Want to hit high frame rates without breaking the bank? Follow this plan to assemble a gaming machine that punches above its weight, balancing cost and performance.

1. Picking the Processor

Consider CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 5 5500X or Intel Core i5-11600KF. Both offer solid gaming performance at an accessible price point, ensuring smooth gameplay in modern titles.

2. Selecting the Graphics Card

Look at GPUs such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 or AMD Radeon RX 6600. These cards handle 1080p gaming on high settings effectively while remaining budget-friendly.

3. Choosing Motherboard & RAM

Opt for a B550 or B660 motherboard with reliable VRMs and at least one M.2 slot. Pair it with 16 GB of DDR4 running at 3200 MHz to guarantee stable multitasking and optimal gaming performance.

4. Storage Setup

Install your OS and favorite games on a 500 GB NVMe SSD for rapid load times, then add a 2 TB SATA SSD for mass storage, striking the right balance between speed and capacity.

5. Power Supply & Cooling

Choose a 600 W 80+ Bronze PSU from a reputable brand. Use the included CPU cooler or invest in an aftermarket cooler to maintain safe temperatures under full load.

6. Case & Peripherals

Pick a budget case with good airflow and enough room for cable management. For peripherals, look for keyboard and mouse combos under £50 that still offer reliable performance.

7. Assembly & Stress Testing

Follow the motherboard manual precisely, apply thermal paste correctly, and test system stability using software like AIDA64 and 3DMark to confirm everything runs solidly.

By adhering to this guide, you’ll end up with a powerful gaming PC that maximizes value without overspending. Happy building!