Thinking about starting gaming without spending a lot? Finding a good gaming PC for under $500 can seem hard, but it is possible. Today’s budget computers often pack decent processors, separate graphics cards, and fast storage. These features give you the power to play popular games like Fortnite or GTA V smoothly.
Want to know which models give you the best value and performance? Let’s look at the top seven entry-level gaming PCs that prove you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy gaming.
TechMagnet Nova Gaming Desktop PC Bundle (Renewed)
- 27 Inch Curve Monitor – Enjoy sharp visuals and a smooth display experience & 32GB RAM: Enables seamless multitasking and efficient performance across daily...
- Fast Boot & Load: 1TB SSD ensures quick boot times, responsive applications, and smooth system performance & Intel Core i7 – Ideal for intensive computing,...
- Windows 11 Pro Pre-installed: Fully activated and ready to use out of the box & Complete RGB Gaming Kit: Includes RGB Keyboard with AI-Enabled Copilot Key, RGB...
If you want a gaming computer that is powerful and affordable, check out the TechMagnet Nova Gaming Desktop PC Bundle (Renewed). It has fast hardware and all the accessories you need to start gaming or streaming.
The PC has an Intel Core i7 processor running at 3.6 GHz. It also has 32GB of DDR4 RAM. This means it can handle many tasks at once without slowing down. The 1TB SSD gives you quick loading times and plenty of space for your games and files. The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card gives smooth images for gaming and creative work.
The bundle comes with a lot of extra gear. There is a 27-inch curved Full HD monitor. You also get an RGB keyboard, gaming mouse, headphones, and a high-definition webcam. All these make it easy to start gaming and streaming right away.
Best For: players and streamers who want a good, all-in-one desktop for gaming, content creation, and multitasking.
Pros:
- Easy to use with a strong processor and graphics card.
- Includes all the accessories needed to set up quickly.
- Fast storage with a 1TB SSD for quick game load times and room for files.
Cons:
- Some users say the build quality isn’t perfect and parts may come loose.
- The power supply might not be enough for some high-end graphics cards.
- Support and warranty vary, with some customers experiencing slow help or unresolved issues.
This PC bundle is a good choice if you want a strong gaming setup that covers your needs.
MTG Aurora Max Gaming Tower PC (Intel i7 4th Gen, RTX 3060 12GB, 16GB ARGB RAM)
- 🖥️ Processor: - Intel Core i7-4770 A powerful and efficient quad-core processor delivering impressive performance for demanding tasks, making it ideal for...
- ⚙️ Storage and ARGB RAM: 16GB ARGB RAM configuration offers ample memory capacity for smooth multitasking, faster application load times, and improved...
- 🎮 Graphic Card: Nvidia RTX 3060 GeForce is key to ambition of bringing the Ampere architecture to millions more PC gamers. Deliver the best experience for...
The MTG Aurora Max Gaming Tower PC is a great choice if you want high power without spending too much. It has a strong RTX 3060 12GB graphics card and an Intel i7 4th Gen processor. The black tower looks sleek and has colorful ARGB lights you can change to your favorite colors. It comes with 16GB of DDR4 ARGB RAM, which helps your games and apps run smoothly. There’s also a fast 256GB NVMe SSD and a 2TB HDD for storage. The tower has a special liquid cooling system to keep everything cool during long gaming sessions. It has plenty of ports for connecting devices and space to upgrade in the future. Overall, this PC gives you good quality gaming and fast multitasking for a fair price.
Best For: gamers and content creators who want high speed and future upgrades in a stylish, customizable PC.
Pros:
- It has the RTX 3060 12GB card for beautiful graphics and smooth play.
- Fast response times with 16GB RAM and quick storage drives.
- Looks stylish with colorful lights and room to add more hardware later.
Cons:
- It might be too powerful for casual users with simple needs.
- The tower is large, so you need enough space to set it up well.
- No clear information about warranty or support after 30 days from purchase.
ViprTech Entry-Level Gaming PC Desktop Computer
- System: Intel Core i5-2400 (3.4GHz Turbo), NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 Graphics, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD Storage, Genuine Windows 10 Pro, RGB Lighting enabled case
- An amazing entry-level gaming PC for those on a budget or just looking for an affordable option. Easily upgradable, add in additional RAM or storage if desired.
- Showcase your internals with the built-in RGB lighting system, a must have for any gaming PC and sure to make your rig stand out. Controlled via a button on the...
