Hey there! Looking to get your first serious gaming PC but don‘t want to spend a small fortune? You‘ve come to the right place. I‘ve researched dozens of prebuilt desktops under $1,000 to find the absolute best options to play today‘s top games.
In this guide, I‘ll share my top recommendations that offer great performance without breaking the bank. I‘ll also give you tips on what to look for when buying a budget-friendly gaming PC. Let‘s dive in!
Top Picks
Based on value, performance, features, and overall quality, these are my choices for the 6 best gaming PCs under $1,000 this year:
1. Skytech Shadow 3.0 – Best Overall
Specs:
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU (6-core, 12 threads, 3.6GHz base)
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 GPU (12GB GDDR6 RAM)
- 16GB DDR4-3200 RAM
- 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
- Windows 11 Home
For the best blend of price and performance, I highly recommend the Skytech Shadow 3.0. Skytech is a relatively new player in the prebuilt PC space that consistently punches above its weight.
The Shadow 3.0 is built around AMD‘s excellent Ryzen 5 3600 CPU. This 6-core, 12-thread processor delivers snappy speeds for gaming, streaming, and multitasking. It‘s paired with Nvidia‘s RTX 3060 graphics card, which is a fantastic GPU for the money.
According to Hardware Times, the RTX 3060 provides over 60 fps gameplay at max settings in almost every popular game at 1080p resolution. It also enables ray tracing effects like realistic shadows and reflections. 16GB of fast DDR4 RAM gives you ample overhead for running demanding games smoothly.
The 1TB NVMe SSD loads games and apps lightning fast, while the sleek tempered glass case shows off customizable RGB lighting. Altogether, the Shadow 3.0 is the clear choice for high fps Full HD gaming without busting your $1,000 budget.
Pros:
- RTX 3060 crushes 1080p gaming
- High quality components
- Great value for money
- Ryzen 5 CPU handles streaming
- 1TB of fast SSD storage
Cons:
- 1440p requires lower graphic settings
- Motherboard limits future CPU upgrades
2. HP Omen 25L – Best from a Major Brand
Specs:
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600G CPU (6-core, 12 threads, 3.9GHz base)
- Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super GPU (6GB GDDR6 RAM)
- 16GB DDR4-3200 RAM
- 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD + 1TB 7200RPM HDD
- Windows 11 Home
If buying from an established brand gives you peace of mind, I suggest considering the HP Omen 25L. As one of the most popular gaming PC lines around, the Omen series is known for reliable performance and quality construction.
This 2021 model features AMD‘s speedy Zen 3-based Ryzen 5 5600G CPU and Nvidia‘s highly capable GTX 1660 Super graphics card. In tests by Rock Paper Shotgun, the combo delivered fps in the 80-100 range in esports titles at max settings and 60+ fps in AAA games with some adjustments.
There‘s ample and fast storage thanks to the 512GB NVMe SSD and 1TB platter-based hard drive. A total of 16GB of RAM helps ensure smooth gaming and multitasking. The stylish chassis has easy upgrade access and customizable RGB lighting. Overall, the Omen 25L hits the mark for a brand-name gaming PC just under $1,000.
Pros:
- Strong 1080p gaming performance
- Reputable HP build quality
- Spacious SSD and HDD storage
- Clean, minimalist aesthetics
Cons:
- GTX 1660 Super trails new budget GPUs
- Expensive for specs compared to lesser known brands
3. SkyTech Azure – Best Budget Pick
Specs:
- Intel Core i3-10105F CPU (4-core, 8 threads, 3.7GHz base)
- Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 GPU (4GB GDDR5 RAM)
- 16GB DDR4-2666 RAM
- 500GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Windows 11 Home
If you want the best gaming performance possible for under $700, I recommend the SkyTech Azure. By going with Intel and Nvidia‘s budget-tier components rather than lowest-end parts, it delivers excellent 1080p gameplay at medium to high settings.
According to tests by PCGuide, the quad-core Intel Core i3-10105F and 4GB Nvidia GTX 1650 offer 60fps+ performance in popular titles like Fortnite, Valorant, GTA V, and more at 1080p when a few settings are turned down. Having 16GB of RAM also means great multitasking capabilities.
