Best Prebuilt Gaming PC For $700-$800 Top Picks And Buying Guide

by Admin 65 views

Introduction

Are you looking to dive into the world of PC gaming but feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of building your own rig? You're not alone. The good news is that there are excellent prebuilt gaming PCs available in the $700-$800 price range that can provide a fantastic gaming experience. In this article, we'll explore the key components to look for, discuss some of the top prebuilt options in this price bracket, and guide you through making the best choice for your gaming needs. Let's get started on finding the perfect prebuilt gaming PC within your budget.

Key Components to Consider

When searching for a prebuilt gaming PC, understanding the core components is crucial. These components dictate the performance and longevity of your system. Here’s a breakdown of the essential parts to consider:

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brain of your computer. It handles the majority of the processing tasks, including running the operating system, applications, and games. For gaming, a CPU with a high clock speed and multiple cores is essential. In the $700-$800 price range, you'll likely find systems with either an Intel Core i5 or an AMD Ryzen 5 processor. These CPUs offer a great balance of performance and price. Specifically, look for models like the Intel Core i5-10400F, i5-11400F, or AMD Ryzen 5 3600, Ryzen 5 5600G. These CPUs provide excellent gaming performance for the price, ensuring smooth gameplay in most modern titles. The number of cores and threads a CPU has will influence its ability to handle multitasking and more demanding games. A CPU with at least 6 cores and 12 threads is ideal for modern gaming, as it can handle the complex calculations and processes that games require. The clock speed, measured in GHz, determines how quickly the CPU can execute instructions. A higher clock speed generally translates to better performance in games. When considering a CPU, it's also important to look at its thermal design power (TDP), which indicates how much heat the CPU generates. A lower TDP means the CPU is more energy-efficient and easier to cool, while a higher TDP may require a more robust cooling solution.

Graphics Card (GPU)

The graphics card, or GPU, is the most critical component for gaming. It renders the images you see on your screen, and a powerful GPU is essential for high frame rates and visual fidelity. In the $700-$800 price range, the GPU is where you should prioritize your budget. Aim for a system with at least an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super or an AMD Radeon RX 6600. These GPUs can handle 1080p gaming at high settings and can even tackle some 1440p gaming. The GPU's video memory (VRAM) is also important, with at least 6GB being recommended for modern games. The type of GPU you choose will largely determine the level of graphical detail and performance you can achieve in games. A more powerful GPU will allow you to play games at higher resolutions and with more advanced graphical settings, such as ray tracing and DLSS. When comparing GPUs, look at their clock speeds, memory bandwidth, and the number of CUDA cores (for NVIDIA) or stream processors (for AMD). These specifications will give you an indication of the GPU's overall performance. Additionally, consider the power consumption of the GPU, as this will affect the system's overall power requirements and the necessary cooling solution.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM, or Random Access Memory, is your system's short-term memory. It's used to store data that the CPU needs to access quickly. For gaming, 16GB of RAM is the sweet spot. It provides enough capacity to run modern games smoothly, even with other applications running in the background. Ensure that the RAM is running at a decent speed, such as 3000MHz or 3200MHz, to avoid bottlenecks. The amount of RAM in your system affects its ability to multitask and handle memory-intensive tasks. Insufficient RAM can lead to performance issues, such as stuttering and lag, especially in games that require a large amount of memory. The speed of the RAM, measured in MHz, determines how quickly the RAM can transfer data to and from the CPU. Faster RAM can improve overall system performance, particularly in gaming and other demanding applications. The type of RAM is also important, with DDR4 being the current standard for gaming PCs. DDR5 is the latest generation of RAM, but it is not yet widely available in prebuilt systems in the $700-$800 price range.

