PC gaming has gotten a bad rap for being expensive. Gaming influencers on Instagram and Tiktok make it seem unreasonably expensive to start gaming on a computer. Can you spend $5000 on a computer and $1800 on a monitor? Absolutely. You can also spend $400 and get a handheld Steam Deck that will play all the cozy games you find on Steam.
It IS possible to start PC gaming on a budget. PCs give players access to Steam, Game Pass for PC, Epic Games, Blizzard games, and so much more. Most of my favorite games, from World of Warcraft to indie cozy games like Coral Island, are exclusive to PC. Find an affordable PC below to start your PC gaming setup!
Whether you're interested in a desktop computer or a laptop or handheld options, check out these 8 cheap gaming PC options to start PC gaming on a budget:
STGAubron Gaming Desktop PC Computer. This affordable PC tower retails for only $399.99 on Amazon for 512GB of storage and has a 4-star review with over 700 reviews. This PC also comes with a keyboard, mouse, mouse pad, and a RBG sound bar! The company provides 1 year of free parts and labor if needed, and lifetime tech support.
AGEMAGICIAN Mini Gaming PC. If you're looking for something smaller than a computer tower, consider getting a mini desktop computer. This popular brand pick on Amazon has 4.5 stars with over 1,000 reviews! This minicomputer features 3 different modes: Eco Mode, Auto, and Performance. Change the settings depending on your activity, whether you're watching vidoes or playing an online game.
Part of what can make PC gaming is expensive is the fact that you have to also buy a monitor. keyboard, mouse, and sound system. Did you know that you can buy a bundle that includes everything you need? This PC bundle includes a PC tower, 27-inch monitor, headset, webcam, keyboard and mouse, and even extra fans. This bundle is customizable for different size SSDs, and retails for $658 for a 512GB SSD. Although there are cheaper PC bundles out there, I think the monitor quality would be so poor that it'll end up being a waste of money. With PC gaming, you really do get what you pay for, and this bundle is an affordable option that still provides a quality setup.
If you're looking for a portable option that has the same capabilities as a desktop, consider getting a gaming laptop. The downside is that gaming laptops are generally more expensive than PCs, even though it's in a smaller package. However, this 16inch Laptop Computer has 16GB Ram and a 512GB SSD for only $349! This gaming laptop has a 4-star rating with over 300 reviews. It comes with Windows 11 Pro, a 1-year free warranty and 24/7 technical support!
Handheld gaming PCs are becoming more popular every year! Handheld PCs are the most portable and affordable option, since you don't need to invest in a desk and monitors. Handheld PCs like the classic Valve Steam Deck have complete access to Steam, Blizzard, Epic Games, and more, and even allows you to mod games! The Steam Deck truly is a handheld PC with all the same capabilities. This deal on Amazon comes with a silicon case, screen protector, and carrying case, so you have everything you need from the get-go!
If you are looking for a cheaper version of the Steam Deck, try the widely popular Logitech G Cloud Handheld Console! This handheld PC has 4.3 stars on Amazon with over 1200 reviews, and comes with Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce Now, and Google Play, already giving you access to hundreds of computer games. You can play hundreds of AAA games up to 1080p 60fps as long as you have a WiFi connection. This handheld gaming PC retails for $300, much cheaper than a Steam deck.
I hope you enjoyed reading about these 6 affordable options to start PC gaming on a budget! Since you love gaming, check out these other posts on Sarah's Cozy Life: