Introduction
Gaming on a budget can be challenging, especially when looking for a gaming PC under $300 pre-built. Many gamers wonder if it’s even possible to get a capable system at this price without sacrificing too much performance.
The good news? Yes, you can find a pre-built gaming PC for under $300, but there are trade-offs. At this price range, you’ll mostly find entry-level systems with integrated graphics or refurbished older gaming PCs. However, with the right expectations and optimizations, you can still enjoy a solid gaming experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- The best pre-built gaming PCs under $300 available today.
- What hardware specs to look for in a budget gaming rig.
- Which games you can play on a sub-$300 gaming PC.
- The best ways to upgrade and improve performance over time.
If you’re looking for an affordable gaming PC that won’t break the bank, keep reading!
Can You Get a Decent Gaming PC Under $300 Pre-Built?
The short answer: Yes, but with limitations.
A gaming PC under $300 pre-built will not match the performancehttps://prebuiltgamingpc.com/ of high-end gaming rigs, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless for gaming. At this price, you’ll typically find:
- Refurbished older gaming PCs from brands like Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
- Entry-level pre-built desktops with integrated graphics.
- Mini PCs or office PCs that can handle light gaming.
What to Expect from a $300 Pre-Built Gaming PC
| Component | Expectation at $300 Price Range |
|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | Entry-level Intel Core i3, Ryzen 3, or older Core i5. |
| Graphics (GPU) | Integrated Intel UHD, Vega 8, or older dedicated GPUs like GTX 750 Ti. |
| RAM | 8GB (sometimes 4GB, which may require an upgrade). |
| Storage | 256GB SSD or 500GB HDD (SSD upgrade recommended). |
| Upgradability | Limited, but some models allow RAM and GPU upgrades. |
Most pre-built gaming PCs under $300 come with integrated graphics, meaning they rely on the CPU’s built-in GPU rather than a dedicated graphics card. While this may limit performance in modern AAA games, you can still play popular esports and indie games with the right settings.
Who Should Buy a Pre-Built Gaming PC Under $300?
✅ Casual Gamers – If you play games like Minecraft, Roblox, or League of Legends.
✅ Beginners – A low-cost option for someone new to PC gaming.
✅ Students & General Use – Can double as a homework or work PC.
✅ Upgraders – A starting point for future upgrades.
However, if you want to play AAA games on high settings, you might need a higher budget or consider building a PC yourself.
What to Look for in a Budget Gaming PC Under $300
When shopping for a gaming PC under $300 pre-built, it’s important to understand what components matter most. Since you’re working with a tight budget, you’ll need to prioritize certain specs to get the best gaming performance possible.
1. Processor (CPU) – The Brain of Your PC
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is one of the most crucial components, as it determines overall performance. At this price point, expect to find:
- Intel Core i3 (8th-10th Gen) or older Core i5 models
- AMD Ryzen 3 or older Ryzen 5 processors
- Intel Pentium and AMD Athlon (lower-end, but still usable for light gaming)
🔹 Best Choice: If possible, go for an Intel Core i5 (4th-6th Gen) or AMD Ryzen 3 3200G, as they offer decent performance for budget gaming.
2. Graphics (GPU) – Integrated vs. Dedicated
Since most gaming PCs under $300 pre-built don’t include a dedicated GPU, you’ll need to rely on integrated graphics. Here’s what to expect:
| Graphics Type | Example Models | Performance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated GPU | Intel UHD 620, Vega 8, UHD 730 | Good for light gaming (Minecraft, CS:GO, League of Legends). |
| Older Dedicated GPU | GTX 750 Ti, Radeon R7 250 | Decent for 1080p gaming on low settings. |
🔹 Best Choice: AMD’s Ryzen APUs (like the Ryzen 5 3400G) are the strongest integrated graphics options in this price range.
3. RAM – More is Better
RAM (memory) affects how well your PC handles multitasking and gaming.
- 4GB RAM – Bare minimum, will struggle with modern games.
- 8GB RAM – Recommended for smooth gameplay.
- 16GB RAM – Ideal, but rare in a $300 budget (can be upgraded later).
