5 Best Gaming PCs Under $800 in 2026

If you’re aiming to upgrade your gaming setup without overspending, now’s a good time to consider the top options under $800, where performance, durability, and value intersect. These systems feature powerful processors like the Intel Core i7 12700F, AMD Ryzen 7-5700G, and high-performance graphics cards such as the RTX 4070 or RTX 5060, boasting up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM and SSD storage between 512GB and 1TB. Understanding how these specs translate into real-world gaming and multitasking can help, but selecting the right build involves balancing hardware potential with user needs.

MSI Codex R2 Gaming Desktop PC

If you want a gaming PC under $800 that still works great, check out the MSI Codex R2 Desktop. It is strong enough for gaming and creative work. It has an Intel Core i7-13700F processor. This CPU has 16 cores and 24 threads. It can handle many tasks at once and run demanding apps smoothly. The graphics card is an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 with 8GB GDDR7 VRAM. This card makes games look realistic. It also supports ray tracing and DLSS AI upscaling, which improve visuals.

The PC comes with up to 32GB DDR5 RAM. This helps with multitasking and running many programs at the same time. It also has a 1TB PCIe SSD. This makes the PC start fast and gives plenty of space for files and games. The cooling system keeps everything cool during long gaming sessions.

Who should get this? If you want a fast desktop for gaming or creative work that costs less than $800, this is a good choice. It handles multitasking well and has great visuals.

Pros:

• Powerful Intel Core i7-13700F with 16 cores and 24 threads for multitasking
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 with 8GB VRAM for realistic graphics and ray tracing
• Up to 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD for speed and storage

Cons:

• It might be hard to upgrade parts inside
• Needs a good internet connection, like Wi-Fi 6E or Ethernet, to work well online
• The cooling fans can get loud during long or intense gaming

This PC is a solid choice for gamers and creators who want good speed, graphics, and storage without spending too much.

MXZ Gaming PC with Intel Core i7 12700F, RTX 4070, 16GB*2 DDR4, 1TB M.2 SSD, B660, 6 RGB Fans, Windows 11 Pro

The MXZ Gaming PC is a great choice for gamers who want powerful parts but don’t want to spend too much money. It has an Intel Core i7-12700F processor with 12 cores and 20 threads. This means it can handle many tasks at once and run games smoothly. The PC also has a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card which is good for playing tough games at 1080p or 1440p quality.

It comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM running at 3200MHz. That helps the computer run programs and games fast. The 1TB NVMe SSD makes sure games and files load quickly. The PC uses a B660 motherboard for stability and upgradability. Six RGB fans keep the inside cool and look nice with colorful lights. The Windows 11 Pro is already installed, so you’re ready to play right away. The power supply provides 800W with 80+ efficiency, so it can handle future upgrades easily.

Best For: Gamers who want good performance and a fair price. It works well for playing most games at 1080p or 1440p.

Pros:

• Fast Intel Core i7 processor with 12 cores and high speeds
• Strong NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics card
• Cool and colorful with 6 RGB fans

Cons:

• Some users have issues with packing or assembly during delivery
• There may be small differences in specs, like RAM size or storage
• Not everyone is fully happy with the quality or service

This PC is a smart choice if you want good gaming power without overspending. It is easy to use and ready to go out of the box.

LXZ Desktop PC with AMD Ryzen 7-5700G, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, 400W Power Supply

The LXZ Desktop PC has an AMD Ryzen 7-5700G processor, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, a quick 512GB SSD, and a 400W power supply. It’s a good choice for people who want a solid computer that doesn’t cost a lot. It works well for everyday tasks, browsing the web, streaming videos, and light gaming. The Ryzen 7-5700G has 8 cores and a clock speed of 3.9GHz, which helps with multitasking and media work.

The built-in Radeon Graphics can handle casual games and everyday use. It has 16GB of VRAM, but it can’t run very demanding AAA games smoothly. If you want to play those games, you can add a separate graphics card later. The small size of the case makes it easy to fit on a desk or in a small space. It also gives you the chance to upgrade parts later if you want.

Best For: Home users and casual gamers who want a computer to do daily tasks, watch movies, and play lighter games.

Pros:

• Fast AMD Ryzen 7-5700G CPU with 8 cores.
• Quick 512GB SSD for fast startup and loading.
• Compact and stylish design.
• Easy to upgrade if needed.

Cons:

• Built-in Radeon Graphics can’t run very high-end games well.
• Small inside space may limit future upgrades.
• Compact case needs careful setup when adding new parts.

