10 Best Gaming PC Under $500 in 2023 [Latest Models]

Gaming PCs are popular for their competitive prices and high-end performance across the market. Hence, most gamers get overwhelmed and refrain from buying one. However, there is no need to worry as you can get a pretty basic PC setup under your desired budget for casual gaming with the required efficiency. For this purpose, you would need a little bit of research about each component and your personal requirements.

Therefore, it becomes important that you consider everything from processing speed to graphics performance, basic connectivity, storage, and much more. If you are still confused and don’t know where to start, don’t worry. Further To save your day, I have brought together the best gaming PC under $500, accompanied by some buying instructions that can help you in choosing the right one. So, don’t waste more time, and let’s get in for more.

10 Best Cheap Gaming PC Under $500 in 2023

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1. Alarco Pro Gaming PC

I am starting my list of the best gaming PCs under $500 with this Alarco setup, best known for its efficient cooling system and fast processing speed. It is equipped with a considerable storage space that makes gaming fun. Also, the aesthetically pleasing design with RGB modes immediately catches your attention.

To begin with, the first thing to note here is its GTX 650 GPU, which is great for basic to casual gaming. It has a pixel density of 1080p at 1 GB processing speed, making it great for games like Call of Duty and Cyber Punks. However, it didn’t work fine for the newly updated versions of these games.

It further comes with an Intel i5 processor that is known for its generic graphic performance. When it comes to storage, it is equipped with fairly decent 8GB RAM and 1TB HDD space that works for gaming efficiently without much lag. All in all, the built and exhaust system are quite commendable for the price.

Pros
  • Great value for money
  • Impressive exhaust system
  • Suitable storage space
  • Visually appealing design
Cons
  • Not the best graphics
Wrapping up, this Alarco gaming PC is a great choice for anyone in search of something functional and budget-friendly. It comes with a 2nd Gen CPU and fairly considerable graphics range, making it great for casual gaming. Additionally, the roomy storage and appealing design make it worth the investment.

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You can also check out our guide on the Best Gaming PC Under $600 in 2023.


2. Dell OptiPlex Desktop 

Here comes the newer version of the Dell D5 gaming PC, hugely popular for its striking graphics and configuration. Its 10th Gen fast processor and compact design make it suitable for anyone looking for an upgrade. Here, the comprehensive ventilation system and mid-tower LEDs placement makes it attractive.

First of all, it comes with a 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor that operates at 2.9 GHz, making it great for games like Fortnite and Warzones. This one has a RAM of 16GB and 1 TB hard drive space that can be upgraded to 64GB. However, the high power consumption can be a problem with some games.

Similarly, it is coupled with the Nvidia GeForce GTX graphic card that works at 1080p resolution and supports basic to intermediate games without any lag. All these games work at 60 fps, which is fairly decent for intermediate games. For connectivity, it has USB 2.0, 3.0, HDI, and Type-C ports that work well.

 

Pros
  • Appealing compact design
  • Impressive speed range
  • Offers great connectivity
  • Fairly decent space
Cons
  • It consumes more power
Final thoughts, if you are in search of something durable and functional, this upgraded version of the G5 might be the one for you. It comes with a fast processing speed and impressive graphics performance. Also, the considerable storage space and refresh rate work well for most of the intermediate games.

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3. Alarco Intel i5 Gaming PC

This Alcro is another best gaming PC under $500, popular for its ability to support quality graphics. It is a great choice for casual gamers who are looking for basic yet efficient elements of a PC. This Alarco PC setup is equipped with fairly decent storage space and graphics performance that serve you well. In addition, its sturdy case with RGB modes and LED placement immediately strikes your attention.

It is equipped with an Intel i5 processor that operates on a 3.1 GHz refresh rate, making it quite responsive and fast. Here, it also incorporates an 8 GB RAM capacity and 1 TB hard drive storage that is supported by 4 PCIe. Thereby, you won’t have any issues with the overall performance. For connectivity. It comes with Wifi technology, HDMI, USB 2.0, 3.0, and Type-C, giving it an edge over others.

