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For novice gamers, buying a prebuilt gaming PC, rather than building your own, is quicker, easier, and generally more reliable.
You pay a premium for not having to source and assemble all of the components yourself. But increasing interest in PC gaming, along with competition, has pushed innovation and development higher, and at the same time, prices lower.
A good prebuilt gaming PC used to cost thousands of dollars. Now, you can buy one for $500 or less.
We have chosen 15 prebuilt gaming PCs for under, or just over, $500 to see which is the best. As the choice for strictly under $500 is very limited, we’ve also separately listed some that are a little over $500, to offer you more selection and to show you what a little extra can buy you.
Gaming PCs Under $500 Comparison Table
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | LATEST PRICE |
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1. Dell Inspiron Desktop 3470 SFF 
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2. Alarco White Gaming PC Desktop 
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Check Price |
3. CUK AsRock DeskMini Tiny Desktop PC 
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Check Price |
4. Acer Aspire TC-885-UA91 Desktop 
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Check Price |
5. Alarco Aura Gaming PC Desktop Computer 
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Check Price |
6. HP Pavilion Desktop Computer 590-p0020 
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Check Price |
7. Dell PowerEdge T30 Premium Business Mini Tower Server 
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Check Price |
Budget Gaming PCs Under $500 Buying Guide
1. Dell Inspiron Desktop 3470 SFF
Product Highlights
Dell Inspiron 3470 SFF is a small form factor desktop designed to provide maximum power and take up minimum space.
The Intel 8th Gen i3 Core processor provides solid and reliable performance, with up to 3.6GHz clock speed. With 8GB DDR4 RAM giving reasonable load times and transfer rates. Enough to run lower-end games on medium-high settings without lag or slow down.
It doesn’t lack storage with a 1TB hard drive. But should you need to improve on that or other components, it’s not a problem as it has multiple expansion slots for future upgrades.
And it’s good value out of the box with Windows 10 Home, a keyboard, and a mouse.
Features
- Intel Core i3-8100 Processor
- 8GB DDR4 RAM
- 1TB 7.2K RPM HDD
- Windows 10 Home OS
What We Like About Dell Inspiron Desktop 3470 SFF
The setup out of the box couldn’t be simpler, and its small form factor saves a lot of space.
The easy accessibility of the optical drive, USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, and a 5-in-1 media card reader are all conveniently located upfront.
It’s not built as a gaming PC but is easily upgradeable, and it will serve your other computing needs at a reasonable price.
What We Don’t Like About Dell Inspiron Desktop 3470 SFF
It doesn’t come with a dedicated graphics card, so this is the first thing that you’d need to buy for gaming.
Even then, you’ll find that the machine just isn’t built to play anything higher than medium-range games.It’s so loud! One of the loudest PCs that we’ve ever heard.
PROS
- A great little office PC, with a small form factor
- Easy setup. Fast and easy to navigate
- Plays Roblox, Team Fortress 2, Counter-Strike and other low-end games with no lag or disconnecting
CONS
- The hard drive is noisy and runs almost continuously
- Lots of pre-installed programs slow it down
- The performance will never be good enough for high-end games
2. Alarco White Gaming PC Desktop
Product Highlights
Alarco White Gaming PC offers good gameplay on budget. Its stylish design and quality build come with some high specifications and technology.
The Intel i5 2400 processor has a 3.10Ghz processing speed and 4 cores and 4 threads, for smooth processing in general. Paired with the reasonable NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 GPU, it can run AAA games on low-medium settings with a steady framerate.
Along with its 8GB of Ram and a vast 1TB memory, Alarco gives you a lot for the price.
Features
- INTEL i5 2400 CPU
- 1TB storage
- 8GB DD3 RAM
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 GPU
What We Like About Alarco White Gaming PC Desktop
Its overall performance, speed, and storage, considering the price, was a pleasant surprise.
The sleek design, along with the stylish build, inside and outside the quality casing. Gamers even have control of the RGB fans and can change the rig’s colors.
It comes out of the box with Windows 10 OS, when some of its more expensive competitors don’t.
What We Don’t Like About Alarco White Gaming PC Desktop
We found it annoyingly and intrusively loud.
