THIS GUIDE IS OUT OF DATE, PLEASE VISIT THE MOST UP TO DATE ONE ON THE FRONT PAGE!
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Hi everyone, it's been a while! Welcome to the Summer 2025 PC best buy guide!
I've been out of the running due to injury on my arm, but the fast few months also haven't been great for those wanting to buy a PC - or a GPU in particular. As prices have been slowly going and stock going up, I'm hesitantly optimistic on making a new guide. Although it's far from where prices were, and with tarriffs going left and right, there's no telling where things will go, the Winter 2025 guide is now so out of date it warrants replacement.
Before commenting, please read the following:
I have been getting a lot of comments of people being confused what the lists are actually for, and how the parametric selections work on PCPartpicker.com . Please use this flowchart to guide you through the website before commenting some frequently ask questions
I want to reiterate that these lists are here to give you an indication on what you can expect for a certain budget; what kind of value you can get for your money with that budget. That does not only mean pure performance, but also features, expandability, and future upgradability. Some of these are hard to quantify in words, but I have tried my best through my own judgment to make some weighted decisions on each list.
To give you an example, in the $1100 list I might recommend a Ryzen 7600(X) with an RTX 5060 Ti, 32GB RAM, paired with a 1TB SSD, and a relatively value-oriented case, cooler & motherboard. This is my vision of the best 'value' PC you can get, but if you have a different PC with a high end case with RGB, expensive cooler, and 2TB SSD, that is 100%, utterly and completely, fine! I just want you to have a reference point.
Gaming PCs
| Budget | Note / compared to previous budget | Possible upgrades with leftover budget (in order of priority) |
|---|---|---|
| ~ $400 | This is the cheapest gaming PC I can somewhat recommend. Do note that this PC does NOT have WiFi, and if you do need WiFi you need to either buy a WiFi enabled motherboard or add a (preferably PCIe x1) WiFI module. This PC uses the Arc A380 which is a pretty basic GPU. | A faster - but second hand - GPU like a used RTX 2070 (Super) or RX 5700XT. WiFi / Bluetooth capabilities on the motherboard, 1TB SSD, extra RAM (2x16GB) |
| ~ $500 (iGPU) | If you're planning on buying a GPU later on, or are only a very light gamer, this might be interesting for you. You're getting an AM5 CPU with 32GB of DDR5 RAM which means great upgradability in the future. This list also ensures a fast Wi-Fi connection (as opposed to just wired Ethernet) | Ryzen 8700G (which has 8 cores and a faster iGPU). 1TB SSD. |
| ~ $650 | With $250 extra to spend compared to the $400 list, you're getting a huge upgrade, mainly in the form of the AMD Radeon RX 7600. As the stock and availability of the Radeon RX 6600, 6600XT, and 6650XT withers over time, the 7600 comes the more logical choice, even though it's quite expensive. You're also getting 32GB RAM which is really nice to have in 2025. | My first priority would be getting a 1TB SSD. We have a motherboard that supports as least 2 M.2 SSDs, so you can also add another SSD later on. If you have the i5 12400F selected, you could get a DDR5 motherboard and DDR5 RAM for better longevity as DDR5 is continuously getting faster than DDR4 in games. |
| ~ $850 | We're making a few nice to have upgrades here. The Intel Arc B580 is a fantastic value GPU, though it's still too expensive to be added in more budgets. If you can find a good deal on an RX 6750XT, 7600XT4060 Ti (16GB), or 7700XT, I'd pick that instead. We're also guaranteeing a 1TB SSD (finally), a much quieter cooler, 32GB RAM, a roomier case and a better quality power supply. The con of using the B580 with this specific build would be that the B580 really likes having more CPU overhead. | As mentioned, I'd prefer a 7700XT here if possible. A DDR5 motherboard + RAM is also a nice upgrade to make here. A better case would also be nice. |
| ~ $1000 | The main jump we're making here is in terms of CPU gaming performance, future upgradability, and DDR5 RAM. The Ryzen 7600(X) / 9600(X) are still the best overall value CPUs out there. They have fantastic gaming performance, a great upgrade path (to the 9800X3D or future AM5 socket generations), and are great to use. The starting price is a lot higher though, and we don't have a ton of GPU overhead anymore. I would love to add the 7600/9600 to lower lists, but that's hard to justify with current GPU prices. | You could 'future proof' the PSU to an 850W model. |
