I'm looking for a reasonably priced setup in Australia that can handle games like Minecraft and Roblox so I can play with friends. I'm not interested in streaming or other demanding tasks. I've never used a gaming PC before, but I'd like to learn because some games aren't available to me on an iPad. Should I buy a budget PC, build one, or choose a console instead?
4 Answers
You could also build a PC using older hardware, which can keep the price down while letting you choose each component. The downside is that you’ll need to learn how to assemble and troubleshoot it. New budget prebuilts generally use newer parts, so they may cost more than a carefully chosen second-hand system.
If you only need something for Minecraft and Roblox, an Xbox Series S is probably the simplest budget option. It’s compact, easy to set up, and avoids the extra cost and learning curve of buying or building a PC.
For a PC, second-hand parts will usually give you the best value. An older business desktop such as an OptiPlex, combined with a suitable used graphics card and possibly a new power supply, can handle lighter games. Just check that the graphics card fits, the power supply is adequate, and the system can be tested before buying.
Used-electronics stores are worth checking because they often include a warranty, although their prices may not always be the lowest. Local second-hand listings can be cheaper, but try to see the computer working first and test the games or basic hardware before paying.
The warranty is the main advantage of buying from a store. If you buy privately, make sure the seller allows testing and check the exact specifications rather than relying only on the computer’s advertised name.