Building a Secondary Gaming PC for $800

Introduction

• Purpose: Build a secondary gaming PC due to issues with the main PC crashing when playing "The Finals" on Unreal Engine 5.
• Budget: Set at $800, aimed for portability and performance without flashy features.

Issues with Current PC

• Current PC has crashing issues with Unreal Engine 5 games, crashes precisely at the 7-minute mark.
• Decided to create a dedicated system to play the game without these interruptions.

Budget Tips for Building a PC

• Windows Key Tip:
  • Do not pay full price from Microsoft.
  • Look for discounted keys at sites like VIP or CDKey.com.
  • Use promo code ts20 for additional discounts.

Components Chosen for the Build

CPU

• Model: Intel i5 7500F
• Features:
  • Turbo clock up to 5 GHz, 6 cores, 12 threads.
  • Low TDP of 65 watts.
  • Cheaper than competitors (around $127.7), performs better in gaming.
  • Only available overseas and on websites like AliExpress.

CPU Cooler

• Model: Dark Rock PX4
• Cost: $16.50 (cheapest cooler available)
• Focus: Adequate cooling without overclocking.

Motherboard

• Model: Azero B650 MPG Lightning
• Cost: $110
• Features:
  • 4 DIMM slots (future-proofing), 3 M.2 SSD slots, USB-C ports.
  • Option for Wi-Fi support with an additional module.

Memory

• Size: 16 GB
• Speed: 5200 MHz
• Cost: $55 for Kingston kit (good pricing for faster RAM).
  • Compatible with the motherboard; capable of being overclocked via BIOS.

Storage

• M.2 SSD: Team Group MS30
• Cost: $48 (found on AliExpress).
  • Prioritizing budget options, successfully saved $5.

Graphics Card

• Options:
  • Option A: RTX 4060 ($300)
  • Option B: RX 7600 or used RTX 3070 (23% more performance)
• Decision: Purchased a used RTX 3070 Founders Edition for $280
  • Important: Avoid paying over $300 for used cards.

Case

• Model: JNB Z20
• Cost: $76.76 (includes free shipping).
  • Small, portable, good airflow with handle for transportation.
  • Features: Aluminum mesh panels, USB-C connectivity.

Power Supply

• Model: Aries 850W Gold Certified
• Cost: $65
  • Fully modular power supply, significantly cheaper than SFX alternatives.

Fans

• Case Fans: 5-pack for $16
  • Easily daisy-chained using Molex connectors for simpler installation.

Total Build Cost

• Total cost of the PC: $795.84.
• Functionality: Designed to handle gaming needs efficiently.

Performance Results

• The new build was tested:
  • Averaged above 100 FPS in high settings for most games.
  • Achieved over 200 FPS in some titles.
  • Lower temperatures thanks to aftermarket cooling: CPU under 70°C, GPU peaking at 75°C.

Conclusion

• Overall considered the best $800 gaming PC build for 2024.
• Encouragement to subscribe for further budget builds and content updates.