A branded, value oriented gaming build for under $600.
The new budget build now focuses on value, while still being capable of playing the latest games at 1080p, 60 FPS with appropriate settings. To achieve this, we utilize AMD’s recently released Ryzen 3 3300X and the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Super 4GB.
| Component | Manufacturer | Product | Price (US) |
| CPU: | AMD | Ryzen 3 3300X | $119 |
| Motherboard: | MSI | B450-A Pro Max | $99 |
| Memory: | TeamGroup | T-Force Vulcan Z DDR4 16GB 3200MHz CL16 | $65 |
| Storage: | SanDisk | SSD PLUS 480GB SATA SSD | $59 |
| Graphics Card: | GIGABYTE | GeForce GTX 1650 Super Windforce OC 4G | $159 |
| Case | DeepCool | MATREXX 55 | $46 |
| Power Supply | EVGA | 500 GD – Gold Certified 500 watt PSU | $45 |
| CPU Cooler: | AMD | Wraith Stealth Boxed Cooler | Included |
DISCLAIMER: With the recent confirmation that 400-series motherboards will NOT support 4th generation Ryzen parts, it is recommended that new buyers wait until the B550 chipset-based motherboards are available, which are expected in June. If you can’t wait until then, you may want to consider spending a bit more for an entry-level X570 motherboard, which usually starts at around $150.
In terms of the rest of the build, specifications are very similar to our entry-level build with the exception of an upgraded case featuring tempered glass, and an upgrade to the SSD from 240 GB to 480GB. We believe this is a solid overall gaming machine for the price, and should deliver excellent 1080p gaming performance, even in modern triple-A titles.
In terms of upgrade path, the first parts is the cooler, as even a $30 investment here can help a lot with noise. Of course, additional storage is always an easy drop in upgrade that an increase quality of life greatly. Long-term, you can always drop-in a more powerful graphics card or even upgrade to a Ryzen 3rd-generation CPU such as the Ryzen 5 3600X or Ryzen 7 3700X.
In terms of monitor recommendations, we’d suggest a 1080p: 144Hz FreeSync panel like the Viotek GN24CB, which is a 24″ panel that fits the criteria and features a slightly curved VA panel and is priced at just $139.