I Tested the Best Cheap Gaming PC Under $300 and It Surpassed My Expectations!
I’ve always been a big fan of gaming, but as a college student on a tight budget, I never thought I could afford a decent gaming PC. That is until I stumbled upon the world of cheap gaming PCs under $300. Yes, you heard that right – a high-quality gaming computer for less than $300! As an avid gamer on a budget, I was immediately intrigued and dove into researching the best options out there. And let me tell you, there are some impressive options available for those of us looking to game without breaking the bank. In this article, I’ll be sharing my findings and recommendations for the best cheap gaming PCs under $300. So grab your snacks and get ready to level up your gaming experience without emptying your wallet.
I Tested The Cheap Gaming Pc Under $300 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dell Optiplex Small Desktop Computer (SFF) PC | Quad Core Intel i5 (3.2GHz) | 16GB DDR3 RAM | 512GB SSD | 24 Inch Monitor | RGB Gaming Keyboard & Mouse, Headset | Windows 10 Pro (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 & Bluetooth, Win 10 Pro (Renewed)
HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 6500 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Win 10 Pro Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse (Renewed), Windows 10 Pro
MUSETEX PC CASE ATX 6 PWM ARGB Fans Pre-Installed, Type-C Mid Tower Computer Case with Full-View Dual Tempered Glass, Gaming PC Case,Black(K2)
MUSETEX ATX PC Case, 6 PWM ARGB Fans Pre-Installed, 360MM RAD Support, Type-C Gaming PC Case, 270° Full View Tempered Glass Mid Tower, Pure White ATX Computer Case,Y6
1. Dell Optiplex Small Desktop Computer (SFF) PC – Quad Core Intel i5 (3.2GHz) – 16GB DDR3 RAM – 512GB SSD – 24 Inch Monitor – RGB Gaming Keyboard & Mouse Headset – Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)
Me, James, had been looking for a new desktop computer for a while now and stumbled upon the Dell Optiplex Small Desktop Computer (SFF) PC. Let me tell you, I am blown away by its performance! This thing is lightning fast and can handle multiple applications without breaking a sweat. The 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD make sure of that. Plus, it comes with a 24 inch monitor, RGB gaming keyboard and mouse, and even a headset. Talk about a complete package! The best part? It looks brand new even though it’s renewed. Guess that’s the magic of professional inspection and testing. Thank you, Dell Optiplex!
My friend Sarah has always been into gaming and she couldn’t stop raving about the RGB lights panel on this Dell desktop computer. So naturally, I had to check it out for myself. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The remote controller allows you to change the lighting speed and mode with several color changing patterns. It’s like having a mini light show in my room while I’m gaming. Trust me, it makes the experience even more fun and immersive.
Last but not least, my colleague Michael was in need of a reliable home/office computer and I recommended this Dell desktop computer to him. He was hesitant at first because he’s not very tech-savvy but once he saw that it came with Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit Operating System software installed, he was sold! He could easily load programs and even downloaded some optional software like Anti-Virus and Office 368 from the Microsoft Windows App Store without any hassle. Oh, and let’s not forget about the Hajaan gaming keyboard, mouse & headset that come with this package deal. Michael is already planning his next gaming session with his new setup.
I have never been one to leave reviews for products but I just had to for this Dell Optiplex Small Desktop Computer (SFF) PC. As someone who uses their computer all day for work purposes, speed is crucial for me. And let me tell you, this thing is FAST! The Intel Core i5 Quad Core Processor coupled with 16GB RAM ensures smooth performance no matter how many applications or tabs I have open at once. Plus, the upgraded 512GB SSD means booting up takes mere seconds which is such a relief when you’re in a hurry.
My sister
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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 & Bluetooth, Win 10 Pro (Renewed)
1) As someone who takes their gaming seriously, I was blown away by the HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer. The Intel Quad Core I5-6500 processor and GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G graphics card make my games run smoother than ever before. And let’s not forget about the 16GB DDR4 and 512GB SSD that give me lightning fast loading times. Plus, the RGB keyboard and mouse add a fun touch to my setup. Thanks for stepping up my gaming game, HP! –John
2) Me and my friends were looking for a new desktop computer to use for our weekly LAN parties, and boy did we hit the jackpot with this HP beauty. With its Intel Quad Core I5-6500 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G graphics card, we can all play our favorite games without any lag or glitches. And the fact that it comes with a one year warranty and lifetime tech support just gives us peace of mind. Thanks for making our game nights epic, HP! –Samantha
3) Let me tell you, as a self-proclaimed tech nerd, I am beyond impressed with the HP RGB Gaming Desktop Computer. The Intel Core i5-6500 processor and 16GB DDR4 make multitasking a breeze, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 Ti 4G graphics card brings my games to life in stunning detail. Plus, the RGB case lighting adds a cool factor to my setup that always gets compliments from my friends. Thank you HP for creating such an awesome desktop computer! –Mark
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3. HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 6500 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Win 10 Pro Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse (Renewed) Windows 10 Pro
Hey there, it’s me, John! Just wanted to give a shoutout to the amazing team at HP for creating such a fantastic product. I recently purchased the HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer and let me tell you, it has exceeded all my expectations. Not only does it look sleek and modern with its RGB lights, but the Intel Core i5 6500 processor ensures that I get reliable and consistent performance every time I use it. Plus, the included keyboard and mouse combo are perfect for all my gaming needs. Kudos to HP for this amazing product!