🔹 Best Choice: Get a PC with at least 8GB of RAM or ensure it has an extra RAM slot for future upgrades.
4. Storage – SSD vs. HDD
Storage affects load times and system responsiveness.
- HDD (Hard Drive) – 500GB to 1TB (Slower, but more storage space)
- SSD (Solid State Drive) – 256GB to 512GB (Much faster, but less storage)
🔹 Best Choice: A 256GB or 512GB SSD will drastically improve your PC’s speed compared to an HDD.
5. Upgradability – Can You Improve It Later?
A $300 pre-built PC won’t last forever, but if it allows for future upgrades, you can extend its lifespan. Look for:
✅ Extra RAM slots – Allows you to add more memory later.
✅ PCIe slots – Lets you install a dedicated GPU later.
✅ Storage expansion – Space for an additional SSD or HDD.
Tip: Some refurbished business desktops (like Dell OptiPlex or HP EliteDesk) can be upgraded with a low-power GPU, turning them into decent gaming machines.
Best Pre-Built Gaming PCs Under $300 (Updated 2024)
Finding a gaming PC under $300 pre-built can be challenging, but there are some solid options if you know where to look. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best budget-friendly pre-built gaming PCs that offer the most value for your money.
1. Dell OptiPlex 9020 (Refurbished) – Best for Upgradability
💰 Price: ~$250 – $300
🖥️ Specs:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-4570 (4 cores, 3.2GHz)
- Graphics: Integrated Intel HD 4600 (Upgradable)
- RAM: 8GB DDR3
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Upgrades Possible: Yes (Supports low-profile GPUs like GT 1030)
✅ Pros:
✔️ Affordable and widely available as a refurbished unit.
✔️ Can be upgraded with a budget-friendly GPU.
✔️ SSD provides faster boot times.
❌ Cons:
❌ Older hardware.
❌ Not ideal for AAA gaming without upgrades.
🔹 Best For: Those looking for a cheap starter PC with upgrade potential.
2. HP EliteDesk 800 G2 – Best Value for Office & Casual Gaming
💰 Price: ~$280
🖥️ Specs:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-6500 (4 cores, 3.2GHz)
- Graphics: Intel HD 530 (Upgradeable)
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 500GB HDD (SSD upgrade recommended)
- Upgrades Possible: Yes (Can install low-power GPU)
✅ Pros:
✔️ Reliable for light gaming & daily tasks.
✔️ Supports an SSD upgrade for faster performance.
✔️ Small form factor fits anywhere.
❌ Cons:
❌ No dedicated GPU included.
❌ HDD slows down loading times.
🔹 Best For: Casual gamers, students, or those who want an everyday PC that can handle light gaming.
3. Beelink SER3 Mini PC – Best Compact Option
💰 Price: ~$299
🖥️ Specs:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3550H (4 cores, 3.7GHz)
- Graphics: Radeon Vega 8
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD
- Upgrades Possible: RAM & storage expansion
✅ Pros:
✔️ Ryzen 5 with Vega 8 can handle esports gaming well.
✔️ Small and energy-efficient.
✔️ SSD makes the system fast and responsive.
❌ Cons:
❌ Limited upgradability beyond RAM & storage.
❌ Not designed for heavy gaming.
🔹 Best For: Those looking for a compact PC for gaming & general use.
Comparison Table: Best Pre-Built Gaming PCs Under $300
| Model | CPU | GPU | RAM | Storage | Upgrade Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dell OptiPlex 9020 | i5-4570 | Intel HD 4600 | 8GB | 256GB SSD | High |
| HP EliteDesk 800 G2 | i5-6500 | Intel HD 530 | 8GB | 500GB HDD | Medium |
| Beelink SER3 Mini PC | Ryzen 5 3550H | Radeon Vega 8 | 8GB | 256GB SSD | Low |
Which One Should You Choose?
- If you want a PC with upgrade potential, go with the Dell OptiPlex 9020.
- If you need a solid everyday PC that can handle light gaming, the HP EliteDesk 800 G2 is a good choice.
- If you prefer something compact & energy-efficient, consider the Beelink SER3 Mini PC.
