The $850 Budget Gaming PC Build Guide – Performance, Budget, and Beginner-Friendly Awesomeness
If you’re on a mission impossible project to build a powerful gaming PC without spending a fortune, you’re in the right place. This $850 gaming PC build is pure gold for gamers who crave the sweet, smooth gameplay of over 100 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 or consistent performance across modern AAA games.
Whether you’re a PC-building pro or trying your hand for the first time, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to make your build a smashing success. Not only will we highlight the components that bring this build to life, but we’ll also share the pros, cons, and what makes this PC shine without sabotaging your wallet.
Excited? Let’s get started on bringing this masterpiece to life.
Why This Build?
This build focuses on pure gaming performance, squeezing every bit of value from each component. The goal is to make it as easy as possible for anyone—whether a beginner or an experienced builder—to replicate this setup.
Quick List for System 1: Budget Gaming PC Build Below $850
| Component | Product Name | Approximate Price (USD) | Link (Amazon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| GPU | ASRock Intel Arc A750 Challenger SE 8GB OC | $189.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 5 7600 | $184.98 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Motherboard | MSI PRO B650M-A WiFi ProSeries | $156.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| RAM | Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MT/s | $79.97 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Storage | Crucial P3 Plus 1TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2 SSD | $89.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Power Supply | MSI MAG A650BN | $69.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Case | Oko Oak Cypress 5 Air | $57.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Cooler | Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE | $59.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Total | $817.37 |
Quick List for System 2: Budget Gaming PC Build Below $1100
| Component | Product Name | Approximate Price (USD) | Link (Amazon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| GPU | ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 V2 OC Edition 12GB GDDR6 | $299.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 5 5600X | $115.00 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS Wi-Fi | $169.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| RAM | Crucial Pro DDR5 RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) 6000MHz CL36 | $94.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Storage | Samsung 980 SSD 1TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 | $89.00 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Power Supply | CORSAIR RM750x Fully Modular | $119.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Case | NZXT H510 | $79.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Cooler | Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 | $93.99 | Check the Latest Price on Amazon |
| Total | $1,063.93 |
Please note that prices can fluctuate over time due to various factors, including market demand and availability. It’s advisable to check the latest prices on Amazon or other reputable retailers before making a purchase.
The Components of the Gaming PC Build
1. GPU – ASRock Intel Arc A750 Challenger SE 8GB OC
The centerpiece of this build is the ASRock Intel Arc A750 Challenger SE 8GB OC, a budget-friendly GPU that delivers impressive performance for 2025. With 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM, a 256-bit memory bus, and Intel Xe HPG microarchitecture, this card offers incredible value for gamers looking to maximize FPS-per-dollar. Whether you’re exploring the streets of Cyberpunk 2077 or climbing ranks in Marvel Rivals, this GPU is built to perform.
Pros
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio at just $189.99.
- 8GB VRAM ensures smooth gameplay for most modern titles.
- Great for 1080p high settings or 1440p gaming on a budget.
- Features Intel Xe Super Sampling (XeSS) and DirectX 12 Ultimate for enhanced visuals.
Cons
- Availability may vary depending on your location.
- Slightly weaker performance in CPU-intensive or less optimized games compared to higher-end options.
Price and Best deals
Alternative Option
If the ASRock Intel Arc A750 Challenger SE isn’t available, the ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 V2 OC Edition 12GB GDDR6 is still a solid alternative. It costs more but offers stable performance across a broader range of games.
2. CPU – AMD Ryzen 5 7600
Handling the brainwork of your PC is the Ryzen 5 7600, a six-core, 12-thread processor that works like a dream with the Arc A580. It ensures you maximize your gaming performance while leaving room for future upgrades on the AM5 platform. This CPU is what keeps everything running ultra-smooth—even in CPU-intensive titles like Valorant.
Pros
- Excellent performance for high-FPS gaming and multitasking.
- Built-in upgrade potential with AM5 support.
- Affordable if sourced from AliExpress.
Cons
- Buying from AliExpress might not appeal to everyone.