The ViprTech Entry-Level Gaming PC Desk computer is a good choice for new gamers or those on a tight budget. It performs well enough to play many popular games without costing too much. It comes with an Intel Core i5 3.40GHz processor, GeForce GTX 650 graphics, and 8GB of DDR3 RAM. These parts allow you to play games like GTA V, Fortnite, and CS:GO smoothly. You can get about 75 to 130 frames per second on moderate settings.
The PC has a 1TB hard drive, giving you plenty of space to store your games and files. It also includes a large 4K display that makes images look clear and bright. Plus, the PC has RGB lights that add style. You can upgrade many parts later if you want to improve performance or add new features. The computer is built by hand in the USA and has a 1-year warranty. It’s tested to ensure it works well.
Best For: People who want an affordable PC that can run popular games. It’s great for beginners and budget gamers.
Pros:
- Low price that fits small budgets
- Can be upgraded to get better performance later
- Comes with a big 4K screen and colorful lights
Cons:
- The GeForce GTX 650 may not run the newest games very well
- Some users report build quality, noise, or fan issues
- Support and warranty service can vary
This PC is a simple and budget-friendly choice for players who want to enjoy gaming without spending too much.
STGAubron Gaming Desktop PC with Radeon RX 550, Intel i7 Xeon, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, WiFi 6, BT 5.0, RGB Fans x3, Windows 10 Home
- This high-performance gaming PC is capable of running a wide range of popular games, including Fortnite, Call of Duty Warzone, Escape from Tarkov, GTA V, World...
- STGAubron Gaming Desktop PC, Radeon RX 550 4G GDDR5, Intel i7 Xeon E5 3.0GHz, 16G Ram, 512G SSD, 600M WiFi, BT 5.0, RGB Fan x 3, Windows 10 Home
- System: Intel i7 Xeon E5 3.0GHz | 16GB Memory | 512GB Solid State Drive | Genuine Windows 10 Home 64-bit
Are you looking for a gaming computer that won’t break the bank? The STGAubron Gaming Desktop PC could be a good choice. It has a Radeon RX 550 graphics card, an Intel Xeon processor running at 3.0GHz, and 16GB of RAM. This setup can run most games smoothly at 60+ frames per second on 1080p resolution.
The computer has a 512GB SSD, so games and apps load quickly. It supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, making it easy to connect to your network and devices. Plus, it comes with three RGB fans and colorful accessories that make it look cool. The system is easy to set up and update, so even new users can use it comfortably. It’s a good option for casual gamers or anyone who wants a stylish, affordable gaming PC that handles multitasking well.
Who is this best for?
It’s great for people on a budget who want a simple, stylish computer for gaming and everyday tasks.
What are the good points?
- Runs most games at 60+ FPS on 1080p with a dedicated graphics card
- Looks attractive with customizable RGB lighting and nice design
- Easy to set up, upgrade, and keep cool with good build quality
What are the downsides?
- Might lag or get too hot if you play very heavy or demanding games
- Some users report WiFi or software connection problems
- Storage is limited to 512GB, so big game libraries or many files might not fit
This desktop offers solid performance for its price. If you want a nice, easy-to-upgrade gaming PC that can handle your favorite games and some multitasking, this could be a good fit.
Dell Gaming PC Tower, Intel i5, 16GB RAM, 128GB SSD 500GB HDD, Windows 10, Nvidia GT 730 2GB, New RGB Gaming 4-in-1 Bundle
- {AFFORDABLE PC GAMING} Powered by Intel and NVIDIA; Play popular games and eSport titles like League of Legends, Rainbow Six, Fortnite, Minecraft, and much more...
- {GRAPHICS CARD} Built with NVIDIA's GT 730 2GB graphics card you can expect smooth frames at 720p-1080p resolution on a variety of graphic settings
- {STORAGE SETUP} This HP Gaming PC comes with an ultra-fast 128GB Solid State Primary Drive (SSD) + 500GB Additional Storage for plenty of storage and includes...
If you want a gaming PC that won’t cost too much, the Dell Gaming PC Tower is a good choice. It has an Intel i5 processor and 16GB of RAM. This makes it fast enough for many games. It also comes with a 128GB SSD so your computer starts quickly. Plus, there’s a 500GB HDD to hold your files and games.
This PC is good for games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and CS:GO. You can play these at 720p or 1080p, which looks good on most screens. The Nvidia GT 730 2GB graphics card gives decent visuals. If you want better graphics, you can add a more powerful card later.
