I'm 16 and have wanted a PC since I was about eight, but my parents have always said no without explaining why. Over the past few months I've tried arguing that I could use it for school and gaming with my friends, but they immediately shut the idea down. I already own a PS5 that I bought with my own money, yet playing online requires a subscription I can't set up myself, and I'd rather put my money toward a PC. I've already saved enough and have a parts list for a build costing around €750, including used RAM and a used graphics card. My mother has even said I won't be allowed to get one after graduation, so this doesn't seem to be about school. How can I approach this, or should I just wait until I move out?
5 Answers
Some parents simply won’t compromise while you’re living under their roof. You can ask for a calm conversation and request one specific explanation, but if they still say no, saving the money until you move out may be the only practical option. Having your own money doesn’t always mean you can bring any device into the family home.
If your main goal is gaming with friends, compare the total cost and benefits with your current console before spending everything. A PC can do more than a console, but it can also become an expensive upgrade cycle. Keep saving, and avoid buying parts secretly if doing so could create a serious conflict at home.
Try not to present the PC only as a way to play games. Explain what you’ll use it for, show the parts list, mention the warranty or return situation for used components, and explain how you’ll keep it secure and manage your time. That may not change their decision, but it makes the request more responsible.
A job or regular income could make your case stronger, since it shows that you can save responsibly and pay for repairs or upgrades too. Present a realistic budget, including peripherals, electricity, and any future costs, instead of only saying that it will be useful.
I’ve already saved enough for the build and planned to spend about €750 by buying some parts used.
If you have your own income and enough saved, keep working toward it and try asking your parents for a clear reason rather than arguing about individual benefits. They may still have rules about what equipment is allowed in the house, even if you’re paying for it, so understanding the actual concern is important.
I already have the money and have explained that I’m paying for the whole build myself, but they still refuse without giving me a reason.
A PC can be useful for school and other projects, but it’s better to be honest that gaming is a major reason too. If they already know it’s mainly for gaming, calling it an investment might make them trust the argument less.