Unless you upgrade your gaming PC, you may not be able to play most of the upcoming AAA games. To upgrade your gaming PC to meet the requirement for modern gaming, you need to purchase a few parts. This exposes you to the risk of buying several defective parts. The best way to avoid going through all that stress is to buy a prebuilt gaming PC.
Also, when using your regular PC for gaming, you may be forced to turn the settings to the minimum to prevent lags. However, this blurs the enemies in the background thereby giving them an edge over you. Inasmuch as there is a large option of prebuilt gaming PCs, some of them have really disappointing specs. We have sieved through a pile of prebuilt gaming PCs. Trimming the list down to 10 was not an easy task but here is our verdict.
Review of the Best Prebuilt Gaming PC Under 1000
Firstly, unless you are really knowledgeable with CPU, trying to build your own gaming PC can be a terrible idea. You may end up destroying your PC. With prebuilt PCs, you need not worry about those technicalities. The ones you will find on our list are all powerful enough to handle all the latest AAA games without a hitch—including those designed for those on a lower budget. Here we go!
List of 10 Best Prebuilt Gaming PC
- SkyTech Archangel – Best overall
- SkyTech Blaze II – Best cooling system
- CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme – Best for storage space
- SkyTech Oracle – Best for modular i/o panel
- HP Pavilion Gaming PC – Best for sound out
- CUK Continuum Micro Gamer PC – Best Ryzen Processor series
- Centaurus Andromeda A1 – Best processor speed
- Omen Obelisk – Best for customization
- CUK Mantis Custom Gaming PC – Best Design
- Acer Aspire TC-885 – Best Budget
SkyTech Archangel – Best overall
SkyTech Archangel combines style and power—all within the $1000 benchmark. Contained within this elegant box is the power to take on triple A games. Running on AMD Ryzen 5 1600, this gaming powerhouse has 6 Cores with a processor speed of up to 3.9 GHz. You will also get 500GB SSD which is about 30x faster than the traditional HDD guaranteeing superfast game boot.
To ensure a visual of impeccable clarity, this prebuilt gaming pc comes with GeForce GTX 1660 graphics card with 16GB of dedicated memory. Also, you will get a crisp 1080p Full HD resolution with smooth 60+ FPS gameplay—what more could you possibly want? You will spot your enemies from way out. High-end games overwork the CPU and cause it to heat up. The manufacturers takes care of this with a Wraith cooler which is near silent.
SkyTech Archangel offer 7 USB 3.0 ports and 2x USB 2.0 as well as 1x HDMI, and 3x DisplayPort giving you limitless connectivity options. It is possible to get other models that are comparably less expensive with larger storage space. However, backed by 1 year Warranty on parts and labor as well as a lifetime free technical support, you are certain that you have little to worry about.
Pros
- Attractive packaging
- Multiple ports allows more accessories
- Revolutionary near-quiet Wraith cooling system
- SSD ensures faster load time
Cons
- Storage space could be higher
- Ryzen 5 processor series is not the latest
SkyTech Blaze II – Best cooling system
Cooling system is not a luxury—but you probably know that already. When the CPU heats up, the likelihood of lagging increases. Considering the massive performance which the second generation Ryzen 5 brings to this top gaming desktop under 1000, heating up is almost a likelihood if you are enjoying high-end games like PUGB. SkyTech Blaze II deals with that using a heat spreader and RNG Ring Fans for maximum airflow. However, more awaits than just the cooling system.
With this gaming powerhouse you will also get 500 SSD storage which shortens the loading time as well as improves performance. It comes with the GeForce GTX 1660 graphics card with 6GB of RAM for unrivalled clarity and non-lag performance. This is something you can easily brag about. In terms of design, the casing is fashionable too. It is made of SkyTech mATX Mid-Tower Tempered Glass which gives you a clear view of what’s inside without compromising the integrity of the components.
Like most SkyTech mid-range gaming PC, you will get 1 year Warranty on parts and labor. It also offers a good rebate which you can invest in gaming accessories. However, the storage space is a bit disappointing and the number and type of ports is somewhat limiting. Besides these seeming flaws, Blaze II is worth the price.
Pros
- Effective cooling system for better performance
- SSD storage for faster game boot
- Classy tempered glass case
- Comes with 1 year warranty
Cons
- Storage space is highly limiting
- Lower number of ports
CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme – Best for storage space
Ample storage space can be a critical criteria for choosing the best gaming PC build under 100 for avid gamers. Cyberpowerpc offers 240 SSD and 1TB HDD memory. This setup combines improved boot and performance power of SSD with the expanded space of HDD ensuring that you can carry all your games everywhere you go.
