I'm new to PC gaming and want a computer that can run Steam games smoothly, but I don't understand much about computer hardware yet. I've heard that prices have increased a lot, so I'm not sure whether I should build a PC, buy a prebuilt system, or look for something used. My budget is roughly $300–$600, with some flexibility if spending more would make a meaningful difference. I'm mainly interested in games such as Silent Hill, Resident Evil, and Destiny. What specifications should I prioritize, and where should I begin looking?
4 Answers
You do not need to spend $1,500 for an entry-level gaming PC. That amount is more appropriate for a new system with current high-end parts. For your budget, a used machine with a Ryzen 5 3600 or similar six-core processor, 16 GB of RAM, an SSD, and the best graphics card you can reasonably find would be a practical target.
If you would rather buy new, a prebuilt around $600 can handle those games at 1080p, but compare the specifications carefully. Some inexpensive prebuilts cut costs with weak power supplies, only 8 GB of RAM, or no dedicated graphics card. A parts-list website can help check compatibility if you decide to build, and 16 GB of memory is still a good starting point for most games.
Start by checking the recommended system requirements for the games you want to play, especially the most demanding one. Then compare those requirements with complete PCs or individual parts. For gaming, the graphics card is usually the biggest priority, followed by the processor, memory, and storage. A system with a six-core CPU, 16 GB of RAM, and an SSD would be a sensible baseline.
At this budget, buying used is probably the best value. Look for a complete system from a local marketplace or a reputable used seller, and try to find something with a graphics card around the RTX 3060/4060 or RX 6600/6700 level. Older cards such as an RTX 3070 can also be excellent if the price is right. Make sure the PC has 16 GB of RAM, preferably in two sticks, and an SSD rather than only a hard drive.
A used complete PC is likely to give more gaming performance for $300–$600, but test it before paying if you can. Check that it boots, recognizes all the RAM and storage, and runs a game or benchmark without overheating or shutting down.