The 500GB NVMe SSD boots games and apps super fast. And while the case lacks some fancy lighting, the cool blue fans and tempered glass side panel mean it still looks the part. For those seeking good cheap gaming, the SkyTech Azure should top your list.
Pros:
- Excellent 1080p gaming for the price
- 16GB RAM for seamless multitasking
- Quality entry-level components
- Costs under $700
Cons:
- AAA games require lower graphic settings
- Less future upgradability than pricier PCs
4. Lenovo Legion Tower 5i – Best Value Bundle
Specs:
- Intel Core i5-10400F CPU (6-core, 12 threads, 2.9GHz base)
- Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super GPU (6GB GDDR6 RAM)
- 8GB DDR4-2666 RAM
- 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Gaming keyboard & mouse included
- Windows 11 Home
The Legion Tower 5i from Lenovo takes the top spot for value bundles under $900. On top of a capable prebuilt gaming desktop, it includes a matching keyboard and mouse for one low price.
Inside you‘ll find Intel‘s reliable i5-10400F 6-core processor, Nvidia‘s GTX 1660 Super graphics card, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD boot drive. This hardware provides great 1080p performance in popular titles like Valorant, Rocket League, Minecraft, and more.
The bundle features Lenovo‘s Legion-branded RGB gaming keyboard and mouse. Both are well-reviewed for delivering quality and performance beyond their budget-friendly price tags. Altogether, the package offers outstanding value to get up and running with a complete gaming setup for under $900.
Pros:
- Capable 1080p gaming performance
- Quality keyboard & mouse included
- Excellent overall value
- Reputable Lenovo build quality
Cons:
- Entry-level CPU and RAM
- Small 256GB SSD capacity
5. CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Supreme – Best Liquid-Cooled PC
Specs:
- Intel Core i5-11600KF CPU (6-core, 12 threads, 3.9GHz base)
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 GPU (12GB GDDR6 RAM)
- 16GB DDR4-3200 RAM
- 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
- 360mm AIO liquid cooler
- Windows 11 Home
The CyberPowerPC Gamer Supreme is my top pick for under $1,000 if you want a liquid-cooled PC. This custom cooling solution allows the Intel i5 CPU and RTX 3060 GPU to sustain boost speeds for improved gaming performance.
According to CyberPowerPC‘s internal testing, the liquid cooler enables the i5-11600KF processor to run at 4.6GHz and the RTX 3060 to clock around 1.9GHz faster than air-cooled models. This gives you extra frames for buttery smooth gameplay.
With the rest of its 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and quality power supply, the Gamer Supreme delivers high-end gaming performance at a mid-range price. You‘ll enjoy the bold styling too thanks to RGB case fans and colorful liquid cooler tubing.
Pros:
- Liquid cooling enables extra performance
- Powerful 6-core i5 CPU & RTX 3060 GPU
- 1TB SSD provides ample storage
- Eye-catching aesthetics
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than air-cooled PCs
- Tighter case limits future expandability
6. Dell G5 Gaming Desktop – Best Refurbished PC
Specs:
- Intel Core i5-10400F CPU (6-core, 12 threads 2.9GHz base)
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 GPU (6GB GDDR6 RAM)
- 16GB DDR4 RAM
- 512GB M.2 PCIe SSD
- Windows 10 Home
For shoppers open to a refurbished PC, you can get far better specs for under $1,000 with the Dell G5 gaming desktop. Dell‘s refurb process and included warranty ensure it‘ll work like new for years to come.
Compared to new prebuilds, this recertified model packs a more powerful GPU in Nvidia‘s RTX 2060. According to PCGamer benchmarks, it delivers up to 68% faster gaming performance than GTX 1660 Super models that cost around the same price new.
Combine that with a 2020 Intel 6-core i5 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a sizable 512GB SSD, and you have a very capable 1080p gaming rig for under $900. Just make sure to get the 1-year warranty for peace of mind.
