What is the best gaming PC under 400 dollars?

Are you an experienced gamer in search of a powerful but not very expensive PC? Not everyone is ready to risk and build their own gaming machine, as many decent pre-built models can fulfill your gaming needs on a high level. Moreover, gaming computers are easy to upgrade, so you will be able to improve your machine’s characteristics without any troubles.

Of course, the most effective way for testing a gaming device is to play on it. This guide will help you choose the best gaming PC under 400 dollars, as here I have listed the most decent budget models tested by many users.

Do you have problems while selecting the best gaming PC under 400 bucks? This process is quite complicated. So I have done this task for you and compiled the list of the greatest budget models that are popular on the market today.

I have also found the answers to the most frequent questions that you will probably have while choosing a gaming computer. This article will provide you will all the necessary info so that your search for a gaming desktop under $400 will be as enjoyable as it could be.

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 3700X | GPU: AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT 8 GB | RAM: 16 GB | Storage: 1512 GB | Weight: 39.2 pound

The Dell Alienware is one of the most popular gaming computers under 400 dollars. Featuring an AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT video card and an advanced AMD Ryzen 7 3700X processing unit, the machine is capable of running various games without any issues. The Dell Alienware can handle heavy tasks and run even the most demanding games.

Besides, you will not need the most expensive chip in this machine, if you are going to use it mostly for gaming. Add to all the advantages listed above a stylish design, and you will realize that this model is probably the best gaming PC under $400.

CPU: Intel Core i5-9400F | GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Graphics | RAM: 8 GB | Storage: 512 GB | Weight: 17.81 pound

Many gamers prefer expensive models believing that pricey machines can help them win in every gaming session. However, the majority of users are looking for affordable but functional machines that will allow them to play games without problems. The Acer Nitro 50 is such a PC.

It is reasonably priced and powerful enough to run even demanding games. Fitted with an Intel Core i7-8700 central processing unit and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 video card, the Acer Nitro 50 is a highly functional gaming desktop under $400 without any drawbacks.

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3500 | GPU: AMD Radeon Rx 5500 | RAM: 8 GB | Storage: 512 GB | Weight: 31 pound

The HP Pavilion Gaming TG01-0040 is one of the greatest gaming computers under 400 dollars as it runs Borderlands 3 without lags. Featuring 8 GB of RAM, the machine can perform multiple tasks or operate several programs simultaneously. By using the HP Pavilion Gaming, you can write to your friends on Skype and play games at the same time.

Incorporating a 512 GB SSD, the computer provides you with enough space for storing many games and programs without decreasing the system performance. Besides, you can play games even in a dark room, as this PC features LED lighting. If your budget allows for higher investment, another model worth considering is the HP Pavilion TG01, which can be considered a good $1000 gaming PC.

CPU: Intel Core i5-10400F | GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super | RAM: 8 GB | Storage: 512 GB | Weight: 29 pound

The OMEN 25L is an advanced gaming desktop under $400 that boasts a great variety of features and cutting-edge specs. These advantages are an updated Intel 10th Generation Desktop processing unit and an Nvidia RTX Super video card. This PC also supports a Core i5-10400F processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super video card, allowing you to choose the components like.

A simplistic design is what makes it stand out among other Omen gaming machines. Besides, this model comes with 15mm rubber feet for improved airflow and better functioning.

CPU: Intel Core i5-9400 | GPU: Intel HD Graphics | RAM: 12 GB | Storage: 512 GB | Weight: 17.2 pound

The Acer Aspire is the best gaming PC under 400 bucks as it is affordable, well-built and powerful enough to run various games. This model can compete with many other machines within this price range, such as Lenovo or HP computers.

Some decent gaming models may cost a bit less, but the Aspire outperforms those devices earning its fame as one of the most powerful PCs in the mid-priced range. Fitted with an Intel Core i5-9400 CPU, 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB SSD, the Acer Aspire is an excellent device for performing basic tasks and playing games.

