Best Cheap Gaming PC in 2025 (Top 5: Lenovo, HP and More)
Last Updated on June 8, 2025
Best Cheap Gaming PC: Can You Really Game Like a Pro Without Emptying Your Wallet?
Picture this: You’ve just finished a long day, and all you want to do is dive into the latest game. But wait—your ancient laptop can barely handle a web browser, let alone a high-octane shooter. Don’t fret! You can game on a budget without sacrificing performance or style. After all, who said that gaming glory must come with a sky-high price tag?
In this roundup, we’re exploring the best budget gaming PCs that deliver BIG on performance without asking for your life savings. Whether you’re a casual gamer or looking to leap into serious gaming, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s get into it!
Contents
- The Best Cheap Gaming PC
- Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8
- HP Victus 15L Gaming Desktop
- OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop
- Acer Predator Orion 3000
- Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5i
- Final Thoughts on the Best Cheap Gaming PC
- Choosing the Right Budget Gaming PC
- Best Cheap Gaming PC - FAQs
- Check Out the Best Cheap Gaming PC
- Also Check Out Other Helpful Articles
- Video About the Best Cheap Gaming PC
The Best Cheap Gaming PC
Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8
With its powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7700 and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, the Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8 is a powerhouse for serious gamers. It balances high performance and a sleek design, making it a top choice for those who demand the best.
Advantages
- High-performance components
- Aesthetic design with RGB lighting
- Ample memory and storage
Drawbacks
- Higher price point
- Bulky design may not fit all spaces
- Potential for overheating under heavy load
The Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8 is built for gamers who require top-tier performance and reliability. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 7700 processor and equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, this desktop can handle the latest games at high resolutions without breaking a sweat.
Key Features
- 32GB DDR5 RAM: Ensures smooth multitasking and performance across demanding applications.
- 1TB WD_Black SSD: Provides ample storage for games, applications, and media, with fast load times.
- Wi-Fi 6: Ensures fast and reliable internet connectivity for online gaming.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Outstanding performance, stylish design, excellent memory and storage capacity.
- Cons: More expensive than entry-level options, size may be cumbersome for some setups.
If you're serious about gaming and want a machine that can handle both current and future titles with ease, the Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8 is an investment that pays off.
HP Victus 15L Gaming Desktop
The HP Victus 15L offers an impressive combination of performance and value for budget gamers. With solid graphics capabilities and a user-friendly design, it is an excellent choice for those looking to step into gaming without breaking the bank.
Advantages
- Affordable price point
- Decent performance for most games
- Easy to upgrade components
Drawbacks
- Limited storage capacity
- Single RAM stick hampers performance
- May struggle with newer titles at high settings
The HP Victus 15L Gaming Desktop is designed for gamers who want excellent performance without spending a fortune. Featuring an Intel Core i3-12100F processor and NVIDIA GTX 1660 SUPER graphics, this desktop is well-equipped to handle a variety of modern games, making it a great entry point for new gamers.
Key Features
- 8GB DDR4 RAM: Sufficient for multitasking, though upgrading to dual-channel can enhance performance.
- 256GB SSD: Provides fast boot times and quick load times for games, though additional storage may be necessary for larger game libraries.
- Windows 11 Home: Familiar interface and improved gaming features.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Affordable price, good entry-level performance, easy access for upgrades.
- Cons: Limited storage space, single-channel RAM configuration, performance may drop with the latest games.
The HP Victus 15L is a solid choice for gamers on a budget, offering a good balance of performance and price. Just be prepared to invest in additional storage if you plan to play many modern titles.
OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop
The OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop combines solid performance with a design that encourages upgrades, making it a strong contender for gamers looking to customize their rigs over time.
Advantages
- Easy to upgrade components
- Strong performance for the price
- Customizable lighting
Drawbacks
- Cooling can be noisy
- Limited stock components may underperform
- Some users report build quality issues
The OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop is designed for gamers who value performance and the ability to customize their setup. Powered by an Intel i7-10700F and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060, this system is capable of playing modern games at high settings.
Key Features
- 16GB RAM: Provides ample memory for gaming and multitasking.
- 512GB SSD + 1TB HDD: Offers a blend of speed and storage capacity for games and other applications.
- OMEN Command Center: Enables easy monitoring and performance tuning of your system.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Excellent upgradability, good performance, and aesthetic appeal.
- Cons: Fans can be loud under load, potential quality control issues, and some parts may need upgrading quickly.
If you're looking for a gaming desktop that not only offers solid performance but also allows for future enhancements, the OMEN 25L is a great choice.
Acer Predator Orion 3000
The Acer Predator Orion 3000 delivers reliable performance with its capable hardware and stylish design. It's a great option for gamers who want a solid experience without overspending.
Advantages
- Decent gaming performance
- Stylish RGB design
- Includes gaming peripherals
Drawbacks
- Limited upgrade options
- May have cooling issues under load
- Some users report quality control issues
The Acer Predator Orion 3000 is an excellent gaming desktop for those who want a balance between performance and design. Featuring a 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10400F and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER, this PC is well-suited for running most games comfortably at medium to high settings.
