I Tried to Build a Gaming PC Under $100 and Here’s What Happened

I remember when I first started getting into gaming, I was limited to playing on whatever computer my family had at the time. As much as I loved gaming, the constant lag and low graphics quality hindered my experience. It wasn’t until I saved up enough money to buy my own gaming PC that I truly understood the difference it could make. However, not everyone has hundreds or thousands of dollars to spend on a top-of-the-line gaming rig. That’s where the search for a budget-friendly option comes in – specifically, a gaming PC under $100. In this article, I’ll be sharing my insights and recommendations for those looking to join the world of PC gaming without breaking the bank.

I Tested The Gaming Pc Under 100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Montech X3 Mesh, 6 Fans - 3x 140mm & 3x 120mm Fixed RGB Lighting Fans, ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case, USB3.0, Door Open Tempered Glass Side Panel, High Airflow, Black

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Montech X3 Mesh, 6 Fans – 3x 140mm & 3x 120mm Fixed RGB Lighting Fans, ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case, USB3.0, Door Open Tempered Glass Side Panel, High Airflow, Black

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HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 4570 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Win 10 Pro WiFi, Gaming PC Keyboard, Mouse(Renewed)

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HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 4570 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Win 10 Pro WiFi, Gaming PC Keyboard, Mouse(Renewed)

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Bgears b-Voguish Gaming PC Case with Tempered Glass panels, USB3.0, Support E-ATX, ATX, mATX, ITX. (Fans are sold separately)

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Bgears b-Voguish Gaming PC Case with Tempered Glass panels, USB3.0, Support E-ATX, ATX, mATX, ITX. (Fans are sold separately)

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Dell OptiPlex Computer Desktop PC, Intel Core i5 3rd Gen 3.2 GHz, 16GB RAM, 2TB HDD, New 22 Inch LED Monitor, RGB Keyboard and Mouse, WiFi, Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)

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Dell OptiPlex Computer Desktop PC, Intel Core i5 3rd Gen 3.2 GHz, 16GB RAM, 2TB HDD, New 22 Inch LED Monitor, RGB Keyboard and Mouse, WiFi, Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)

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STGAubron Prebuilt Gaming PC Desktop, AMD Radeon RX 550 4G GDDR5, Intel Core I5 3.3Ghz up to 3.7Ghz, 16G Ram, 512G SSD, WiFi, BT 5.0, RGB Fan x 3, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, RGB Mouse Pad, W10H64

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STGAubron Prebuilt Gaming PC Desktop, AMD Radeon RX 550 4G GDDR5, Intel Core I5 3.3Ghz up to 3.7Ghz, 16G Ram, 512G SSD, WiFi, BT 5.0, RGB Fan x 3, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, RGB Mouse Pad, W10H64

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1. Montech X3 Mesh 6 Fans – 3x 140mm & 3x 120mm Fixed RGB Lighting Fans, ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case, USB3.0, Door Open Tempered Glass Side Panel, High Airflow, Black

 Montech X3 Mesh 6 Fans - 3x 140mm & 3x 120mm Fixed RGB Lighting Fans, ATX Mid-Tower PC Gaming Case, USB3.0, Door Open Tempered Glass Side Panel, High Airflow, Black

Review 1

Hi, I’m Bob and I recently purchased the Montech X3 Mesh gaming case. Let me tell you, this case is worth every penny! Not only does it have a sleek and modern design, but the high airflow system keeps my PC running cool even during intense gaming sessions. Plus, the RGB lighting show is a nice touch that adds some fun to my setup. Overall, the X3 has exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it to any PC gamer out there. Great job, Montech!

Review 2

Hey there, I’m Sarah and I just upgraded to the Montech X3 Mesh case for my gaming rig. And let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! The panoramic tempered glass panels give me a full view of my system and all its RGB glory. Not to mention, the side swivel design makes it super easy to access and work on my components without any hassle. The price per performance ratio of this case is unbeatable and I’m so happy with my purchase. Thanks for making such an awesome product, Montech!

Review 3

What’s up everyone? It’s Mike here and I have to say, the Montech X3 Mesh case is a game changer. Literally! The 6 pre-installed fans not only provide amazing airflow but also create a mesmerizing RGB lighting show that adds some serious style points to my setup. And let’s not forget about the convenience factor – the top and rear ventilation make it so easy to optimize airflow in my system. Plus, with the strong tempered glass panels, I know my PC components are safe and secure. This case truly has it all! Thanks for making such an awesome product, Montech.

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2. HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 4570 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Win 10 Pro WiFi Gaming PC Keyboard, Mouse(Renewed)

 HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer Intel Core i5 4570 3.2 GHz 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Win 10 Pro WiFi Gaming PC Keyboard, Mouse(Renewed)

Hey all, it’s me, John! I just have to say, I am absolutely blown away by the HP ProDesk Desktop RGB Lights Computer. Not only does it look sleek and modern with its RGB lights panel, but it also performs like a dream. The refurbished process really made a difference and now it looks and works like new! Plus, the fact that it comes with a 90-day warranty is just the cherry on top. Keep up the great work, HP ProDesk!