Storage

Storage comes in two main forms: Solid State Drives (SSDs) and Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). SSDs are much faster than HDDs, resulting in quicker boot times, faster game loading, and a more responsive system overall. A combination of an SSD for the operating system and games, and an HDD for mass storage is ideal. In the $700-$800 price range, aim for at least a 256GB SSD for your operating system and frequently played games, with a 1TB HDD for additional storage. The type of storage you choose will have a significant impact on the overall performance and responsiveness of your system. SSDs use flash memory to store data, which allows for much faster read and write speeds compared to traditional HDDs. This means that games and applications will load much faster from an SSD, and your system will boot up more quickly. HDDs, on the other hand, use spinning disks to store data, which is slower but also more affordable for large amounts of storage. For gaming, it's highly recommended to install your operating system and frequently played games on an SSD for the best performance. If your budget allows, consider getting a larger SSD or adding a second SSD for additional storage. The interface used by the storage device can also affect performance. NVMe SSDs, which use the PCIe interface, are significantly faster than SATA SSDs, which use the SATA interface. However, NVMe SSDs are typically more expensive.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

The power supply unit, or PSU, provides power to all the components in your system. It's crucial to have a PSU with enough wattage to handle your system's power requirements, with some headroom for future upgrades. A 500W or 550W PSU from a reputable brand should be sufficient for most systems in this price range. Also, look for a PSU with an 80+ certification, which indicates its efficiency. The PSU is a critical component of your system, as it ensures that all your hardware receives the power it needs to operate correctly. A low-quality or underpowered PSU can lead to system instability, performance issues, and even hardware damage. When choosing a PSU, it's important to consider the wattage, efficiency, and quality of the unit. The wattage of the PSU should be sufficient to power all the components in your system, with some headroom for future upgrades. The 80+ certification indicates the efficiency of the PSU, with higher certifications (such as 80+ Bronze, 80+ Gold, and 80+ Platinum) indicating better efficiency. A higher efficiency PSU will waste less power and generate less heat. It's also important to choose a PSU from a reputable brand, as these PSUs are typically built with higher-quality components and have better protection circuits.

Motherboard

The motherboard is the central hub that connects all the components in your system. It determines the compatibility of your components and the features your system can support. For a gaming PC in this price range, a basic motherboard with the necessary ports and slots will suffice. Ensure that it supports your chosen CPU and RAM and has enough expansion slots for future upgrades. The motherboard is the foundation of your system, as it provides the connections and communication pathways for all the other components. When choosing a motherboard, it's important to consider its compatibility with your CPU, RAM, and other components. The motherboard's chipset determines which CPUs it supports, so make sure to choose a motherboard that is compatible with your chosen CPU. The motherboard also has slots for RAM, expansion cards (such as graphics cards), and storage devices. Ensure that the motherboard has enough slots for your current and future needs. The motherboard's form factor (such as ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX) determines its size and the number of expansion slots it can accommodate. ATX motherboards are the largest and offer the most features, while Mini-ITX motherboards are the smallest and are typically used in compact systems.

Case

The case houses all the components of your system. It's essential to choose a case that provides good airflow to keep your components cool. Look for a case with good ventilation and cable management options. Aesthetics are also a factor, so choose a case that you find visually appealing. The case is more than just a box to hold your components; it also plays a crucial role in cooling and airflow. A well-designed case will have good ventilation, allowing fresh air to enter the system and hot air to escape. This helps to keep your components cool, which is essential for maintaining performance and prolonging their lifespan. The case should also have good cable management options, allowing you to route cables neatly and keep them out of the way of airflow. This not only improves the aesthetics of your system but also helps to improve airflow. When choosing a case, consider its size, features, and aesthetics. Cases come in various sizes, from compact Mini-ITX cases to large full-tower cases. The size of the case will determine the size of the motherboard and other components you can install. Cases also come with various features, such as front-panel USB ports, headphone jacks, and fan controllers. Choose a case that has the features you need and that you find visually appealing.

Top Prebuilt Gaming PCs in the $700-$800 Range

Now that you know what to look for, let's explore some of the top prebuilt gaming PCs available in the $700-$800 price range. Keep in mind that prices and availability can vary, so it's always a good idea to check current listings and reviews.

