I've been a console gamer my whole life, but recently I've started researching how to build a PC. I was originally looking into getting a laptop while learning, but now I found a used desktop in my town. It's an Asus ROG Strix G15CX pre-built gaming PC from 2021 with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Super graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and an Intel Core i7-9700K processor. The seller is asking $450 and says it runs games at 1440p without issues. My question is twofold: Is this PC worth the $450, even if I might need upgrades? Or is it too outdated that I should consider building my own? If it's worth it, what programs should I run to test the components? I've heard not to use UserBenchmark. I'm just trying to learn here!
3 Answers
If you're looking to play at 1440p, you'll probably need a more powerful build, and those setups can get pricey. That said, if you don't have a 1440p monitor yet, maybe consider sticking with a solid 1080p for now. This way, you can get a better overall experience while saving up for a more powerful PC in the future. The $450 price is fairly decent for now, especially if you're just starting out!
It totally hinges on what your budget is. If you've got around $1000 to $1300, you could assemble something more powerful if you're looking to build. But if you're just diving into PC gaming casually, that PC can last you a year or two without breaking the bank!
Honestly, for 1440p gaming, that graphics card is getting a bit old, and you might not enjoy the experience as much. It’s about 6-7 years old, so newer titles could struggle more. But if you’re okay with a decent 1080p setup for now and maybe upgrading later, $450 isn’t too shabby! Just manage your expectations about 1440p.
You're right! I'd be fine starting with 1080p and upgrading down the line. Just need something to carry me through grad school.