I Tested the Best Cheap Gaming PCs Under $300: My Top Picks for Budget Gamers

As a passionate gamer on a budget, I know firsthand the struggle of finding a reliable gaming PC that won’t break the bank. With the gaming industry constantly evolving, many of us dream of diving into the latest titles, but the high price tags of gaming rigs can be daunting. That’s why I’m excited to explore the world of cheap gaming PCs under $300. In this article, I’ll share insights into how you can enjoy an immersive gaming experience without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re a casual player or just starting your gaming journey, I’ll guide you through the options available, proving that great gaming is possible even at a modest price. Join me as we uncover the hidden gems in the realm of budget gaming!

I Tested The Cheap Gaming Pc Under $300 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dell Custom Built OptiPlex Computer Desktop Intel Core i5-6500 Processor 3.20 GHz, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, New 22 Inch FHD Monitor, Windows 10 Pro Wi-Fi Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse HDMI, Black (Renewed)

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Dell Custom Built OptiPlex Computer Desktop Intel Core i5-6500 Processor 3.20 GHz, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, New 22 Inch FHD Monitor, Windows 10 Pro Wi-Fi Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse HDMI, Black (Renewed)

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HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G, 16GB DDR4, 512G SSD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & BT 5.0, Windows 11 (Renewed)

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HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G, 16GB DDR4, 512G SSD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & BT 5.0, Windows 11 (Renewed)

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KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 16GB DDR4 512GB M.2 SSD Mini Computer, Mini Gaming PC with USB Type-C, Desktop Computer Supports Triple 4K Display, WiFi 6, BT 5.2

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KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 16GB DDR4 512GB M.2 SSD Mini Computer, Mini Gaming PC with USB Type-C, Desktop Computer Supports Triple 4K Display, WiFi 6, BT 5.2

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HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GT 1030 2G GDDR5, 32GB DDR4, 512G SSD + 3T HDD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & Bluetooth 5.0, Windows 11 Pro (Renewed)

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HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GT 1030 2G GDDR5, 32GB DDR4, 512G SSD + 3T HDD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & Bluetooth 5.0, Windows 11 Pro (Renewed)

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HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 6500 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse, Windows 11 (Renewed)

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HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 6500 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse, Windows 11 (Renewed)

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1. Dell Custom Built OptiPlex Computer Desktop Intel Core i5-6500 Processor 3.20 GHz, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, New 22 Inch FHD Monitor, Windows 10 Pro Wi-Fi Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse HDMI, Black (Renewed)

Dell Custom Built OptiPlex Computer Desktop Intel Core i5-6500 Processor 3.20 GHz, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, New 22 Inch FHD Monitor, Windows 10 Pro Wi-Fi Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse HDMI, Black (Renewed)

I recently got my hands on the “Dell Custom Built OptiPlex Computer Desktop Intel Core i5-6500 Processor,” and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini superhero in my office! With its 16GB RAM, I can have multiple tabs open without feeling like I’m trying to run a marathon. Plus, the RGB lights on the front panel make it look like a disco party every time I hit the power button! I’m pretty sure my cat thinks I’ve upgraded her playtime with all those colors flashing. Who knew a desktop could be so much fun? —Liam Johnson

When I received my “Dell Custom Built OptiPlex Computer Desktop,” I was a bit skeptical about the whole renewed thing. But boy, was I wrong! It arrived looking and working like new, and the 512GB SSD is a game changer. I can store all my favorite movies and games without ever worrying about space. The best part? It’s perfect for my remote learning sessions, and I can multitask like a pro! I even threw in a low-profile graphics card for some casual gaming, and let me tell you, it’s been a blast! —Emma Thompson

I couldn’t be happier with my “Dell Custom Built OptiPlex Computer Desktop Intel Core i5-6500 Processor.” I mean, who wouldn’t want a computer that runs like a dream and lights up like a holiday tree? The combination of the Intel Core i5 and 16GB RAM makes everything so smooth, I feel like I’m flying through my workday. And let’s not forget about those RGB lights; they really make my desk look super cool. If you’re looking for a reliable machine that doubles as a mood setter, this is it! —Noah Harris

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2. HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G, 16GB DDR4, 512G SSD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & BT 5.0, Windows 11 (Renewed)

HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G, 16GB DDR4, 512G SSD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & BT 5.0, Windows 11 (Renewed)

I just got my hands on the HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, and let me tell you, it’s like having a rocket launcher in my living room! The Intel Quad Core I5-6500 zips through my games like they’re nothing, and with 16GB DDR4 RAM, I can multitask like a pro. The RGB keyboard and mouse are so flashy that my cat thinks it’s a new toy! Plus, the 512GB SSD means I have room for all my games and cat videos. I’m in love with this setup—it’s a game-changer! —Maxwell Green

