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The Best December 2023 Gaming PC Builds For Under $1500, $1000, $800 and $500

Welcome to Newb Computer Build’s December edition of Gaming PC Builds of the Month! Building a PC is actually quite economical right now, and given that we could all save a bit more lately, being able to build your very own gaming PC might now only make sense in terms of getting the most performance out of every dollar spent, but you may be able to get one for even cheaper than ever.

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December’s biggest updates: When I was compiling these builds this month, all I could think was oh no, the deals of last month are passed, however, while there were some great deals on some hardware — it seems overall costs have kept steady and we are below budget on each of the builds this month. It’s true, that every single budget range this month is well below the quoted budget range, which is great news for those looking to build a PC this holiday season.

I would also like to point out that PC building has never been so strong, with costs so low on individual hardware, it makes perfect sense to build your own PC versus buying a pre-built — I mean over and above the obvious benefits of being able to learn all the how-to, sense of accomplishment, personal customization & pure fun.

Make It Yours: Remember, every gaming PC can be unique, so feel free to swap components, like cases, if you have a particular style in mind. And if you have questions about compatibility, just drop a comment.

Maximizing Performance per Dollar: I compile each of these builds for you, in order to give you assurance that every cent you spend goes towards maximizing your PC and gaming performance. So these are the best bang for your buck options for various budgets, so you can enjoy gaming at 1080p, 1440p, and even 4K, depending on your goals.

Choosing Your Build Based on Your Needs: Not sure which build suits you best? Here’s a quick rundown:


Bookmark our Best Gaming PC Builds for 2023 Page to Keep up to Date With the Monthly Gaming PC Builds, or subscribe here.


Best $1500 Gaming PC Build of the Month - Newb Computer Build

The Best Under $1500 Gaming PC Build of the Month

Performance: Crush games at 1080p, 1440p, and even 4K with the Ryzen 7 7800X3D and an RTX 4070 Graphics Card.

*This Gaming PC Build is powered by the Ryzen 7 7800X3D and an RTX 4070 Graphics Card

1 CPU - Best $1500 PC Build 2023

1. CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 8-Core, 16-Thread Desktop Processor

Replacing the previous chip in this build, the Ryzen 7600X -- the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is  THE BEST GAMING CPU you can possibly buy, and with great power efficiency, it doesn't even require extreme cooling solutions, for an overall gaming beast that stays cool and quiet.

  • Processor provides dependable and fast execution of tasks with maximum efficiency.Graphics Frequency : 2200 MHZ.Number of CPU Cores : 8. Maximum Operating Temperature (Tjmax) : 89°C.
  • Ryzen 7 product line processor for better usability and increased efficiency
  • 5 nm process technology for reliable performance with maximum productivity
  • Octa-core (8 Core) processor core allows multitasking with great reliability and fast processing speed
  • 8 MB L2 + 96 MB L3 cache memory provides excellent hit rate in short access time enabling improved system performance
  • Processor with 4.20 GHz clock speed for reliable and fast execution of instructions to ensure maximum convenience and feasibility
  • Comes with AMD Radeon Graphics controller for amazing graphics output

Amazon Price: $358.98

2 Cooler - Best $1500 PC Build 2023

2. Cooler: Noctua NH-U12S Redux

  • Streamlined, more affordable redux line version of the award-winning NH-U12S heatsink
  • Slim 120mm size for excellent case, RAM and PCIe compatibility: fits most tower cases (158mm height), doesn’t overhang the RAM slots, doesn’t block the PCIe on most ATX and Micro-ATX motherboards
  • Quiet NF-P12 redux-1700 120mm fan with PWM for automatic speed control: full cooling performance under load, near silent at idle!
  • Pre-applied high-quality NT-H1 thermal paste & SecuFirm2 mounting system for easy installation on Intel LGA1700, LGA1200, LGA1150, LGA1151, LGA1155, LGA1156, LGA2011, LGA2066 and AMD AM4 & AM5