There’s no CD drive, and it comes without a keyboard or mouse.
Some reviewers have questioned its sturdiness and longevity.
You May Also Like: $200 Gaming PC Build for Fortnite, Overwatch, PUBG, Apex legends, and More!
PROS
- Easy to set up and worked perfectly right out of the box
- Perfect for beginner level gaming
- Runs Overwatch on high settings with ease at 60fps
- Excellent customer support
CONS
- Not suitable for newer titles
- Not Fortnite ready
- No virus protection, so you’ll need to install
3. CUK AsRock DeskMini Tiny Desktop PC
Product Highlights
CUK AsRock DeskMini Tiny may be only a small form factor gaming PC but is a serious contender with a good punch.
It comes with a Ryzen 3 2200G CPU, one of the best budget chips for those who build their own. It will handle top game titles exceptionally well, although at lower settings, making good use of AMD’s VEGA 8 integrated GPU.
The Deskmini comes with 256GB of SSD upgraded to 512GB, although because of its mini form, it doesn’t leave much room for upgrades.
But if an entry-level budget gaming PC is what you’re after, that will do the job for a while, and then you can upgrade to another machine.
Features
- AMD Ryzen 3 2200G Quad-Core
- 512GB of SSD
- 16GB of RAM
- Hard Drive 256GB NVMe SSD
What We Like About CUK AsRock DeskMini Tiny Desktop PC
With AMD’s processors relying heavily on RAM for performance, its 16GB is the ideal memory for a PC with an integrated GPU.
Its processor can run nearly all the newer premium games at a minimum of 30FPS in low settings and provides adequate performance while remaining within budget.
When it comes to storage, 512GB NVMe SSD is something you’d usually see in a premium build and not in a budget mini PC.
What We Don’t Like About CUK AsRock DeskMini Tiny Desktop PC
Due to the case size, later expansion is severely limited. You can’t just upgrade, as there’s no room for a dedicated graphics card. You’d have to buy a mini to upgrade the GPU.
Also, with the small form factor, you’re probably going to have to use an external HDD if the time comes.
The DeskMini, except for Wi-Fi, has none of the additional features that many of the other PCs on this list have; no optical drive, no operating system, and no keyboard or mouse. Expect to have to spend more to complete this PC, unless you already have these peripherals.
Read Related Topic: $500 Budget Gaming PC Build for Fortnite, PUBG, Apex Legends, and More!
PROS
- Perfect PC for casual gaming and general use
- It came assembled with a Windows 10 Home product key
- Can play games like FFXIV
- An inexpensive system that is easy to maintain
- Nice, sleek build
CONS
- No instructions on how to set the computer up
- Occasionally freezes or reboots
- Needs improved storage space
4. Acer Aspire TC-885-UA91 Desktop
Product Highlights
Acer Aspire TC-885-UA91 comes with the i3 9100 processor and UHD 630 integrated graphics. Its four cores and threads clock a base speed of 3.6GHz and turbo to 4.2GHz. It also comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and 512GB of SSD storage.
It has good connectivity options and Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, an optical drive, Windows 10 Home, a keyboard, and a mouse.
Its 512GB SSD is surprising for a budget PC, and you won’t worry about running out of storage any time soon.
Features
- i3 9100 processor
- 512GB SSD
- 8GB of DDR4 RAM
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Optical drive
- Windows 10 Home
What We Like About Acer Aspire TC-885-UA91 Desktop
This Aspire model comes with an i3 9100 processor, an impressive component for this price range.
Its 512GB SSD is ample, but you can add an HDD for all your other programs and data and keep the super-fast SSD storage just for games.
The option to buy with or without peripherals provides flexibility, and potentially, better value for money.
What We Don’t Like About Acer Aspire TC-885-UA91 Desktop
Thinking of future use, AMD and Intel processors require different motherboards. If you buy a PC with an Intel processor, but later want to upgrade to an AMD, you can’t do it without replacing the motherboard too.
Another downside of this PC is that it only has a 300W PSU. That’s enough for its current components, but if you want to upgrade with a dedicated graphics card, you’ll also need a stronger power supply.