In the end, it is equipped with GTX graphics that, on average, works at 30 fps. On the whole, games like Fortnite, GTA V, and Pubg run smoothly on this PC. It is also worth mentioning that the manufacturers have included a comprehensive cooling system with three RGB fans. Finally, it also comes with a GTX video card that runs on DVI, HDMI, and VGA ports which maximize its utility to a great extent.

Pros
  • Impressive graphics experience
  • Various connectivity options
  • Comprehensive cooling system
  • Ideal for casual gaming
Cons
  • Not the most durable
Wrapping up, this Alarco gaming PC is a well-suited option for beginners who have just planned to build their PC setup. It comes with a sturdy case with RGB lights that makes it visually appealing. Likewise, the GTX graphics card and roomy storage make the gaming experience pleasant. All in all, with casual to basic games, I didn’t find any lag and enjoyed the graphics for the most part.

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4. STGAubron Gaming PC Diamond Black

Here comes yet another impressive deal for gamers, with incredible graphic performance. This PC setup is equipped with fast processing speed, roomy storage space, and intelligent core configuration that serve you well. In addition, the RGB mode and sturdy, compact case make it an attractive deal to invest in.

First of all, it is equipped with a 10th Gen Ryzen processor, having a 3.8 GHz capacity. It also has a 32 MD L3 cache that works incredibly for processing speed with minimal chances of lag. Here, this turbo eight-core chipset is configured to help you with games like Fortnite and Call of Duty Warzones’ newer versions.

In the end, when it comes to graphics performance, it is one of the best deals you can get. Its 5800x works on 7fps with 1080p. In addition, the PCIe 4.0 supports your gaming, by having access to achieve healthy storage and speed combination for long hours of gaming without any lag.

Pros
  • Impressive graphics performance
  • Intelligent core configuration
  • Sturdy, compact case
  • Offers PCIe 4.0 support
Cons
  • It consumes more power
Final thoughts, if you are in search of something affordable yet fast and efficient, I would recommend you go for this one. It is equipped with a turbo core configuration and Ryzen 9 processor that offers impressive gaming performance. Also, the compact case with RGB light makes it appealing to the eyes.

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5. Dell Optiplex Tower Gaming PC

Dell Optiplex Tower Gaming PC

Coming from Dell, this PC setup is another impressive buildup, hugely popular for its core configuration and efficient cooling system. It is specifically designed for casual gamers in search of something fast and responsive. Lastly, the compact case and RGB light settings immediately renovate your PC setup.

The first thing you will notice in this PC setup is its Intel Core i5 processor that works absolutely well for basic gaming. It operates on 3 GHz and offers UHD graphics with minimal lag. Here, the comprehensive cooling mechanism allows the system to expand more without additional power consumption.

Dell Optiplex Tower Gaming PC Review

Last but not least, it comes with an 8GB RAM capacity that works well for games like GTA, Pub G, and Redemption. For connectivity, you have all the basic ports like HDMI, USB Type-C, A, and 3.0. All in all, it has a healthy chipset that offers incredible speed and response with minimal lag.

Pros
  • Responsive and speedy
  • Visually appealing case
  • Fast processing speed
  • Supports UHD graphics
Cons
  • Not the best storage
In conclusion, this computer PC from Dell is a suitable option for casual gamers. It is equipped with an i5 Core processor and graphics that are justified by its affordable price range. Here, the comprehensive exhaust system allows you to achieve speed with minimal lag and fuel efficiency ensured.

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6. Dell Intel i5 Gaming PC

Dell Intel i5 Gaming PC

If you are a beginner and looking for a prebuilt PC within your desired budget, this one from Dell might do the job for you. It is, without any doubt, one of the best gaming PCs under $500, all thanks to its impressive graphics performance and fast processing speed. It further incorporates roomy storage capacity and a variety of connectivity ports that gives it an edge over others.