The package includes a new RGB gaming bundle. This makes your gaming setup look colorful and fun. The PC is certified refurbished, so it’s tested and confirmed to work well. It comes with Windows 10 Home already installed. That means you can start gaming right away.
Good for: beginners or casual gamers who want a reliable computer that can be upgraded later.
Pros:
- Confirmed to work well and stay reliable
- Runs popular games at good quality
- Includes a colorful RGB bundle for fun looks
Cons:
- Not much internal storage, so you might need extra drives
- The basic graphics card can struggle on newer, demanding games unless you upgrade
- No built-in Wi-Fi, and inside space is limited for more parts
This PC gives you a solid start for gaming. It’s easy to use and ready to go out of the box. You can enjoy playing your favorite games comfortably.
Dell RGB Gaming Desktop Computer with 24 Inch Monitor, i5, GTX 1030, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed)
- System: Intel Core i5 up to 3.6GHz 4-Core | 16GB Memory | 512GB Solid State Drive
- New 24 Inch Full HD (1920x1080) LED monitor: High-Quality panel with quick refresh rate and response time. With 1080p resolution, you can enjoy gaming or a...
- Special feature: Customized Appearance | RGB Light | RGB Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse | RGB Headphone
If you want a gaming desktop that doesn’t cost a lot but still works well, the Dell RGB Gaming Desktop with a 24-inch monitor is a good choice. It has an Intel Core i5 processor that can run fast enough for most games and tasks. It comes with 16GB of RAM, so your computer stays smooth even when using many programs at once. The 512GB SSD helps your computer start quickly and load games fast.
The graphics card is an NVIDIA GTX 1030 with 2GB of memory. It can handle many games on medium settings well, but it is not suited for the newest or most demanding games at high settings. The 24-inch Full HD monitor gives clear and sharp pictures. Plus, the system includes RGB backlit keyboard, mouse, and headset. These add style and fun to your gaming setup. The desktop also has several ports for connecting other devices.
Because this is a refurbished system, it might have small scratches or minor cosmetic issues. Some users notice setup problems or need to upgrade the wireless adapter. Still, this desktop offers good value for its price. It is great for playing games, streaming videos, or using it at home for everyday tasks.
Best for: People on a budget who want a reliable game PC with a nice RGB look and good performance for gaming and daily use.
Pros:
- Fast with an Intel Core i5 processor and plenty of RAM for multitasking.
- Comes with a big, clear 24-inch monitor and colorful RGB lighting.
- Low price with room to upgrade if needed.
Cons:
- May have small scratches or simple cosmetic flaws.
- Some setup issues or wireless connection problems might happen.
- Graphics card is good for medium settings, but not for high-end gaming.
STGAubron Gaming PC Desktop with Radeon RX 470 and Intel 10th Gen Processor
- This Gaming PC Desktop is well-suited for a variety of tasks including gaming, study, home, business, photo and video editing, streaming, day trading, crypto...
- This high-performance Gaming Computer Desktop is capable of running a wide range of popular PC games for pc gamer, including Fortnite, Call of Duty Warzone,...
- PC Gaming System: This gaming computer desktop is loaded with Intel 10th Gen G5905 3.5G | 16GB Memory | 512GB Solid State Drive | Genuine Windows 11 Home 64-bit
The STGAubron Gaming PC Desktop is a good choice for gamers on a budget. It costs around $750 and has strong 4K gaming performance. The PC features an AMD Radeon RX 470 8GB graphics card and an Intel 10th Gen G5905 CPU. These parts help you play many popular games smoothly at 60+ FPS on 4K with high settings.
It comes with 16GB DDR4 RAM, a 512GB SSD, and Windows 11 already installed. This makes it ready for gaming, streaming, and multitasking right away. The case is well-ventilated and has RGB fans, which keep the system cool and look cool. You can also add or change parts later if you want to upgrade.
This computer gives good performance for its price. It handles 4K gaming well and leaves room for future upgrades. It is a reliable choice for gamers who want strong performance without high costs.
Best For: Budget gamers who want good 4K gaming and room to grow.
Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Can run most games at 4K with high graphics
- Easy to upgrade in the future
Cons:
- May have some issues with Windows 11 on older CPUs
- Fans can be a bit loud during heavy gaming early on
- Only 512GB storage out of the box, so you might need more space later
This PC provides strong gaming power at an affordable price. It’s simple, reliable, and good for those who want to enjoy 4K games now and upgrade later.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Entry-Level Gaming PCs Under $500
When choosing a gaming PC for less than $500, it’s important to check if all the parts work well together. Make sure the processor, graphics card, and memory fit your needs and can run games smoothly. Think about how well it plays popular games today. Also, see if you can upgrade parts later if you want better performance.
