Building on a budget is about avoiding waste, not avoiding quality. Use this checklist to keep your parts balanced and your money focused where it matters most for gaming.
Core parts to prioritize
- GPU: First priority for gaming performance. Pick the best value at your target resolution.
- CPU: Aim for a modern mid-tier chip with strong single-core performance.
- RAM: 16 GB is the floor, 32 GB is the comfort zone for new releases.
- Storage: A 1 TB NVMe drive keeps load times low without breaking the bank.
Where to save
- Case: Pick airflow over looks. A simple mesh case is usually enough.
- RGB: Skip fancy lighting until the build is complete and stable.
- Extras: Avoid add-on cards unless you truly need them.
Quick build order
- Install CPU, cooler, RAM, and M.2 on the motherboard.
- Mount the board in the case and connect the power supply.
- Install GPU and finish front-panel cables and fans.
- Boot, update BIOS, install OS, then drivers.
Final sanity checks
- Check clearance for GPU length and cooler height.
- Confirm power supply wattage with a 20 percent headroom.
- Read motherboard QVL for RAM compatibility.