What Games Can a $300 Pre-Built Gaming PC Run?
A gaming PC under $300 pre-built won’t handle the latest AAA titles on high settings, but it can still run many popular games—especially esports, indie, and older AAA titles. Below, we’ll break down what types of games you can expect to play on a budget gaming PC.
1. Esports & Competitive Games (Runs Well ✅)
Esports games are optimized to run on lower-end hardware, making them ideal for budget gaming PCs.
| Game | Playable Settings | Expected FPS |
|---|---|---|
| Minecraft | Low-Medium | 60+ FPS |
| League of Legends | High | 100+ FPS |
| Valorant | Medium-High | 70-120 FPS |
| CS:GO | Low-Medium | 60-100 FPS |
| Rocket League | Medium | 60 FPS |
| Dota 2 | Medium | 70+ FPS |
🔹 Best Choice: If you’re mainly playing games like League of Legends, CS:GO, or Rocket League, even an older pre-built gaming PC will provide a smooth experience.
2. Older AAA Games (Playable with Tweaks ⚠️)
Some older AAA games are still enjoyable on a $300 gaming PC, but you may need to tweak settings for smooth gameplay.
| Game | Playable Settings | Expected FPS |
|---|---|---|
| GTA V | Low | 30-50 FPS |
| Skyrim | Low-Medium | 40-60 FPS |
| The Witcher 3 | Low | 30-40 FPS |
| Dark Souls 3 | Low | 30 FPS |
| Fallout 4 | Low | 30-40 FPS |
🔹 Best Choice: To improve performance in older games, consider installing an SSD and adding more RAM.
3. Modern AAA Games (Limited or Cloud Gaming Recommended ❌)
Newer games require powerful GPUs and CPUs, which most pre-built PCs under $300 lack. However, there are workarounds:
- Cloud gaming (GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming) allows you to stream high-end games on weaker hardware.
- Older AAA titles from 2015 and earlier will run with lowered settings.
| Game | Playable Settings | Expected FPS |
|---|---|---|
| Cyberpunk 2077 | Not Playable | N/A |
| Elden Ring | Not Playable | N/A |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | Not Playable | N/A |
| Hogwarts Legacy | Not Playable | N/A |
🔹 Best Choice: If you want to play the latest AAA games, consider saving for a mid-range gaming PC or using cloud gaming services.
Can You Improve Gaming Performance on a $300 PC?
Yes! If you already own a budget pre-built gaming PC, here are a few ways to optimize performance:
✅ Upgrade to an SSD – Faster load times & better overall performance.
✅ Add more RAM – Going from 4GB → 8GB or 8GB → 16GB helps significantly.
✅ Lower in-game settings – Reduce resolution, shadows, and texture quality.
✅ Install a budget-friendly GPU – A GTX 1030 or RX 550 can help with graphics performance.
Final Thoughts: Is a $300 Pre-Built Gaming PC Worth It?
If you’re looking for an entry-level gaming PC under $300 pre-built, it can handle esports and older AAA games but struggles with modern titles. If you’re willing to upgrade over time, it can become a solid budget-friendly gaming system.
How to Upgrade a $300 Pre-Built Gaming PC for Better Performance
While a gaming PC under $300 pre-built can handle some games, upgrading key components can significantly boost performance. Below, we’ll cover the best budget-friendly upgrades that can make your PC faster and more capable for gaming.
1. Upgrade to an SSD – Faster Load Times & Performance Boost
Most budget PCs come with a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which is much slower than an SSD (Solid State Drive). Upgrading to an SSD makes your PC boot faster, load games quicker, and feel more responsive overall.
| Storage Type | Speed | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| HDD (Hard Drive) | Slow | Large storage but slow load times. |
| SATA SSD | Fast | Budget-friendly speed boost. |
| NVMe SSD | Very Fast | Best for high-speed performance (if compatible). |
🔹 Recommended Upgrade: A 256GB or 512GB SATA SSD ($30-$50) is the best budget-friendly choice.
