$650 Budget Gaming PC Build Guide | Step By Step Instructions!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Parts List
3. Building the PC
   • 3.1 Installing the CPU and Cooler
   • 3.2 Installing the Motherboard and RAM
   • 3.3 Installing the Storage
   • 3.4 Installing the Power Supply
   • 3.5 Connecting Cables and Cable Management
   • 3.6 Installing the Graphics Card
4. Benchmarking and Performance
5. Gaming Experience
   • 5.1 Call of Duty: Warzone
   • 5.2 Overwatch 2
   • 5.3 3DMark Time Spy Benchmark
6. Pros and Cons of the Budget Gaming PC
7. How to Win a Gaming PC
8. Conclusion

Building an Awesome Budget Gaming PC Step by Step

Are you an avid gamer on a tight budget? Look no further – we've got you covered! In this guide, we will show you how to turn a set of gaming parts into an awesome budget gaming PC step by step. Not only that, but we also have an exciting giveaway for you to have a chance to win one of these gaming PCs for yourself! But first, let's hear a WORD from our sponsor, Microcenter, your ultimate tech destination for top-notch electronics and unbeatable deals. Are you ready? Let's dive into the world of building a budget gaming PC!

Introduction

Welcome, gamers, to the ultimate guide on building an awesome budget gaming PC. In this article, we will walk you through the entire process of building a gaming PC that delivers great performance without breaking the bank. From selecting the right components to cable management and benchmarking, we've got you covered. So grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of PC gaming.

Parts List

To build a budget gaming PC, you'll need the following components:

1. CPU: Ryzen 5 4500 - A powerful six-core, twelve-thread processor.
2. Cooler: Stock Cooler - The included cooler that comes with the CPU.
3. Motherboard: ASRock B550M HDV - A budget motherboard that supports 5000, 4000, and 3000 series CPUs.
4. RAM: T-Force Delta RGB 16GB - Reliable dual-Channel 3000MHz RAM.
5. Storage: Clev Cross 512GB NVMe M.2 SSD - A high-speed SSD for fast storage.
6. Graphics Card: MSI Ventus RTX 3050 - A great budget-friendly option for Nvidia fans.
7. Power Supply: COTEP GN 650W 80 Plus Gold - A solid and efficient power supply.
8. Case: Lian Li LANCOOL 205M - A Micro ATX case with great build quality and aesthetics.

Building the PC

3.1 Installing the CPU and Cooler

Let's start by installing the CPU and cooler. The Ryzen 5 4500 comes with pins, so be careful not to damage them. Align the arrow on the CPU with the gold arrow on the motherboard socket and gently place it. The stock cooler is easy to install – just line it up and let it fall into place. Make sure to connect the CPU 4+4 pin connector to the motherboard for power.

3.2 Installing the Motherboard and RAM

Next, let's install the motherboard and RAM. Place the ASRock B550M HDV in the case and secure it with screws. Install the RAM sticks in the available slots, ensuring they are properly seated. If your motherboard has four RAM slots, use the first and third slots for dual-channel performance.

3.3 Installing the Storage

Now it's time to install the storage. Insert the Clev Cross 512GB NVMe M.2 SSD into the appropriate slot on the motherboard. Secure it with a screw if necessary. Remember, there's no need for a Gen 4 SSD as the CPU only supports Gen 3.

3.4 Installing the Power Supply

Let's move on to installing the power supply. Slide the COTEP GN 650W 80 Plus Gold power supply into the case and secure it with screws. Ensure the fan is facing down to allow proper airflow. Connect the necessary cables, such as the 24-Pin and CPU power connectors.

3.5 Connecting Cables and Cable Management

It's time to connect the remaining cables and manage them properly. Connect the 24-pin power cable to the motherboard, matching the clip to the motherboard's clip. Connect the CPU 4+4 pin cable and route it neatly. Connect the HD audio and USB 3.0 headers to the appropriate connectors on the motherboard. Don't forget to connect the front panel connectors and any additional fans with the help of splitters if needed. Finally, focus on cable management and use zip ties or velcro straps to keep everything tidy.

3.6 Installing the Graphics Card

Last but not least, let's install the graphics card. Remove the necessary slot covers from the case and align the MSI Ventus RTX 3050 with the PCIe slot. Secure it with screws. Connect the required PCIe power cables, making sure to route them neatly. With the graphics card in place, your budget gaming PC is now ready for action!

Benchmarking and Performance

Before we jump into gaming, let's take a moment to benchmark our budget gaming PC to get an idea of its performance. We used 3DMark Time Spy benchmarking software to evaluate the PC's capabilities. With a score of 6,270, the PC performs admirably, with a good Cent per Point score of 10 cents. This result showcases the excellent value for money that this budget gaming PC offers.

Gaming Experience

5.1 Call of Duty: Warzone

Our budget gaming PC proved its worth in Call of Duty: Warzone. With a balanced preset and DLSS enabled at 1080p, we achieved a solid 90 to 100 FPS. This performance ensures a smooth gameplay experience, even in intense firefights. Whether you're dropping into Verdansk or Rebirth Island, this PC will handle it with ease.

5.2 Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 also ran like a dream on our budget gaming PC. With settings cranked up to ultra and FSR 1.0 enabled, we enjoyed a high refresh rate gaming experience. The FPS remained consistently high, allowing for smooth and fluid gameplay. Get ready to climb the ranks and dominate the battlefield!

5.3 3DMark Time Spy Benchmark

In 3DMark Time Spy, our budget gaming PC showcased its ability to handle demanding graphics-intensive tasks. The score and performance were impressive for a PC in this price range, further emphasizing the incredible value it offers. This PC is more than capable of handling the latest AAA titles with ease.

Pros and Cons of the Budget Gaming PC

Like any product, our budget gaming PC has its pros and cons. Here's a quick look at what makes it great and where it may fall short:

Pros:

• Excellent performance for the price
• Great value for money
• Solid build quality
• Reliability and stability

Cons:

• Limited motherboard features
• Lack of RGB lighting control
• Potential for limited upgrade options

While the cons may be minor drawbacks, the pros far outweigh them when it comes to this budget gaming PC. It offers a fantastic gaming experience without breaking the bank, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious gamers.

How to Win a Gaming PC

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Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully built an awesome budget gaming PC. This step-by-step guide has empowered you to create a gaming setup that rivals higher-priced alternatives. From the carefully selected components to the meticulous cable management, your budget gaming PC is ready to take on any Game with ease. Now, all that's left to do is enjoy hours of gaming excitement and immerse yourself in the world of PC gaming. Happy gaming!

Resources:

• Microcenter