LXZ Desktop PC Ryzen 7-5700G Tower Computer with 16G DDR4 RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, Wi-Fi & 650W Power Supply

The LXZ Desktop PC with Ryzen 7-5700G is a great choice for gamers and users who want strong performance without spending a lot. It has a powerful processor called the Ryzen 7-5700G. This chip can handle normal gaming and daily tasks easily. It also has built-in Radeon Graphics, so you can play some games and do graphics work without buying a separate graphics card. If you want better gaming power, you can add a dedicated card later, like an RTX 3070.

This PC comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM. That means it can run many programs at the same time smoothly. It also has a 1TB NVMe SSD. This type of drive starts your computer faster, helps you load files quickly, and offers plenty of space for your data.

The case of this PC looks good. It has a glass side so you can see inside. It has colorful RGB lights and five fans to keep everything cool. This helps keep the computer running well even during long use.

Best for: Casual gamers and home or office users who want a powerful computer that looks nice and can be upgraded later. It stays under $800.

Good features:

• The Ryzen 7-5700G processor gives strong power and good graphics with integrated Radeon Graphics.
• 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD help your PC run fast and handle many tasks.
• The case looks stylish with a glass side and colorful lights. It also has five fans to keep the hardware cool.

Things to keep in mind:

• The built-in Radeon Graphics are good for normal gaming but may struggle with very high-end games without adding a dedicated video card.
• The size limit for adding a graphics card is about 320mm, which might restrict some future upgrades.
• It does not come with a separate graphics card, so you will need to buy one if you want to play the latest top games.

LXZ Desktop Gaming Computer, R7 5700G, 4.4GHz, 32GB DDR4, 1TB NVMe SSD

If you want an affordable gaming PC that works well for both gaming and everyday tasks, the LXZ Desktop Gaming Computer is a good choice. It has an AMD Ryzen 7 5700G processor. This CPU runs at a base speed of 3.8GHz and can boost up to 4.4GHz. It has 8 cores and 16MB of cache. That means it can handle many apps at once without slowing down.

The computer comes with 32GB of DDR4 RAM. This helps your games and work run smoothly, even when many things are open at the same time. It has a fast 1TB NVMe SSD for quick game loads and file transfers. Plus, it includes a 1TB hard drive for extra storage space.

This PC uses integrated Radeon Graphics. That helps keep the price low but also limits how well it can run very demanding games. It might not play games at the highest settings, but it works fine for most games at good levels. It also does well for regular tasks like browsing, video calls, and work tasks.

Best for: People who want a good, affordable desktop for gaming and daily use. It has plenty of space and can handle many programs at once.

Pros:

• Strong AMD Ryzen 7 5700G processor with high speed and 8 cores for multitasking
• 32GB of DDR4 RAM makes everything run smoothly
• Fast 1TB NVMe SSD plus 1TB hard drive gives quick load times and lots of storage

Cons:

• No dedicated graphics card means less power for very heavy gaming or graphic work
• Limited ports, with only 2 USB 3.0 and 4 USB 2.0 ports
• Not ideal for playing the newest, most demanding games at ultra settings

Factors to Consider When Choosing Gaming PCs Under $800

When selecting a gaming PC under $800, you need to carefully assess the processing power, ensuring the CPU is capable of handling modern games without bottlenecking your system; for example, a quad-core or hexa-core processor with a clock speed of at least 3.5GHz is advisable. Equally important are graphics capabilities—aim for a dedicated GPU like the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super or AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT, as integrated graphics simply won’t deliver smooth gameplay at higher settings. You should also consider the amount of RAM and storage, with a minimum of 16GB DDR4 paired with a 512GB SSD (preferably NVMe) to facilitate fast load times and future upgrades while keeping heat and noise levels manageable through adequate cooling solutions, and evaluate the upgradability options to future-proof your investment within the budget.

Processing Power

Processing power is very important when choosing a gaming PC for under $800. It shows how smoothly games run and how well the computer handles tough tasks. The CPU, or processor, is key here. A good CPU has at least 8 cores and 16 threads. These help the PC run modern games better and handle multiple tasks at once. Also, a CPU with a clock speed above 3.5GHz makes games start faster and run more smoothly. Both AMD and Intel make good processors in this price range. Newer CPUs have higher speeds and can give your gaming setup a big boost without costing a lot. So, when picking a PC, check the CPU power to get the best gaming experience for your budget.

Graphics Capabilities

Graphics are very important when choosing a gaming PC under $800. The graphics quality and how smoothly games run depend a lot on the graphics card. A good dedicated GPU makes playing modern games easier. If you only have integrated graphics, like AMD Radeon or Intel Iris Xe, you can play some casual games, but big, demanding AAA games might be tough.

Look for a graphics card with at least 4GB of VRAM. Good options include the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 or the AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT. These cards cost less but still give you enough power to enjoy many games at medium or high settings.