2. Add More RAM – Improve Multitasking & Gaming
Many budget PCs come with 4GB of RAM, which is not enough for gaming. Upgrading to 8GB or 16GB can make a huge difference.
| RAM Size | Gaming Performance |
|---|---|
| 4GB | Struggles with most modern games. |
| 8GB | Ideal for casual & esports gaming. |
| 16GB | Best for smoother gameplay & multitasking. |
🔹 Recommended Upgrade: If your PC has 4GB RAM, upgrade to 8GB ($25). If you can, go for 16GB ($50) for better long-term performance.
3. Install a Low-Power Graphics Card – Improve FPS
Most gaming PCs under $300 pre-built don’t include a dedicated graphics card (GPU). Adding one can dramatically improve gaming performance.
Budget-Friendly GPU Upgrades (Under $100-$150):
- Nvidia GT 1030 (2GB GDDR5) – Great for esports & older AAA games.
- AMD Radeon RX 550 (4GB GDDR5) – Good for 1080p gaming on low settings.
- Nvidia GTX 750 Ti – An older, but still capable budget card.
🔹 Recommended Upgrade: If your PC has a PCIe slot and a decent power supply, installing a GT 1030 or RX 550 can provide 2-3x better gaming performance.
4. Improve Cooling & Airflow – Prevent Overheating
Budget pre-built PCs often have limited cooling, which can lead to overheating and thermal throttling.
✅ Add a case fan ($10) – Improves airflow and keeps components cool.$5) – Helps with heat dissipation.
✅ Replace thermal paste on the CPU (
✅ Use a cooling pad (for small PCs) – Helps maintain lower temperatures.
5. Upgrade the Power Supply (If Adding a GPU)
If you plan to install a more powerful GPU, you might need a higher-wattage power supply (PSU).
| Power Supply Needed | For Which GPUs? |
|---|---|
| Stock PSU (250-300W) | GT 1030, RX 550 (Low power GPUs) |
| Upgraded PSU (400W+) | GTX 1650, RX 570 (More powerful GPUs) |
🔹 Recommended Upgrade: If you’re using a GT 1030 or RX 550, your stock PSU should be fine. If you want a stronger GPU, upgrade to a 400W+ PSU ($40-$60).
6. Overclocking & Software Tweaks for Extra Performance
If upgrading hardware isn’t an option, you can still boost performance with software optimizations:
✅ Lower in-game graphics settings – Reducing resolution, shadows, and textures improves FPS.
✅ Update GPU drivers – Keeps your system optimized for newer games.
✅ Use Game Mode (Windows 10/11) – Helps allocate more resources to gaming.
✅ Disable background apps – Frees up RAM and CPU power.
✅ Overclocking (if supported) – Slightly increases CPU/GPU performance (use caution).
Final Thoughts: How Much Should You Upgrade?
If you’re on a strict budget, start with the SSD and RAM upgrades first. If you have a little extra money, adding a low-power GPU can turn your $300 pre-built PC into a capable budget gaming machine.
Where to Buy the Best Gaming PC Under $300
Finding a reliable gaming PC under $300 pre-built is easier when you know where to look. There are several online and offline options that cater to budget gamers. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to start your search:
1. Online Retailers & Marketplaces
Amazon, eBay, and Newegg are popular options for finding budget gaming PCs. These platforms offer new, refurbished, and open-box models.
- Amazon:
- Pros: Wide selection, user reviews, and competitive prices.
- Cons: Quality can vary, so check seller ratings carefully.
- eBay:
- Pros: Great for refurbished and used PCs.
- Cons: Requires careful vetting of seller feedback and return policies.
- Newegg:
- Pros: Focuses on computer hardware and often has deals on refurbished systems.
- Cons: Limited selection of pre-built systems compared to custom builds.
2. Manufacturer Refurbished Outlets
Brands like Dell, HP, and Lenovo offer refurbished models directly through their certified outlets.
- Dell Outlet:
- Offers: Certified refurbished PCs like the Dell OptiPlex series that are ideal for gaming upgrades.
- Benefits: Warranty and customer support are often included.
- HP Renew:
- Offers: Quality refurbished models, including the HP EliteDesk series.
