Whether you use your PC for work or gaming, you are always looking to make it that much better. You want some more storage space, you want it to be quicker, you want the graphics to be a bit crisper, or you just want it to run smoother.
While all of this sounds good, it all costs money, and with technology moving forward at a rapid pace, you can get some incredible upgrades that can improve your gaming experience, or make work easier, but they will cost. However, you don’t need to break the bank, there are a number of budget options for all your PC needs.
AMD Ryzen 3 3300X CPU
The budget CPU world is actually a great space to be looking at right now. The Ryzen 3 3300 is actually so good that you might actually end up struggling to get your hands on one, which is no surprise considering what you are getting for your money.
The 4 core CPU has a couple of high-end features, including support for PCIe 4.0 devices and its high operating clocks. The clocks are ideal for anyone wanting to spend the money they save on a high end SSD. The 4-core, 8-thread chip also packs a great punch at other tasks as well.
Vantec 2-Port USB 3.1 Gen II
Even though you will need a SATA power connector from your power supply to run this port, this expansion is half-height, and comes with both full-width and half-height brackets. What this all means is that it will fit most systems that have a spare slot, and give you more ports for plugging in your SSD or other USB devices.
Considering motherboards on the higher-end, the more expensive ones, are the ones that come fitted with USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports which are obviously extremely fast, this connector is the budget way of adding that speed to your set-up, without spending the cash.
Asrock B550M-HDV
A high-end motherboard allows you to do a variety of different things. You can have insane overclocks, have the ability to plug in loads of expansion cards, and connect to networks and peripherals in multiple ways. However, this costs money, what you need if you are on a budget is a solid core.
This motherboard from Asrock is exactly that, a solid core that allows you to plug in your CPU, graphics card, and your SSD. when it comes to standard performances, it’s right up there with more expensive boards, and is a brilliant budge option.
Arctic Freezer 34 eSports Duo
While standard cooling fans are getting better and better as the years go by, if you are upgrading other parts of your PC to make it faster or more powerful, you are inevitably going to need a new fan and cooling system that can keep up with your upgrades.
This aftermarket CPU cooler is incredibly cheap, although it does only support AM4 sockets, you will also need to ensure it fits your case. It also doesn’t come with any RGB lighting, but if you are on a budget, that isn’t something that is at the top of your priority list anyway.
Nvidia GTX 1660 Super
Graphics cards are a must for any build, and being on a budget doesn’t mean you have to make any sacrifices with regards to your GPU. While this GPU is lacking in some aspects, the price is most definitely the main draw
Before the 1660 Super came out, you would need to shell out the cash for the 1660 Ti, meaning the Super is right up at the 1660 Ti performance level. As said already, there are some features you may miss, but as an entry or budget option, this is the best place to start.
Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB
Memory is easily one of the most important features for a PC build. There are many different options available, and memory setups area available at multiple price points as well. The Vengeance is just a simple memory kit that offers a ton of space, without the frills.
This kit offers you a bit of leeway with regards to overclocking, it is more than sufficient for most tasks, and as mentioned already, it is just great value for money. 8GB of RAM can be enough, but you’re getting 16GB for a price that is hard to pass up on.
Lexip Mo42 Kit
Something that is a bit more for ease of use. These ceramic feet for your mouse will allow it to glide across your desk with ease. While it may seem a bit pointless, if you are building a PC for gaming, this will make a huge difference.
Cozoo Under Desk Hanger
Another small extra that can add tons of convenience, this under-desk hanger will allow you to store away your headphones, charging cables and the like out of the way, preventing clutter and stopping you from losing important cables.
Being on a budget does not mean you can’t build a fast and powerful PC. There are tons of products out there, all at a variety of price points that can fit anyone’s budget. All you have to do is some research, and you will find that cheap doesn’t always mean bad.