| ~ $1100 | Although the $1000 is a nicely rounded budget, I think that this $1100 list is a noticeably better PC due to the 16GB RTX 5060 Ti. Even though there's been a lot of drama on the 5060 Ti due to the 8GB variant, objectively speaking the 16GB version is one of the best Nvidia cards you can currently get in terms of value. With current prices that's not saying much, but it's something. All in all you're getting a nicely rounded PC | 2TB SSD, dual tower cooler (like a Thermalright Phantom Spirit) |
| ~ $1300 | The AMD RX 9070 would be a nice upgrade over the RTX 5060 Ti 16GB. It's currently still a bit too overpriced, but would be a nice middle-of-the-road upgrade nonetheless. | Check the price on the AMD Ryzen 5 9600(X). If it's within $25 of the 7600(X), I'd upgrade tot that if you have the slack. 2TB SSD, dual tower cooler (like a Thermalright Phantom Spirit), higher end case. |
| ~ $1500 | Upgraded to the RTX 5070 Ti. If the 9070 XT is much cheaper, I'd grab that instead. | Check the price on the AMD Ryzen 5 9600(X). If it's within $25 of the 7600(X), I'd upgrade tot that if you have the slack. 2TB SSD, dual tower cooler (like a Thermalright Phantom Spirit), higher end case. |
| ~ $1800 | Upgraded to the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D for much faster CPU gaming performance, with the added bonus of a much beefier cooler. Also upgraded the motherboard to an ATX model with at least 3 M.2 slots and Wi-Fi 6E, and a 2TB SSD. | For $100 extra you could consider the 9800X3D. Also look into a higher end case. |
| ~ $2000 | Upgraded to the 9800X3D and an extra 2TB SSD. Also clamped down the PSU to a more limited selection of premium brands | Higher end case, liquid cooling. |
| ~ $2250 | Upgraded to the RTX 5080. | |
| ~ $3000 | High end liquid cooling, a higher end motherboard, double the RAM, a larger single SSD, a higher end power supply and a higher end case. | |
| ~ $5000 | RTX 5090, an extra (PCIe gen 5) 2TB SSD, an even higher end motherboard, and top of the line power supply. | Anything you want! |
Workstations
| Budget | Note / compared to previous budget | Possible upgrades with leftover budget (in order of priority) |
|---|---|---|
| ~ $850 | Very fast and high quality Workstation without 3D acceleration. Although the new Intel Core Ultra CPUs aren't that interesting for gaming, with the reduced prices they're quite appealing for workstations. | If you want a 3D accelerated machine, you can add any GPU you like. For a high end (70-class and higher) you might want to consider a higher capacity PSU. If 2D is all you need but have budget left over, the Core Ultra 9 285K is a good upgrade too. |
| ~ $1700 | Upraded to the Core Ultra 9 285K added the 16GB RTX 5060 Ti. This gives you a relatively large VRAM buffer that's nice to have for 3D workstation applications. | Extra RAM, more storage, higher end case. |
| ~ $3000 | Upgraded to a 360mm radiator for CPU cooling, extra 2TB storage, an RTX 5080, a crap-load more RAM, and a much higher end case. If you don't need such a high amount of RAM, you can remove a set, or even go for a faster set of 2x32GB if that's enough for you. | RTX 5090 if you can stomach it. Spend more budget on storage if you don't need the RAM. |
| ~ $5500 | Changed to the Noctua NH-D15 G2 for ultimate air-cooling. Motherboard with Wi-Fi 7 and faster networking. Set of 4x48GB to guarantee stability over 2 sets of 2 x 48GB. More RAM. RTX 5090. More storage. Titanium rated power supply. | Anything you want! |
Videos
I don't have a limit on my budget. I want to build the best pc possible for me without adding unnecessary things like too much space (TB) or something extra that I won't use. Please help me guys, I don't know anything about computers, but I have a lot of money to spend, just don't add things that would be considered overkill and not necessary. I spend the whole day on the computer working on digital marketing, and reading graphs for stock market. I always have 10+ tabs opened on my pc and right now it lags so much. I also love playing video games, I have the money to spend, so go ahead guys, tell me the best!!!
What will you be doing with this PC? Be as specific as possible, and include specific games or programs you will be using.
