I'm building my first PC in the United States and have a budget of about $2,000–$2,200. The computer will mainly be used for gaming, but I also need it to handle schoolwork and general everyday tasks. I need everything that goes inside the case, including the processor, graphics card, motherboard, memory, storage, power supply, cooling, and case. What parts would you recommend for a complete build?
2 Answers
For a build in this price range, start with 32GB of memory as a 2x16GB kit rather than buying 16GB and adding another kit later. Using four DDR5 sticks can put more stress on the CPU’s memory controller and may reduce stability or performance, so a matched 2x16GB kit is the better option from the beginning.
The first thing to nail down is your gaming resolution and refresh rate, since those determine how much of the budget should go toward the graphics card. A parts-list builder can help check compatibility, prices, and whether everything fits. You can also choose a different case later as long as the parts remain compatible.
That also leaves two memory slots open for a future upgrade, while keeping the initial setup simpler and more reliable.