I configured a 1080p-capable gaming PC for just $400 — here's how you can build your own

[NoobBuilder1]

Here is my recommendation for a 500 build...

CPU: R5 3600 - 40$
CPU Cooler: AMD Wraith Stealth - 10$
Motherboard: B450M-HDV R4.0 - 70$
GPU: Used RTX 3060 - 200$
RAM: TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z DDR4 - 30$
SSD: Any 1 TB SSD - 60$
PC Case: Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L - 40$
Fans: Any 10-dollar PC fans - 10$
PSU: Apevia ATX-PR600W Prestige - 50$

Total: 510$
Going for something a bit more expensive will pay off.


Update:
Replacing the $200 used 3060 with a used 2060 that'll cost 100 dollars would let you reach the $400 goal with performance that is still great for its price.

CPU: R5 3600 - 40$
CPU Cooler: AMD Wraith Stealth - 10$
Motherboard: B450M-HDV R4.0 - 70$
GPU: Used RTX 2060 - 100$
RAM: TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z DDR4 - 30$
SSD: Any 1 TB SSD - 60$
PC Case: Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L - 40$
Fans: Any 10-dollar PC fans - 10$
PSU: Apevia ATX-PR600W Prestige - 50$

Total: 410$


If you want to take it a step further, you can do a $300 build by forgetting the GPU and using a used 2400G instead. The Vega 11 won't be nearly as good, and I would recommend spending 100 extra for a dedicated GPU, but it's fun to see what's possible!

CPU: used R5 2400G - 40$
CPU Cooler: AMD Wraith Stealth - 10$
Motherboard: B450M-HDV R4.0 - 70$
RAM: TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z DDR4 - 30$
SSD: Any 1 TB SSD - 60$
PC Case: Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L - 40$
Fans: Any 10-dollar PC fans - 10$
PSU: Apevia ATX-PR600W Prestige - 50$

Total: 310$