This gaming machine runs on the powerful 9th generation Intel Core i5. This pairs with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 video card to deliver impeccable clarity and flicker-free display. Arguably the special feature of this gaming PC is the window case side panel with custom ARGB case lighting. In terms of ports you will get 6x USB 3.1, 2x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI, and 1x DisplayPort. Obviously, this gives you the power to do more.
Cyberpowerpc Gamer Xtreme has its own slight flaws. The first is below average processor speed of just about 2.9 GHz. Also, the number and type of ports is questionable. However, these are not a deal breaker considering the fact that you will get a free black keyboard and a 3-button mouse with a 4,000 DPI optical sensor and 7 RGB color. Who doesn’t love freebies?
Pros
- High storage capability
- Highly affordable
- Comes with free keyboard and mouse
- Provides support for USB 3.1
- Attractive RGB lighting on case and mouse
Cons
- Below average processor speed
- RAM size could be better
SkyTech Oracle – Best for modular i/o panel
One of the features of the SkyTech Oracle that really stands out is the i/o panel. Unlike other $100 gaming PC that have theirs fixed in one position, this one can be adjusted in six different locations including front, top, or back. When location of the i/o determines the number and type of gaming accessories that you can connect to your PC, SkyTech Oracle has got your back.
This gaming machine runs on the second generation AMD Ryzen 5 with a processor speed of up to 3.9 GHz. It also makes use of NVIDIA GTX 1660 with 6GB dedicated memory. These features pair with the 500GB SSD to give you one of the fastest performance that can deal with all your high-end gaming needs. Thanks to the Wraith Stealth Cooler, your PC will stay cool during a marathon gaming session.
If you love freebies, the free gaming keyboard and mouse that comes with SkyTech Oracle would be the icing. The icy blue interior color scheme lighting contrasts with the white exterior in a cool way. This monster is low on RAM size compared to most competitor which is a bit disappointing. However, when you consider the lower price, you know that you just hit a major jackpot.
Pros
- Adjustable i/o panel
- Highly affordable
- Wraith Stealth Cooler for efficient cooling
- Comes with free keyboard and mouse
- Cool icy blue interior lighting
Cons
- RAM size could be better
- Lower number and types of ports
- Insufficient storage memory
HP Pavilion Gaming PC – Best for sound output
The combination of powerful graphics and quality sound is what draws you into the game. While a lot of the top gaming desktops under 1000 get it right with the visuals, the same cannot be said of the sound. HP Pavilion is able to combine the two in a cool design. It comes with all the necessary ports for true 5.1 surround sound bringing that immersive sound that can alter your reality. However, it goes beyond the sound.
This HP Pavilion runs on the 9th generation Intel Core i5 which has a superior performance compared to its predecessor. It also comes with the advanced NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics card with 6GB dedicated memory which is the best entry level for budget gamers. You can now enjoy premium games without a lag. Like most good prebuilt gaming PC, you will also get a keyboard and mouse.
In terms of storage you will get 256GB SSD and 1TB HDD which combines the power of quick boot and large storage space. HP Pavilion’s processor speed is just 2.90 GHz which is a bit disappointing. However, it can go up to 4.10 GHz with max boost clock. The green LED lighting gives it an alien touch. This is undoubtedly one of the best prebuilt gaming PC under 1000 when sound matters.
Pros
- Capable of 5.1 surround sound output
- Comes with free keyboard and mouse
- Multiple type of ports allows more accessories
- Dual storage memory setup
Cons
- Processor speed is disappointing without overclocking
- Cooling system is nothing special
CUK Continuum Micro Gamer PC – Best Ryzen Processor series
With every new series of a processor comes a tweak that makes it better than the previous. CUK Continuum comes with the third generation AMD Ryzen 5 which outperforms the other two. Its processor can reach a speed of 4.2 GHz which gives you an edge over your competitors. Also, you will get the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 as well as 4GB dedicated memory—but there is still more.
In addition to the higher processor version, CUK Continuum offers keyboard and mouse with a whopping 3-year CUK Limited Warranty. Another stellar feature of this under $1000 gaming PC is the 512 GB NVMe SSD which improves the game boot speed by over 30x. To ensure your PC stays cool while handling high-end games, 6 high airflow and pressure addressable RGB fans has been included.
Compared to major competitors, this gaming monster is relatively expensive. However, it quickly makes up for this through an attractive RGB case. This PC is power-hungry needing 600W to operate. Therefore a spike in your bills should not be a surprise. CUK Continuum leaves enough room for future upgrades, another justification for the higher price.
