Best Budget Gaming Setups You Can Build in 2024

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Building a gaming setup on a budget in 2024 doesn’t mean sacrificing performance or aesthetics.

With advancements in technology, even budget-conscious gamers can create an immersive gaming experience without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re into competitive shooters, expansive RPGs, or casual titles, a well-thought-out gaming setup can elevate your gameplay.

When building on a budget, the key is finding the right balance between cost and performance, as well as knowing where to allocate your resources.

Should you splurge on a faster CPU, or is a mid-tier GPU sufficient?

Do you need a top-tier mechanical keyboard, or can you get by with something simpler?

These are the types of questions to consider as you plan.

Additionally, 2024 brings new options for affordable hardware and accessories, meaning there’s no shortage of choices.

So, if you’re looking to build a gaming setup that maximizes both your enjoyment and your wallet, this guide will help you craft the best budget-friendly rig for your needs.

From the PC components to peripherals, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get the most out of your budget in 2024.

1. The Heart of Your Setup: Budget Gaming PC Build

The core of any gaming setup is the PC itself, and with the right components, you can build a powerful gaming machine without emptying your savings.

Start with the CPU, as it’s critical to the performance of your games.

In 2024, budget-friendly options like the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X and Intel Core i5-12400F offer excellent performance for the price, handling most games with ease.

Both CPUs provide a great balance between multi-core performance and single-core speed, making them ideal for gaming while also handling tasks like streaming or light video editing.

When it comes to the GPU, the most important component for gaming, you don’t need to go top-of-the-line to enjoy smooth gameplay.

Cards like the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super or the AMD Radeon RX 6600 are affordable yet powerful enough to run modern games at 1080p with high settings.

These GPUs offer excellent value and can deliver frame rates above 60 FPS in most AAA titles.

Pair them with at least 16GB of DDR4 RAM (3200MHz) to ensure smooth multitasking and gameplay.

As for storage, an NVMe SSD like the Kingston NV1 1TB is a cost-effective option that dramatically reduces load times, making your entire gaming experience faster and more seamless.

Building your own PC isn’t just about choosing components—it’s about assembling a machine that meets your specific gaming needs while staying within your budget.

The motherboard you choose, like the MSI B550-A Pro for AMD builds or the ASRock B560M Pro4 for Intel builds, should support future upgrades so you can swap in more powerful components down the line.

This way, you’re investing in a system that can grow with your gaming demands.

Additionally, a 450W to 550W power supply from a reliable brand like EVGA or Corsair should provide sufficient power for your budget build without unnecessary overkill.

Don’t forget about a solid PC case with good airflow, such as the NZXT H510 or Cooler Master Q300L, which are budget-friendly but offer excellent cooling and cable management.

2. Affordable Monitors for Gamers

Once you’ve built your PC, the next essential part of your gaming setup is the monitor.

A good display can significantly enhance your gaming experience, so you’ll want one that balances price with performance.

For budget gamers, 1080p monitors with a 144Hz refresh rate offer the best value in 2024.

The Acer Nitro VG240Y is a popular choice, providing a crisp 1080p resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and a low 1ms response time, all for under $200.

It’s perfect for fast-paced games like shooters or MOBAs where every frame counts.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more for extra screen real estate, the AOC CQ32G1 offers a 1440p resolution and 144Hz refresh rate at an affordable price, giving you a more immersive experience without going over budget.

Curved monitors are also becoming more accessible in the budget market, with options like the Samsung Odyssey G5 providing a great mix of performance and immersion.

This 27-inch curved monitor offers a 1440p resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and a sleek design for around $300, making it a top choice for gamers looking to upgrade from a standard flat screen.

The curved design enhances immersion, especially in racing games or RPGs, where peripheral vision adds to the overall experience.

If space or budget is a concern, the ViewSonic XG2405 is another solid 1080p option with an IPS panel, delivering good color accuracy and a fast refresh rate, ideal for competitive gaming.

3. Keyboards and Mice That Won’t Break the Bank

Having the right peripherals can make a huge difference in your gaming experience, and thankfully, you don’t need to spend a fortune on high-quality gear.

For budget keyboards, mechanical options are available at lower prices than ever.

The Redragon K552 is a standout, offering mechanical switches, RGB lighting, and a compact design, all for under $50.

Its tactile feedback and durable build make it an excellent choice for both casual and competitive gamers alike.