PROS
- A considerable improvement on the old Pentium desktop model
- Rapid shipping and delivery
- This system can support three monitors effortlessly; two HDMI and one VGA
- Easily upgradable
CONS
- No apparent way to uninstall Acer installed Microsoft Office
- Not an out of the box gaming rig
- Only 12 fps when playing FFXIV
- Disappointing customer after-sales support
5. Alarco Aura Gaming PC Desktop Computer
Product Highlights
The Aura is another good value offering from Alarco. It’s similar to their White Gaming PC above, with mostly the same specifications and technology, but in our opinion, an even sleeker design.
Its interior working components are the same but are this time shown off better by a clear tempered glass side panel, for a higher-end appearance.
The brighter multi-color LED of its fans accentuates its appearance. But here you only get three, rather than four. But you’ll only know how this might affect its performance later.
Features
- INTEL i5 2400 CPU
- 1TB storage
- 8GB DD3 RAM
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 650 GPU
What We Like About Alarco Aura Gaming PC Desktop Computer
It’s all about the look with this one. It looks like and even makes you feel like you’re playing on a much more expensive machine.
The Aura is a straightforward set-up out of the box, which is excellent for first-time gamers.
We were nicely surprised by how quiet it is, particularly in comparison to its White Gaming PC counterpart.
What We Don’t Like About Alarco Aura Gaming PC Desktop Computer
Its performance depends on your expectations and experience. Novice gamers should be satisfied. Older, more experienced gamers will be disappointed.
There’s not much room inside the case for upgrades, partly due to poor cable placement. We noted that some reviewers rebuilt it from scratch, just using the snazzy-looking case.
Yes, it comes with a remote, but that’s a gimmick when there’s no keyboard or mouse.
PROS
- Straight out of the box, CS:GO was running at 58 FPS on almost maxed settings
- Fortnite ran at 120 FPS in creative and 60 FPS in a Public Match on low settings
- HDMI adapter for a port on the graphics card means that you can run two monitors
- Reliable novice’s gaming PC in a sleek design
CONS
- Its adequate only performance won’t keep you satisfied in the longer-term
- No real room for upgrades due to cords being in the way
- Poor external Wi-Fi adapter
6. HP Pavilion Desktop Computer 590-p0020
Product Highlights
Pavilion 590-p0020 makes it on our list based on its price alone, being the cheapest PC that we’ve reviewed. Of course, you tend to get as good as you pay for, but for novices or light gamers on a strict budget, it could suit.
It has a Ryzen 3 2200G processor with Vega 8 integrated GPU, four cores and threads, and a base clock speed of 3.5GHz.
Its specs are unspectacular, but at least provide a solid base on which to build if you’re willing to upgrade and customize. The priority would be to enhance its 4GB of RAM to 8GB or even 16GB to make this PC run much smoother, although you’re unlikely to need to upgrade its 1TB storage.
Features
- Ryzen 3 2200G processor
- 1 TB HDD
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Optical drive
- Windows 10 Home
- Keyboard and mouse
What We Like About HP Pavilion Desktop Computer 590-p0020
Looking beyond its price as the definite selling point alone, it comes with impressive extras: a selection of USB ports (Headphone/Microphone, two USB 3.1 Gen 2 (front), one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C(TM) (front), two USB 2.0 (rear), four USB 3.1 Gen 1 (rear), one HDMI Out (rear), one VGA (rear), a 10/100/1000 Base-T Network, and an HP 3-in-1 Media Card Reader).
The Ryzen processor, albeit one of the weaker on the market, is a good solid base for the essential upgrade.
Even then, you’d have to settle for a 720p gaming experience, but you could play many of the newer AAA titles at around 30 FPS on low settings.
What We Don’t Like About HP Pavilion Desktop Computer 590-p0020
You have to accept that upgrading the 4GB of RAM is essential. Although it doesn’t cost a fortune to do, for the first-time gamer, is it worth the trouble?
PROS
- Great little machine for general use and light gaming
- Cost savings and reliable components provide an opportunity to upgrade
- Upgraded the RAM to 16gb and it played Fortnite at 70 fps on medium settings
- Outstanding processing and graphics rendering even with the limitations
CONS
- Not enough RAM, makes an upgrade essential
- Not suited for more than light casual gaming
- Windows 10 installation was buggy
7. Dell PowerEdge T30 Premium Business Mini Tower Server
Product Highlights
The Dell name is enough to guarantee a high-quality PC. Marketed as a premium business product, it still provides a reasonable gaming experience.
