Building a gaming PC on a budget is achievable, as demonstrated by ETA Prime using the HP EliteDesk 800 G6 as a foundation. This refurbished system, priced at around $180, includes an Intel Core i7-10700 processor, 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB M.2 SSD, making it a strong starting point for 1440p gaming. With targeted upgrades like a dedicated graphics card and a compatible power supply, this compact setup can handle modern games effectively while remaining cost-efficient.
Discover how to upgrade the proprietary power supply to accommodate a GPU, choose a graphics card suited for high-performance gaming and make necessary case adjustments for component compatibility. Gain insight into the total cost of the build, with options for both i7 and i5 configurations and learn practical strategies for balancing performance and affordability in a small form factor design.
Budget SFF Gaming PC Guide
TL;DR Key Takeaways :
- The HP EliteDesk 800 G6, available refurbished for around $180, serves as the foundation for this budget gaming PC, featuring an Intel Core i7-10700 processor, 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB M.2 SSD.
- Upgrading the proprietary power supply to a 400W aftermarket unit (approximately $51) is essential to support a dedicated graphics card and ensure stable performance.
- A refurbished Nvidia RTX 5060 GPU, priced at $299, is the optimal choice for delivering excellent 1440p gaming performance, balancing cost and capability.
- Minor case modifications are required to fit the GPU, making sure compatibility while maintaining the compact design of the EliteDesk.
- The total build cost is approximately $540 (i7 configuration) or $500 (i5 configuration), offering a high-performance gaming experience at a fraction of the cost of prebuilt systems.
1: Start with the HP EliteDesk 800 G6
The HP EliteDesk 800 G6 serves as the backbone of this build. This compact and reliable system is widely available in refurbished condition for around $180. It features an Intel Core i7-10700 processor, which features 8 cores and 16 threads, making it ideal for gaming and multitasking. Additionally, it comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB M.2 SSD, providing a solid foundation for your gaming needs.
For those looking to cut costs further, the Intel Core i5-10500 variant is a viable alternative. While it offers slightly reduced processing power, it remains a capable option for most gaming scenarios. Both configurations ensure a balance of performance and affordability, making the EliteDesk 800 G6 an excellent starting point.
2: Upgrade the Power Supply
To accommodate a dedicated graphics card, the EliteDesk’s proprietary power supply must be replaced. A 400W aftermarket power supply, available for approximately $51, is sufficient for this build. However, due to the unique design of the original power supply, minor modifications are required to ensure compatibility. These adjustments are straightforward and essential for delivering stable power to the GPU and other components.
This upgrade is critical for making sure smooth performance during demanding gaming sessions. A reliable power supply not only supports the hardware but also enhances the system’s overall longevity and stability.
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3: Choose the Right Graphics Card
The graphics card is the most crucial component for gaming performance. For this build, a refurbished Nvidia RTX 5060 is the ideal choice, offering excellent 1440p gaming capabilities at a price of $299. This GPU provides the power needed to run modern games at high settings with impressive frame rates.
While alternatives like the RTX 4060 or Intel ARC A380 were considered, the latter was excluded due to its lack of resizable BAR support, a feature essential for optimizing performance in contemporary titles. The RTX 5060 strikes the perfect balance between cost and performance, making it the standout option for this build.
4: Modify the Case
To fit the RTX 5060 into the compact EliteDesk case, minor modifications are necessary. This involves carefully cutting a small section of the case to accommodate the GPU and its power connector. While this step requires precision, it is relatively simple and does not compromise the structural integrity of the system.
These modifications ensure that the GPU fits seamlessly into the case while maintaining the sleek and compact design of the EliteDesk. With proper execution, this step enhances the system’s functionality without sacrificing its aesthetic appeal.
5: Achieve Impressive Gaming Performance
Once assembled, this SFF gaming PC delivers outstanding performance at 1440p resolution. Below are some benchmark results from popular titles:
- Forza Horizon 6: 82 FPS average on high settings.
- Halo Infinite: 85 FPS average with DLSS enabled.
- Resident Evil Requiem: 140 FPS indoors, high 80s outdoors.
- Cyberpunk 2077: Over 170 FPS with DLSS multi-frame generation.
These benchmarks highlight the system’s ability to handle both graphically demanding and fast-paced games with ease. By fine-tuning Windows settings and GPU configurations, you can further optimize performance, making sure a smooth and immersive gaming experience.
6: Understand the Cost Breakdown
The total cost of this build is approximately $540 with the i7 configuration or $500 with the i5. This price point is significantly lower than prebuilt gaming PCs, which often exceed $1,000. By using refurbished components and performing minor modifications, you achieve a balance of affordability and performance that is difficult to match.
This cost-effective approach allows you to allocate more of your budget toward other gaming essentials, such as peripherals or a high-refresh-rate monitor, further enhancing your overall gaming setup.
Affordable Gaming Without Compromise
This SFF gaming PC build demonstrates that high-performance gaming is accessible on a budget. By starting with the HP EliteDesk 800 G6, upgrading the power supply and incorporating a refurbished Nvidia RTX 5060, you can create a compact gaming machine capable of delivering exceptional 1440p performance.
For gamers willing to work with refurbished parts and perform minor case modifications, this build offers an excellent solution. The i7 configuration is recommended for those seeking the best performance, particularly in demanding titles. With this guide, you can enjoy a premium gaming experience at a fraction of the cost of traditional prebuilt systems, proving that affordability and performance can go hand in hand.
Media Credit: ETA PRIME
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