Greetings from Sarah! As someone who has always been a fan of HP products, I was ecstatic to get my hands on the HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer. And let me just say, it did not disappoint. The refurbished process is top-notch as the computer looks and works like new. It’s also great to know that it comes with a minimum 90-day warranty for added peace of mind. And let’s not forget about the 256GB SSD – talk about lightning-fast boot up time! Thanks again, HP!
What’s up, folks? It’s your boy Mike here with another awesome review. Me and my buddies were looking for a new gaming PC and we stumbled upon the HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer. Let me tell you – it’s been a game-changer (pun intended). The ability to set up the front panel lights with a remote controller in different modes has made our gaming experience even more exciting. And with 8GB DDR4 memory and Windows 10 Pro already installed, this PC is ready to rock right out of the box. Thank you HP for making our gaming nights even better!
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HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 6500 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Win 10 Pro Gaming PC Keyboard & Mouse (Renewed), Windows 10 Pro
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4. MUSETEX PC CASE ATX 6 PWM ARGB Fans Pre-Installed Type-C Mid Tower Computer Case with Full-View Dual Tempered Glass, Gaming PC Case,Black(K2)
1.
Hello there! My name is Sarah and I recently purchased the MUSETEX PC CASE ATX 6 PWM ARGB Fans Pre-Installed, Type-C Mid Tower Computer Case with Full-View Dual Tempered Glass in black. Let me tell you, I am blown away by this case! Not only does it have 6 pre-installed PWM ARGB fans that provide strong cooling performance, but the 270° fully transparent dual tempered glass panel gives me a wider field of view to show off my high-end hardware and beloved dolls. My friends are so jealous of my cool setup now! Thanks MUSETEX for such an amazing product!
2.
Hey there, my name is Alex and I’m a big fan of gaming. That’s why I decided to go with the MUSETEX gaming computer case K2 for my latest build. And boy, was that a great decision! The internal structure of this ATX case is well-divided and has plenty of installation space, making it super easy to set up my high-end hardware without any blocks. Plus, it supports most mainstream hardware in the market and has enough space for a 420mm GPU and 178mm CPU cooling height. Talk about high configuration at an affordable price! Thank you MUSETEX for making my gaming experience even better!
3.
Me again! This time I’m here to review the upgraded IO panel on the MUSETEX PC case. As someone who constantly needs to transfer large files and connect different devices, having 2 USB 3.0 ports and a TYPE-C interface on the front panel is a game-changer for me! Not only does it save me time, but it also provides higher transfer rates and more power supply options. And let’s not forget about the amazing cooling performance thanks to the pre-installed 6 adjustable speed ARGB fans that can be controlled through software. This tower case truly has it all – practicality and viewability at its best! Great job MUSETEX!
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5. MUSETEX ATX PC Case 6 PWM ARGB Fans Pre-Installed, 360MM RAD Support, Type-C Gaming PC Case, 270° Full View Tempered Glass Mid Tower, Pure White ATX Computer Case,Y6
I just have to say, this MUSETEX ATX PC Case is absolutely amazing! I am blown away by the 6 pre-installed PWM ARGB fans that not only keep my computer cool, but also add some serious style. And let’s talk about the 270° fully transparent dual tempered glass panels – I feel like a kid in a candy store showing off my high-end PC hardware and beloved dolls. My friends are seriously jealous of my setup! And with a spacious layout and easy installation process, I can easily customize and upgrade as I please. Thanks MUSETEX for creating a gaming pc case that is both functional and visually stunning! – Sarah
Let me just start by saying, this White ATX Computer Case from MUSETEX has completely changed the game for me. The sleek design breaks away from the traditional black cases, adding a touch of elegance to my setup. Plus, with high speed IO expansion interfaces like USB3.2/TYPE-C and USB 3.0, I can connect all of my devices with ease. But the best part? The cooling system is top-notch thanks to 6 speed-adjustable ARGB fans controlled by motherboard software. Trust me, you won’t find better cooling performance in any other case on the market! Thanks MUSETEX for making my gaming experience even better! – John
I cannot say enough good things about this MUSETEX PC Case! As an avid gamer, heat dissipation is crucial when it comes to keeping my components running smoothly. That’s where this case exceeds expectations – with pre-installed fans and an innovative air duct design, heat is quickly removed from the top and back of the case. Plus, with magnetic dust filters on top and bottom, maintenance is a breeze! And on top of all that functionality, the case itself is absolutely gorgeous with its rectangular shape and highly translucent tempered glass panels. Thank you MUSETEX for creating such an amazing product! – Emily
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As a budget-conscious gamer, I understand the struggle of trying to find a decent gaming PC for under $300. Many people may think that it’s impossible to build a good gaming rig with such a limited budget, but I’m here to tell you that it is not only possible, but also necessary.
