Pay for your PC in installments (up to 12 payments)Which gaming PC to start with in 2024?
get started with gaming
Getting into gaming can be intimidating, especially when it comes to choosing your first gaming PC.
With a multitude of options available, it’s crucial to know where to start to make an informed choice.
This guide will help you navigate the world of gaming PCs by giving you advice on the minimum specifications in 2024, assembling your own computer, and the benefits of choosing a plug-and-play PC.
Why choose a gaming PC to get started with gaming?
Gaming on PC offers greater flexibility and performance than consoles. Excluding second-hand, at a price of €500, it would be more cost-effective to opt for a console, although the fees for this kind of ecosystem are relatively expensive.
Let’s take the example of a PS5: you need to buy a controller again? You’ll have to pay €70; a game? That’ll be €80, and you’ll also have to pay a yearly subscription to play online.
With a PC, you’re investing in a machine that lasts longer—more powerful and more versatile—without even counting the endless number of games and possibilities.
What’s more, there are many platforms for buying your games, such as Steam, which will offer you substantial discounts on their entire game catalogue all year round.
Whether you’re interested in AAA games, independent titles, or esports, a well-chosen gaming PC can give you an ultra-smooth, immersive gaming experience.
Minimum specifications for a gaming PC in 2024
What are the minimum recommendations to expect for the specifications of a good gaming PC in 2024?
Obviously including the average specifications needed to run current and future games at a minimum resolution of 1080p. (Full HD)
Processor (CPU)
For an optimal gaming experience in 2024, a 12th or 13th Gen Intel Core i5 processor or an 5th Gen AMD Ryzen 5 is recommended.
These processors offer an excellent value for money and can handle modern games without any problem.
Graphics card (GPU)
The graphics card is the key component for smooth gaming performance. A Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 or 4060, or an AMD Radeon RX 7600 or RX 6700 are solid options to get started.
For those looking to play more demanding titles in 1080p, a Nvidia RTX 3060Ti or 4060Ti, or an AMD RX 6700 XT, or 7700XT are ideal.
Memory (RAM)
16GB of RAM is ABSOLUTELY recommended to ensure a smooth gaming experience with no slowdown.
Standards are also tending to lean towards 32GB of RAM for newer titles and multitasking. Hence the importance of buying a gaming PC that you can upgrade (improve).
Storage
A 500GB SSD is the minimum for a gaming PC in 2024. SSDs offer faster loading times and better system responsiveness compared to traditional hard drives.
For more storage, a 1TB SSD is ideal. It’s also a good idea to go for M.2 SSDs in GEN 3 or 4 for optimal speed and write performance.
Our recommendations
Assembling your own gaming PC: the benefits
Personalisation
Building your own PC allows for total customisation.
You can choose each component according to your needs and budget, ensuring that your PC is perfectly suited to your expectations.
Cost
Assembling your own PC can be more economical. By buying the components separately, you can take advantage of promotions and avoid the margins added by pre-built PC manufacturers.
That said, some PC integrators, such as our FlowUP shop, strive to build gaming PCs at the same price or almost as if you chose the components on Amazon. While also providing the service of a PC assembled by our expert team and covered by a two-year warranty.
Experience
The assembly process helps you better understand how your computer works, which can be useful for maintenance and future updates.
Go for a plug-and-play PC: the advantages
Simplicity
A plug-and-play PC is ready to use. It comes with the operating system installed and the necessary updates, so you can start gaming straight after unboxing.
Warranty and support
Pre-built PCs often come with full warranties and technical support. If something doesn’t work properly, you can contact customer service for help—an advantage that’s especially valuable for beginners.
Comparison: build your own PC or buy a plug-and-play PC
| Criteria | Build it yourself | Plug-and-play PC |
|---|---|---|
| Personalisation | Full | Limited |
| Cost | Potentially cheaper | Often more expensive |
| Simplicity | Complex | Very straightforward |
| Experience | Rewarding | Ready to use |
| Warranty and support | Varies | Generally included |
Mistakes to avoid when choosing your first gaming PC
Neglecting cooling
Good cooling is crucial for keeping your PC’s performance high. Make sure your case has good airflow and consider liquid cooling for high-end builds.
Underestimating the power supply
A good-quality power supply is essential for system stability. Choose an 80 Plus-certified PSU, preferably 600W or more, to ensure all your components run at their best.
There are certain tools online to estimate the power draw of your computer components.
Not planning for future updates
Buying a PC with upgradable components can help you avoid having to replace everything in the future.
For example, choosing a motherboard with extra RAM slots and additional PCIe ports can make future upgrades easier.
The best component brands in 2024
Processors
- Intel: Known for its gaming performance.
- AMD: Popular for offering an excellent value for money.
Graphics cards
- Nvidia: A leader in GPUs, delivering exceptional performance with its RTX range thanks to cutting-edge technology.
- AMD: A strong competitor to Nvidia, with solid options that are often cheaper.
Storage
- Samsung: Leading brand in SSDs, with high-performance and reliable models.
- Western Digital: Offers a variety of high-performance storage solutions.
FAQ about gaming PCs for beginners
What is the best gaming PC for beginners?
The best gaming PC for beginners depends on your budget and your specific needs. A mid-range setup with an Intel Core i5 and a Nvidia RTX 3050 is a great place to start.
Is it better to build your own gaming PC?
Building your own gaming PC offers more customisation and can be more cost-effective, but it requires technical knowledge. Plug-and-play PCs are simpler and are better suited to beginners.
What’s the difference between a gaming PC and a normal PC?
A gaming PC is equipped with more powerful components, such as a dedicated graphics card and a powerful processor, to deliver a better gaming experience. A normal PC is generally designed for everyday tasks such as web browsing and word processing.
How much does a good gaming PC cost in 2024?
The cost of a good gaming PC in 2024 varies depending on the configuration. A budget build may cost between £600 and £800, while a mid-range setup typically falls between £1,000 and £1,500. High-end configurations can exceed £2,000.
Do you need an SSD for a gaming PC?
Yes—an SSD is recommended for a gaming PC. It provides faster load times than HDDs and improves system responsiveness, which is essential for a smooth gaming experience.
Which graphics card brand should you choose in 2024?
In 2024, Nvidia and AMD are the two main graphics card manufacturers. Nvidia is often preferred for its performance and advanced technologies, while AMD is valued for its value for money.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gaming PC to start with in 2024 requires an understanding of the specifications and your specific needs.
Whether you decide to build your own PC or buy a plug-and-play model, it’s essential to consider factors such as performance, cost, and ease of use.
By following this guide, you’ll be well equipped to make an informed choice and start your gaming journey with confidence.