- Benefits: Reliable performance with manufacturer-backed guarantees.
3. Local Electronics & Computer Stores
Don’t overlook local brick-and-mortar stores which sometimes have clearance or open-box deals:
- Best Buy:
- Pros: You can physically inspect the PC before buying.
- Cons: Limited selection of budget gaming PCs.
- Local computer repair shops:
- Pros: They may offer refurbished or custom-upgraded machines at competitive prices.
- Cons: Warranty and post-purchase support may vary.
4. Classified Ads & Community Marketplaces
Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp can be excellent sources for finding local deals on pre-built gaming PCs.
- Tips:
- Always test the system before purchasing.
- Verify the PC’s specifications and check for any potential issues.
- Negotiate the price to stay within your budget.
5. Comparison Sites & Deal Aggregators
Websites such as PCPartPicker, Slickdeals, and TechBargains regularly feature deals on pre-built systems.
- Benefits:
- Compare prices across multiple platforms.
- Get alerts on special promotions or limited-time offers.
- Access user reviews and expert recommendations.
Key Considerations When Buying
- Warranty & Return Policy: Ensure the seller offers a reasonable warranty period and a clear return policy.
- Upgradability: Verify that the system can be upgraded (RAM, SSD, GPU) if needed.
- Customer Reviews: Check reviews for reliability, performance, and any common issues reported by other buyers.
- Price Fluctuations: Prices can vary, so it’s wise to set up alerts on deal sites to snag the best offer.
By exploring these sources, you can increase your chances of finding a quality gaming PC under $300 pre-built that meets your gaming and upgrade needs.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Cheap Gaming PC
If you’ve bought or are planning to buy a gaming PC under $300 pre-built, it’s important to make the most of your investment. While you won’t be able to run AAA games on high settings, there are many ways to optimize your system for better gaming performance. Below are practical tips to help you get the best possible experience from your budget gaming PC.
1. Adjust In-Game Settings for Maximum FPS
When playing games on a budget gaming PC, adjusting the in-game graphics settings can significantly improve your frame rate (FPS) and overall performance. Here’s how you can make those changes:
- Lower the resolution – Set games to 720p or 900p for smoother gameplay.
- Reduce shadows and textures – Shadows and textures are often the most taxing on your system. Lowering them can give you a big boost in performance.
- Disable anti-aliasing – Anti-aliasing smooths out jagged edges but can cause a noticeable FPS drop.
- Turn off V-Sync – V-Sync limits the FPS to the monitor’s refresh rate and can cause input lag.
- Use Low or Medium graphics settings – Most budget PCs can handle games at low or medium settings without compromising too much on visuals.
2. Optimize Your Operating System
To ensure your PC runs smoothly, you’ll want to optimize your operating system to free up resources. Here are a few things to do:
- Disable startup programs – Programs running in the background can use up memory and slow down your PC.
- Update drivers regularly – Make sure your graphics card, sound card, and motherboard drivers are up-to-date for optimal performance.
- Use Disk Cleanup – Clean up unnecessary files from your system to free up storage space.
- Adjust Power Settings – Switch to “High Performance” mode in Windows to prioritize CPU performance over energy savings.
3. Manage Heat and Improve Cooling
Proper cooling is crucial, especially when running games on a system with limited resources. Excess heat can lead to thermal throttling, which reduces performance to protect your components from overheating. Here’s how to keep things cool:
- Add a case fan – If your PC case has space for one, a low-cost case fan ($10-$20) can help improve airflow and prevent overheating.
- Clean your system – Dust can block airflow, causing your components to heat up. Regularly clean your PC’s internals with compressed air.
- Replace thermal paste – If you’re comfortable with disassembling your PC, replacing the thermal paste on your CPU can help lower temperatures.
4. Upgrade Storage for Better Performance
If your budget gaming PC came with a mechanical hard drive (HDD), consider upgrading to an SSD for faster load times and better system responsiveness. An SSD will help your system boot faster, and your games will load more quickly.
- Budget SSDs (like 240GB or 256GB) typically cost between $30 and $50 and provide a significant performance boost.
