Gaming PC Build Cost Calculator

PC build cost estimation breaks down a gaming PC into its core components, each with a market price range depending on performance tier. The total build cost is the sum of all parts, but smart builders prioritize budget allocation toward components that most impact their specific use case (gaming, content creation, streaming, or general productivity).

Total build cost formula: Total = CPU + Motherboard + RAM + GPU + Storage + PSU + Case + Cooling + OS

Component budget allocation guidelines: For a gaming-focused build, the GPU should receive the largest share of the budget.

Budget tier guide (2024 prices):

Entry ($400–$700):

• CPU: $120–$200 (Intel Core i5-12400F, AMD Ryzen 5 5600)
• GPU: $150–$250 (RX 6600, RTX 3060 used)
• RAM: 16GB DDR4: $35–$55
• Storage: 500GB–1TB NVMe SSD: $45–$80
• PSU: 550W 80+ Bronze: $50–$70
• Motherboard: $80–$120; Case: $50–$80

Mid-range ($900–$1,400):

• CPU: $200–$350 (i5-13600K, Ryzen 7 7700X)
• GPU: $350–$550 (RTX 4070, RX 7800 XT)
• RAM: 32GB DDR5: $80–$120
• Storage: 1–2TB NVMe: $80–$150
• PSU: 750W 80+ Gold: $80–$110; Motherboard: $150–$220

High-end ($1,800–$3,000+):

• CPU: $400–$700 (i9-14900K, Ryzen 9 7950X)
• GPU: $700–$1,600 (RTX 4080/4090, RX 7900 XTX)
• RAM: 64GB DDR5: $180–$280
• Storage: 2–4TB NVMe: $150–$300
• PSU: 1000W 80+ Platinum: $150–$220

Worked example: Mid-range gaming build for 1080p/1440p gaming at 60–144 fps:

Total: $1,517: a solid 1440p gaming build targeting 60–100+ FPS in AAA titles.