- Doesn’t include a stock cooler when purchased from non-retail sites.
Price and Best deals
Alternative Option
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is another solid entry-level option if upgrades aren’t a priority. It pairs well with the Intel Arc A780, but expect a slight drop in performance for CPU-heavy workflows.
3. Motherboard – MSI PRO B650M-A WiFi ProSeries
The MSI PRO B650M-A WiFi ProSeries motherboard is an excellent foundation for your build. It’s packed with modern features like built-in Wi-Fi 6E, DDR5 support, and AM5 compatibility, all at a competitive price. Perfect for powering AMD Ryzen 7/8/9 series processors, it’s ready to handle current demands and future upgrades.
Pros
- Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 built-in for seamless connectivity.
- AM5 socket ensures long-term upgradeability.
- PCIe 4.0 and M.2 support for faster load times.
- Reliable performance at an affordable price.
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than some budget options.
Price and Best deals
Alternative Option
The ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS Wi-Fi adds a step up in VRM performance and overall build quality, but it’ll cost you a bit extra.
4. RAM – Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MT/s
The Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR5 RAM delivers high-performance memory with speeds of 6000MT/s and a low CAS latency of 30, perfect for gaming and multitasking. With 32GB (2x16GB), it’s an excellent choice for demanding workloads, all at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- High speed and low CAS latency ensure smooth performance.
- Aluminum heatsink for efficient thermal management.
- Compatible with Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO for easy overclocking.
- Backed by a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Cons
- Not compatible with Gigabyte motherboards (check compatibility before purchase).
Price and Best Deals
Alternative Option
If you’re willing to spend slightly more, the Crucial Pro DDR5 RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) 6000MHz CL36 offers reliable performance and compatibility with Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO for $94.99.
5. Storage – Crucial P3 Plus 1TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe M.2 SSD
Boost your system’s performance with the Crucial P3 Plus SSD. This Gen 4 NVMe drive offers up to 5000MB/s sequential reads and 1TB of storage, perfect for gaming, media, and everyday use—all at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Fast speeds up to 5000MB/s for quick load times and responsiveness.
- Spacious 1TB capacity for gaming setups or general use.
- Backward compatibility with Gen 3 devices.
Cons
- Slightly pricier than some basic Gen 4 SSDs, but excellent value for performance.
Price and Best deals
Alternative Option
The Samsung 980 SSD 1TB PCIe 3.0 NVMe M.2 offers up to 3500MB/s speeds and reliable performance. Keep an eye out for sales to snag a great deal!
6. Power Supply – MSI MAG A650BN
The MSI MAG A650BN is a compact, dependable, and cost-effective power supply, perfect for mid-level builds. With its 80 Plus Bronze Certification and solid 650W output, it ensures reliable and efficient performance for your gaming PC.
Pros
- Affordable price with excellent performance.
- Compact ATX design, ideal for smaller setups.
Cons
- Slightly fewer features compared to higher-tier models.
Price and Best deals
Alternative Option
For a slight upgrade, consider the Thermaltake Smart BX1 650W for Budget and CORSAIR RM750x Fully Modular for improved efficiency and additional features.
7. Case – Oko Oak Cypress 5 Air
This case combines stunning aesthetics with great airflow. The Oko Oak Cypress 5 Air is modern, sleek, and built for function. With four pre-installed fans, it’s ready to keep your components cool while looking good doing it.
Pros
- Pre-installed fans save you money and ensure airflow.
- Stylish wood-grain design adds a unique touch to your setup.
Cons
- Limited color options might not suit all tastes.
Price and Best deals
Alternative Option
The NZXT H510 series is popular for its clean design and functionality, although it’s priced slightly higher.
8. Cooler – Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE
Need budget-friendly and efficient cooling solution for your CPU? The Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE offers excellent performance, quiet operation, and sleek design at an unbeatable price. Perfect for mid-sized builds and CPUs like the Ryzen 5 7600, it’s a great choice for air cooling on a budget.
Pros
- Exceptional cooling performance for the price.
- Quiet operation with a noise level of just 25.6 dB.
