I already own a gaming PC, but I'd like to build another one mainly to learn more about PC building and enjoy the process. The budget is around $500 USD, or roughly $700 AUD. I'm not too concerned about the exact RAM or SSD costs, and I'm open to used parts if that helps. Since I'm in Australia, local pricing and availability may affect the recommendations. What parts would make sense for this kind of build?
4 Answers
For a budget gaming build in Australia, I’d look at a Ryzen 5 5500, a budget B550M board, 16GB of DDR4, a small SSD, a reliable 650W power supply, and a Montech XR or similar case. For the graphics card, a used GTX 1070 is a reasonable target, while an RTX 2060 Super would be worth considering if you can stretch the budget. Used-market prices can make this combination fit close to $700 AUD.
For the lowest-cost build, older platforms can work: a third- or fourth-generation Intel system, or an X79/X99 setup, paired with DDR3 and a used GTX 10-series, GTX 16-series, or RX 470/480/570/580. Just keep expectations realistic. These parts are inexpensive, but they’re old, less efficient, and may have limited upgrade options.
If the main goal is learning and having fun, you don’t necessarily need a powerful graphics card right away. An AM4 system with integrated graphics could work as a basic desktop, NAS, or backup machine, and you could add a dedicated GPU later. Used components are often much better value in Australia, especially for older CPUs, RAM, and graphics cards.
Another cheap route is starting with an older Dell or similar business prebuilt, then replacing the power supply and adding a graphics card. It can be a good project, but check the case dimensions, proprietary connectors, airflow, and power-supply clearance before buying anything.
That route can be fun for a project, but some very old X79/X99 combinations are closer to refurbishing outdated hardware than building a modern gaming PC. I’d only choose it if the low price and tinkering are more important than efficiency or future upgrades.