To begin with, this PC is equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor and a refresh rate of 2.7 GHz, making it great for casual gaming. It further incorporates a 16 GB RAM accompanied by 1 TB drive space that provides you with the needed speed and response. For connectivity, this PC setup comes with VGA, USB 2.0, 3.0, and HDMI ports that might not be the best but does the required job.

For performance, the manufacturers have added the Nvidia GeForce GT 730 graphics coprocessor that offers a pleasant gaming experience. I have played Fortnite, Minecraft, and Rocket league on this PC at 60fps, with minimal lag. The graphics were also quite smooth, and most games remained smooth (with 1080p resolution). All in all, its visually appealing and durable case makes it worth the investment.

Pros
  • Durable, compact case
  • Impressive storage capacity
  • Efficient graphics performance
  • Ideal for casual gaming
Cons
  • The cooling system is audible
In conclusion, if you are in search of something functional yet budget-friendly, this Dell gaming PC might be the one for you. It is equipped with the Nvidia GT70 graphics card and wireless connectivity option that makes gaming pleasant for the most part. In addition, the roomy storage capacity and fast processing speed help you in casual gaming. All in all, games like Minecraft and GTA work smoothly.

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7. HP Intel i5 Gaming PC

HP Intel i5 Gaming PC

If you want something budget-friendly yet responsive PC for your gaming, this HP might be the best gaming PC under $500 for you. The highlight of this model is its enhanced graphics performance that supports games quite well. It is further equipped with an ultra-fast processor and intelligent core configuration.

First of all, you will notice that this PC setup is equipped with a Core i5 Intel processor that operates at 2.7 GHz. It is further accompanied by a powerful graphics experience, all thanks to its Nvidia GeForce GTX. It is powerful enough to operate 926 different games with absolute response and no lag.

For performance, this one is equipped with 8GB RAM and 500GB SSD storage which is more than enough for casual to basic gaming. Likewise, the Ryzen 6-core chipset is absolutely incredible at performance. Finally, the durable buildup and compact size of the case make it an attractive option at this price.

Pros
  • Incredible graphics experience
  • Offers great connectivity
  • Visually appealing design
  • Intelligent chip configuration
Cons
  • The exhaust system makes noise
Final thoughts, this HP Pavilion is one of the best gaming PCs under $500, all credits to its processing speed and graphics experience. It is equipped with high-end GeForce GTX graphics that provides you with a powerful gaming process. On the whole, it remains responsive and is supported by a great selection of connectivity ports.

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8. Dell 7020 SFF Gaming PC

Here comes yet another best gaming PC under $500 for its powerful processing speed and incredible graphics experience. It is an upgraded version of 3070 and is hugely popular for its ability to run games like warzones and Minecraft. I also really like the hard drive storage that minimizes the lag to a great extent. In addition, the LED light’s placement and sturdy construction make it a worthy opponent in this list.

Dell 7020 SFF Gaming PC Review

The first thing to notice about this model is its i7 core Intel processor that operates at 3.1 GHz, making it incredibly fast at this price range. It further incorporates the Nvidia GeForce video card that offers 1080p resolution and 70fps on average. On the whole, you can enjoy basic to intermediate graphics on this card, such as Minecraft, GTA V, and warzones with the absolute response and minimal to no lag.

Last but not least, another thing that makes it quite remarkable for its price is the 16 GB RAM and 1 TB hard drive space that works quite well for these games. For connectivity, the manufacturers have added wifi and Bluetooth technology, not to mention basic HDMI and USB ports. Likewise, a comprehensive cooling system is included in the system, which allows the elements to expand within. However, with some games, it can be pretty audible.

Pros
  • Impressive connectivity options
  • Comprehensive cooling system
  • Ideal graphics experience
  • Offers great storage
Cons
  • The exhaust can be audible
Wrapping up, this Dell 7020 is undoubtedly the best gaming PC under $500, all credits to its incredible graphics and processing performance. It is specifically designed for casual to intermediate gaming with great actuation and minimal lag. Also, the sturdy and compact case saves so much space while looking equally appealing to the eyes. All in all, games like Minecraft, Warzones, and GTA V run absolutely smoothly with this PC combination.