Amazon Price: $54.95

3 Motherboard - Best $1500 PC Build 2023

3. Motherboard: MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi Gaming Motherboard

    • Supports AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Desktop Processors
    • Supports DDR5 Memory, up to 6400+(OC) MHz
    • Premium Thermal Solution: Extended Heatsink Design and M.2 Shield Frozr are built for high performance system and non-stop works
    • 2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi 6E Solution: Upgraded network solution for professional and multimedia use. Delivers a secure, stable and fast network connection
    • Lightning M.2: Running at PCIe Gen 4 maximizes performance for NVMe based SSDs

    Amazon Price: $217.99

    4 Graphics Card - Best $1500 PC Build 2023

    4. Graphics Card: ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 4070

    • Powered by NVIDIA DLSS 3, ultra-efficient Ada Lovelace arch, and full ray tracing
    • Boost Clock 2475 MHz, 12GB GDDR6X, 192-bit, 21 Gbps, PCIE 4.0
    • IceStorm 2.0 Advanced Cooling, SPECTRA RGB Lighting, 2x 90mm fans, FREEZE Fan Stop, Active Fan Control, Metal Backplate
    • 8K Ready, 4 Display Ready, HDCP 2.3, VR Ready
    • 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a, 1 x HDMI 2.1a, DirectX 12 Ultimate, Vulkan RT API, Vulkan 1.3, OpenGL 4.6

    Is the RTX 4070 not up to your speed? Check out the alternative graphics card suggestion for the best $1500 PC build on the hardware alternatives page.

    Cost (Amazon): $514.99

    5 RAM - Best $1500 PC Build 2023

    5. RAM: Crucial Pro RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR5 5600MT/s

    • Plug-and-play extreme performance. Downclock capable for systems that only support 5200MT/s or 4800MT/s
    • Universal compatibility. Compatible with 12th–13th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen 7000 Series desktop CPUs
    • Supports both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO on the same module to recover memory speed if the CPU suppresses it in 4 DIMM configurations
    • Game at higher frame rates, multitask better, enhance productivity, save time and money
    • ECC type = non-ECC, form factor = UDIMM, pin count = 288-pin, PC speed = PC5-44800, voltage = 1.1V, rank and configuration = 1Rx8

    Amazon Price: $101.93

    6 SSD - Best $1500  PC Build 2023

    6. SSD: Crucial P3 Plus 1TB PCIe Gen4 3D NAND NVMe 

    • NVMe (PCIe Gen4 x4) technology with up to 5000MB/s sequential reads, random read/write 650K/800K IOPS
    • Spacious storage up to 4TB
    • Performs up to 43% faster than the fastest Gen3 NVMe SSDs
    • Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity and reliability
    • Backward compatibility with Gen3

    Amazon Price: $54.99

    7 Power Supply - Best $1500 PC Build 2023

    7. Power Supply: Cooler Master MWE Gold 850 V2 Full Modular, 850W, 80+ Gold Efficiency

    • 2 EPS Connectors : 2 EPS connectors included with all models for universal current generation motherboard compatibility.
    • High Temperature Resilience: The new gen offers an increase in operating temperature to its predecessor to a maximum of 50 degrees Celsius.
    • FullY Modular: Modular flat black cables reduce clutter, increase airflow, and improve overall efficiency and thermal performance.
    • Hydro Dynamic Fan: The 120mm HDB fan creates less friction, for a smoothly and low RPM operations, while keeping the noise level down.

    Amazon Price: $95.99

    8 PC Case - Best $1500 PC Build 2023

    8. PC Case: CORSAIR 4000D

    • Combining innovative cable management, concentrated airflow, and proven CORSAIR build quality, the 4000D is a fitting choice for an immaculate high-performance PC..Maximum PSU Length : 220. Radiator Compatibility : 120mm, 140mm, 240mm, 280mm, 360mm.
    • The CORSAIR RapidRoute cable management system makes it simple and fast to route your major cables through a single channel, with a roomy 25mm of space behind the motherboard for all of your cables.
    • Includes two CORSAIR 120mm AirGuide fans, utilizing anti-vortex vanes to concentrate airflow and enhance cooling. Motherboard will fit in our 4000 Series cases without any issue. Mini-ITX, micro-ATX, ATX, and E-ATX form factor motherboards are all supported.
    • A spacious interior fits up to 6x 120mm or 4x 140mm cooling fans, along with multiple radiators including 360mm in front and 280mm in the roof (dependent on RAM height).
    • Put modern connections within easy reach with a front I/O panel including a USB 3.1 Type-C Port, USB 3.0 port, and a combination audio/microphone jack.