- Durable build with 4 heat pipes and AGHP technology for optimized cooling.
- Wide compatibility with Intel and AMD sockets, including AM4, AM5, and LGA 1700.
Cons
- Slightly taller cooler (148mm), so ensure your case has enough clearance.
Price and Best deals
Alternative Option
For those considering liquid cooling, the Cooler Master MasterLiquid ML240L RGB V2 offers advanced cooling and quieter operation at a slightly higher price point.
Also read Best CPU Coolers for AMD Ryzen
Gaming Performance & Benchmarks
Performance Benchmarks (Average FPS in 1080p Gaming)
| Game Title | System 1 (Arc A750 + Ryzen 5 7600) | System 2 (RTX 3060 + Ryzen 5 5600X) |
|---|---|---|
| Cyberpunk 2077 (Ultra, RT Off) | ~75 FPS | ~80 FPS |
| Cyberpunk 2077 (Ultra, RT On) | ~35 FPS (XeSS On) | ~45 FPS (DLSS On) |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | ~145 FPS | ~155 FPS |
| Elden Ring | ~105 FPS | ~110 FPS |
| Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | ~100 FPS | ~105 FPS |
| Spider-Man Remastered | ~85 FPS | ~95 FPS |
| Hogwarts Legacy | ~65 FPS | ~75 FPS |
| Forza Horizon 5 | ~95 FPS | ~100 FPS |
Synthetic Benchmarks
| Benchmark | System 1 (Arc A750 + Ryzen 5 7600) | System 2 (RTX 3060 + Ryzen 5 5600X) |
|---|---|---|
| 3DMark Time Spy (GPU) | ~9,000 | ~8,500 |
| 3DMark Fire Strike (GPU) | ~22,500 | ~21,000 |
| Cinebench R23 (Multi-Core) | ~14,000 | ~11,500 |
| Cinebench R23 (Single-Core) | ~1,850 | ~1,600 |
Also read Best Affordable Gaming PCs for 2025
Final Thoughts – Build Your Dream Gaming PC
This $850 build proves you don’t need to sacrifice performance to stay within budget. It’s powerful, affordable, and beginner-friendly, making it the ultimate choice for gamers everywhere. Want clear guidance? Don’t forget to grab the free cheat sheet packed with step-by-step building tips, alternative options, and bonus resources.
Now, get those parts together, carve out some time, and start building the PC of your dreams. Game on!
FAQs about Budget Gaming PC Build
What games can I expect to run on this $850 build?
With the $850 gaming PC, you can expect to run most modern games at 1080p resolution with high to ultra settings. Titles like Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, and Cyberpunk 2077 will run smoothly, providing an enjoyable gaming experience without major compromises in performance.
Is this build suitable for streaming?
Absolutely! This gaming PC build has enough power to run games while simultaneously handling light streaming duties. If you plan on streaming at a higher quality or using multiple applications simultaneously (e.g., streaming software, overlays), you may want to invest in additional RAM or a better CPU cooler to ensure optimal performance.
What are the basic components needed to build a budget gaming PC?
To build a budget gaming PC, you will need a CPU, GPU, motherboard, RAM, storage (SSD or HDD), a power supply unit (PSU), and a PC case. Additionally, cooling solutions and peripherals such as a monitor, mouse, and keyboard may also be required.
Do I need to buy an operating system separately?
Yes, Windows is not included in the price of this build, so you will need to purchase it separately. While the initial cost might seem higher, you can also consider using free alternatives like Linux-based systems, though compatibility and gaming support may be more limited.
How do I ensure compatibility between the parts?
To ensure compatibility between components, be sure to check the specifications of each part before purchasing. Use online compatibility checkers or refer to the manufacturer’s websites for details on socket types, sizes (like ATX or micro-ATX), and power requirements. Following the guidelines in the provided cheat sheet will also guide you through the process.
Is it difficult to build a gaming PC?
While building a gaming PC may seem intimidating at first, it can be quite manageable, especially with careful planning and the right resources. Many online tutorials and videos can guide you through the assembly process step-by-step. Take your time, follow instructions closely, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.