Pros:
- RTX 2060 far faster than new budget GPUs
- Dell professional refurbishment
- 1-year limited warranty
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Limited future upgradability
- No flash RGB lighting effects
Buying Considerations for a Gaming PC Under $1,000
Getting a powerful gaming PC for under $1,000 is doable, but you still want to make sure you‘re getting the right components for your needs. Here are the most important things to look for:
| Component | Minimum Recommendation | Ideal Spec |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 4-core/8-thread Intel or 6-core/12-thread AMD | 6-core/12-thread Intel Core i5/i7 or 8-core/16-thread AMD Ryzen 5/7 |
| GPU | Nvidia GTX 1660 Super or AMD RX 5600 XT | Nvidia RTX 3060 or AMD RX 6600 XT |
| RAM | 8GB DDR4-3000+ | 16GB DDR4-3200+ |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 500GB+ PCIe NVMe SSD + 1TB HDD |
| Power Supply | 500W 80+ Bronze | 650W 80+ Gold |
| Case | ATX with good airflow | Tempered glass ATX case with RGB fans |
GPU (Graphics Card): The graphics card has the biggest impact on gaming performance. I recommend an Nvidia RTX 3000 series or AMD RX 6000 series GPU at a minimum. Look for at least 6GB of video memory.
CPU (Processor): Aim for a 6-core processor from Intel or 8-core AMD Ryzen processor if possible. More cores help with gaming, streaming, and running other apps simultaneously.
RAM: 16GB of RAM is ideal for smooth gaming and multitasking. 8GB is okay for gaming alone. Make sure it‘s fast DDR4 RAM clocked at 3000MHz or above.
Storage: Get an SSD rather than an old-school hard drive. A 256GB SSD is fine for your Windows installation and a couple games, but I‘d suggest 500GB+ for more storage headroom. Add a 1-2TB HDD for extra game libraries.
Power Supply: Don‘t cheap out on the power supply. Look for at least an 80 Plus Bronze-certified unit from reputable brands like Corsair, EVGA, or Seasonic. Aim for 500W+ for any system with a dedicated GPU.
Case: The case determines airflow and cooling ability. Look for a roomy ATX mid-tower case with good cable management options and multiple pre-installed fans. Side windows are great for showing off RGB components.
Answering Common Questions About $1,000 Gaming PCs
If you‘re new to gaming computers, you probably still have some questions. Here I‘ll tackle some of the most frequently asked ones to help you make the best choice:
Are prebuilt gaming PCs worth it compared to building your own?
For most gamers, going prebuilt is the smarter option. Building your own does typically save around 5-10%, but takes substantial research and PC building knowledge. Manufacturers can source components cheaper and assemble them reliably. You also get customer support and warranties.
Can a good $1,000 gaming PC run any modern game well?
Yes, a $1,000 gaming PC will run all of today‘s most demanding AAA titles at very enjoyable setting levels and frame rates, even if not maxed out. You get excellent 1080p performance around or above 60 fps. Some 1440p gaming is achievable with settings turned down slightly.
Should I get a gaming desktop or laptop for under $1,000?
For performance per dollar, gaming desktops give you considerably more power than laptops. But laptops provide portability to game anywhere. Ultimately, pick based on whether raw power or mobility is more important for you.
How does gaming performance scale with PC cost?
Up to $1,000, each budget increase nets noticeably improved gaming performance. From $1,000-$1,500 gains slow down. And above $1,500-$2,000, diminishing returns hit hard for the extra money. So a $1,000 PC gets you very close to top-end gaming capabilities.
How future-proof are $1,000 gaming PCs?
A well-built gaming desktop around this price range will readily last 5 years or more for smooth gaming. The key is choosing components wisely to enable cost-effective upgrades. Prioritize elements like the GPU, RAM, storage, and power supply that are easy to swap later on.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, getting a seriously capable gaming PC for under $1,000 in 2023 is totally doable. The systems on this list all provide awesome 1080p gaming experiences in anything you throw at them. Many even deliver solid 1440p performance if you tweak some graphics settings.
Stick to well-reviewed models like my top recommendations, focus on the components that matter most for gaming, and you‘re sure to be very happy with a sub-$1,000 gaming PC purchase. Just set your expectations properly, and you‘ll enjoy buttery smooth gameplay for years to come without breaking your budget.
Hope this guide helped explain what to look for in an affordable prebuilt desktop. Let me know if you have any other questions before buying your new gaming PC!