It comes with the Intel Xeon E3-1225 processor with a clock speed of up to 3.7GHz, enough to get AAA games running without issues. To complement this processor, it has an 8GB UDIMM RAM, capable of multitasking and running multiple apps at once.
T30 has a DVD reader/writer, a total of 10 USB ports, a PS2 port, DisplayPort, and HDMI.
Features
- Intel Xeon E3-1225 Processor
- 8GB UDIMM RAM
- 1TB 7.2K RPM SATA storage
What We Like About Dell PowerEdge T30 Premium Business Mini Tower Server
While perhaps not the sexiest consideration, Dell’s reputation for quality and excellent customer service and support is an attraction.
The Intel Xeon processor, and 8GB UDIMM RAM, make it a stable and fast enough performer.
What We Don’t Like About Dell PowerEdge T30 Premium Business Mini Tower Server
As a business PC, it does not come with a dedicated graphics card, so we’d advise you to invest in a good GPU to upgrade.
Unlike some of the desktops on our list, it does not come with an Operating System. You’ll have to ensure that you have a genuine copy before opting for this PC.
PROS
- Speedy delivery to your door
- Works great as an entry-level server
- Its hot-swap capability is one of the easiest around
- The Xeon chip alone costs almost the same as this whole unit
CONS
- No dedicated graphics card
- No operating system included
- Only one DIMM despite it being a dual-channel capable system
Comparison Table
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | LATEST PRICE |
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1. HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop Computer 690-0010 
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2. Acer Aspire DT.BE0AA.002 Desktop 
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Check Price |
3. CUK AsRock DeskMini Mini Desktop PC 
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Check Price |
4. Lenovo 510A Desktop 
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Check Price |
5. CUK AsRock Mantis Custom Gaming PC 
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Check Price |
6. SkyTech Shadow Gaming Computer Desktop PC 
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Check Price |
7. SkyTech Archangel Gaming Computer Desktop PC 
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8. CUK Stratos Micro Gaming Desktop PC 
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Check Price |
Gaming PCs Slightly Over $500 – Reviews and Comparisons
1. HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop Computer 690-0010
Product Highlights
HP Pavilion 690-0010 comes with the same Ryzen 3 2200G processor as its stablemate above. But with an RX 550 dedicated graphics card with 4GB of VRAM, so crucially it doesn’t have to use system memory. That memory in itself is 8GB of regular DDR4 RAM, well supported by a 1TB HDD.
It’s the RX 550 dedicated graphics card that makes it worth it the extra spend. For this reason, we’ve put the Pavilion on our list because it delivers, providing great value for money overall.
The 8GB of RAM will probably be enough, due to the separate 4GB of the graphics card. If that’s not enough, it can maintain up to 32GB of RAM.
Features
- Ryzen 3 2200G processor
- 1 TB HDD
- 8GB of RAM
- RX 550 dedicated graphics card with separate 4GB of RAM
What We Like About HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop Computer 690-0010
The dedicated RX 550 graphics card, with its 4GB of RAM, is what makes the Pavilion worth its higher price.
You also get out of the box Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, optical drive, plenty of USB ports, Windows 10 Home, and keyboard and mouse.
And you can always rely on a big name like HP to provide excellent customer service and support.
What We Don’t Like About HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop Computer 690-0010
While better than an integrated card, the RX 550 is an entry-level GPU, and its limitations are sometimes apparent.
It may sound like we want everything, but despite 1TB HDD, it’s a shame that it doesn’t have an SSD instead.
PROS
- Played Fortnite up to 120-144 fps
- Can customize the graphics card settings for high spec games such as Rainbow Six Siege, Call Of Duty Black Ops 4 and Destiny 2
- Better than PS. With tweaks, much better!
