If building your own gaming rig feels like too much of a hassle or isn't high on your priority list, opting for one of the best pre-built gaming PCs could be your golden ticket. Sure, you might miss out on the pride of assembling your machine from scratch, but think of all the time you'll save—not having to research components, wait for them to arrive, or troubleshoot any assembly hiccups. That time can be better spent diving into the best PC games available.
Gone are the days of half-baked pre-built systems; today's options cut fewer corners, delivering robust, long-lasting gaming PCs capable of handling all the action you can throw at them. With the latest and greatest graphics cards and processors pushing prices higher, choosing a pre-built from brands like Alienware, MSI, or HP might even help you save money. Plus, many of these systems are designed for easy upgrades, including our top pick, the spacious HP Omen 45L.
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 is a bit more involved than picking up a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S. It requires deciding on the types of games you want to play and how you want to play them. For example, best budget gaming PCs might not handle Cyberpunk 2077 at its highest settings. Manufacturers often do the heavy lifting by ensuring components work well together, avoiding bottlenecks.
Keep in mind that the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 have recently launched, announced at CES 2025. I haven't yet reviewed any prebuilts with these new Nvidia graphics cards, but expect most PCs on this list to offer versions with these GPUs or be refreshed soon with the latest hardware. Additionally, the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT is slated to launch in March 2025.
Whether you're looking for an affordable option for indie games, a compact solution for small spaces, or a high-end rig for 4K gaming, we've got you covered. One of the five pre-built gaming PCs we've selected will meet your needs perfectly. For those in the UK, click here to find them.
*Contributions by Danielle Abraham and Georgie Peru*
*Looking for additional savings? Check out the* *best gaming PC deals* *happening right now.*
7 Images
Our Top Pick### LenovoLegion Tower 7i
6The Lenovo Legion Tower 7i is packed with powerful hardware and is easy to upgrade. See it at Lenovo
**Product Specifications**
- **CPU**: Intel Core i9-14900KF - **GPU**: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Ti – RTX 4080 Super - **RAM**: Up to 32GB DDR5 @ 4,000MHz - **Storage**: Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD - **Weight**: 37.48 lbs - **Size**: 19.37 x 8.31 x 18.27 inches (H x W x D)**PROS**
- Extremely solid performance for the money - Easy to upgrade**CONS**
- Ships with very basic memory and motherboardPrebuilt gaming PCs used to be plagued by proprietary hardware, but the Lenovo Legion Tower 7i shows we've moved past those challenges. Previously, buying a gaming PC from Lenovo or Dell meant getting a powerful machine at the time, but with limited upgrade options due to custom components. However, my review of the Lenovo Legion Tower 7i revealed it's a standard gaming PC, using industry-standard hardware in a straightforward mid-tower case. This makes it easy to fix or upgrade when new hardware becomes available. While it does have some typical prebuilt drawbacks—like basic memory and motherboard—these can be easily swapped out for better components as needed.
This PC not only excels in gaming but also serves as an excellent entry point for customizing your system. While building a PC from scratch can be daunting, upgrading one or two parts is much more manageable. The Lenovo Legion Tower 7i stands out for its competitive pricing, offering a high-end experience at a lower cost than similar systems from HP or Alienware. If you're after a solid gaming experience without the flash, this is the prebuilt to get.
### HP Omen 45L
11Breeze through every task and game with an Intel Core i9 CPU, Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU, and 16GB RAM, all kept cool by a robust cooling system. See it at HP
**Product Specifications**
- **CPU**: Intel Core i7-14700K – Intel Core i9-14900K - **GPU**: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Ti – RTX 4090 - **RAM**: 16GB DDR5 – 64GB DDR5 - **Storage**: 512GB – 2TB SSD (System); 1TB – 2TB 7200 rpm hard disk (Secondary) - **Weight**: 49.82 pounds - **Size**: 8.03 x 18.5 x 21.85 inches (W x D x H)**PROS**
- Great cooling system - One of the best cases in a pre-built gaming PC**CONS**
- It is VERY heavy. Team lifting definitely recommended.Historically, gaming PCs were often trapped in proprietary cases, making upgrades difficult. HP, once a major offender, has transformed its Omen line, and the HP Omen 45L is my top choice. Its spacious design supports custom water cooling and large graphics cards like the RTX 4090 without issues. Even the entry-level model, with a 512GB SSD and RTX 4060 Ti, is easy to upgrade later.