The model of the GPU and its VRAM matter because they affect how clear the images look, how fast the game runs, and if you can play new games in the future. Also, make sure the PC’s power supply and case support the graphics card. Upgrading later is easier if these parts are compatible from the start.

Memory & Storage

When choosing a gaming PC under $800, it’s important to look at its memory and storage. These parts make a big difference in how well the PC runs and how smoothly games play.

For gaming and multitasking, get at least 16GB of DDR4 or DDR5 RAM. Faster RAM, like 3200MHz or higher, helps games respond quicker and run better.

For storage, choose a system with at least 512GB SSD. An NVMe SSD is best because it loads games and files faster. This means less waiting and more playing.

It’s helpful if the PC has options to add more memory or storage later. This way, you can upgrade when your game library or needs grow.

Having enough fast storage and memory makes it easier to run big games and watch videos without lag. It makes your gaming smoother and more fun.

Cooling Systems

When you pick a gaming PC under $800, it’s important to look at its cooling system. Good cooling helps keep your PC running smoothly and makes it last longer. It stops the parts from getting too hot, which can slow down your games.

One way to cool your PC is with many small RGB fans. These fans move air to keep everything cool. Another option is liquid cooling. Liquid cooling can work better for fast processors or high-end graphics cards.

Making sure there is enough airflow is also key. Place vents and fans where fresh air can come in and hot air can go out. This stops heat from building up inside and causing problems. Using good thermal paste and heat sinks helps move heat away from the main parts. This keeps your computer stable during long gaming sessions.

You can also use software tools to check the temperature inside your PC. These tools let you see if parts are getting too hot and help you change cooling settings. By doing all this, you keep your gaming PC cool and running well.

Upgradability Options

When you choose a gaming PC that costs less than $800, you want to make sure it can be upgraded easily later. Upgradability is important because it lets you add better parts as your needs grow. First, check if the PC has extra RAM slots that can hold at least 32GB of memory. This helps you upgrade your memory if newer games need more RAM. Next, look at the case. It should have enough space and the right slots for future graphics cards. This way, you can add a stronger GPU later for better gaming performance.

Also, see if the motherboard can support newer CPUs and GPUs. If it can, you won’t have to buy a whole new PC later. It’s good if the inside parts are easy to reach, so swapping or adding components is simple. Make sure there are extra drive bays for more storage, like additional hard drives or SSDs. Finally, check the power supply. It should have at least 500W. This gives plenty of power for bigger graphics cards and other added parts in the future.

Connectivity Features

Connectivity features are extra important for your gaming PC. They help your computer stay flexible and ready for all kinds of accessories and internet needs. Look for many USB ports. USB 3.0 or higher is best because it transfers data quickly. This is good for gaming headsets, controllers, and external drives.

Make sure your PC has Wi-Fi 6E or a PCIe Wi-Fi card. These give you fast, reliable wireless internet, which is important for online gaming with no lag. Check if there is an Ethernet port too. A port with 2.5Gbps or more speed makes your wired internet connection steady and quick.

Your motherboard should have enough expansion slots. This lets you add more USB, Ethernet, or network cards later if you want. Finally, Bluetooth 5.2 or newer helps you connect wireless peripherals easily. This keeps your setup simple and ready for any new devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can These Gaming PCS Handle VR Gaming Effectively?

Yes, these gaming PCs can handle VR gaming effectively. They come with powerful enough processors, ample RAM, and capable graphics cards, ensuring smooth performance and immersive experiences without breaking your budget.

How Upgradeable Are These Budget Gaming Desktops?

You can upgrade these budget gaming desktops fairly easily; most feature accessible RAM slots, storage bays, and sometimes GPU slots. However, limited PSU capacity may restrict higher-end components, so check compatibility before upgrading for peak performance.

What Cooling Solutions Do These PCS Offer for Extended Gameplay?

You get efficient cooling solutions like stock air coolers or pre-installed case fans, which help prevent overheating during extended gameplay sessions. For better performance, consider adding aftermarket fans or liquid cooling options to keep temperatures low.

Are These Systems Suitable for Streaming and Content Creation?

Yes, these systems are suitable for streaming and content creation, as they feature powerful processors, ample RAM, and decent graphics, enabling you to run editing software and stream simultaneously without significant slowdowns or performance issues.

Do These PCS Come With Pre-Installed Gaming Optimization Software?

Yes, these gaming PCs often come with pre-installed optimization software, helping you boost performance, manage system resources, and improve gameplay. You just need to activate the software, customize settings, and enjoy a smoother gaming experience.

Last update on 2026-01-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API