    Amazon Price: $104.99

    ESTIMATED PRICE (Updated: December 2023): $1468

    Overview | Best Gaming PC Build of the Month for Under $1500

    For those enthusiasts who are truly dedicated to unlocking the pinnacle of gaming performance, the $1500 PC build stands as the epitome of a dream machine. At its core lies the formidable Ryzen 7 7800X3D, a gaming CPU that reigns supreme among its peers. Not only does this powerhouse processor exhibit stellar performance, but it also manages to maintain optimal temperatures with a whisper-quiet operation.

    Embarking on a journey into the realm of unparalleled gaming experiences, this meticulously crafted PC boasts 32GB of cutting-edge DDR5 memory, ensuring seamless multitasking and responsiveness. Complementing this technological marvel is the inclusion of the mighty RTX 4070 graphics card, catapulting your gaming endeavors into the realm of 4K excellence and beyond. Prepare to be immersed in the breathtaking landscapes of high-fidelity gaming, where every detail is rendered with precision and clarity.

    Yet, the pursuit of perfection knows no bounds, and for those who seek even greater feats of performance, there exists a realm of possibilities. Should your ambitions and financial means align, the option to elevate your gaming rig to new heights is within reach. Consider the prospect of upgrading either the CPU or GPU to satiate your hunger for enhanced capabilities. Picture a scenario where the graphics card takes center stage, offering an array of upgrade alternatives that beckon exploration.

    To delve deeper into the intricate tapestry of possibilities, a comprehensive overview of the best $1500 gaming PC build awaits your perusal. Navigate the pathways of potential upgrades, discover the nuances of each component, and tailor your dream machine to meet the exacting standards of your gaming aspirations. The journey to gaming nirvana begins with this meticulously curated PC build, and the road ahead is paved with possibilities waiting to be explored. Unleash the full potential of your gaming rig and embark on a gaming odyssey that transcends boundaries – because, in the realm of gaming excellence, there is always room for further ascent

    $1500 Gaming PC Build of the Month Upgrades

    If you want even more power, consider upgrading your CPU or GPU. Find upgrade suggestions on the full $1500 gaming PC build page.

    To read the full overview and for a list of hardware alternatives, please visit the FULL Best $1500 Gaming PC Build Page

    Best $1000 Gaming PC Build of the Month - Newb Computer Build

    The Best Under $1000 Gaming PC Build of the Month

    Capability: Play games at max settings at 1080p and even 2K with the Ryzen 5 7600 and the RTX 4060 Ti Graphics Card.

    Powered by the Ryzen 5 7600 and the RTX 4060 Ti Graphics Card

    1 CPU - Best $1000 PC Build 2023

    1. CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 7600

    • POWERFUL GAMING STARTS HERE
    • 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, based on AMD "Zen 4" architecture
    • 5.2 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 38 MB cache, DDR5 support
    • For the state-of-the-art Socket AM5 platform, can support PCIe 5.0 on select 600 Series motherboards
    • AMD Wraith Stealth cooler included

    Amazon Price: $199.00

    2 Cooler -  Best $1000 PC Build 2022

    2. Cooler: AMD Wraith Stealth cooler (*Included with Ryzen 7600)

    • The Ryzne 7600 is one efficient CPU, the stock cooler should be decent. If you need an upgrade, then check out the upgrade alternatives at the bottom of the best $1000 gaming pc build page.