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9. Lenovo ThinkCentre Tower

Lenovo ThinkCentre Tower

Lenovo is undoubtedly a renowned brand when it comes to gaming equipment. This PC from the manufacturer is one of the best gaming PCs under $500 for beginners who want to build their own setup. It is designed with a number of connectivity options, roomy storage space, and a sharp graphics experience. Similarly, the matte black construction and durable case give it an edge over others with a similar budget.

When it comes to the design, it is equipped with an Intel i5 processor that operates on 27 GHz, providing you with enough response and speed to run basic games. Considering its price, the fact that the manufacturers have added 16GB RAM and 1 TB hard drive space makes it a great deal for newcomers. The cooling fans further allow the system to expand within, so it consumes less than usual power.

For graphics experience, it is supported by Radeon RX 550 which goes perfectly well for gaming. I have played Minecraft, Pubg, and warzones on this PC with amazing speed, 1080p resolution, and response, not to mention no lag. For connectivity, this is equipped with Wifi and Bluetooth technology that immediately strikes the user’s attention. However, it can only be used with Windows 10.

Pros
  • Impressive connectivity options
  • Ideal for casual gaming
  • Offers roomy storage
  • Comprehensive cooling system
Cons
  • Not the most durable casing
In essence, this Lenovo Thinkcentre built PC is a great choice for casual gamers who are looking for functionality and graphics performance. This one is able to support GTA 5, Fortnite, and even Rocket League with the absolute response and no lag. On the whole, it has a comprehensive cooling system and Intel i5 Core, further accompanied by a roomy storage capacity that works well for basic routine tasks.

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10. HP M01-f0033W Ryzen 3 3200G

HP M01-f0033W Ryzen 3 3200G

Last but not least in this list of the best gaming PC under $500 is this HP M01 desktop PC, famous for its conventional design and graphics experience. It comes with a comprehensive cooling system that provides you with a smooth gaming process. All in all, its large storage capacity and core configuration make it absolutely worth your price.

Speaking of the construction, it comes with an AMD Ryzen 3200 quad-core processor that operates at 3.6 GHz. Hence, even with intermediate or heavy games, you will not find any lag. This processor is accompanied by a 1TB storage capacity that works phenomenally well and offers you responsiveness. It is further supported by quite a selection of ports, including HDMI, USB 2.0, 3.0, Type A, and C.

Similarly, when it comes to graphics performance, this one comes with a hugely popular Radeon Vega 8. This graphics card is famous for its ability to support heavy games with high resolution and response, not to mention without any lag. Finally, the vertical black matte case immediately catches your eye and incorporates a comprehensive cooling system; however, it can be audible during gaming.

Pros
  • Variety of ports included
  • Impressive graphics performance
  • Comprehensive cooling system
  • Supported by 1 PCIe
Cons
  • Storage is not the best
In essence, if you want something functional while being on a certain budget, I would undoubtedly recommend you consider this one. It is equipped with an intelligent core configuration and a Radeon graphics experience that makes gaming enjoyable. Also, the selection of ports and wireless technology included in the design makes it an attractive option for gamers who want to upgrade to intermediate gaming.

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Cheap Gaming PC Under $500 in 2023 – Buying Guide

Buying the right PC under a certain budget is undoubtedly challenging, considering the limited options and specifications involved in the setup. However, with a little research about PCs, you can absolutely find the one that suits you well. Here, it becomes ideal that you consider everything from storage to graphics, processing, and connectivity. To save your day, I have brought together these buying instructions that can help you in choosing the best gaming PC under $500;

Should I Build a Gaming PC?

The first question every gamer wonders about is whether they should buy a prebuilt PC or build one from scratch. Well, there is no simple answer to that and it depends largely on your personal likings. When it comes to gaming, PCs can be competitive when it comes to prices. Yet, you can get quality under your budget for casual to basic gaming. Hence, there is no need to buy a gaming PC from scratches until and unless there is an urgent need.