I will be almost exclusively playing triple a games such as red dead redemption 2, fifa, assassins creed games, but also strategy games such as football manager, ck3, and eu4. I’ll probably also use it for Netflix but mainly just video games.
What is your maximum budget before rebates/shipping/taxes?
I recently received some inheritance money so I finally have the capability to build a high end pc. My absolute maximum is $10,000 but I would highly prefer to not go over $7,000 and will only do so if the performance benefit is very noticeable. I really want to more or less get the best gaming pc I can possibly get.
When do you plan on building/buying the PC? Note: beyond a week or two from today means any build you receive will be out of date when you want to buy.
As soon as possible, today if I can.
What, exactly, do you need included in the budget? (Tower/OS/monitor/keyboard/mouse/etc)
This budget is just for the tower and computer hardware only, any accessories such as a monitor or keyboard will be separate, future considerations for me.
Which country (and state/province) will you be purchasing the parts in? If you're in US, do you have access to a Microcenter location?
Maryland, USA. According to google the closest micro center to me is about an hour away. If it’s worth making a trip there I will but I’d prefer not to. I’m completely ignorant when it comes to micro centers.
If reusing any parts (including monitor(s)/keyboard/mouse/etc), what parts will you be reusing? Brands and models are appreciated.
I have some accessories such as a keyboard and mouse I could reuse but again, this budget is just for the pc itself.
Will you be overclocking? If yes, are you interested in overclocking right away, or down the line? CPU and/or GPU?
Like microcenters I’m completely ignorant when it comes to overclocking so probably down the line if I learn a little about it.
Are there any specific features or items you want/need in the build? (ex: SSD, large amount of storage or a RAID setup, CUDA or OpenCL support, etc)
My pc knowledge is very limited which is why I’m here in the first place. Like I said earlier I really just want to get what’s more or less the best gaming pc someone can get, so any parts or features necessary to that end I want to get.
Do you have any specific case preferences (Size like ITX/microATX/mid-tower/full-tower, styles, colors, window or not, LED lighting, etc), or a particular color theme preference for the components?
Could not care less tbh, just want the best possible gaming pc regardless of size, style, color, etc..
Do you need a copy of Windows included in the budget? If you do need one included, do you have a preference?
Yes, Windows 11.
Extra info or particulars:
Just to sum up I guess, max budget is $10,000 but I highly doubt I’ll need that much. Prefer not to go over $7,000. I’m simply looking to get the best pc possible for video games.
So, I’m considering buying a worthwhile desktop PC, mainly for gaming and editing. Except, I don't know anything about computers, I don't know what CPU I need, motherboard, video card, etc. There are so many brands that I honestly have no clue which one is better; I know it's cheaper to build your computer, but I don’t have the first clue how to do that and know I will waste possibly more money than if I purchase a premade one. Does anyone have any helpful links I can compare or knowledge on the subject?
Hi, I'm looking for a gaming PC tower and my budget is between $1500 and $1600. Can you please share your recommendations? Thanks
I got an Xbox earlier in the year, and now I want to dip my toe into PC Gaming with an UltraWide monitor. I am stuck between 2 PCs that are or will be on sale for Black Friday. They are basically the same configuration, except for the CPU. I would like something that’s not going to have to be upgraded for a while. Thoughts on which CPU is better or do you have a suggestion for a better alternative.
Costco currently $1699.99, will be $1299.99 staring 11/28
iBUYPOWER SlateMesh 8 Gaming Desktop - 14th Gen Intel Core i9-14900F - NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Super - Windows 11 - 32GB RAM - 2TB SSD
https://www.costco.com/ibuypower-slatemesh-8-gaming-desktop---14th-gen-intel-core-i9-14900f---nvidia-geforce-rtx-4070-super---windows-11---32gb-ram---2tb-ssd.product.4000291940.html
Best Buy currently $1429.99
CyberPowerPC - Gamer Supreme Gaming Desktop - AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D - 32GB Memory - NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 SUPER 12GB - 2TB SSD
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/cyberpowerpc-gamer-supreme-gaming-desktop-amd-ryzen-7-7800x3d-32gb-memory-nvidia-geforce-rtx-4070-super-12gb-2tb-ssd-white/6575113.p?sb_share_source=PDP&skuId=6575113
UPDATE I had originally bought the one from Costco last week and it was good, but not great in some games. Star Wars Jedi Survivor was really bad on the Epic graphics setting. It would skip, freeze, and dropped frames. I had to put it on Medium graphics to get it to work well, and even then I had some random issues. I picked up the one from Best Buy this afternoon based on everyone’s feedback. For one, all the updates installed without issue (it took me 4 hours of troubleshooting to get the one from Costco updated properly). I tested the one from Best Buy with Star Wars Jedi Survivor on Epic graphics settings on that game played smooth with no issues. It plays better and looks better. Thank you all so much for your input.