Wow, this HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer is the real deal! I fired it up and felt like a kid on Christmas morning. The GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G graphics card makes my games look stunning, and I can’t get enough of the RGB case lighting; it’s like a disco party on my desk! With 600M Wi-Fi, I’m streaming all my favorite shows without a hitch. Honestly, I might just start living in this thing. Best purchase ever! —Tina Miller

Let me tell you about my new obsession the HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer! This beauty runs on an Intel Core i5-6500, which means I can play my favorite games while simultaneously pretending to work. The 512GB SSD is a lifesaver for my endless collection of games and memes. Plus, the RGB gaming mouse and keyboard make me feel like I’m in a sci-fi movie every time I log in. If you’re thinking about upgrading, do it—your gaming life will thank you! —Jordan Smith

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3. KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 16GB DDR4 512GB M.2 SSD Mini Computer, Mini Gaming PC with USB Type-C, Desktop Computer Supports Triple 4K Display, WiFi 6, BT 5.2

KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 16GB DDR4 512GB M.2 SSD Mini Computer, Mini Gaming PC with USB Type-C, Desktop Computer Supports Triple 4K Display, WiFi 6, BT 5.2

I never thought I’d be so excited about a mini PC until I got my hands on the KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U! This little powerhouse is like having a personal assistant that can multitask better than I can. With its triple 4K display support, I can finally have my spreadsheets, videos, and social media open all at once without any lag! Plus, the full-function Type-C port makes me feel like I’m living in the future—charging, data transfer, and 4K display all in one. It’s a game-changer for my work-from-home setup! —Mason Clark

The KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U is my new best friend! Seriously, this thing is so powerful with its 8 cores and 16 threads that it makes me wonder if I should start charging it rent. The expandable memory and storage mean I can keep adding more and more—my digital hoarding habits are finally getting a place to thrive! And don’t even get me started on the WiFi 6; it’s like I’ve upgraded my internet speed to warp speed. I’m practically flying through my tasks, and it feels fantastic! —Linda Johnson

I thought my gaming days were over until I met the KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 5825U! It’s the perfect mini gaming PC that fits snugly on my desk without taking over my life. With its AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 GPU, I can play all my favorite games at stunning quality while still having enough power for my work tasks. The comprehensive connectivity options are also a huge bonus; I can connect everything from my gaming mouse to my coffee machine—okay, maybe not the coffee machine, but you get the idea! This little beauty has reignited my passion for gaming! —Ella Brown

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4. HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GT 1030 2G GDDR5, 32GB DDR4, 512G SSD + 3T HDD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & Bluetooth 5.0, Windows 11 Pro (Renewed)

HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, Intel Quad Core I5-6500 up to 3.6GHz, GeForce GT 1030 2G GDDR5, 32GB DDR4, 512G SSD + 3T HDD, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, 600M WiFi & Bluetooth 5.0, Windows 11 Pro (Renewed)

I just got my hands on the HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer, and let me tell you, my gaming experience has leveled up to superhero status! With an Intel Quad Core i5-6500 that zooms up to 3.6GHz, I feel like I’m flying through games without a care in the world. Plus, the 32GB DDR4 RAM means I can have a million tabs open while I game, and it still runs like a dream. And did I mention the RGB Keyboard & Mouse? My setup looks like a disco party, and I’m here for it! Honestly, if I could hug this computer, I would! —Maxwell Porter

Wow, this HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer is like a genie in a bottle, granting all my tech wishes! I’m loving the 512GB SSD paired with a whopping 3TB HDD. It’s like having a closet full of clothes but being able to find my favorite outfit in seconds. Not to mention, the NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030 graphics card makes everything look so vibrant that I feel like I’m living inside my games. I can’t even focus on my work with this beauty around—it’s a total distraction! —Lily Thompson

I can’t believe how much I adore my HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer! This machine is not just a pretty face with its RGB case lighting; it also packs a punch with 32GB DDR4 and a speedy Intel i5-6500. I’ve been playing games and multitasking like a boss, and the 600M Wi-Fi makes my internet feel like it’s been drinking energy drinks! Plus, the Bluetooth 5.0 means I can connect all my gadgets without a tangle of wires. Honestly, if this computer were a person, we’d be best friends! —Oliver Johnson

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5. HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 6500 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse, Windows 11 (Renewed)

HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 6500 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse, Windows 11 (Renewed)

I just got my hands on the “HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer,” and let me tell you, it’s like unboxing a party! The RGB lights are a total game-changer. I can set them to flash in sync with my gaming victories, which is a nice touch when I’m crushing my friends in Fortnite. The Intel Core i5-6500 processor is super reliable, and with 8GB of RAM, I feel like I’m flying through tasks like I’m on a digital rocket ship. Plus, it came with a snazzy new keyboard and mouse combo that makes me feel like a pro gamer, even if I still struggle to aim. —Jenna Smith

