Get The Most BANG FOR YOUR BUCK With One Of The Best Gaming PCs Under $1200 🎯
Are you ready for an epic deal on an awesome new gaming PC? I'm talking about builds that pack plenty of power but won't bust your budget, costing around $1200 or less. In this guide, I'll be covering the stellar options available, from custom rig parts to prebuilt systems that really deliver.
I'll spill the beans on the top specs to look out for and some standout models you have to see to believe. I'm telling you, after reading this you'll be itching to get your hands on one of these incredible machines. But which one deserves a spot on your desk? Let's dive in and check out these spectacular gaming PCs priced so good you'll wonder what's the catch! Keep reading, and let the secrets of the gaming world unveil themselves.
A Quick Comparison Table of Our Top Picks of Best Gaming PCs for Under $1200
1. CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme- Top-Ranked Gaming PC with Impressive Graphics Under $1200
Top-Ranked Gaming PC with Impressive Graphics Under $1200
CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC, Intel Core i5-12400F 2.5GHz, GeForce RTX 3050 8GB, 16GB DDR4
The CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme VR gaming PC delivers top-notch performance and impressive graphics for under $1200. Powered by an Intel Core i5-12400F 6-core processor and capable NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 8GB graphics card, the Gamer Xtreme VR handles the latest games with ease at medium to high settings in Full HD and QHD resolutions.
Backing those high-end components is 16GB of DDR4 RAM, a fast 500GB NVMe SSD, and Windows 11 Home OS for multitasking and quick load times. The system also includes WiFi for wireless connectivity, a black steel chassis with a minimalist design, and headset support for virtual reality experiences.
Overall, the Gamer Xtreme VR offers outstanding value thanks to its combination of powerful specs and competitive price, making it an ideal choice for mid-range gaming, VR, and multitasking on a budget.
Key Features
Intel Core i5-12400F processor
NVIDIA RTX3050 graphics with 8GB memory
16GB DDR4 RAM and 500GB NVMe SSD
Windows 11 Home OS for easy use
WiFi connectivity and headset support
Stylish minimalist chassis in black steel
Handles most games at high settings at 1080p/1440p
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Powerful components for the price
RTX 3050 delivers strong graphics
Fast SSD and adequate RAM
Built-in WiFi and VR headset support
Cons:
Basic black chassis aesthetics
2. SkyTech Archangel 3.0- Best High-Performance Gaming PC Under $1200
Best High-Performance Gaming PC Under $1200
SkyTech Archangel 3.0 Gaming Computer PC Desktop - Ryzen 5 3600 6-Core 3.6GHz, RTX 3060 12GB, 1TB SSD, 16GB DDR4 3200
If you're looking for powerful gaming PC performance at an affordable price, the Skytech Archangel 3.0 desktop computer definitely deserves your consideration. This budget-friendly gaming rig packs some serious hardware under the hood, starting with a speedy Ryzen 5 3600 processor and capable RTX 3060 12GB graphics card.
That dual punch of processing power enables smooth gameplay and high frame rates at 1080p and 1440p resolutions in all the latest titles. The system also comes with 1TB of fast SSD storage for rapid load times, 16GB of RAM for heavy multitasking, and efficient white RGB case fans for cooling and aesthetics.
Plus, a sturdy 600W 80 Plus Gold power supply ensures reliable performance. Overall, the Archangel 3.0 manages to squeeze flagship-caliber components into a midrange price point, delivering outstanding value for gamers who need excellent performance without the exorbitant cost.