Pros
- Higher version of Ryzen 5 processor
- Free keyboard and mouse included
- Comes with 6 RGB fans for superior cooling
- Enough room for future upgrade
Cons
- Power-hungry
- Graphics card memory is disappointing
- Operating system is not included
Centaurus Andromeda A1 – Best processor speed
The first feature that will get you drooling about Centaurus Andromeda A1 is the unique design. It has a unique design that you will eagerly want to show off to your friends. However, the best part is the processor speed which starts at 4.0 GHz but can be turbo boost to 4.2 GHz. Backed by this speed and the third generation AMD Ryzen 5, you should be able to handle any game that comes your way.
Instead of NVIDIA GeForce, Andromeda A1 makes use of AMD Radeon RX 5500 with 8GB dedicated video memory. With this graphics card, spotting enemies in distant background should not be an issue at all. Also, the combination of 480GB SSD and 1TB HDD gives you the duo of faster boost and more storage space. All these cool features are packed into a case with tempered glass side panel and RGB LEDs.
Thanks to the Wraith Stealth cooler, your PC will keep operating at optimum during a long gaming session. This gaming PC slightly goes over the $1000 benchmark which may make it unsuitable for those without a flexible budget. In addition to the cool features, those that can afford this gaming powerhouse will also get 3-year limited warranty and lifetime support.
Pros
- High processor speed
- Newer processor model
- Expanded duo storage drive
- Wraith Stealth cooler comprising of 120mm fans
- Comes with 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- NVIDIA GeForce is a preferred graphics card among gamers
Omen Obelisk – Best for customization
Gamers are like Oliver Twist—always asking for more. Omen Obelisk satisfies that yearning by creating a gaming machine that is customizable. The HP Omen command center is a software that allows you to customize the RGB lighting, prioritize gaming network traffic, and more. It runs on the 9th generation Core i5 with a processor speed of 2.9 GHz. Unfortunately, it doesn’t accept overclocking which means you can’t increase the processor speed.
Like most of the best prebuilt gaming PC under 1000, you will also get the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti with a dedicated 6GB memory enabling you to crush all the competition. Whenever there is need for further upgrade, the tempered glass side panel gives you a tool-less access to quickly upgrade your PC however you want. You will also get a wired keyboard and mouse to kick-start your gaming experience.
Omen Obelisk offer 512 GB SSD which greatly boost game load time but may be insufficient to hold all your gaming titles. It is VR ready meaning you can immerse yourself into your favorite virtual reality world out of the box. Even if you decide to install a liquid cooled radiator, there is ample space for it.
Pros
- Enough room for aftermarket customization
- Tool-less access for quick upgrade
- Free keyboard and mouse
- Omen command center for PC customization
Cons
- Processor speed caps at 2.9 GHz
- Storage space may be inadequate for heavy gamers
- Costlier than close competitors
CUK Mantis Custom Gaming PC – Best Design
Those who love to make a statement with their gaming gears will fall for CUK Mantis at a first glance. The manufacturers promote it as the best new tower desktop computer for gamers—but the reason for this statement goes beyond the design. Within the fancy case is the 9th generation Intel core i5 processor with a speed of up to 4.1 GHz. You will also get the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 with a 4GB dedicated graphics memory.
Like other PCs from this manufacturer, you will get 3-year CUK Limited Warranty. In terms of hard drive, it follows the trend of other gaming powerhouse by including 512GB NVMe SSD which is observed to be 30x faster than HDD when it comes to loading time. Included in the package are LED backlit USB gaming keyboard, mouse, and AC Wi-Fi USB adapter.
To keep your PC cool during a long gaming session, 6 pre-mounted green Halo LED fans are included. The price is a bit friendlier than some of the competitors too. This mid-range gaming PC shows that you can actually have a cool product in a cool finish.
Pros
- High processor speed
- Attractive design
- Comes with 3-year limited warranty
- Free mouse, keyboard and Wi-Fi adaptor
- Superior cooling system with 6 LED fans
Cons
- Video graphics memory is disappointing
- Graphics card model is not the latest in the series
- Storage memory may be insufficient for heavy gamers
Acer Aspire TC-885 – Best Budget
Yes, it really sucks when you can’t afford what you really want. However, there are still great prebuilt gaming PCs far under 1000 which still offer you the opportunity to play triple A games. Your best bet in this case will be Acer Aspire TC-885. For less than half the benchmark of $1000 you will get this cool product which comes with the 8th generation Intel core i3 processor with a speed of up to 3.6 GHz.
