Looking for strong frame rates without the hefty price? This guide walks you through building a gaming rig that delivers top-tier performance on a tight budget.

1. CPU Selection

Opt for cost-effective processors like the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or Intel Core i5-12400F. Both provide excellent multi-threaded power and gaming capability at a wallet-friendly cost.

2. Graphics Card Choice

The Nvidia GTX 1660 Super and AMD RX 6600 XT both excel at 1080p ultra settings while remaining affordable. These GPUs strike the perfect balance between speed and expense.

3. Motherboard & Memory

Pick a B550 or B660 motherboard featuring solid VRM design. Pair it with 16 GB of DDR4-3200 MHz RAM to ensure smooth multitasking and gaming responsiveness.

4. Storage Configuration

Install your operating system and key games on a 500 GB NVMe SSD for lightning-fast boots and load times. Add a 1 TB SATA SSD for additional game libraries and media storage.

5. Power Supply & Cooling

Choose a reliable 550 W 80+ Bronze PSU from a trusted brand. For cooling, a stock Ryzen cooler or an entry-level air cooler will keep temperatures in check without breaking the bank.

6. Case & Input Devices

Select an affordable case with mesh panels for optimal airflow. For peripherals, a solid keyboard-and-mouse combo under £50 offers solid performance and durability.

7. Building & Validation

Follow manufacturer manuals carefully, apply thermal paste correctly, and once assembled, run benchmarks such as Cinebench and 3DMark to verify stability and performance.

Implementing these steps ensures you get the most fps-per-pound, resulting in a capable gaming PC that’s both efficient and budget-conscious. Happy building!