- Can easily handle lots of video and audio work
CONS
- We’d still recommend upgrading the graphics card
- It doesn’t play certain games such as Apex well
- Its loud noise is annoying
2. Acer Aspire DT.BE0AA.002 Desktop
Product Highlights
Aspire DT.BE0AA.002 is an upgrade on its predecessor, without costing too much more. We’ve included it on our list to give you that possibility.
Not only does it come with 12GB of DDR4 RAM, but also the newer i5 9400 Intel processor. This CPU has six cores and threads, a base clock speed of 2.9GHz, and a turbo to 3.9GHz.
This Aspire includes 512GB SSD, Windows 10 Home, USB keyboard, mouse, and a DVD writer. Although it’s 300W PSU would still have to be replaced with a more powerful one if you wanted a real graphics card.
It comes with 12GB of DDR4, plenty of memory to play games, and run several background processes at a time, so long as you don’t over-cook it.
The 512GB SSD with its superb speeds is worth a forsaking an HDD, and if you ever need more storage, a regular HDD would cost you around $40.
Features
- i5 9400 processor
- 512GB SSD
- 12GB of DDR4 RAM
- Optical drive
- Windows 10 Home
What We Like About Acer Aspire DT.BE0AA.002 Desktop
This Aspire model’s integrated GPU is still the same as its predecessor, but with the i5 9400, you’ll be able to see improvements for sure.
Its improved CPU also has significant benefits for future graphics upgrades.
The extra RAM improves the overall experience to justify the additional spending.
What We Don’t Like About Acer Aspire DT.BE0AA.002 Desktop
Like its predecessor, it comes with a keyboard and mouse, but we would prefer an option to order just the PC at a lower price if you already have those.
While there are some upgrades and improvements, the integrated GPU remains the same, preventing any major gaming breakthroughs.
PROS
- You couldn’t put together a tower with comparable parts for less
- Amazing productivity machine and general use PC
- Works with three monitors
- Fast boot-up and quiet, with a mid-size footprint
CONS
- Reviewers have noted build quality issues
- Weak power supply hampers gaming
- Poorly built case restricts upgrades
3. CUK AsRock DeskMini Mini Desktop PC
Product Highlights
This Mini Desktop version of CUK AsRock Mini is an upgrade to its predecessor above. The Ryzen 5 3400G CPU is an improvement. It’s still quadcore but supports hyperthreading, making it a 4-core, 8-thread, as seen in better gaming performance.
It has a Radeon Vega 11 integrated GPU, more potent than the previous Vega 8. With16 GBs of 2666 MHz memory, its esports performance is improved, and you can play more demanding games with its consistent number of FPS.
It’s 512 GB NVME SSD, a faster version of a regular SATA SSD, gives you both speed and capacity.
Features
- AMD Ryzen 5 3400G Quadcore
- 512 GB NVME SSD
- 16 GB DDR4 2666 MHz RAM
- Radeon Vega 11 integrated GPU
What We Like About CUK AsRock DeskMini Mini Desktop PC
The new AMD Ryzen 5 3400G processor is a significant upgrade, resulting in both better gaming performance and all-round functionality.
Likewise, this DeskMini now has the Radeon Vega 11 as its integrated GPU, and you can see and feel the difference.
We still like the minimal form factor for its practicality and neatness while delivering the necessary punch.
What We Don’t Like About CUK AsRock DeskMini Mini Desktop PC
Like its predecessor, future expansion is still severely limited due to its case size. Similarly, it doesn’t come with an OS or peripherals.
PROS
- Painless setup
- The wireless chip also has Bluetooth
- No issues with Blender and Cinema 4D
- Packs so much into a tiny box about the size of an ATX power supply
CONS
- Needs some tweaking on arrival
- The installed Toshiba 512GB NVMe SSD had trouble booting
- Comes with just the base A300 cooler kit
4. Lenovo 510A Desktop
Product Highlights
Lenovo 510A comes with AMD’s latest impressive entry-level Ryzen 3 3200g APU, and VEGA 8 graphics as the best performing in this price class from Intel.
The base clock speed of 3.6GHz and turbo of 4GHz, are perfect for playing lower-intensive AAA game titles.
Its small and neat black case looks great, and it comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, multiple USB ports, a card reader, an optical drive, a keyboard, and a mouse.
An excellent little prebuilt, in a great-value package, for entry-level gaming.
