I'm thinking about buying a desktop PC mainly for gaming, but I don't know much about computer hardware and would appreciate some guidance. I would like it to run games such as Baldur's Gate 3, Genshin Impact, Subnautica, and possibly Cyberpunk 2077. I would also like to use Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and SolidWorks for school and personal projects.
My school recommended at least 8 GB of RAM, a good graphics card, an SSD (possibly combined with a hard drive), a fast processor, and Windows. My current laptop is an ASUS TUF Gaming A17 with an AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor and what Windows lists as AMD Radeon Graphics. It still works, but it has started developing bugs and needing repairs, so I'm considering buying a proper desktop setup instead. I may also want a second monitor.
I live in Germany and don't have a strict budget yet, since I would need to save for the system. What specifications should I prioritize, and what sort of budget would be reasonable for a gaming PC that also handles Adobe software and SolidWorks well?
3 Answers
Since you're in Germany, compare prices from several local retailers and reputable custom-PC builders rather than looking at one store only. MediaMarkt can be useful for seeing products in person, but specialist computer shops often offer better component choices. For your use, look for 32 GB RAM, a 1 TB SSD, a dedicated midrange or better Nvidia or AMD graphics card, and a 1080p or 1440p monitor. A second monitor is easy to add later, so it does not need to be part of the initial purchase.
A sensible starting budget for the desktop alone would be roughly €1,500–€2,000 in Germany, depending on graphics card prices and whether you build it yourself or buy it prebuilt. Aim for 16 GB of RAM at minimum, though 32 GB would be better for Adobe applications and SolidWorks. Get a fast 1 TB NVMe SSD, Windows 11, and a modern six- or eight-core processor. For the games you listed, the graphics card will matter most, so prioritize a dedicated GPU rather than relying on integrated Radeon graphics.
That range sounds manageable. My laptop lists an AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS with Radeon Graphics and AMD Radeon(TM) Graphics as the GPU. Is that the information needed to identify its hardware?
Your current laptop may already be capable enough for those programs and games, especially if it has a separate Radeon GPU that is not showing clearly in the basic Windows information. Check the exact model number or use a hardware tool to see the dedicated graphics card. If the laptop still performs acceptably, adding a second monitor could be a cheaper home setup. If you want a desktop anyway, a gaming PC should handle Adobe software and SolidWorks without trouble, provided it has a dedicated graphics card and enough RAM.
It still runs most things, but it has become less reliable and needs repairs more often. Since I need to save for a replacement eventually, I would rather put that money toward a proper desktop setup.
I can order online if necessary, but comparing German retailers and custom builds makes sense. I may start with one monitor and add another later.