Key Features
Ryzen 5 3600 & RTX 3060 power 1080p/1440p gaming
1TB SSD and 16GB RAM for boosting performance
White RGB case fans add some style
600W 80 Plus Gold PSU keeps it running reliably
AC WiFi adapter for wireless connectivity
Boots most games fast and plays smoothly
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Strong performance for the money spent
SSD storage slashes load times
RGB fans offer decent aesthetics
Quality 80 Plus Gold power supply
Cons:
Limited storage options
3. Thermaltake Glacier- Powerful Gaming PC with Cutting-Edge Features Under $1200
Powerful Gaming PC with Cutting-Edge Features Under $1200
Thermaltake Glacier 360 Liquid-Cooled PC (AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, RTX 3060, 16GB 3600Mhz DDR4 ToughRAM RGB Memory
The Thermaltake Glacier gaming PC offers cutting-edge performance and features in an affordable pre-built desktop under $1200. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 5600X Hexa-core processor and capable NVIDIA RTX 3060 graphics card, the Glacier can handle today's most demanding games at high settings and frame rates.
Also, the RTX 3060 delivers smooth 1080p and 1440p gameplay, while the liquid cooler and optimized chassis layout keep temperatures in check. Other notable specs include 16GB of high-speed 3600MHz DDR4 RAM, a 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD for fast load times, and onboard WiFi for easy connectivity.
Additionally, the Glacier also has plenty of USB ports, an RGB-lit case, and a modern monochrome design that will look great in any setup. Overall, the Thermaltake Glacier strikes an excellent balance of performance, features, and aesthetics - ideal for 1080p and 1440p gaming on a budget.
Key Features
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor
NVIDIA RTX 3060 graphics with 12GB memory
360mm AIO liquid cooler
1TB NVMe SSD and 16GB DDR4 3600MHz RAM
Optimized chassis and airflow
Modern monochrome design and RGB lighting
Handles most games at 1080p/1440p resolution
Pros and Cons
Pros:
High-performance components
Liquid cooling keeps it running cool and quiet
Fast SSD and high-speed RAM
Onboard WiFi and USB connectivity
Cons:
Limited storage bays and upgradability
4. HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop - Affordable Gaming PC with Fast Performance Under $1200
Affordable Gaming PC with Fast Performance Under $1200
HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop, 10th Generation Intel Core i5-10400F Processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Graphics, 8 GM RAM, 256 GB SSD
The HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop delivers fast performance and exceptional value for under $1200. Powered by an Intel Core i5-11400F 6-core processor and capable NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, the HP Pavilion handles today's most popular games at medium to high settings and fast frame rates.
Also, the GTX 1650 enables smooth Full HD and decent QHD gameplay, while the optimized thermal design keeps temperatures in check. Other features include 8GB of RAM for multitasking, a speedy 256GB SSD for quick load times, and Windows 11 Home OS for easy use. The gaming desktop has plenty of USB ports, an understated shadow black chassis, and solid build quality that will stand the test of time. Overall, the HP Pavilion Gaming PC strikes an excellent balance of performance, features, and price - ideal for mainstream 1080p gaming on a budget.
Key Features
Intel Core i5-11400F processor
NVIDIA GTX 1650 graphics with 4GB memory
8GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD
Windows 11 Home OS for simple use
Multiple USB ports for connecting devices
Sleek understated shadow black chassis
Handles most games at medium-to-high settings at 1080p resolution
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Great value for the price
GTX 1650 delivers strong 1080p performance
Fast SSD and adequate RAM
Simple yet sophisticated design
Cons:
Limited storage and upgradability
5. Skytech Shadow Gaming PC Desktop-Best Portable Gaming PC under $1200
Best Portable Gaming PC under $1200
Skytech Shadow Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i5 12400F 2.5 GHz, NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti, 1TB NVME SSD, 16GB DDR4 RAM 3200
The Skytech Shadow is a portable yet powerful gaming desktop designed to pack high-end performance into a compact chassis, all for under $1200. This gaming rig features an Intel Core i5-12400F processor and a capable NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti graphics card capable of running today's most demanding titles with ease at 1440p and 1080p resolutions.
Backing those top-tier components is a speedy 1TB NVMe SSD, 16GB of RAM, a 600W 80 Plus Gold power supply, and WiFi connectivity. The Shadow's compact mid-tower case features simple black styling that will fit beautifully into any setup. Overall, the Skytech Shadow delivers flagship-level 1440p and 1080p gaming experiences in a small but mighty package, making it an ideal choice for gamers seeking powerful performance in a portable form factor.
