Gaming is awesome. But let’s be real — gaming gear can get expensive. If you look at top streamers or pro players, their setups sometimes cost thousands of dollars. Well, you don’t need to spend a lot of money like gaming brands want you to spend on fancy RGB lights here and there.
Just follow the right tips and make smart choices and you can build a perfect gaming setup on a budget. And this setup will look good, work fast, and will give you a stable experience. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need (PC or console, screen, keyboard, mouse, headset, desk, and more) without breaking the bank.
Budget Gaming PC or Console: Pick What Works for You
The first thing to think about is what you’re going to play on: a PC or a console.
If you’re going with a console:
- A used PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or even a Nintendo Switch Lite can be a great start.
- You can find these at local stores, online marketplaces, or even from friends.
Many of today’s top games still work well on last-gen consoles. - Look for bundle deals where you get a console and a few games included.
If you prefer a PC:
- You can build your own PC for cheaper, or buy a used one and upgrade it later.
- Look for PCs with at least:
- 16GB RAM
- A decent graphics card like GTX 1650 or RX 580
- An SSD for faster loading
- Sites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Reddit often have good deals.
A Good Monitor That Doesn’t Cost Much
Your screen makes a big difference. Even with a strong PC or console, a bad monitor can ruin the experience.
Look for these things in a budget monitor:
- 1080p (Full HD) resolution – clear enough for most games
- 60Hz or 75Hz refresh rate – smoother image
- Low response time (5ms or less) – great for shooters and racing games
- HDMI input – to connect your console or PC easily
There are quite a few budget monitor options from Acer and ASUS that cost under $120 so they won’t break your budget.
Budget Keyboard and Mouse Combo
Believe me, you don’t need a $200 mechanical keyboard to play your favourite games. There are plenty of cheap gaming keyboards and mice that work just fine and don’t rip you off.
Here’s what to look for:
For Keyboards:
- Backlit keys
- Comfortable to type on
- Anti-ghosting
For Mice:
- Adjustable DPI settings (controls how fast your cursor moves)
- Comfortable shape
- Two or more side buttons (useful in shooters and MMOs)
Brands like Redragon, Logitech, and Cooler Master offer budget gaming combos for $30–$50.
Great Headsets Under $50
Sound is not super important for gaming but it’s important for immersive experience. A good gaming headset for $50 will do the job for sure. Check out the current lineup from HyperX Cloud Stinger, SteelSeries Arctis 1, and Razer Kraken X.
Look for these features:
- Clear mic
- Good ear padding
- Works with your device
Budget Desks and Chairs
You don’t need a fancy RGB desk or racing chair. But having a comfy spot to sit and play is important for long sessions.
Desk tips:
- Look for second-hand office desks — they work just fine
- You need enough space for your screen, keyboard, and mouse
- A shelf for your PC or console is a bonus
Chair tips:
- Office chairs with good back support are usually cheaper than gaming chairs
- Adjustable height and soft padding make a big difference
Add Some Style on a Budget
A good setup isn’t just about performance — it should look cool too. Here are some cheap ways to upgrade the vibe:
- RGB light strips – under $20, make your room glow
- Wall posters or gaming decals – show your favorite games
- Mouse pad with LED lights – looks cool and helps gameplay
- Cable organizers – keep your desk clean and neat
Free and Cheap Games to Start With
Now that you’ve got your gear, what about games? You don’t need to spend $70 per game. Some of the best games are free or super cheap.
Free games:
- Fortnite
- Valorant
- Apex Legends
- League of Legends
- Call of Duty: Warzone
- Rocket League
Cheap games:
- Steam Sales and Epic Games Store offer deep discounts
- Humble Bundle offers cheap game bundles with part of the money going to charity
- Some mobile games also support controllers and keyboards
Internet Connection and Setup
Even with the best setup, a slow connection can ruin online gaming. Here’s how to fix that on a budget:
- Use Ethernet (wired) instead of Wi-Fi for faster, more stable internet
- Move your router closer if you must use Wi-Fi
- Use a powerline adapter if your router is far from your setup
- Make sure other apps (like downloads or Netflix) aren’t running in the background
Optional but Useful Extras
Once you’ve covered the basics, you can slowly add other items to improve your setup:
- Webcam – for streaming or chatting with friends
- External hard drive – for storing more games
- Game controller – some games feel better with one
- Monitor stand or arm – saves space on your desk
Final Tips for Saving Money
- Buy used or open-box gear from trusted sellers
Wait for sales (Black Friday, back-to-school, summer sales) - Join gaming communities to hear about deals
- Watch reviews on YouTube to compare gear before you buy
- Start simple, and upgrade over time
Building a great setup for a gamer should be expensive and let you beg parents or take the overtime. Just be smart and you can play games like a pro without emptying your wallet. Sometimes you can even win one on platforms like 777fun.
Things to Consider
Gaming is for everyone, not just people with fancy setups. You can build an awesome budget gaming setup that’s fun, powerful, and looks cool without spending thousands. Start with the setups that are recommended on Quora and Reddit and these will be a good balance between the price and productivity. Check for sales and discounts on Black Friday or Cyber Monday to get additional discounts for better parts.