Hi I'm wanting to get a pc I have 3 options i7 2600 with gtx 1650 with 20gb ram or i7 3700 with 16gb ram but with a AMD Radeon rx 480 or a i5 7400 16gb ram GeForce gtx 970 please help which one is the best one to run games and get the best fps out of csgo and call of duty thanks
I'm wanting to get a gaming pc that'll be good for videos and streams but also business I'm not old enough to have a business but I'm wanting to keep the pc for years and just upgrade it when it gets to low to use for my games
Hi there. I’m a complete noob in the world of gaming PCs. I really don’t have a lot of time to play and my wife and I need a solid new (we are both teachers) PC. I have always wanted to play God Of War but I don’t have a PS5 and spending 500 dlls just to play one game doesn’t sound like a good idea. I figure that I should buy a PC that can last at least 5-7 years without giving me a headache. I would only play ocasionally GOW and maybe Ghost of Tsushima which also looks tempting. So what do you think guys? Right now there are some deals at HP and an omen L15 with i7, rtx 4060, 16Gb RAM and 512 ssd is around $1000. Would that be enough for the future years?
Wondering what the best prebuilt company is to buy from. This would be my first pc and I dont want to break anything trying to build one myself. I’ve seen people say Digital Storm, NZKT, cyberpower, etc. But each one gets mixed reviews, wondering if someone could help point me in the best direction. My budget is between 2-3k.
Hello! Here to get some recommendations from some Gamer PC experts…
Kindly recommend some custom Gaming Desktops brands or pre built options please! (Something advanced and looks cool! College graduation gift)
I have browsed: CyberPowerPC, XoticPC, MainGear, Razer and Alienware!
Budget: 7K
Be kind please… am not a gamer. Thank you.
So I’m looking into buying a good desktop PC, mainly for gaming and editing purposes. Except, I don't know anything about computers, what CPU I need/want, motherboard, video card, etc. There are so many different brands and companies, that I honestly don't know which one is the best option for me. Does anyone have any helpful links I can compare or knowledge on the subject?
So I don’t know if I’m allowed to ask a question like this on here or in the simple questions thread because I didn’t get a response on the simple questions thread, so If it’s not allowed let me know.
Anyways, I’ve been researching for the best quality pre-builds I can find, and I’m seeing that two of the most talked about pre-built pcs are the ABS Cyclone Aqua and pretty much any of the CyberPower PCs. Although every one I’ve heard of has mixed reviews(obviously) so I don’t know if those two I mentioned are even actually good. And btw, I am indeed dead set on getting a Pre-Built, so I won’t be changing my mind. Anyways, if anyone has an opinion on what some of the top brands for Pre-Built PCs are PLEASE let me know.
P.S. feel free to list any PC that you feel is good quality with good customer service, my budget is flexible.
Hello everyone, I'm in the market for a solid prebuilt gaming PC and was hoping to get some recommendations. I'm looking for something that's ready to go out of the box, with great performance for modern AAA titles and ideally some future-proofing.
Budget is flexible, but I'm aiming for the best value around the $1500–$200 range. I'd also love to hear any brands or specific models you’ve had good experiences with (or ones to avoid). Bonus points for good thermals, build quality, and upgradability.
Thanks in advance!
Which one should I buy? The first one will be going on sale for 1299$ and the second one is 1429$.
I'm looking to get a budget-ish gaming PC but have no experience building it myself. I'm sure buying each component individually and assembling the PC is the most cost efficient method, but I'm too nervous to screw it up.
That said, is Best Buy a good option? Anybody have any recommendations to a specific PC if you've bought one recently?
Details
Budget: $1,500 CAD
Use: Gaming
Games to be played: Hogwarts Legacy, SIMS, World of Warcraft, League of Legends (I'm not an FPS game player).
Requirements: SSD hardrives, at least 16GB RAM, and i7+. I'd prefer to have this last at least 3-4 years before needing to make upgrades.
Thanks for any help that can be provided.