Balancing the price with how long the PC can last is key. Look for a PC that gives you good performance now and room to grow. This way, you get the best value for your money.
Hardware Compatibility Essentials
Building a gaming PC on a budget can be fun. To make sure all parts work well together, check compatibility. First, pick a CPU like an Intel Core i5 or an AMD Ryzen 3. Make sure it meets the minimum needs for the games you want to play.
Next, choose a graphics card that matches your motherboard and power supply. Look for a card with at least 4GB of VRAM. This helps your games look good and run smooth.
Then, check your RAM. You should have at least 8GB of DDR4 RAM. Also, confirm your motherboard supports the RAM speeds you buy.
For storage, you can pick an SSD or HDD. Make sure the storage device matches your motherboard’s connection, like SATA or NVMe. This makes upgrades easier in the future.
Finally, look at your power supply. It needs enough wattage to power everything, especially the graphics card. Also, check that it has all the cables you need. Having a good power supply keeps your PC stable.
Performance for Popular Titles
If you want to play popular games like Fortnite, CS:GO, or League of Legends on a $500 gaming PC, you should look at a few key parts. First, check the graphics card (GPU). It needs enough VRAM — the memory for graphics — to handle the game smoothly. Next, look at the processor (CPU). It should be fast enough to run the game without slowing down. Also, consider the system’s resolution, like 1080p, which is standard for many games.
Most cheap computers can run these games at medium settings. That means the game will look good and run smoothly. You can expect around 75 to 130 frames per second (FPS), which makes the game feel smooth. If your computer uses integrated graphics or has a low-end dedicated graphics card, it can still work well for these games. But, for newer or more demanding big games, you might need to upgrade.
You can improve performance by adding more RAM or getting a better graphics card. Make sure your PC’s GPU has enough VRAM and your processor can handle the game. This will help keep the game running fast and looking good at 1080p.
Upgradability and Expandability
When picking a gaming PC under $500 that can grow with you, it’s important to think about how easy it is to upgrade later. Look for a motherboard with more than one RAM slot. This way, you can add more memory if you need it. Also, see if there are available PCIe slots. These let you add or change graphics cards easily in the future.
Check the power supply. It should have enough wattage to support new parts you might add later. A higher wattage power supply can give you more room for upgrades. The case matters too. It should be big enough to fit larger coolers or extra components. Good airflow inside the case helps keep everything cool, so your PC runs better.
Make sure the system’s firmware or BIOS is easy to update. It should recognize new hardware easily. Finally, stick with standard parts and connections. These are more likely to work smoothly together and make upgrading easier later on. Choosing these simple, upgrade-friendly parts keeps your PC ready for new games and new hardware as your gaming gets more serious.
Reliability and Build Quality
When choosing an entry-level gaming PC for under $500, it’s important to pick one that is reliable and well-built. Look for computers that have been checked carefully during manufacturing or come with good warranties. These signs show the system is made to last. A good build means stable parts, like a reliable power supply and secure hardware, that won’t break easily. The case should be made from strong materials and design to help keep the system cool. This prevents overheating and helps your PC last longer. The main parts, such as the motherboard, RAM, and storage, should meet standard quality to avoid problems. Good airflow inside the case keeps everything running smoothly. Buying from a trusted seller with a solid warranty gives you peace of mind. It helps protect your investment so your gaming experience stays smooth and reliable over time.
Price Versus Future Proofing
When you buy a gaming PC for under $500, it’s smart to think about how long it will stay good for new games. Reliability and good build quality matter a lot. But it’s also important to pick a computer that can handle future games. Spending a little more money now can get you parts that last longer and don’t need replacing soon. Look for a PC with upgrade options. For example, extra RAM slots, extra PCIe slots, or a bigger power supply. These let you add more parts later. Cheaper computers with weak CPUs or GPUs save money at first. But they can slow down or struggle with new games faster. This means you might need a new PC sooner.
Choose a system that supports new standards like PCIe 4.0 or DDR4/DDR5 RAM. These help the PC stay compatible with future upgrades. They also improve current performance. Picking a PC that can grow with your needs saves you money in the long run. It keeps your gaming smoothly now and later.
Last update on 2025-06-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!