Key Features
Intel Core i5-12400F processor
NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti graphics
1TB NVMe SSD and 16GB RAM
80 Plus Gold 600W power supply
Compact mid-tower case with AC WiFi
Simple black styling and a small footprint
Handles most games at ultra settings at 1440p/1080p
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Powerful components in a tiny package
RTX 3060 Ti delivers stellar 1440p+ performance
Blazing fast SSD and ample RAM
Efficient 80 Plus Gold PSU
Cons:
Limited storage options
Buyer Guide: What to Look for When Buying Best Gaming PC Under $1200?
There are a few key things to consider when buying the best gaming PC under $1200.
CPU:
You'll want a powerful processor that can handle intensive gaming while allowing for multitasking. Aim for at least a hexacore or higher CPU like the Intel Core i5-10400 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600. These 6-core/12-thread processors provide enough grunt for gaming and basic multitasking. For more future-proofing and potential for processing-heavy tasks, consider octa-core CPUs. The additional cores will benefit you further down the line.
GPU:
A dedicated graphics card is essential for gaming performance. Options like the Nvidia GTX 1660 Ti or RTX 2060 are good mid-range choices, enabling you to play most modern games at 1080p resolution on high to max settings. Also, the RTX 2060 can even tackle some 1440p gaming. The higher the budget, the stronger GPU you can afford for higher resolutions and frame rates.
RAM:
16GB of RAM is a good minimum for a gaming PC these days. It provides enough memory for multi-tasking while gaming with multiple applications, browser tabs, and other programs running in the background. For more resource-intensive tasks like live streaming or heavy modding, consider 32GB or higher.
Storage:
You'll need at least 250GB to 500GB of fast SSD storage for your core games, applications, and operating system to take advantage of SSDs' faster loading and boot times. Then add a 1TB to 2TB traditional hard drive for more games, media files, and documents. The more storage the better, within budget.
Extras:
The other components like the power supply, cooling, and case should be chosen to reliably support the key performance specs above, while extras like RGB, WiFi, and liquid cooling can enhance the gaming experience but are secondary priorities for pure performance per dollar.
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Look for When Buying the Best Gaming PC Under $1200?
What CPU should I get for gaming under $1200?
Aim for at least an Intel i5-10400 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600. These Hexa-core CPUs provide enough performance for gaming and basic multitasking within a $1200 budget.
What GPU is best for 1080p gaming under $1200?
The Nvidia GTX 1660 Ti or RTX 2060 are great options for 1080p gaming under $1200. Both can run most games at high-ultra settings at 1080p resolution and over 60fps.
How much RAM do I need for gaming under $1200?
16GB of RAM is recommended for a gaming PC under $1200. It provides enough memory for gaming and multi-tasking with minimum stuttering.
How much SSD storage should I get for gaming under $1200?
A 500GB SSD is a good balance of performance and storage for around $1200. It provides enough space for your core games and applications to benefit from SSD speed and a few additional games or programs.
Should I get a gaming PC or build my own for under $1200?
A prebuilt gaming PC is often a better value under $1200 since they optimize components without charge for labor. However, custom building lets you choose exact specs within your budget and gain more knowledge of PC hardware.
Final Thoughts & Recommendations
Buying the best gaming PC under $1200 involves balancing performance, features, and value. Focus your spending within your budget on a powerful CPU and GPU, adequate RAM, and fast storage to maximize gaming performance for the money. Don't obsess over extras like liquid cooling and RGB lighting - optimize for the core specs that impact performance. Research the top systems within your budget, compare specs and reviews, and choose the prebuilt or custom build that provides the best combination of components for the games you want to play at the resolution you're aiming for. With the right approach and choices, you can build or buy a fantastic gaming system for under $1200 that will satisfy your needs both now and for years of gaming enjoyment ahead.
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