Building your own PC might seem daunting, but thankfully, excellent pre-built gaming PCs offer a fantastic alternative. While you miss the DIY satisfaction, you gain valuable time—time better spent gaming! Forget endless research, component waits, assembly, and troubleshooting; jump straight into the best PC games.
Gone are the unreliable pre-built systems of the past. Today's options deliver durable, high-performance gaming PCs ready for any challenge. With top-tier graphics cards and processors becoming increasingly expensive, pre-built systems from reputable brands like Alienware, MSI, or HP can even save you money. Most allow for easy component upgrades later on, including our favorite, the spacious HP Omen 45L.
TL;DR – The Best Gaming PCs
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Our Top Pick### LenovoLegion Tower 7i
6See it at Lenovo
### HP Omen 45L
11See it at HP
### iBuyPower Trace 7 Mesh Gaming Desktop
8See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
### Alienware Aurora R16
5See it at Dell
### Asus ROG NUC
2See it at Amazon
Choosing a gaming PC involves more than selecting a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S. Consider your gaming preferences and desired performance levels. The best budget gaming PCs won't max out Cyberpunk 2077 at the highest settings. Matching processor, storage, memory, cooling, and other hardware is crucial to avoid bottlenecks. Fortunately, many manufacturers simplify this process.
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 have launched, following their CES 2025 announcement. While I haven't reviewed pre-built systems with these cards yet, expect many on this list to offer them soon or receive updates with this new generation hardware. Additionally, the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT is slated for a March 2025 release.
Whether you need an affordable PC for indie games, a space-saving option, or a top-tier rig for 4K gaming, our five selections cater to various needs. Click here for UK options.
*Contributions by Danielle Abraham and Georgie Peru*
*For additional savings, check out the* *best gaming PC deals* *currently available.*
Lenovo Legion Tower 7i – Photos
7 Images
1. Lenovo Legion Tower 7i
Best Gaming PC
Our Top Pick### LenovoLegion Tower 7i
6The Lenovo Legion Tower 7i boasts powerful hardware and easy upgradeability.See it at LenovoProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i9-14900KFGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Ti – RTX 4080 SuperRAMUp to 32GB DDR5 @ 4,000MHzStorageUp to 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSDWeight37.48 lbsSize19.37 x 8.31 x 18.27 inches (H x W x D)PROSExtremely solid performance for the moneyEasy to upgradeCONSShips with very basic memory and motherboardThe Lenovo Legion Tower 7i shatters the stigma of proprietary hardware in pre-built PCs. Unlike older systems, its standard mid-tower case houses industry-standard components, simplifying repairs and upgrades. While Lenovo economizes on memory and motherboard, the standard sizing allows for easy replacements with better options as your budget allows.
This makes it not just a great gaming PC, but also an excellent entry point to PC customization. Upgrading a few components is far less intimidating than building from scratch.
The Lenovo Legion Tower 7i's competitive price sets it apart. This high-end tower undercuts similarly specced systems from HP or Alienware, despite a less flashy design. If you prioritize solid gaming performance at a great price, this is the pre-built for you.
HP Omen 45L
Best Current-Gen PC
### HP Omen 45L
11Exceptional performance with an Intel Core i9 CPU, Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU, and 16GB RAM, kept cool by a robust system.See it at HPProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i7-14700K – Intel Core i9-14900KGPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Ti – RTX 4090RAM16GB DDR5 – 64GB DDR5Storage512GB – 2TB SSD (System); 1TB – 2TB 7200 rpm hard disk (Secondary)Weight49.82 poundsSize8.03 x 18.5 x 21.85 inches (W x D x H)PROSGreat cooling systemExceptional case for upgradesCONSVery heavyThe HP Omen 45L transcends the limitations of past gaming PCs. Its spacious case, unlike many proprietary designs, supports upgrades, including custom water cooling and high-end graphics cards like the RTX 4090. I've even built a custom PC in this case!
Even the entry-level model, with a 512GB SSD and RTX 4060 Ti, is upgrade-friendly. Expanding storage and upgrading the GPU later is a breeze.
While pricey (starting around $2060 before discounts), the exceptional case justifies the cost. You'll use this case for years, upgrading and customizing as you see fit. The Omen 45L is a premium PC for those who value a truly upgradeable system.
iBuyPower Trace 7 Mesh Gaming Desktop
Best Budget Gaming PC
### iBuyPower Trace 7 Mesh Gaming Desktop
8An affordable gaming PC with a processor for 1080p gaming and high-bandwidth DDR5 RAM.See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i7-14700FGPUNvidia RTX 4060 TiRAM32GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage1TB SSDWeight35 poundsSize19.3" x 8.66" x 18.9"PROSExcellent 1080p gaming performanceIncludes keyboard and mouseCONSNot ideal for 4K gamingThe iBuyPower Trace 7 Mesh Gaming Desktop proves that powerful gaming PCs don't have to break the bank. Its 14th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and RTX 4060 Ti GPU deliver smooth 1080p gaming. It even handles 1440p for less demanding titles.
Game streaming is also viable thanks to the 32GB DDR5 RAM. The 1TB SSD ensures fast load times.
