I'm putting together a gaming PC with a budget of around $800 and would like feedback on the parts list. Is this build balanced, and are there any components I should replace for better performance and reliability?
4 Answers
It would be easier to judge the build if you list every component and explain your target games, resolution, and refresh rate. A parts list alone doesn’t say whether the system is good without knowing what performance you expect.
The memory choice is not ideal. Aim for 16GB in a 2x8GB kit, preferably DDR4-3200 to DDR4-3600 with reasonably tight timings. For the processor, a newer 65W budget CPU that includes a stock cooler could save money, since you probably don’t need a separate cooler. That savings could go toward a stronger graphics card, such as a used RX 5500 XT or, if you can stretch the budget, a used RTX 3060-class card.
Don’t install a modern operating system on a hard drive. Use an SSD—ideally an NVMe SSD—as the boot drive. A hard drive is fine for storing extra games and files, but it will make the system feel extremely slow as the main drive.
The parts list needs a major rethink. Before choosing anything, decide what you’ll use the PC for—gaming, schoolwork, editing, or general use—and then build around that. Buying a reliable used system or used graphics card could also give you much better performance for the money.
What specifically makes the current parts a bad choice?