If you prefer something with a full-sized layout, the HyperX Alloy Core RGB is a membrane keyboard that delivers a solid performance with customizable lighting and spill resistance, priced at around $60.

For mice, the Logitech G203 Lightsync is a budget favorite.

It features customizable RGB lighting, a 6,000 DPI sensor, and a comfortable, lightweight design, all for under $40.

It’s perfect for both gaming and general use.

If you’re looking for a mouse with more buttons for MMO or strategy games, the Corsair Harpoon RGB Wireless offers the flexibility of wireless connectivity without the high price tag, retailing for around $50.

Its ergonomic design and customizable DPI settings make it a versatile option for various game genres.

Pairing your budget gaming mouse with a good mouse pad is equally important.

The SteelSeries QcK is an affordable yet high-quality option that offers smooth tracking and durability.

Available in various sizes, it ensures that you have enough space for both low-sensitivity aiming and general navigation without compromising precision.

4. Budget Headsets for Immersive Audio

Audio plays a crucial role in gaming, from hearing footsteps in a competitive shooter to enjoying the atmospheric soundtracks of an RPG.

Fortunately, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a great headset in 2024.

The HyperX Cloud Stinger is a budget-friendly option that offers excellent sound quality, comfort, and a built-in microphone for around $50.

It’s lightweight and features memory foam ear cushions, making it comfortable for long gaming sessions.

For gamers who want wireless functionality, the Corsair HS70 Pro provides solid audio performance, a detachable mic, and wireless connectivity for just under $100.

Its 7.1 surround sound capability helps immerse you deeper into your games, while the build quality ensures longevity.

Another excellent option is the SteelSeries Arctis 1, which comes in both wired and wireless versions.

Known for its clear audio and detachable microphone, the Arctis 1 is a versatile headset that works well across multiple devices, including PCs, consoles, and mobile phones.

Its sleek design and durable build make it one of the best budget options for gamers in 2024.

If you’re on a tight budget but still want decent audio quality, the Razer Kraken X is priced under $40 and delivers 7.1 surround sound with comfortable ear cushions, making it a great entry-level headset for gamers on a budget.

5. Budget Gaming Chairs for Comfort and Style

While it’s easy to overlook the importance of a good chair, it plays a significant role in your overall gaming experience, especially during extended sessions.

A quality gaming chair provides proper support for your back, neck, and arms, preventing discomfort or injury over time.

The Homall Gaming Chair is a popular budget option, offering ergonomic support, a reclining function, and a stylish design for under $150.

It’s a great starting point for anyone looking to add a bit of flair and comfort to their gaming setup without going over budget.

If you want something with more adjustability and lumbar support, the GTPLAYER Gaming Chair is another excellent option.

Priced around $160, it offers a sturdy build, adjustable armrests, and a footrest for added comfort during long gaming sessions.

For those who prefer a more minimalist design, the RESPAWN 110 Racing Style Chair combines comfort with a sleek look, featuring a high backrest and built-in headrest and lumbar cushions.

It’s a versatile choice for both gaming and working, priced competitively at under $180.

6. Streaming on a Budget: Microphones and Webcams

If you’re looking to stream your gameplay or create content, having the right streaming equipment is essential.

A good microphone can make all the difference when communicating with your audience or teammates.

The FIFINE K669B is an excellent budget microphone, offering clear sound quality and easy plug-and-play functionality for under $50.

It’s perfect for streamers or gamers who want to upgrade their audio without breaking the bank.

For a bit more, the Blue Snowball iCE is another fantastic option, known for its superior sound quality and professional look, retailing for around $70.

For webcams, the **

Logitech C920** remains a budget-friendly favorite.

It offers 1080p resolution, autofocus, and good low-light performance for under $80, making it ideal for streaming or video calls.

If you’re looking for something even more affordable, the Microsoft Lifecam HD-3000 provides 720p video quality for around $40, a great starting point for those new to streaming or video content creation.

Building a budget gaming setup in 2024 requires thoughtful planning and smart choices, but with the right components and peripherals, you can create a highly enjoyable gaming experience without overspending.

From the PC build itself to the peripherals like monitors, keyboards, and headsets, there are plenty of options available that deliver great performance at a fraction of the price of high-end gear.

Whether you’re an aspiring streamer, a competitive gamer, or someone who just enjoys playing games casually, these budget-friendly tips and products will help you craft the perfect setup to meet your needs.