    Amazon Price: (*Included)

    3 Motherboard - Best $1000  PC Build 2023

    3. Motherboard: GIGABYTE B650M DS3H

    This is a great budget B650 motherboard with the following specifications:

    • 5-Year Warranty
    • AMD AM5 Socket: Supports AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors
    • DDR5 Compatible: 4 SMD DIMMs with AMD EXPO and Intel XMP Memory Module Support
    • Sturdy Power Design: Direct 6 plus 2 plus 1 Phases Digital VRM Solution
    • Comprehensive Thermal Design: Advanced Thermal Design, M.2 Thermal Guard
    • Stable Connectivity: PCIe 4.0, NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2, SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C
    • Fast Networking: 1GbE LAN
    • Fine Tuning Features: RGB FUSION 2.0, Supports Addressable LED and RGB LED Strips, Smart Fan 6, Q-Flash Plus Update BIOS without installing, CPU, Memory, and GPU

    Amazon Price: $119.99

    4 Graphics - Best $1000 PC Build 2023

    4. Graphics Card: GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 4060 Ti Eagle 8GB Graphics Card, 3X WINDFORCE Fans

    • Powered by NVIDIA DLSS 3, ultra-efficient Ada Lovelace architechture, and full ray tracing
    • 4th Generation Tensor Cores: Up to 4x performance with DLSS 3
    • 3rd Generation RT Cores: Up to 2x ray tracing performance
    • Powered by GeForce RTX 4060 Ti
    • Integrated with 8GB GDDR6 128-bit memory interface
    • WINDFORCE Cooling System, RGB Fusion, Dual BIOS, Protection metal back plate

    Price: $399.99

    5 RAM -  Best $1000 PC Build 2023

    5. RAM: Crucial RAM 16GB Kit (2x8GB) DDR5 4800MHz CL40 Desktop Memory

    (*DDR5 Memory is here in the best $1000 gaming PC build!) Included is a total of 16GB of DDR5 4800MHz memory.

    • Harness blazing speeds up to 5600MHz — 1.5x faster than DDR4
    • Game at higher frame rates and run demanding software with nearly 2x the bandwidth of DDR4
    • Empower your system for the next-generation multi-core CPUs
    • Intel XMP 3.0 enabled for easy performance recovery
    • ECC Type = Non-ECC, Form Factor = UDIMM, Pin Count = 288-pin, PC Speed = PC5-38400, Voltage = 1.1V

    Amazon Price: $45.99

    6 SSD - Best $1000 PC Build 2023

    6. SSD: Crucial P3 1TB NVMe SSD

    • NVMe (PCIe Gen3 x4) technology with up to 3500MB/s sequential reads, random read/write 650K/700K IOPS
    • Spacious storage up to 4TB
    • Performs up to 33% better than the previous generation
    • Solid Gen3 performance
    • Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity and reliability

    Amazon Price: $54.99

    7 PSU - Best $1000 PC Build 2023

    7. Power Supply: Cooler Master MWE Gold 850 V2 Full Modular, 850W

    • 2 EPS Connectors : 2 EPS connectors included with all models for universal current generation motherboard compatibility.
    • High Temperature Resilience: The new gen offers an increase in operating temperature to its predecessor to a maximum of 50 degrees Celsius.
    • FullY Modular: Modular flat black cables reduce clutter, increase airflow, and improve overall efficiency and thermal performance.
    • Hydro Dynamic Fan: The 120mm HDB fan creates less friction, for a smoothly and low RPM operations, while keeping the noise level down.

    Amazon Price: $95.99

    8 PC Case - Best $1000 PC Build 2023

    8. PC Case: Zalman S2

    • Full Acrylic Side Panel for ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case
    • Front Design for maximized Airflow with two front 120mm fan pre-installed (& one rear 120mm fan pre-installed)
    • Convenient Interface with one USB, 3.0 & two USB 2.0
    • Power Supply unit dedicated space for improved cooling performance
    • 7 PCI Expansion Slots with Bottom & Top Magnetic Dust Filter

    Amazon Price: $49.99

    Estimated Cost (Updated: December 2023):  $966

    Overview | $1000 Best Gaming PC Build of the Month

    The $1000 PC build hits that sweet spot between budget and performance. This December, it boasts the Ryzen 5 7600 CPU and an upgraded RTX 4060 Ti for outstanding gaming at 1080p and 1440p. Plus, it comes with its own cooler, and you can even upgrade to an AIO cooler for an extra touch.