Features
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200G Quadcore
- 256 GB PCIe M.2 SSD
- 8 GB DDR4 2666 MHz RAM
- Windows 10 Pro 64-bit operating system
What We Like About Lenovo 510A Desktop
The Ryzen 3 3200g APU is perfect for entry-level gaming. Its power-efficiency has improved performance on its predecessors, without any excess heat or power-hungriness.
The integrated Vega 8 GPU is good enough, providing decent performance in esports titles and other less-demanding games.
It’s 8 GBs of 2666 MHz RAM are split into 4 GB x 2 configurations enabling it to run in dual-channel mode, improving performance on Ryzen-based systems.
What We Don’t Like About Lenovo 510A Desktop
The 510A is slightly faster than ordinary SATA SSDs, and even more than conventional HDDs, but you can’t store as many games in its limited space.
While this makes it quicker all-round, think carefully if the speed benefits of this smaller size SSD make up for the additional space that you would get with a hard disk drive.
PROS
- Out of the box as a feasible workstation, with limited bloatware
- Superfast boot time thanks to the SSD drive
- Runs some games that we didn’t think it would be able to handle
- Comes with great-value peripherals package
CONS
- Not built as advertised with 4 USB ports; it only has two
- Unsuitable for higher-intensive AAA games
- No internal speakers; need external speakers or a headset to have any sound
5. CUK AsRock Mantis Custom Gaming PC
Product Highlights
CUK AsRock Mantis is a powerful prebuilt. It comes with Ryzen’s 3200G CPU, a speedy 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of similarly rapid SSD storage.
A great prebuilt thanks to its impressive blend of processing power and graphical processing.This machine is capable of running most AAA titles at medium-low settings.
The Mantis case has plenty of space for future upgrades. The frame-less 4mm toughened glass side panel is 3-5 times stronger than ordinary glass, while beautifully showcasing the workings.
The Mantis has superior cooling with six Halo fans, each illuminated by 30 Green LEDs.
Features
- AMD Ryzen 3200G processor
- 16GB DDR4 RAM
- 512GB 256GB NVMe SSD
- Radeon Vega 8 Processor Graphics
What We Like About CUK AsRock Mantis Custom Gaming PC
The 3200G CPU might only be suitable for lower intensive gaming of high-end titles, but it’s good right up to competitive esports.
The case size has plenty of space for expansion.
Mantis signature green LED scheme looks stunning. And it’s accented by a rainbow keyboard and LED mouse bundle.
What We Don’t Like About CUK AsRock Mantis Custom Gaming PC
We had trouble powering it up a couple of times and had to switch it on and off.
Its footprint is a little on the broad side due to all that expansion space.
PROS
- Its all-round performance for the whole range of gaming
- Handcrafted and superb build quality
- Excellent cable management
- Perfect for first time CPU gamers
CONS
- Larger than expected
- You’ll need a new graphics card for medium-high intensive AAA titles
6. SkyTech Shadow Gaming Computer Desktop PC
Product Highlights
Any budget gaming PC that comes with a dedicated graphics card is worth considering, and 1200 comes with Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050.
Its 1TB 7200RPM HDD is most that you can expect for the price range.
This SkyTech Shadow may come with an older AMD Ryzen 3 1200, but its 8GB RAM, Windows 10 64-bit installed, and the GTX 1050 compensate for this.
Features
- Ryzen 3 1200 3.1 GHz processor
- 1 TB HDD
- Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 dedicated graphics card
- 8GB of RAM
What We Like About SkyTech Shadow Gaming Computer Desktop PC
The Ryzen 3 1200 turbos to 3.4 GHz, ok for entry-level gaming. While the combination with that Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 provides good enough performance for most new games at medium settings
It’s lighting, and metallic feel is how we like our gaming stations to look.
Shadow 1200 isn’t too heavy or bulky, even with seven USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI 2.0b, and a DisplayPort.
What We Don’t Like About SkyTech Shadow Gaming Computer Desktop PC
Multitasking over multiple programs might be a problem for some users. This model has a lower single thread rating and also uses a DDR3 RAM, but it is upgradeable.
There are no USB 3.1 Type C Gen 2 ports.
