My daughter has saved $500 CAD for a gaming PC, and I'd like to contribute, but my budget is limited too. We're located in Alberta, and the computer doesn't need to be especially powerful since she mainly plays The Sims. I'm having trouble finding anything new that seems reasonable without spending close to $1,500. Would a used or refurbished system be the best option, and what kind of hardware should I look for?
4 Answers
If buying used feels risky or you can’t find anything suitable, financing a modest prebuilt could be another option, but only if the total cost and payments are manageable. The Sims is not demanding, so there’s no need to chase high-end parts. A basic modern CPU, 16GB of RAM, an SSD, and an entry-level dedicated GPU should provide a smooth experience.
For this budget, I’d focus on a used or refurbished prebuilt rather than trying to build a new system from scratch. Look for something with a Core i7 from around the 9th or 10th generation, 16GB of RAM, an SSD, and a graphics card such as an RTX 2070 or RX 6600 XT. That would be more than enough for The Sims and leaves room for other games later.
Used parts can bring the price down quite a bit, especially the RAM and graphics card. An RX 6600 XT would be plenty for this kind of gaming. I’d avoid buying used storage unless you can verify its health, since SSD prices have been unpredictable and a new drive is usually worth the extra money.
Check clearance, open-box, and refurbished computer listings from major retailers, as well as local resale marketplaces in Alberta. You may find a decent prebuilt around $700–$1,000 CAD, which would be a much better fit than trying to assemble an expensive new build. Be sure to test it and confirm the exact components before paying.
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