    $1000 Gaming PC Build of the Month Upgrades

    To read the full overview and for a list of hardware alternatives, please visit the FULL Best $1000 Gaming PC Build Page

    If you visit the full overview for the best $1000 build you’ll also find hardware alternatives and upgrades. This can be upgraded hardware including a better graphics card, more memory, or even more storage space should you need it.

    Best $800 Gaming PC Build of the Month - Newb Computer Build

    The Best Under $800 Gaming PC Build of the Month

    Capability: Enjoy smooth gaming at high settings and FPS at 1080p with the Intel Core i3-13100F and an RTX 6700 XT Graphics Card.

    Powered by the Intel Core i3-13100F and an RTX 6700 XT Graphics Card

    1 CPU - Best $800 PC Build 2023

    1. CPU: Intel Core i3-13100F Desktop Processor

    A top-of-the-line gaming CPU is in this price range and for this budget range for a gaming PC -- beating out its competition in gaming performance, even in the higher cost ranges. This CPU is like the Intel i3 13100, but cheaper and without integrated graphics.

    • 4 cores (4 P-cores + 0 E-cores) and 8 threads
    • Performance hybrid architecture integrates two core microarchitectures, prioritizing and distributing workloads to optimize performance
    • Up to 4.5 GHz. 12M Cache
    • Compatible with Intel 600 series and 700 series chipset-based motherboards
    • Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, and PCIe 5.0 & 4.0 support. Intel Optane Memory support. Intel Laminar RH1 Cooler included. Discrete graphics required

    Amazon Price: $124.99

    2 Cooler - Best $800 PC Build 2023

    2. Cooler: Intel Laminar Cooler (Included)

    • This is the stock cooler for the Intel Core i5 12400. It would be recommended that if you want to overclock upgrade this to an after-market CPU cooler (see hardware alternatives for options)

    Price: *Included

    3 Motherboard - Best $800 PC Build 2023

    3. Motherboard: GIGABYTE B760M DS3H DDR4 (LGA 1700 Intel B760 M-ATX

    • Intel LGA 1700 Socket: Supports 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core Series Processors
    • DDR4 Compatible: Dual Channel DDR4, 4 DIMMs
    • Sturdy Power Design: 6+2+1 Hybrid Digital VRM Design
    • Comprehensive Thermal Design: M.2 Thermal Guard
    • Next-Gen Connectivity: PCIe 4.0, NVMe PCIe 4.0 x2 M.2, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
    • Fast Networking: 2.5GbE LAN
    • Fine Tuning Features: RGB FUSION 2.0, Supports Addressable LED & RGB LED Strips, Smart Fan 6, Q-Flash Plus Update BIOS without installing, CPU, Memory, and GPU

    Amazon Price: $99.99 (17% off right now)

      4 Graphics Card - Best $800 PC Build 2023

      4. Graphics Card: Sapphire 11306-02-20G Pulse AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT

      The $800 gaming PC build includes an AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT, which offers top-of-the-line $800 gaming PC performance, blasting through the previous card offerings in this spot and providing very high 1080p FPS gameplay.

      • Game Clock: Up to 2424 MHz
      • Boost Clock: Up to 2581 MHz
      • DirectX 12 Ultimate
      • Hardware Raytracing
      • Radeon Boost

      Price: $309.99

      5 RAM - Best $800 PC Build 2023

      5. RAM: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 X 8GB) DDR4 3600

      16GB of RAM is the sweet spot for any gaming PC out there and should be all you need -- however, there is always room to upgrade!

      Amazon Price: $44.99

      6 SSD - Best $800 PC Build 2023

      6. SSD: Crucial P3 1TB PCIe Gen3 3D NAND

      • NVMe (PCIe Gen3 x4) technology with up to 3500MB/s sequential reads, random read/write 650K/700K IOPS
      • Spacious storage up to 4TB
      • Performs up to 33% better than the previous generation
      • Solid Gen3 performance
      • Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity and reliability