While not as powerful as premium options, the roomy case with mesh panels ensures good airflow. Three front ARGB fans and one rear fan aid cooling, though further upgrades are possible. The system's upgradability is a plus, considering the upcoming RTX 5000 series and 15th-gen Intel processors. The included keyboard and mouse add extra value.
At under $1,500, the iBuyPower Trace 7 Mesh Gaming Desktop is a strong value proposition for budget-conscious gamers.
The Best Gaming PC Deals
Lenovo Legion Tower 5 AMD Ryzen 7 7700 RTX 4070 Ti Super Gaming PC with 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD (Use Code: EXTRAFIVE)- $1,527.49Acer Predator Orion RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Gaming Desktop- $1,749.99HP OMEN 35L RTX 4060 Ti Gaming Desktop- $1,219.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PC- $1,349.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Gaming PC- $1,099.994. Alienware Aurora R16
Best High-End Gaming PC
### Alienware Aurora R16
5High-end gaming rig with powerful processors, impressive cooling, and 32GB RAM for high 4K frame rates.See it at DellProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i9-14900KFGPUNvidia RTX 4080 SuperRAM32GB DDR5 5,600MHzStorage2TB PCIe NVMe SSDWeight33.9 poundsSize16.46" x 7.75" x 18.05"PROSWildly powerful processorsExcellent multitasking capabilitiesCONSMore mainstream designThe Alienware Aurora R16 delivers top-tier performance for high-budget gamers. Its design is more mainstream than the Aurora R15, but still features RGB lighting. The case prioritizes airflow with powerful, quiet fans and a 240mm liquid CPU cooler.
The Intel Core i9-14900KF processor and RTX 4080 Super graphics provide exceptional performance for 4K gaming and video encoding. 32GB of DDR5 5,600MHz RAM enhances multitasking, while the 2TB NVMe SSD ensures lightning-fast load times.
Asus ROG NUC – Photos
7 Images
5. Asus ROG NUC
Best Mini Gaming PC
### Asus ROG NUC
2A surprisingly powerful mini gaming PC with a mobile-class RTX 4070.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCPU Intel Core Ultra 7 – Intel Core Ultra 9GPU Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 – Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 (Mobile)RAM 16GB – 32GB DDR5Storage512GB – 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSDWeight5.73 poundsSize10.62 x 7.09 x 2.36 inches (W x D x H)PROSCompact sizeSolid 1080p gaming performanceCONSUses mobile-class hardwareThe Asus ROG NUC exemplifies the compromises inherent in mini PCs. Its compact size necessitates using a mobile-class RTX 4070 and Intel Core Ultra 9 processor. While 1080p gaming is excellent, higher resolutions, especially in demanding games, will present challenges.
Despite these limitations, 1080p performance is surprisingly strong. Maxed-out settings at 60fps are achievable for most games. Its compact size makes it perfect as a home theater PC capable of both media playback and gaming. Consider it a viable option for 4K gaming if you’re willing to adjust settings.
Where to Get the Best Gaming PC in the UK
Pre-built PCs offer significant time savings, regardless of location. Many options on our list ship to the UK, including those from Newegg, offering competitive pricing and shipping costs.
### Best Mini Gaming PC MSI MEG Trident X2
0See it at NeweggHow to Choose a Gaming PC
Pre-built PCs are a cost-effective and convenient entry point to PC gaming. They save time and effort compared to building your own. However, smart spending is still essential.
Prioritize the graphics card based on your monitor's resolution. An RTX 3060 Ti suffices for 1080p gaming. Similarly, an Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 processor with at least four cores handles most modern games comfortably.
System memory and SSDs can be expensive. Consider minimizing these initially if you plan to upgrade later. Barebones systems offer a cheaper alternative, lacking only storage, memory, and an OS.
For maximum control, boutique PC builders like Origin, Maingear, DigitalStorm, Falcon Northwest, PC Specialist, and others offer custom configurations. NZXT's BLD and iBuyPower's Easy Builder services simplify the process by letting you select games and desired performance levels.
Pre-built PCs often include convenient features like overclocking support and system monitoring software.
Gaming PC FAQ
Should you buy a gaming PC or a gaming laptop?
Unless portability is paramount, a gaming PC generally surpasses even the best gaming laptops. Upgrading is easier and cheaper, and they tend to have longer lifespans.
Is it easy to upgrade your prebuilt gaming PC?
Most manufacturers now avoid proprietary parts. Standard-sized motherboards allow for easy CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage upgrades. Tool-less designs further simplify the process.
Should you buy a gaming PC or a console?
Gaming PCs offer advantages in library size, peripheral options, upgradeability, and performance. Consoles are simpler to use and cheaper upfront, but PCs ultimately provide a more versatile and powerful gaming experience.
Can you find a good gaming PC for under $1,000?
Yes, but expect limitations in performance. 1080p gaming will be achievable, but high settings in demanding games may be challenging.
Should you build your own gaming PC?
Building your own offers customization and potential cost savings, but requires technical knowledge and time. Pre-built PCs offer convenience and warranty support.
After securing your gaming PC, remember to grab the best gaming accessories to complete your setup!
