Dreaming of smooth framerates on a shoestring budget? This comprehensive build walkthrough shows you how to assemble a gaming powerhouse without overspending.

1. Selecting Your Processor

Opt for value-packed CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 or Intel Core i5-12400. These models deliver solid gaming performance for their price range, balancing core counts and clock speeds perfectly.

2. Choosing the Ideal Graphics Card

Look at options such as the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super or the AMD Radeon RX 6600. Both are capable of 1080p gaming at high settings in most modern titles while remaining wallet-friendly.

3. Motherboard and Memory Pairing

Pick a reliable B550 or B660 chipset board that offers good power delivery. Couple it with 16GB of DDR4 RAM at 3200MHz to ensure seamless multitasking and gaming responsiveness.

4. Storage Configuration

Install your operating system and favorite games on a 500GB NVMe SSD for rapid boot and load times, then add a 1TB SATA SSD to house larger libraries at a lower cost per gigabyte.

5. Power Supply and Cooling Choices

A quality 550W 80+ Bronze certified PSU from a trusted manufacturer will provide efficient power. For cooling, the included Ryzen Wraith cooler or an affordable aftermarket air cooler keeps temperatures in check.

6. Case Selection and Peripherals

Choose a budget-friendly chassis with good airflow and cable management. For peripherals, look for value-oriented keyboard and mouse bundles under £50 that still offer solid build quality.

7. Putting It All Together

Follow component manuals, apply thermal paste evenly, and double-check all power connections. After assembly, stress-test your rig using tools like Cinebench, 3DMark, and Prime95 to verify stability and thermal performance.

By following these steps, you’ll build a capable gaming PC that delivers excellent performance without blowing your budget. Happy building and even happier gaming!