CPU: RYZEN 5 3600 | GPU: RTX 2060 Super 8GB | RAM: 16 GB | Storage: 1000 GB | Weight: 47.2 pound

If you are a serious gamer, you need a powerful device that will allow you to be a winner in each session. According to numerous reviews, the Thermaltake LCGS Glacier 300 is one of the best choices among budget machines. It does not only deliver a reliable performance but features a stylish design that attracts the attention of many gamers.

Besides, a great variety of features makes the Thermaltake Glacier the best cheap gaming PC under 400 dollars. It functions fast and delivers a great image, which is very important for enjoyable gaming sessions.

A good video card speeds up your computer’s performance. A high-quality CPU is a must-have component for gamers, especially if you are going to play heavy games. Unfortunately, integrated graphic cards do not usually perform well, so you will probably need to buy a more advanced GPU that is quite expensive. As I have already mentioned, if you are in search of the best gaming PC under 400 bucks, you should be ready to compromise. By using such a budget machine, you cannot play 1080p AAA games on high settings. However, you can play games in 720p or 1080p on low settings. Besides, it will be possible to play MMORPG and esports games.

The central processing unit is the heart of any PC as it impacts the overall system performance. The more powerful a CPU is, the more advanced tasks it can perform. Also, a good processor can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, like typing, streaming or gaming. Most computers are fitted with Intel i3, i5, or i7 processors. An Intel i3 is the least powerful processor that is suitable for everyday use. An Intel i7 is suitable for performing some heavy tasks, like running demanding games or video editing. Usually, gaming computers under 400 dollars are fitted with Intel i5 processors, as they are good for gaming. The alternative is an AMD Ryzen that is also popular among gamers.

RAM is the amount of computer memory. It defines the ability of a machine to complete numerous tasks at once. A computer with less RAM will function slowly. For trouble-free gaming, opt for a device that features 8 GB of RAM. Of course, 16 GB is perfect for gaming sessions, but it is likely to be found in more expensive PCs.

Storage defines the amount of space available for storing photos, documents or other stuff. There are hard disk drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD). An HDD is an old-school storage drive that uses spinning platters. An SSD is a modern storage drive without moving parts. In the context of a gaming PC under $400, striking the right balance between storage capacity and performance is crucial. While it may be tempting to prioritize a larger HDD for storing multiple games, the improved performance of an SSD can greatly enhance your gaming experience.

An SSD enables faster game loading times, reducing waiting periods and allowing you to jump into your favorite games more quickly. It also contributes to smoother gameplay by reducing in-game stuttering or texture pop-in caused by slow data access. 

It’s very important to check all the specs and features while selecting the best gaming PC under 400 dollars. The most reliable way to estimate the gaming performance is to play a game on a computer. This way, you can also check the quality of the screen, keyboard and mouse.

Purpose

While selecting the perfect machine, you should not pay attention only to the specs. It’s crucial to define your purpose as well.

Value for money

Of course, an expensive machine is likely to be more powerful, but it is not reasonable to spend a fortune on a gaming PC.

Many gamers prefer the iBUYPOWER Enthusiast Gaming PC that is fitted with a Ryzen 3 chip and a Vega 8 video card, which are good for 720p gameplay. Users that are on a budget opt for a cheaper Shinobee SSD Ultra 8-Core Gaming PC #6374. It provides extensive storage space but features an inferior GPU. If you prefer a compact device, you can check a compact CUK ASRock DeskMini A300 with 512 GB of NVME SSD. The AVGPC MAX Gaming PC and HP Gaming PC Desktop sport are fitted with an excellent GeForce GTX 1050 GPU. The VIBOX Precision 6W Gaming PC incorporates a GeForce GT 1030 GPU. Another popular budget laptop is the Fierce RGB Gaming PC. It is fitted with Vega 8 graphics, features an appealing Cooler Master case and other useful specs.