PROS
- Very little lag when running high draw games while at the same time rendering, streaming and playing Spotify
- Plays Battlefield 1 and WoW at 60+ FPS
- The quiet drive runs smoothly
- Windows installed with no issues and not much bloatware
CONS
- In League of Legends team fight in medium graphics, FPS drops to 40 or lower
- Wi-Fi adapter doesn’t work well with satellite internet
7. SkyTech Archangel Gaming Computer Desktop PC
Product Highlights
SkyTech Archangel’s snow-white case and blue-LED highlights make it an attractive gamer’s PC. A look that’s completed by its LED-lit gaming mouse and keyboard
Like it’s stablemate, the Shadow above, its hardware can handle modern game titles with ease, with the Ryzen 3 1200 processor and GTX 1050 Ti 4GB graphics card. Also, likewise to the Shadow, hunt around or wait your time for it to be on sale.
Archangel also comes equipped with 1TB 7200RPM HDD.
Features
- Ryzen 3 1200 3.1 GHz processor
- 1 TB HDD
- 8GB of RAM
- Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 dedicated graphics card
What We Like About SkyTech Archangel Gaming Computer Desktop PC
It has good enough performance for most new games at medium settings. Playing in standard 1080p resolutions, the ArchAngel can perform multiple games well.
It also comes unlocked, meaning that more capable and enthusiastic gamers can play around with future overclocking for even better performance.
Like the Shadow, we love the Archangel’s design and look. It’s a real gamer’s PC!
What We Don’t Like About SkyTech Archangel Gaming Computer Desktop PC
ArchAngel struggled to play at 4K resolutions without dropping down the gameplay settings to lower FPS.
We also found that it struggles with heavy graphics or processor-intensive applications, like specialist rendering, 3D modeling, video conversions, etc.
PROS
- Plays Fortnite at 90 fps on auto settings
- Includes aftermarket cooler, better than stock
- Unbeatable customer service
CONS
- Not suitable for the best quality and texture gaming at higher resolutions like 4K
- You’ll need a DVI-d(24+1), DisplayPort, or HDMI monitor port
8. CUK Stratos Micro Gaming Desktop PC
Product Highlights
As we’ve seen, CUK provides superb prebuilt gaming PCs. CUK Stratos Micro Gaming PC is another.
It again comes with Ryzen’s 3200G CPU, paired with 16GB of RAM, but this time only 256GB SSD storage. That’s still enough for over 30FPS for AAA titles. T
The Ryzen 3 3200G delivers 3.6Ghz CPU, and its integrated GPU Vega 8 is better than Intel’s integrated graphics for high-performance gaming.
Although the 256GB storage might not be that much, there’s space in the case to upgrade. And it looks great with a multi-colored LED complemented by a rainbow keyboard and LED mouse.
Features
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200G CPU
- 16GB DDR4 RAM
- 256GB NVMe SSD
- Radeon Vega 8 Processor Graphics
What We Like About CUK Stratos Micro Gaming Desktop PC
It packs all the features that you’d expect from CUK, but with a smaller footprint, that gives you more desk space without sacrificing style and performance.
Stratos Micro is a solid build with a tempered glass side door and convenient top panel USB 3.0 and audio ports. We loved the multi-colored interior rings lit by 6 RGB fans.
It’s another example of CUK’s ability to offer up affordable, high-performing, and stylish builds.
What We Don’t Like About CUK Stratos Micro Gaming Desktop PC
You definitely get what you pay for in terms of performance and style. Although the Windows 10 OS that it comes with is just a 30 days trial.
When we had two games downloading and decided to play one, it blue screened.
PROS
- Gorgeous RGB case with tempered glass side for an internal view
- Impressive performance in a small space-saving footprint
- Surprisingly quiet considering all its fans
CONS
- For top-level gaming, you’ll need to upgrade to a separate graphics card
- Bad tech support
Final Verdict
We tested and compared what we consider to be the top fifteen prebuilt gaming PCs for under, or just over, $500.
We considered all factors to come up with what we believe to be the best all-round solution.
After days of fun gaming and review, our final verdict is CUK AsRock DeskMini A300W Tiny Desktop PC.