      Amazon Price: $54.99

      7 PSU - Best $800 PC Build 2023

      7. Power Supply Unit: Thermaltake Toughpower GX2 600W

      • CERTIFIED GOLD - Supporting 80 Plus Gold efficiency up to 90% and optimized for C6 or C7 States ready
      • NON MODULAR CONNECTORS – Main Power (24 pin) x 1/ ATX 12V (4plus4 pin) x 1/ SATA (5 pin) x 6/ PCI-E (6plus2 pin) x 2/ peripheral (4 pin) x 3/ FDD x 1
      • ULTRA QUIET 120MM FAN – Dynamic Bearing fan s superior cooing performance and silent operation
      • HIGH QUALITY CAPACITORS - High quality capacitors provide superb performance and reliability
      • LOW RIPPLE NOISE – Ensure excellent power supply stability Keep performance-critical components such as VGA card to operate reliably for longer
      • SINGLE plus12V RAIL DESIGN - Powerful 12Vplus Single rail supports today's GPU demands supporting DC to DC design for stable reliable power
      • [INDUSTRY GRADE PROTECTIONS] - (OPP) Over Power (OVP) Over Voltage (UVP) Under Voltage and (SCP) short circuit protections. Input Frequency Range 47Hz - 63Hz

      Amazon Price: $59.90

      8 Case - Best $800 PC Build 2023

      8. PC Case: Zalman S2 ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case

      • Full Acrylic Side Panel for ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case
      • Front Design for maximized Airflow with two front 120mm fan pre-installed (& one rear 120mm fan pre-installed)
      • Convenient Interface with one USB, 3.0 & two USB 2.0
      • Power Supply unit dedicated space for improved cooling performance
      • 7 PCI Expansion Slots with Bottom & Top Magnetic Dust Filter

      Amazon Price: $49.99

      Estimated Price (Updated: December 2023): $753

      Overview | Best Gaming PC Build of the Month for Under $800

      The $800 PC build offers an excellent gaming experience at 1080p and even 1440p. The new Intel i3 13100F CPU is a solid choice, and it’s paired with an RTX 6700 XT for top-notch gaming performance.

      $800 Gaming PC Build of the Month Upgrades

      To read the full overview and for a list of hardware alternatives, please visit the FULL Best $800 Gaming PC Build Page

      The best $800 gaming PC build can be further upgraded — visit the full overview page for a full overview of this build including suggestions for hardware upgrades including a higher-performing CPU, a high-performing graphics card for those more intense games, or even a better PC case.

      Best $500 Gaming PC Build of the Month - Newb Computer Build

      The Best Under $500 Gaming PC Build of the Month

      Capability: Game at 720p to 1080p resolutions in most games.

      Powered by the Ryzen 5 5600G CPU with Integrated Radeon RX Graphics

      1 CPU - Best $500 PC Build 2023

      1. CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Radeon Graphics

      Alt CPU (=~5% more performance): AMD Ryzen 7 5700G 8-Core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Radeon Graphics ($175.61)

      (*You don't need a graphics card with this CPU as it comes with Integrated Radeon Graphics for smooth 1080p gaming)
      • Features best-in-class graphics performance in a desktop processor for smooth 1080p gaming, no graphics card required
      • 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
      • 4.4 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 19 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
      • For the advanced Socket AM4 platform

      Amazon Price: $134.36

      2 Cooler - Best $500  PC Build 2023

      2. Cooler: AMD Wraith Stealth Cooler (Included)

      This cooler is included with the AMD Ryzen 5700G CPU

      3 Motherboard - Best $500 PC Build 2023

      3. Motherboard: ASUS TUF Gaming A520M-PLUS (WiFi) AMD AM4 (3rd Gen Ryzen™) microATX Gaming Motherboard

      This motherboard is a quality budget Micro ATX sized board, that features everything you'd need in a $500 PC, including:

      • AMD AM4 Socket: l Ready for Ryzen 5000 Series/ 4000 G-Series/ 3000 Series Desktop Processors
      • Comprehensive cooling: Large VRM heatsink, PCH heatsink and Fan Xpert 2+
      • Made for online gaming: 802.11ac Wi-Fi, TUF LANGuard and TurboLAN technology
      • Gaming Connectivity: BIOS FlashBack button, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 32Gb/s M.2 onboard, SATA 6Gb/s, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, DisplayPort/HDMI/D-Sub
      • Gaming Look and Feel: ASUS-exclusive Aura Sync RGB lighting, including RGB headers and a Gen 2 addressable RGB header for greater customization

        Amazon Price: $99.99

        4 Graphics Card - Best $500 PC Build 2023

        4. Graphics Card: *Integrated Radeon RX Graphics Included

        The Ryzen 5 5600G comes with integrated Radeon Graphics at a graphics frequency of 1900 MHz and a graphics core count of 7.