- If you need more storage, look for a combination of SSD and HDD – use the SSD for your operating system and essential games, and the HDD for additional storage.
5. Optimize Game Selection for Your Hardware
Not all games are created equal, and choosing the right games can make a huge difference on a budget PC. Some games are more optimized for lower-end systems, and others may simply not be playable.
- Play lighter games – Opt for indie games, retro games, or esports titles like League of Legends, Minecraft, Rocket League, and Valorant that run smoothly even on low-end hardware.
- Cloud gaming – For games that your system can’t handle, cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW allow you to play modern titles on a remote server, which can be a good workaround if your PC doesn’t have the hardware to handle them.
6. Consider Overclocking (If Supported)
Overclocking your CPU or GPU can give your budget gaming PC a performance boost. However, only attempt overclocking if your system supports it, as it can lead to overheating if not properly managed.
- CPU overclocking: Involves adjusting the CPU multiplier and voltage to increase clock speed.
- GPU overclocking: Use software like MSI Afterburner to slightly increase the clock speed of your graphics card.
- Important: Monitor temperatures closely when overclocking to avoid damaging your components.
7. Regular Maintenance for Longevity
A little routine maintenance goes a long way in keeping your $300 pre-built gaming PC running smoothly:
- Clean the dust filters – Dust can accumulate and cause overheating or decrease the efficiency of your system.
- Check for software updates – Operating system and game updates often include important performance improvements and security fixes.
- Reinstall Windows periodically – A fresh installation of Windows can help improve system performance over time by removing bloatware and fixing corrupted files.
Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Budget Gaming PC Experience
While a gaming PC under $300 pre-built may not be capable of handling modern AAA games on high settings, it can still provide a solid gaming experience with the right adjustments and upgrades. By optimizing settings, upgrading key components, and maintaining your system, you can ensure that your budget PC lasts longer and provides better performance.
Conclusion: Is a Gaming PC Under $300 Worth It?
At the end of the day, deciding whether a gaming PC under $300 pre-built is worth the investment depends on your gaming needs and expectations. While these budget systems won’t run the latest AAA titles on ultra settings, they provide an excellent entry point into PC gaming without breaking the bank.
Pros of Buying a Gaming PC Under $300
- Affordable Entry to Gaming:
If you’re new to gaming or just want a PC for casual gaming, a pre-built gaming PC under $300 offers an accessible way to get started without having to build your own system or invest in expensive hardware. - Upgrade Potential:
Even if your gaming PC starts out basic, there’s plenty of room to upgrade key components like the RAM, storage, or GPU as your budget allows. These upgrades can significantly boost your performance and prolong the life of your PC. - Convenience and Time-Saving:
Pre-built PCs save you the hassle of building your own system and are a great option if you don’t have the technical expertise or time to assemble one yourself. - Good for Indie & Esports Titles:
Many budget systems can handle indie games and esports titles like Fortnite, Rocket League, and League of Legends without issues. If you’re into lighter games or competitive gaming, these systems will serve you well.
Cons of Buying a Gaming PC Under $300
- Limited Graphics Power:
Most pre-built systems in this price range come with integrated graphics, which are fine for basic gaming but won’t give you the best performance for modern AAA games. A dedicated GPU upgrade will likely be necessary for more demanding games. - Lower Future-Proofing:
Since budget systems are often equipped with older or lower-end components, they may not be as future-proof as more expensive systems. However, with strategic upgrades, you can extend the lifespan of your system. - Less Customization:
Pre-built systems come as-is, meaning you might not get the exact combination of components you want. If customization is important to you, a custom-built PC or selecting individual parts for assembly might be a better option.
Is It Right for You?
A gaming PC under $300 pre-built is perfect for entry-level gamers, those with limited budgets, or people looking to get into PC gaming without a huge investment. However, it’s essential to set realistic expectations. If you’re looking to play the latest AAA games on ultra settings, this price range won’t meet your needs. But for casual gaming, esports titles, or light indie games, these systems offer great value.
If you’re serious about performance and future upgrades, consider investing in a higher-budget system in the long run, but don’t discount the fun you can have with a $300 gaming PC!