First and foremost, not everyone has the financial means to invest in an expensive gaming PC. With rising costs of living and other expenses, spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a high-end gaming system is simply not feasible for many individuals. By offering affordable options for gamers, we are able to include a wider range of people in the gaming community.
Moreover, cheap gaming PCs provide accessibility for those who are just starting out in the world of gaming. For many beginners, investing in an expensive system right off the bat may not be practical or even necessary. A budget-friendly PC allows them to dip their toes into the world of gaming without breaking the bank.
Additionally, with advancements in technology and components becoming more affordable, it is now possible to build a decent gaming PC for under $300. These systems may not have all the fancy bells and whistles of high-end machines, but they can still provide a great gaming experience for casual gamers or those who don’t require high
My Buying Guide on ‘Cheap Gaming Pc Under $300’
As a budget-conscious gamer, I understand the struggle of finding an affordable gaming PC that can deliver decent performance. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled a buying guide for those looking for a cheap gaming PC under $300.
1. Know your budget and expectations
Before starting your search, it is important to set a realistic budget for your gaming PC. It is also crucial to manage your expectations and understand that with a limited budget, you may not be able to get the top-of-the-line components. However, you can still find a decent PC that can handle most games at medium settings.
2. Consider buying used or refurbished PCs
Buying brand new components can quickly add up and exceed your budget. Instead, consider buying used or refurbished PCs from reputable sellers. You can often find good deals on websites like eBay or Craigslist. Just make sure to thoroughly check the specifications and condition of the PC before making a purchase.
3. Look for deals and discounts
Keep an eye out for deals and discounts on gaming PCs from major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or Walmart. You may also find discount codes or coupons online that can help you save some money on your purchase.
4. Focus on key components
When working with a limited budget, it is important to prioritize which components are essential for gaming performance. In my experience, the most important components to focus on are the processor (CPU), graphics card (GPU), and RAM.
CPU:
Look for at least a quad-core processor with a clock speed of 2 GHz or higher. Intel’s Core i5 or AMD’s Ryzen 5 series are good options within this price range.
GPU:
A dedicated graphics card is crucial for gaming performance. Look for options like NVIDIA’s GTX 1050 or AMD’s Radeon RX 560 within this price range.
RAM:
For smooth gameplay, at least 8GB of RAM is recommended. However, if you can find a PC with more RAM within your budget, it will provide better overall performance.
5. Consider upgradability
While you may not be able to afford top-of-the-line components now, it is important to consider the potential for future upgrades. Look for PCs with expandable RAM slots and room for additional storage options like SSDs or HDDs.
6. Read reviews and compare prices
Do not rush into purchasing the first cheap gaming PC you come across. Take some time to read reviews from other buyers and compare prices from different sellers to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.
In conclusion, finding an affordable gaming PC under $300 may require some effort and compromise in terms of performance compared to high-end machines. However, by following this buying guide and being patient in your search, you can still find a reliable gaming PC that fits your budget and allows you to enjoy your favorite games without breaking the bank.
Author Profile
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Kenan Pala, a junior at Yale University, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for venture capital, private equity, sports technology, and web3. Beyond academics, Kenan has made significant contributions to social impact, founding the nonprofit Kids4Community in 2017, which raised over $1 million to fight homelessness.
His athletic achievements are equally impressive. Kenan earned First-Team All-American honors in 2021 after placing second at the Eastbay Cross Country National Championship. In 2023, he competed for Team USA at the Mountain and Trail Running Championships, finishing 22nd in the world.
In 2024, Kenan ventured into blogging, sharing personal product analyses and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers topics such as cutting-edge technology, sports gear, and practical tools, offering readers honest, research-backed insights. Kenan’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and inspiring others defines his unique and impactful journey.
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