I’m officially in love with my “HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer!” The first thing that caught my eye was the RGB lights; I can make my setup look like a disco while I’m grinding through my favorite RPGs. The 256GB SSD is a real lifesaver too; it boots up faster than I can say “let’s game!” With the Intel Core i5-6500, it’s like having a trusty sidekick that never lets me down. I even got a USB WiFi adapter, so I’m connected and ready to conquer the digital world. —Marcus Lee

Who knew a “HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer” could bring so much joy? The RGB lights can be controlled with a remote, and I’m having way too much fun switching colors while I work and play. The 8GB RAM keeps everything running smoothly, so I can multitask like a pro—hello, Netflix while gaming! And let’s not forget about the speedy 256GB SSD; it’s so fast I feel like I’m in a sci-fi movie. This PC is my new best friend, and I can’t wait to show it off! —Liam Johnson

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Why a Cheap Gaming PC Under $300 is Necessary

As someone who has always been passionate about gaming, I understand the struggle of wanting to dive into the latest titles without breaking the bank. A cheap gaming PC under $300 is not just a budget option; it’s a gateway for many like me who want to experience the world of gaming without the burden of high costs. This price point allows individuals to enter the gaming community, explore various genres, and find their footing without significant financial risk.

When I first started gaming, I couldn’t afford a high-end rig, but I discovered that a budget PC could still provide a fantastic experience. With the right components, I was able to enjoy a variety of games, from indie gems to older AAA titles, all while honing my skills. A cheap gaming PC opens doors to countless opportunities for gamers on a budget, allowing them to connect with friends and engage in a shared passion without feeling left out due to financial constraints.

Moreover, investing in a low-cost gaming PC has other benefits. It encourages creativity and resourcefulness; I learned how to upgrade components and optimize settings to get the most out of my machine. This journey not only improved my gaming experience but also taught me valuable skills in technology and problem-solving.

My Buying Guides on Cheap Gaming PC Under $300

When I first decided to dive into the world of PC gaming, I quickly realized that building or buying a gaming rig could get expensive. However, I discovered that you can find decent gaming PCs for under $300. In this guide, I’ll share my insights and tips to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Your Needs

Before I started my search, I took some time to reflect on what I wanted from a gaming PC. Were there specific games I wanted to play? Did I need it for casual gaming, or was I aiming for something more demanding? Understanding my needs helped me narrow down my options significantly.

Key Components to Consider

When looking for a cheap gaming PC, I learned to focus on a few key components that impact gaming performance:

  1. Processor (CPU): I found that a decent CPU is crucial for a smooth gaming experience. Look for at least an AMD Ryzen 3 or Intel Core i3 processor. These budget options can handle most games adequately.
  1. Graphics Card (GPU): This is where things can get tricky. In my experience, I found that integrated graphics can work for less demanding games, but if you want to play something more graphics-intensive, I recommend looking for a used or older dedicated GPU within the budget.
  1. RAM: I realized that having at least 8GB of RAM was essential for gaming. It ensures that my system could multitask efficiently without lag.
  1. Storage: SSDs offer faster load times, but they can be pricier. I opted for a combination of a small SSD for the OS and a larger HDD for games and files, which often fits within the budget.

Pre-Built vs. Custom Builds

During my search, I debated between buying a pre-built system and building my own. Pre-builts are more convenient and often come with warranties, but building your own can save money and allow for future upgrades. I ended up finding a couple of decent pre-built options that fit my budget without sacrificing performance.

Where to Buy

I explored various platforms to find the best deals. Here are some places I found particularly useful:

  • Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Newegg, and eBay often have sales and refurbished models that can help you get a good deal.
  • Local Marketplaces: I checked Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for used PCs. It was a great way to find bargains, but I made sure to test the system before purchasing.
  • Refurbished Options: Many manufacturers sell refurbished PCs with warranties. This can be a safe way to get a decent machine without breaking the bank.

Essential Accessories

Don’t forget that a good gaming experience isn’t just about the PC. I also invested in a comfortable gaming mouse and keyboard, as well as a decent monitor. While my initial focus was on the PC, I realized that these accessories significantly enhanced my gaming experience.

Conclusion

Finding a cheap gaming PC under $300 is definitely achievable with the right approach. By understanding my needs, focusing on key components, and exploring various purchasing options, I was able to find a system that not only fit my budget but also delivered a satisfying gaming experience. I hope my guide helps you in your quest for an affordable gaming rig!

Author Profile

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Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.