This premium PC starts at $2060, but discounts are common. The base model includes an Intel Core i7-14700K, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Ti, capable of running any AAA game smoothly. While a comparable HP Victus is cheaper, it lacks the Omen's superior chassis. The HP Omen 45L's case is so good, I've considered swapping my own PC into it, a testament to its quality.
### iBuyPower Trace 7 Mesh Gaming Desktop
8Affordable gaming PC with processors ready for 1080p gaming and high-bandwidth DDR5 RAM. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
**Product Specifications**
- **CPU**: Intel Core i7-14700F - **GPU**: Nvidia RTX 4060 Ti - **RAM**: 32GB DDR5 5,600MHz - **Storage**: 1TB SSD - **Weight**: 35 pounds - **Size**: 19.3" x 8.66" x 18.9"**PROS**
- Ready to run games in 1080p at high frame rates - Includes mouse and keyboard**CONS**
- Not good for 4K gamingThe iBuyPower Trace 7 Mesh Gaming Desktop proves that budget PCs can be powerful. With a 14th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and Nvidia’s RTX 4060 Ti, it handles 1080p gaming at high frame rates and can manage 1440p for non-ray-traced games like Total War: Warhammer 3. It's also suitable for game streaming, thanks to its current-gen processors and 32GB of high-bandwidth DDR5 RAM.
Despite its budget-friendly price, the PC can get hot, but its mesh design and ARGB fans help with cooling. Upgrading is straightforward, which is great as new hardware like Nvidia’s RTX 5000 series and 15th gen Intel Arrow Lake processors are on the horizon. At under $1,500, this PC offers great value, especially with the included gaming keyboard and mouse.
### Alienware Aurora R16
5Take this gaming rig to the limit with its powerful processors, impressive cooling, and 32GB RAM, ready to hit high frame rates in 4K. See it at Dell
**Product Specifications**
- **CPU**: Intel Core i9-14900KF - **GPU**: Nvidia RTX 4080 Super - **RAM**: 32GB DDR5 5,600MHz - **Storage**: 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD - **Weight**: 33.9 pounds - **Size**: 16.46" x 7.75" x 18.05"**PROS**
- Wildly powerful processors - Multitasking maven**CONS**
- More mainstream designFor those with a healthy budget seeking the latest and greatest, the Alienware Aurora R16 is a powerhouse. It features a more mainstream design than its predecessor but retains ample RGB lighting. The case is optimized for airflow with powerful fans and a 240mm liquid CPU cooler, essential for its high-end components.
Powered by an Intel Core i9-14900KF and Nvidia’s RTX 4080 Super, this PC can handle any game at high frame rates in 4K and is excellent for multitasking with 32GB of DDR5 memory at 5,600 MHz. The 2TB of high-speed NVMe M.2 PCIe SSD storage ensures lightning-fast game loads.
7 Images
### Asus ROG NUC
2The Asus ROG NUC is as mini as a gaming PC can get, yet it's equipped with a mobile-class RTX 4070. See it at Amazon
**Product Specifications**
- **CPU**: Intel Core Ultra 7 – Intel Core Ultra 9 - **GPU**: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 – Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 (Mobile) - **RAM**: 16GB – 32GB DDR5 - **Storage**: 512GB – 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD - **Weight**: 5.73 pounds - **Size**: 10.62 x 7.09 x 2.36 inches (W x D x H)**PROS**
- The same size as a cable box - Solid 1080p gaming performance**CONS**
- Uses mobile-class hardwareChoosing a mini gaming PC like the Asus ROG NUC involves compromises. Its small size means performance trade-offs, but it's equipped with a mobile-class RTX 4070 and an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, suitable for most games at 1080p. My review found it capable of running games at max settings at 60 fps at this resolution, despite its compact size.
This makes it an ideal home theater PC that can also handle gaming. With some tweaks to graphics settings, it can pair well with a 4K TV, serving as a media library and gaming hub. However, similar performance can often be found in gaming laptops.
