Build a Cost-Effective, High-Performance Gaming PC

Ready to get the best gaming experience without overspending? Follow this step-by-step blueprint to choose the right parts and assemble a PC that punches above its weight.

1. Selecting the Processor

Look at mid-tier options like AMD Ryzen 5 5500 or Intel Core i5-11400F—they offer excellent performance per pound and handle modern titles smoothly.

2. Choosing Your Graphics Card

Consider GPUs such as the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super or AMD RX 6500 XT. They provide solid 1080p performance on high settings without a premium price tag.

3. Motherboard and RAM Choices

Pick a B550 or B660 motherboard with reliable VRMs and the features you need. Pair it with 16 GB of DDR4 at 3000–3200 MHz to keep games and background tasks running without hiccups.

4. Storage Solutions

Install your operating system and favorite games on a 500 GB NVMe SSD for rapid load times, and add a 1 TB SATA SSD for bulk storage—balancing speed and capacity.

5. Power and Cooling

Choose a trusted 550 W PSU with at least an 80+ Bronze certification. Use the included cooler with Ryzen CPUs or invest in an affordable aftermarket air cooler to maintain safe temperatures.

6. Chassis and Peripherals

Select a cost-effective case with good airflow and cable management. Look for keyboard-and-mouse bundles around £50 that offer durability and performance without extra cost.

7. Assembly and Stress Testing

Follow your motherboard manual to install components, apply thermal paste correctly, and ensure stability with stress tests such as Prime95 for CPU and Unigine Heaven for GPU.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can build a gaming rig that delivers remarkable value and performance—get ready to play at your best.