Bear in mind that you won’t be getting the NVIDIA GeForce graphics card or an AMD alternative—but it is not the end of the world. As a form of compensation for that, you will get lower power consumption of just 300W against the minimum 500W of higher models. Inasmuch as the storage space is 1TB HDD, the inclusion of Intel Optane Memory helps to cut down the loading time.
Another impressive feature is the HD 5.1 Surround Sound that increases audio clarity and boost game immersion. Get a full range of services like checks and updates with the Acer Care Center. With these features, this best budget prebuilt gaming PC gives gamers on the lower financial ebb something to brag about.
Pros
- Highly Affordable
- Intel Optane Memory for faster load
- Acer Care Center for checks and updates
- Comes with 5.1 surround sound capability
- Large storage memory space
- Lower power consumption
- Free mouse and keyboard
Cons
- NVIDIA GeForce graphics card is absent
- Lacks fancy RGB lighting
- Special cooling system is absent
Buying Guide for the Best Prebuilt Gaming PC Under 1000
Choosing the best prebuilt gaming PC under 1000 that will suit your purpose can pose a great deal of challenge because the standard changes sporadically as technology continues to advance. Looking away from the fancy design and RGB lighting, features like processor type and speed, RAM size, as well as the type of graphics card will always remain relevant. We have analyzed the most important features below, highlighting how they can affect your gaming experience. Have a look.
Processor
The type and speed of the processor that comes with your PC is probably the most important feature you should look out for when you are doing your shopping. As the price gets closer to the $1000 benchmark, the processor speed should not be less than 3.0 GHz or you may run into lagging trouble with some triple A titles. At this price range you deserve either the 9th generation Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5. Mind you, this should be the minimum but you can always aim to get something higher.
Graphics Card
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or AMD Radeon RX 5500 should be a must have in this price range too. These graphics cards are known to deliver superb visual clarity that gives you an edge over enemies in the background. They have enough power that will give you the benefit of running your favorite AAA titles at max settings.
RAM
One of the signs that shows you may have run out of virtual memory is that your PC begins to freeze or lag. In an intense gaming session, that brief pause can be the difference between scaling a level and starting all over again. The best prebuilt gaming PC under 1000 will have at least 8GB of RAM. However, with $800 you can insist on 16GB. The RAM of your graphics card should not be less than 4 to 6GB. RAM is one of the features you cannot afford to ignore.
Storage
Ideally, SSD is better for gamers because it ensures faster loading time but in most cases the size may not be sufficient. Manufacturers are trying to go around this limitation by including a second 1TB HDD storage. When having both of them in your PC is not possible, we recommend you choose SSD over HDD. However, make sure the size is not less than 500GB—especially if you are a heavy gamer.
Price
Even when you have just half of the $1000 benchmark, you will still be able to find a good prebuilt gaming PC. In this case you need to keep your expectations low. However, make sure you never compromise on the processor speed. It is either 3.0 GHz or nothing. Accepting anything less will greatly affect your overall gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best gaming PC for under 1000?
The best gaming PC under 1000 will depend on the purpose you have in mind. However, from our research, SkyTech Archangel stands out in terms of design, specs, and price. It’s a PC you would want to have.
Can you get a good gaming PC for $1000?
Yes, there are lots of good gaming PCs with features like NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 or Radeon RX 5500 that enable them to comfortably handle AAA titles without lags.
How much does a good gaming PC cost 2021?
Thanks to the growing number of manufacturers, competition is pushing down the price of gaming PC. With $700 to $1000 you will be able to get a good gaming PC.
What is the best gaming PC 2021?
Alienware Aurora is still a strong force to contend with and arguably the best gaming PC in 2021. However, it is definitely not for budget gamers.
What PC does Ninja use?
Ninja makes use of the powerful Intel I9 CPU with 8 Cores. The monitor Ninja use is the Alienware 25 Gaming Monitor with FHD resolution and up to 240Hz refresh rate.
How much RAM do I need for gaming?
The minimum RAM size you need for a hitch free gaming experience is 8GB. However, with a budget of $700 to $1000, it is likely that you will get up to 16GB.
Conclusion
Never attempt to build a PC yourself unless you have a good knowledge of the entire system. We can’t emphasize this enough. Stacking up hardware that are not compatible may lead to fire hazard. With prebuilt gaming PC, you don’t need to have a knowledge of all those technicalities. Moreover, some still leave enough room so that you will be able to upgrade when necessary. One important advantage of prebuilt PC over DIY is the variety of design. Although the concept of ‘prebuilt gaming PC’ comes at a cost, it still makes it convenient for you to own just the right hardware to handle your triple A gaming needs. We hope this list saves you time as well as help you to make a better decision when you are ready for that big move.