Key Features
- 12GB DDR4 RAM: Allows for efficient multitasking and gaming.
- 512GB NVMe SSD: Fast storage for quick boot and load times, though you might need additional storage for larger game libraries.
- RGB Keyboard and Mouse: Comes with peripherals that add flair to your gaming setup.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Good performance for the price, attractive design, and included accessories.
- Cons: Limited upgrade paths, potential thermal issues, and mixed reviews on quality.
The Acer Predator Orion 3000 provides a robust gaming experience, making it a worthy consideration for mid-range gamers.
Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5i
The Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5i is an ideal choice for casual gamers or those new to PC gaming. Its solid specs provide a good balance of performance and affordability.
Advantages
- Affordable entry-level price
- Decent gaming capability
- Compact design
Drawbacks
- Limited upgrade options
- Basic cooling solutions
- May not handle high-end games well
The Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5i is tailored for gamers who are just starting or looking for a budget-friendly option. Equipped with a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 and Intel i5 12400, this desktop runs most games well at moderate settings.
Key Features
- 8GB RAM: Sufficient for casual gaming and multitasking, though it may need an upgrade for more demanding games.
- 512GB SSD: Provides fast data access and storage for games, but additional storage might be needed eventually.
- Pre-installed Windows 11: Ready to use right out of the box.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Good for casual gaming, affordable pricing, compact form factor.
- Cons: Limited future-proofing, cooling could be better, might struggle with current AAA titles.
The Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5i is a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers who still want a reliable performance.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cheap Gaming PC
If you're ready to take gaming seriously without breaking the bank, the Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8 stands as our top recommendation. Its exceptional power and sleek design cater to serious gamers who demand high performance. For those just stepping into gaming, consider the HP Victus 15L Gaming Desktop. It offers a fantastic entry-point with solid graphics capabilities, perfect for a budget-friendly experience. Choose your fighter wisely!
Choosing the Right Budget Gaming PC
When you're on the hunt for a budget gaming PC, it’s essential to understand what specifications truly matter. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose wisely:
Key Components to Consider:
- Processor (CPU): Look for at least an AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel i5. These processors provide a good foundation for gaming.
- Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU is crucial for gaming. Models like the NVIDIA GeForce GTX or RTX series offer solid performance without breaking the bank.
- RAM: At least 8GB of RAM is recommended for smooth multitasking and gaming. More RAM can significantly enhance performance, especially in demanding games.
- Storage: Consider an SSD for faster load times, although a combination of SSD and HDD can give you the best of both worlds.
Performance vs. Price
You’ll often see a trade-off between performance and price. While high-end models like the Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8 provide exceptional performance, budget alternatives like the Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5i still deliver great value for casual gamers. Assess your gaming habits and choose accordingly.
Upgrade Potential
Choose a gaming PC that allows for future upgrades. The OMEN 25L Gaming Desktop excels in this area, making it easy to swap out components as your gaming needs evolve. This can extend the life of your PC and improve performance over time.
User Experience
Finally, don’t overlook the user experience. A PC with a user-friendly design and reliable customer support can save you headaches in the long run. Look for reviews that mention build quality and ease of use to ensure a positive experience.
In conclusion, diving into gaming on a budget is entirely possible with the right knowledge and a little research. Happy gaming! 📦🎮
Best Cheap Gaming PC - FAQs
What should I look for in a budget gaming PC?
Focus on a good balance of CPU and GPU performance, sufficient RAM (at least 8GB), and upgrade options. Don't forget about cooling and design, as these can affect long-term performance.
Can budget gaming PCs run the latest games?
Yes, many budget gaming PCs can run popular games, especially at lower settings. Look for models with at least an AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel i5 processor and a dedicated GPU like the NVIDIA GTX or RTX series.
Are these PCs upgradeable?
Most budget gaming PCs, like the OMEN 25L and Acer Predator Orion 3000, are designed with upgrades in mind. You can usually add more RAM or a better GPU down the line.
How much should I spend on a budget gaming PC?
You can find good budget gaming PCs ranging from $600 to $1,200. Prices can vary based on sales and model specifications.
Is it worth buying a budget gaming PC over a console?
It depends on your gaming preferences. PCs offer better graphics, more customization, and a wider game library, while consoles can be more user-friendly and cheaper upfront.
Check Out the Best Cheap Gaming PC
Still not sure which one to choose? Click the link below to see the best-selling products.
Also Check Out Other Helpful Articles
Take a look at more useful articles that can help you make more informed decisions.
- Best Laptop With Large Screen in 2025 (Top 6: Acer, Asus and More)
- Best Laptop For Autocad in 2025 (Top 5: MSI, Asus and More)
- Best Laptop For Designers in 2025 (Top 5: Apple, Asus and More)
Video About the Best Cheap Gaming PC
We created a video on the topic. Just click to watch.
Related Articles
About the Author
Emily Clark is passionate about writing and enjoys exploring different topics through content creation. She believes in the power of words to connect and inform people.