Processing Speed and Response

The first and foremost thing you should consider while buying the best gaming PC. This is because it is the determinant of the overall performance of your setup. For instance, it helps you in playing heavy games and videos with the desired speed and no lag. Commonly, in this price range, you can get third Gen Intel and AMD Ryzen processors with quality core configuration. However, there are some things you should consider before buying a budgeted PC.

When it comes to affordable processors, one of the key features you should look for is its core setup. Here, I would recommend you go for multiple cores as it can help you with better data processing efficiency and advantage when it comes to speed. This is because multi-threaded cores are designed with enhanced impact and offer a great response. Also, make sure that your desired processor has a fast frequency or refresh rate. It is ideal that you go between 2.0 and 3.0 GHz frequencies for casual gaming.

Graphics Performance

After processor, another primary element you should look into while buying the best gaming PC under $500 is its graphic card. This is because it determines the overall performance of your game, be its response, speed, and refresh rate. For an entry-level category, you can go for older generation graphics cards that are designed for AAA games. These are equipped with either 720 or 1080p resolution and offer quite a performance for casual gaming.

RAM

Another thing you should consider while buying the gaming PC is its RAM or temporary data. In simple words, it is the temporary memory that keeps your apps working in the background without any lag. Hence, it is ideal that you go for considerable storage that can keep your games running without any compromise on performance. For this purpose, based on your budget, you can go between 8 and 12GB. Yet, make sure the type of RAM is compatible with your motherboard.

Other Storage Alternatives

Apart from RAM, PC units have other storage alternatives such as HDD and SSD, also known as a hard disk drive and solid-state drive. Both of these storages help you in rotating the disk and building the overall stability of your PC system. Hence, when it comes to gaming, it becomes absolutely necessary that you invest in something that is equipped with the needed space.

Here, to rotate the disk faster, I would recommend you at least go for 5400 rpm per disk. In contrast, for the overall speed of your PC, it is ideal that you go for 1TB at least, so you can run casual to intermediate games with the absolute response and no lag. In comparison to HDD, the SSD storage is relatively faster and doesn’t demand any moving parts. These storage alternatives are also fuel-efficient and dissipate less than usual heat.

All in all, I prefer the SSD over any other for its ability to launch games and run heavy videos. These storage alternatives tend to be smaller and don’t make much noise while keeping the stability and speed intact. Another thing to consider here is that if you are looking for an upgrade, it becomes necessary that you go for the one that is compatible with your motherboard chipset.

Optional Accessories In the Package

If you have planned to build an affordable PC from scratch, it becomes necessary that you invest in a motherboard and a cooling solution. The motherboard is the center of all the components of the PC as it matches all the other elements. Hence, it is ideal that the socket of each element is compatible with your motherboard, be it RAM, storage alternatives, and so on. The power supply should also be in accordance with your needs and the cooling system. Make sure that exhaust systems are targeted at CPU fans.

Here are some other optional things that you would need while building a PC from scratch;

  • The monitor is the component that helps you in playing different video games and multimedia. If you are building a budgeted setup, it is ideal that you go for basic graphics resolution (720 and 1080p), so you get the sharp colors, and the monitor is able to support your desired games.
  • Keyboard and Mouse are other combinations you might consider while building a PC. If you want to save space from the counter, it is ideal that you go for wireless options from reliable brands so they don’t get damaged.
  • Audio Option is primarily dependent on your personal style and taste. If you are a gamer and looking for something under $500, it is ideal that you go for something that offers a contrasting sound and ignores all the background noises.

Connectivity Options

It is equally important to consider the connectivity or networking options while buying or building a PC. For this purpose, I would suggest you first look for basic ports like HDMI, USB 2.0, 3.0, Type-A, and Type-C. Apart from this, based on your budget, you can also look into wireless technology options such as Wifi and Bluetooth. This is because it can help you in real-time games like GTA and Minecraft, allowing users to connect easily.

