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What is the best gaming computer?

There are plenty of people who love to play video games, but they don’t have the time or inclination to build their own system. That usually involves a lot of research and planning, and you also need to make sure the parts are compatible.

The easier – and sometimes cheaper – way is to buy a game console that’s already assembled. You don’t have to do anything but turn it on and install your favorite games. If that sounds like a dream, the 2022 HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop PC is an excellent option.

What you need to know before buying a game console

Think about which games you will play the most

What you can do and how well you can do it depends on the internal components of the PC. A game computer must be strong enough to play the latest titles, but think about what else you will use it for. If you occasionally graphic design, you will benefit greatly from more memory and a faster graphics card. Remember, you don’t need the latest and greatest components to enjoy top games, so there’s no need to go over budget.

Additional components may be necessary, but inconvenient

A pre-built computer uses the manufacturer’s components and some third-party parts. While that ensures compatibility, it’s not always the best. For example, a computer with a powerful graphics card needs more cooling or ventilation in a standard PC case. So consider installing a liquid cooling system or adding more exhaust fans. This can get tricky as you need to make sure the enclosure is large enough and the components remain compatible.

You must have your own accessories

A turnkey computer consists of all components mounted inside the case, so it’s ready to play games right out of the box. But no accessories or peripherals are included. If a pre-built machine is your first PC, you should also buy a gaming monitor, keyboard and mouse. For sound you have a few options, but most gamers prefer a wired headset unless the motherboard has built-in Bluetooth – then you can use a wireless headset.

What should you pay attention to in a high-quality game computer?

Central processing unit

The CPU is the heart of any computer and is responsible for sending instructions to the other components. Depending on the motherboard, the CPU is made by Intel or AMD. The CPU is less crucial for gaming in terms of graphics quality, but important nonetheless. A good quality computer has at least an Intel Core i5 or an AMD Ryzen 5 CPU.

Random access memory

The RAM is the computer’s memory and stores all the short-term data it needs to perform tasks. The more RAM you have, the faster a PC can get things done without slowing down. A good quality gaming PC has at least 8 gigabytes of RAM, but 16 GB is becoming the norm as video games become more resource intensive.

Graphics Card

When it comes to video games, the graphics card plays an integral role. It is the most important part that determines the visual quality. Most gamers go for an Nvidia graphics card, with the RTX 30 series being the latest. Others prefer AMD’s cards, with the Radeon RX 6000 series being the latest model.

How much can you expect to spend on a gaming computer?

This largely depends on the manufacturer and the quality of the internal components. An entry-level gaming computer with 32GB of RAM and an Intel Core i5 CPU will cost $1,000-$1,200. However, a more powerful PC with a high-end graphics card will cost $2,000-$3,000.

Frequently asked questions about gaming computers

Can you use any mouse and keyboard?

A. Yes, you can use any brand of mouse or keyboard you want. It works as long as the accessory is connected wirelessly or via a USB port. Your accessories do not depend on the internal components of the PC.

How do you add storage space?

A. To add space on the hard drive, you have a few options. Depending on the configuration of the motherboard, you can easily add an SSD or hard drive. If there is not enough space in the case, you can always connect an external hard drive via a USB port.

What is the best gaming computer to buy?

Best game computer

Best 2022 HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop PC

2022 HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop PC

What you need to know: This computer has enough RAM and hard drive space to perform the most demanding tasks.

What you will like: This turnkey computer comes in an elegant HP chassis with subtle green lighting on the front and has 32 GB RAM, a 1 terabyte solid-state hard drive and a traditional 2 TB hard drive. The CPU is an Intel Core i5 with a maximum clock speed of 4.3 gigahertz and the graphics card is a powerful Nvidia RTX 3060 12GB. It comes with a wired mouse and keyboard.

What to think about: The case doesn’t have many vents, so installing an aftermarket liquid cooler is best.

Where to buy: Sold by HP and Amazon

Top gaming computer for the money

Best Asus ROG Strix G10 Gaming Desktop PC

Asus ROG Strix G10 gaming desktop PC

What you need to know: With a high-quality Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060, this affordable computer is an excellent choice for any gamer.

What you will like: Powered by an Intel Core i7 CPU, it has 16 GB DDR4 RAM and a 1 TB solid-state hard drive and comes with Windows 11 installed. The case features a tempered glass window, customizable Aura Sync lighting, and two insulated air chambers for enhanced ventilation.

What to think about: Some users said that the open case design makes the system noisy when turned on.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth watching

Best Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop

Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop

What you need to know: If you’re seriously in the mood for some extra cash, this beast of a slot machine is all you need for years to come.

What you will like: With a powerful Intel Core i9 with a maximum clock speed of 5.2 gigahertz, there will be very few games that can’t handle it on the best settings. It comes with 32 GB of RAM (expandable up to 128 GB), a 1 TB M.2 solid-state hard drive and an Nvidia RTX 3080Ti 8 GB graphics card.

What to think about: The PC case has Alienware’s signature futuristic shape, which may not be a look for everyone.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Charlie Fripp writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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