Looking to achieve top-tier gaming performance without a hefty price tag? This guide walks you through assembling a capable gaming system that outperforms its cost.

1. Selecting Your CPU

Opt for processors like the AMD Ryzen 5 5500 or Intel Core i5-12400F. These chips deliver excellent frame rates at a midrange price point, making them perfect for cost-conscious builds.

2. Choosing the Right GPU

Consider graphics cards such as the NVIDIA GTX 1650 Super or AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT. Both excel at 1080p gaming on high settings while remaining budget-friendly.

3. Motherboard & Memory

Pick a reliable B450 or B660 motherboard with robust VRMs. Pair it with 16GB of DDR4 RAM clocked at 3200MHz to ensure smooth multitasking and consistent in-game performance.

4. Storage Solutions

Install a 500GB NVMe SSD for your operating system and favourite titles, alongside a 1TB SATA SSD or HDD for bulk storage. This combination balances fast load times with ample space.

5. Power Supply & Cooling

Select a 550W 80+ Bronze PSU from a trusted manufacturer. For cooling, a budget-friendly air cooler or the stock AMD cooler can maintain safe temperatures under load.

6. Case & Peripherals

Choose a well-ventilated case with good airflow. For peripherals, a reliable keyboard and mouse combo under £50 provides solid ergonomics and performance without breaking the bank.

7. Assembly & Testing

Follow component manuals carefully, apply thermal paste correctly, and boot into stress-testing tools like Cinebench and 3DMark to verify system stability and performance.

Implement these recommendations to build a sturdy, high-performance gaming rig while keeping costs in check. Happy building!