Getting a pre-built gaming PC can save time and hassle, regardless of your location. Many options on our list are available for purchase and shipping to the UK. For instance, Newegg ships several excellent pre-builds from the US to the UK at low costs.
### Best Mini Gaming PC MSI MEG Trident X2
0See it at Newegg
Pre-built PCs are a surefire way to get into gaming and often the most cost-effective option. They save you the time of selecting and assembling components, ensuring everything works out of the box.
When choosing a system, prioritize the graphics card based on your display. An Nvidia RTX 3060 Ti is sufficient for 1080p gaming. For most modern games, an Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 processor with at least four cores is adequate.
Memory and storage can be significant expenses. If you're comfortable upgrading later, opt for the smallest capacities initially, as buying these components separately can be more cost-effective. Consider a barebones system if you want to save money, as they come with major hardware but lack storage, memory, and an operating system.
For more control over your build, consider boutique PC builders like Origin, Maingear, DigitalStorm, Falcon Northwest, or PC Specialist. They allow you to customize your PC, ensuring professional assembly and cable management.
If the process seems overwhelming, NZXT's BLD service lets you choose games you play, and it suggests configurations for a smooth experience. Similarly, iBuyPower's Easy Builder service helps you select games and resolutions, offering tailored configurations within your budget.
Pre-built PCs often come with overclocking support and system monitoring software, making it easy to boost performance and manage drivers.
Unless you need a portable solution, a gaming PC is generally better than a gaming laptop. Desktops are easier and cheaper to upgrade and tend to last longer before becoming obsolete. For more details, check out our guide on gaming PCs vs. gaming laptops.
When buying a pre-built desktop, consider how easy it is to upgrade later. Most manufacturers now use standard-sized components, making it simple to swap out CPUs, GPUs, RAM, and storage with basic tools. Systems with tool-less upgradability are even easier, using thumbscrews and tool-less SSD caddies.
While consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are easier to use and more affordable, gaming PCs offer a larger game library, better peripherals, and easier upgrades. PCs also provide superior visuals and performance, making them the better choice for serious gamers.
Yes, you can find a great gaming PC for under $1,000, though you'll need to manage your expectations. Budget PCs may have less powerful hardware, but they can still run many games at 1080p or 1440p with respectable frame rates. They might struggle with graphically intensive games at high settings, but the savings can be worth it.
Building your own gaming PC allows for customization and can save money if you catch sales on components. However, it requires knowledge or following detailed guides. If you're not particular about specifics, a pre-built PC offers convenience and professional assembly, ensuring everything works out of the box without voiding warranties.
Once you've secured your gaming PC, don't forget to enhance your setup with the best gaming accessories for the ultimate battle station.
Sakamoto Puzzle Unravels in Japan
Jan 27,2025
Slither, Compete and Outlast Your Opponents in New Game Snaky Cat
Feb 26,2025
Roblox King Legacy: December 2024 Codes (Updated)
Dec 24,2024
Arise Crossover Trello and Discord
Mar 16,2025
Alien: Romulus 'Fixed' Terrible Ian Holm CGI for Home Release but Fans Still Think It’s Pretty Bad
Mar 03,2025
Apex Legends keeps falling down in concurrent player count
Dec 30,2024
[Arcane Season Arrives in Torchlight: Infinite]
Jan 29,2025
Marvel Rivals Debuts Midtown Map Update
Feb 02,2025
Roblox Forsaken Characters Tier List (2025)
Feb 25,2025
Eighth Era celebrates 100,000 downloads with a limited-time Era Vault event
Mar 17,2025
Magnet Hero
Action / 45.6 MB
Update: Feb 11,2025
Bulma Adventure 2
Casual / 57.55M
Update: Mar 09,2024
!Ω Factorial Omega: My Dystopian Robot Girlfriend
Casual / 245.80M
Update: Sep 10,2024
ALLBLACK Ch.1
Escape game Seaside La Jolla
FrontLine II
IDV - IMAIOS DICOM Viewer
Mr.Billion: Idle Rich Tycoon
Love and Deepspace Mod
Color of My Sound