The Ultimate Guide for UK Gamers

Games don’t have to cost a fortune. With the right approach, you can build a gaming PC that delivers powerful performance while staying within budget.

Whether you’re a casual player or aiming to climb the competitive ladder, this guide will walk you through the building process Cheap gaming computer In the UK, designed specifically to meet your needs and your wallet.

1. Set a clear budget

Decide how much you want to spend. For UK players, a budget build can start at around £500-£600, while a mid-range option might range between £700-£900. Knowing your budget will help you allocate money wisely across components.

2. Basic components of your build

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and where you can find the best value:

• CPU (processor): For affordable and reliable performance, consider the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G (£120-£150) or Intel Core i3-13100F (£100-£130). They both offer great performance for their price.
• GPU (graphics card): For 1080p gaming, the NVIDIA GTX 1650 (£150 – £180) or AMD RX 6500 XT (£160 – £200) are excellent choices. If your budget allows, an RTX 3050 (£230-£270) or RX 6600 (£240-£280) offers more power.
• RAM: 16GB DDR4 RAM (2 x 8GB) is the standard for gaming. Look for speeds of at least 3200MHz, starting at around £40-£60.
• Storage: A 500GB NVMe SSD (£25-£35) for fast loading times, paired with a 1TB HDD (£30-£40) for additional storage, is ideal. Alternatively, a single 1TB SSD (£50-£60) can be enough if you prioritize speed.
• Motherboard: Choose a budget-friendly B550 (AMD) or B660 (Intel) motherboard. These are available for £80-£120 and support future upgrades.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU): A 500W-600W PSU from brands such as Vibox, Corsair or EVGA (£40-60) ensures stable power delivery.
• Case: A medium-sized case with good airflow can cost up to £40. Look to brands like Cooler Master or Vibox for affordable options with added features like RGB lighting.

3. Where to shop for deals

• Retailers: Popular UK retailers, such as Vibox, Amazon, Currys and Scan, often run deals, especially during Black Friday or Boxing Day sales.
• Used Market: Sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace can offer great deals on used parts. Check CEX for GPUs with warranties.
• Bundles and Promotions: Watch for retailers offering bundled deals on CPUs, motherboards, and RAM.

4. Don’t forget your peripherals

Creating a computer does not include peripherals such as a monitor, keyboard, or mouse. Budget options are available for:

• Monitors: A 1080p, 75Hz monitor can be found for £90-£120.
• Keyboard and mouse: Gaming sets from £30.
• Headphones: Decent gaming headsets start at £25.

5. Assemble your computer

Assembling a gaming PC is easier than you think. Use online guides and videos to guide you through the process. Remember to ground yourself to avoid static damage and to ensure components are securely installed.

6. Plan for promotions

A budget PC is an excellent starting point, but plan to make upgrades like adding more RAM, a better GPU, or a higher refresh rate monitor while you save up.

7. Take advantage of free software

Save money by using free or open source software. For example, Windows 10 can be used without activation until you can purchase a license key, and free antivirus software such as Avast or AVG can provide adequate protection.

8. Use cloud gaming to supplement performance

If you’re saving for higher upgrades, consider cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming. These services allow you to play demanding games on a budget system by offloading processing to the cloud. Subscriptions typically cost from £8 to £15 per month, allowing access to high-quality games without the need for a powerful PC.

9. Check warranty and return policies

Always check warranty terms and return policies when purchasing components. Many UK retailers and brands offer warranties ranging from 1 to 3 years. This is especially important for parts like GPUs and PSUs, since they are more expensive to replace. Having a warranty gives you peace of mind in the event of defective parts.

8. Testing and improvement

Once your computer is running, test its performance using tools like Cinebench and 3DMark. Adjust game settings to find the perfect balance between quality and frame rate for a smooth gaming experience.

conclusion

Building a gaming PC on a budget in the UK is entirely possible without compromising on performance. By making smart choices and taking advantage of deals, you can put together a system that delivers exceptional gaming experiences at a lower cost. If you prefer a more customized design or need additional guidance, try using Computer Builder A tool like Vibox to simplify the process and ensure compliance. Ready to start your construction? Immerse yourself in the rewarding world of PC gaming today!