CyberpowerPC Gamer Master Series

CyberpowerPC is a well-known brand in the prebuilt gaming PC market, and their Gamer Master series offers excellent value for the price. These systems typically include a Ryzen 5 or Core i5 processor, a GTX 1660 Super or RX 6600 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and a combination of SSD and HDD storage. CyberpowerPC is known for offering a wide range of customization options, allowing you to tailor your system to your specific needs and preferences. Their Gamer Master series is a popular choice for budget-conscious gamers, as it offers a good balance of performance and affordability. These systems are typically equipped with capable components that can handle most modern games at 1080p resolution, making them a great option for entry-level and mid-range gaming. CyberpowerPC also offers a variety of case options, allowing you to choose a case that suits your aesthetic preferences. Their systems typically come with a warranty, providing you with peace of mind in case of any issues. When considering a CyberpowerPC Gamer Master system, be sure to check the specific components included, as configurations can vary.

iBUYPOWER Gaming PCs

iBUYPOWER is another popular brand that offers a wide range of prebuilt gaming PCs. Their systems in the $700-$800 range often feature similar components to the CyberpowerPC Gamer Master series, making them a strong competitor. Look for systems with an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor, a GTX 1660 Super or RX 6600 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and a combination of SSD and HDD storage. iBUYPOWER is known for its customizable systems, allowing you to choose from a variety of components and configurations to suit your specific needs. Their systems often feature eye-catching designs, with options for RGB lighting and tempered glass side panels. iBUYPOWER also offers a range of financing options, making it easier to afford your dream gaming PC. When considering an iBUYPOWER system, be sure to check the specific components included, as configurations can vary. Their systems typically come with a warranty, providing you with peace of mind in case of any issues.

Skytech Gaming PCs

Skytech Gaming is a brand that has been gaining popularity in recent years for its high-quality prebuilt gaming PCs. Their systems in the $700-$800 range often offer excellent value, with configurations that include a Ryzen 5 or Core i5 processor, a GTX 1660 Super or RX 6600 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, and a fast SSD. Skytech Gaming is known for its attention to detail and high-quality components. Their systems are often built with reputable brands, ensuring reliability and performance. Skytech Gaming also offers excellent customer support, making it a great option for those who are new to PC gaming. When considering a Skytech Gaming system, be sure to check the specific components included, as configurations can vary. Their systems typically come with a warranty, providing you with peace of mind in case of any issues.

Other Brands and Retailers

In addition to the brands mentioned above, you can also find good prebuilt gaming PCs from other retailers and brands, such as HP, Dell, and Lenovo. These brands often offer prebuilt gaming PCs in this price range, although the configurations may vary. Be sure to compare the specifications and prices of different systems before making a decision. Retailers like Best Buy and Amazon also offer a wide selection of prebuilt gaming PCs, making it easy to find a system that fits your needs and budget. When shopping for a prebuilt gaming PC, it's always a good idea to read reviews and compare prices from different retailers to ensure you're getting the best deal.

Tips for Choosing the Right Prebuilt Gaming PC

Choosing the right prebuilt gaming PC can be a daunting task, but by following these tips, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect system for your needs:

  1. Determine Your Gaming Needs: Consider the types of games you want to play and the resolution and settings you want to play them at. This will help you determine the minimum specifications you need in a gaming PC.
  2. Set a Budget: It's important to set a budget before you start shopping for a prebuilt gaming PC. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending.
  3. Compare Specifications: Compare the specifications of different prebuilt gaming PCs, paying attention to the CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, and PSU.
  4. Read Reviews: Read reviews from other customers and tech reviewers to get an idea of the performance and reliability of different prebuilt gaming PCs.
  5. Check the Warranty: Make sure the prebuilt gaming PC comes with a warranty, as this will protect you in case of any issues.
  6. Consider Future Upgrades: Think about whether you plan to upgrade your gaming PC in the future. If so, choose a system with a motherboard and PSU that can support upgrades.
  7. Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for deals and discounts on prebuilt gaming PCs, as you may be able to save money.

Conclusion

Finding a good prebuilt gaming PC for $700-$800 is entirely possible with a bit of research and understanding of the key components. By prioritizing the GPU, ensuring sufficient RAM and storage, and choosing a reputable brand, you can get a system that provides an excellent gaming experience without breaking the bank. Consider the options from CyberpowerPC, iBUYPOWER, and Skytech Gaming, and remember to compare specifications and read reviews before making your final decision. Happy gaming!