I'm planning to build a PC with my 11-year-old son, primarily for playing games like Roblox and Minecraft. I can get a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, but I'd like to keep the total cost under $500. I'm also wondering about a few technical details: Does the motherboard typically come with Ethernet or WiFi capabilities? And regarding the operating system, do I need to purchase Windows 11? Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
4 Answers
You can definitely build a decent PC with a $500 budget for games like Roblox and Minecraft. Consider getting a used system with parts like an i7 and GTX 1070 which can run those games without breaking the bank. Also, don't skimp on the power supply; a good quality one is essential. Happy building!
Used gear can be a lifesaver for budget builds!
Modern motherboards include Ethernet. For WiFi, just look for a model that mentions it in the specs or get a cheap WiFi card. You don't necessarily need to buy the latest copy of Windows; there are ways to download and run it without activation. If you’re looking for budget builds, look for bundles or do some research on parts for the best performance for the price!
Thanks! I'll check that out.
That's useful to know! Really helpful tips there.
Sure! Many modern motherboards come with built-in Ethernet, but WiFi is usually optional. If your motherboard doesn’t have WiFi, you can buy a card for around $20–30. As for the OS, yes, you'll need to buy Windows, but you can run it without activation—just know it will have a watermark. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!
Thanks for the info! I was just about to ask about WiFi options.
Great! I'll keep that in mind.
I suggest checking out used PCs online or local marketplaces; you can find good deals on systems with decent specs. If you're comfortable with it, building a PC together can be an awesome learning experience for your son. And remember, buying a mini PC or barebones kit might also fit your needs if building seems too complicated!
I think building will be fun for him, thanks for the tip!
Used systems are smart; just need to make sure they're in good condition.
That sounds solid! I might look into used parts too.