviewers praise its vibrant display with XRITE Pantone color calibration, clicky mechanical keyboard and efficient cooling.
Price – $1,799
Finding Good Budget Gaming PC & Laptop Deals
Follow these tips when shopping for affordable prebuilt gaming systems:
- Set up price alerts – Use services like CamelCamelCamel to track cost drops on specific models on retailer sites like Amazon
- Consider refurbs & open boxes – rigorously inspected, discounted used PCs directly from manufacturers
- Watch for sales tie-ins – look for gaming towers and notebooks discounted as part of special events like Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day
- Take advantage of coupons & rebates – look for limited time percent or dollar-off discount codes before checking out
Optimizing Gameplay On Budget Gaming Hardware
You can maximize your experience on even affordable gaming components with techniques like:
- Overclocking – Safely increase GPU/CPU speeds using software tools for extra FPS
- Enabling GPU upscaling – DLSS and FSR intelligently boost FPS and visuals
- Tuning game settings – Lower unnecessary graphics options to focus power on crucial ones
- Closing unused apps – Free up RAM/CPU resources hogged by background tasks
- Updating drivers/OS/games – Maintain optimizations enhancing performance
- Cleaning dust buildup – Prevent cooling fan/vent clogs degrading temps
Proper component maintenance goes a long way towards keeping budget gaming machines running great for years.
Conclusion
Gaming desktops and laptops enable playing today‘s most immersive PC titles at their full potential compared to regular computers. When shopping for an affordable prebuilt gaming PC, prioritizing the graphics card, processor and display pays dividends.
Look for at least a GTX 1660 Ti or RTX 2060 GPU paired with a decent Core i5 or Ryzen 5 CPU to enjoy 60+ FPS 1080p gaming without spending a fortune. RAM, storage, connectivity and other factors also play pivotal roles in responsiveness and upgrade potential down the road.
I hope this guide gives you a great starting point to research entry-level gaming towers and notebooks providing a world-class experience that fits within your budget! Let me know if you have any other questions.