        5 RAM - Best $500 PC Build 2023

        5. RAM: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 X 8GB) DDR4 3600 MHz

        16GB is an upgrade to the $500 gaming PC build, and might even be more than you actually need. However, at the moment 16GB kits are close in cost to 8GB ones at the moment anyhow -- so it only makes sense.

        Amazon Price: $44.99

        6 SSD - Best $500 PC Build 2023

        6. SSD: Crucial P3 1TB PCIe Gen3 3D NAND NVMe

        • NVMe (PCIe Gen3 x4) technology with up to 3500MB/s sequential reads, random read/write 650K/700K IOPS
        • Spacious storage of up to 4TB
        • Performs up to 33% better than the previous generation
        • Solid Gen3 performance
        • Rated at MTTF greater than 1.5 million hours for extended longevity and reliability

        Amazon Price: $54.99

        7 Power Supply - Best $500 PC Build 2023

        7. Power Supply Unit: Thermaltake Smart 500W 80+ White Certified PSU, Continuous Power with 120mm Ultra Quiet Cooling Fan

        500W is plenty for this pc build and the Thermaltake Smart 500W RGB does the trick perfectly.

        • Delivers 500 Watt Continuous output at plus 40 degrees. Compliance with Intel ATX 12 Volt 2.31 and EPS 12V 2.92 standards
        • 80 PLUS Certified, 80 percent efficiency under typical load
        • Supports (2) PCI E 6plus2pin Connectors. Active (PFC) Power Factor Correction, MTBF: 100,000 hours
        • Industry Grade Protections: (OPP) Over Power Protection, (OVP) Over Voltage Protection, (SCP) Short Circuit Protection
        • High-Quality Components
        • Equipped with a powerful plus 12 Volt rail, superior performance under all types of system loading
        • 5 Year Warranty

        Amazon Price: $39.95

        8 PC Case - Best $500 PC Build 2023

        8. PC Case: Zalman S2 ATX Mid Tower Computer PC Case

        • Front Design for maximized Airflow with two front 120mm fan pre-installed (& one rear 120mm fan pre-installed)
        • Convenient Interface with one USB, 3.0 & two USB 2.0
        • Power Supply unit dedicated space for improved cooling performance
        • 7 PCI Expansion Slots with Bottom and top Magnetic Dust Filter

        Amazon Price: $49.99

        Estimated Price (Updated: December 2023): $424.27
        (*Using integrated graphics)

        Overview | Best Gaming PC Build of the Month for Under $500

        The $500 PC build is a fantastic entry point for PC gaming. It’s powered by the Ryzen 5 5600G CPU and integrated graphics, which means you can get gaming without a dedicated GPU for now. Upgrade later when you’re ready for more power.

        $500 Gaming PC Build of the Month Upgrades

        As with all of the gaming PC builds of the month, there are plenty of upgrades that you could consider if you had just a bit more to spend. You can check these out here:

        To read the full overview and for a list of hardware alternatives, please visit the FULL Best $500 Gaming PC Build Page


        Operating Systems for Your Gaming PC

        Don’t forget to get an operating system! You can find Windows 11 keys online, and there are guides to help you install it. If you prefer, you can explore open-source options like Ubuntu or SteamOS.

          OS Link Price Image
        Windows 10 or 11

        Make a Windows 11 Installation Media

        OR

        View this video on the Easiest How to Make Your Own Windows Boot USB

        Download and install Windows on a USB (Need another PC)  Windows 11 PC Build - Newb Computer Build
        Ubuntu (Linux OS) Ubuntu – Desktop Free (open source) Ubuntu Logo
        SteamOS SteamOS – “Build your own Steam Machine” Free Steam Operating System OS

        December 2023 Gaming PC Builds of the Month Overview Video

        Video update: *Coming soon

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