Video Graphics Card GPU

Another thing you should always consider while buying the budgeted PC setup is the graphic power. This is because it is the determinant of the overall performance of your games. Most contemporary models are equipped with built-in graphics processing elements that help you in boosting the overall speed and performance of your PC.

While buying a PC for gaming, the graphics card should be based on the types of games and skill level you want to go for. If you are a casual gamer, any basic graphic card can serve you well; however, make sure it is equipped with the needed RAM and cooling mechanism. For an upgrade, you can always add to the hard drive space and RAM as it provides you with enhanced speed and response.

Design and Construction

When it comes to buying the right PC under your desired budget, one thing to consider here is its case. If you are limited by the space, a vertical setup with a compact case can help you just well. Apart from this, make sure the construction material is resistant to damage and contains overheating well, as it can help you in maintaining the efficiency of the PC.

Design and Construction

Most commonly, high-quality plastic is used for the cases. Finally, you can also look into RGB modes and LED placement as it can make the case visually appealing and makes the setup attractive. Here, my favorites are the Dell 3020 and 7020, as they have one of the most sturdy, compact, and stylish cases.

Cooling System

Another thing that can make a huge difference in the performance of your PC is its cooling system. If you are specifically looking for a PC setup for gaming, it is essential you have a comprehensive system with at least three exhaust fans that help you in maintaining the response and keeping the PC stable.

Also, make sure that you have ensured a safe power connection so there are minimal chances of overheating. Likewise, it is equally significant that you have considered the size of your elements, especially if you are going for an upgrade. This is because large components demand high power consumption that can influence an upgraded system.

What About Peripherals?

If you have a passion for building your own PC, there are some things you should never compromise, one of them being peripheral components. This includes keyboards, mice, mousepads, webcams, and much more. While building your own PC, you get a chance to get all the customized components that match your style.

Upgrade Considerations

If you already have a PC setup in your place and want to upgrade it, it is ideal that you make sure all the elements included in your system are compatible with the existing hardware. For instance, while going for a processor upgrade, you might want to consider the one that suits your motherboard. Apart from this, you can also go for sound cards or video cards to make the process even more crisp and sharp with an affordable PC setup.

It is equally important to consider the elements that are attached through bottlenecks, such as storage alternatives, RAM, and other cooling setups. For instance, if you are going for a RAM upgrade yet it doesn’t suit your processor, all the money goes to waste. It is still staggering, and the performance will most probably lag in this department. Finally, keep in mind that large components would demand a high power supply.

In the end, I hope that based on these buying instructions, you can choose the best gaming PC under $500 as per your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a $500 gaming PC worth it?

Yes, if you are a casual gamer who is looking for a basic PC setup to facilitate the process, a $500 gaming PC is absolutely worth it. These alternatives are designed with fairly decent RAM and processing speed that serve you well. Here, one of my favorites is the Alarco gaming PC, hugely popular for its crisp graphics and processing speed. It further incorporates a number of basic connectivity options that can support games like Minecraft and GTA without any lag.

What makes the best gaming PC under $500?

There are a number of things that make the best PC under your specific budget, and it can be challenging to buy one, considering so many specifications involved. Hence, the primary components you should look into include the processor, graphics card, video card, and connectivity options. Apart from this, you must also consider the storage capacity and construction quality as it hugely impacts the performance of your PC.

Should I build a gaming PC from scratch?

Well, it primarily depends on your personal requirements. When it comes to gaming, PCs can be competitive when it comes to prices. However, across the market, you can get different options under $500 with basic performance. In contrast, building your own PC can be a bit costly, considering the fact that you have to invest time and money in customizing each and every element. So, unless you are extremely passionate about it, there is no need to build one.

Conclusion

Gaming PCs are popular for their competitive prices and high-end performance across the market. Hence, most gamers get overwhelmed and refrain from buying one. However, gaming is not only reserved for people with money, and you can get a number of quality affordable alternatives based on your individual requirements. If you are looking for recommendations, here are some of my favorites from the list;

In the end, I hope that you soon can find the best gaming PC under $500 as per your liking.

Thanks for the read!

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