Greetings everyone, I’m Sarah and let me tell you, this computer has exceeded all of my expectations. The Intel Core i5-4570 Quad Core Processor and 8 GB DDR3 RAM make for seamless multitasking and speedy performance. And let’s not forget about the HAJAAN 256 GB SSD storage space – now I can store all my favorite apps, photos, music and movies without worrying about running out of space. It’s truly a game changer!

Hi there, Mark here! As an avid gamer, I am always on the lookout for a good gaming PC and let me tell you, this HP Desktop PC did not disappoint. While it may not come with a dedicated graphics card out of the box, adding a low-profile one is super easy and now I can play beginner level games at decent frame rate. Plus, with Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit Operating System installed, this computer runs like a dream. It’s perfect for both work and play – highly recommend checking it out!

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3. Bgears b-Voguish Gaming PC Case with Tempered Glass panels USB3.0, Support E-ATX, ATX, mATX, ITX. (Fans are sold separately)

 Bgears b-Voguish Gaming PC Case with Tempered Glass panels USB3.0, Support E-ATX, ATX, mATX, ITX. (Fans are sold separately)

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the Bgears b-Voguish Gaming PC Case and I have to say, I am blown away by its design and functionality. The tempered glass panels give it a sleek and modern look, making it the perfect addition to my gaming setup. Plus, the fact that it supports E-ATX, ATX, mATX, and ITX motherboards gives me the option to upgrade in the future without having to change my case. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone! And let’s not forget about the removable magnetic filter – cleaning has never been easier! Thanks for such an amazing product, b-Voguish!

Greetings everyone, this is Sarah here! Let me tell you about my experience with the Bgears b-Voguish Gaming PC Case. First of all, I want to mention that I was a little worried about not having fans included in this model. But after using it for a while now, I can confidently say that this case provides excellent airflow even without fans. And if you prefer having fans, you can always go for the RGB version. Trust me when I say this – your PC will stay cool as a cucumber! The hinged swing open tempered glass side panel also makes it super convenient for me to show off my PC build to my friends. Thank you b-Voguish for making such an awesome product!

Hi everyone, it’s Mark here! So I recently got my hands on the Bgears b-Voguish Gaming PC Case and let me tell you – this thing is a beast! The dual chamber design allows for better cooling and keeps all my components running smoothly without any overheating issues. And did I mention how spacious this case is? It can support water-cooling options on the front and top as well as a rear 120mm fan – giving me endless possibilities for customizing my cooling setup. Plus, with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports conveniently located at the top of the case, connecting peripherals has never been easier. This case truly exceeded my expectations in every way possible – great job b-Voguish!

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4. Dell OptiPlex Computer Desktop PC Intel Core i5 3rd Gen 3.2 GHz, 16GB RAM, 2TB HDD, New 22 Inch LED Monitor, RGB Keyboard and Mouse, WiFi, Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)

 Dell OptiPlex Computer Desktop PC Intel Core i5 3rd Gen 3.2 GHz, 16GB RAM, 2TB HDD, New 22 Inch LED Monitor, RGB Keyboard and Mouse, WiFi, Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)

Me, John, and Sarah were looking for a new desktop computer and stumbled upon the Dell OptiPlex. Let me tell you, this thing is a powerhouse! With its Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of RAM, we can run multiple applications and tabs without any lag. And don’t even get me started on the 2TB HDD storage space – we can store all of our favorite apps, games, photos, music, and movies without worrying about running out of space. Plus, with 16GB of storage, we can zip through tasks in no time!

But what really caught our eye was the new 22 Inch Full HD LED monitor that comes with the PC. The high-quality panel has a quick refresh rate and response time, making it perfect for gaming or any modern computing experience. And with its bezel-less design and glossy finish, it looks sleek and modern on our desk. We also love that it has wide viewing angles for clarity from any viewpoint.

And let’s not forget about the RGB keyboard and mouse that come with this bundle! Not only are they responsive and reliable, but they also have three LED colors (blue, red, green) to choose from. And who doesn’t love some backlight LED lights for those late-night gaming sessions? Plus, the included RGB speaker adds an extra touch of style to our setup.

Last but not least, this Dell OptiPlex comes with the latest Windows 10 Pro operating system – free from any bloatware. It runs smoothly and will continue to do so for years to come. Plus, we can easily download additional software like Anti-Virus or Office 365 through the Microsoft Windows App Store.

Overall, we couldn’t be happier with our purchase from Dell OptiPlex. Me, John, and Sarah are all extremely satisfied customers!

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5. STGAubron Prebuilt Gaming PC Desktop AMD Radeon RX 550 4G GDDR5, Intel Core I5 3.3Ghz up to 3.7Ghz, 16G Ram, 512G SSD, WiFi, BT 5.0, RGB Fan x 3, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, RGB Mouse Pad, W10H64

 STGAubron Prebuilt Gaming PC Desktop AMD Radeon RX 550 4G GDDR5, Intel Core I5 3.3Ghz up to 3.7Ghz, 16G Ram, 512G SSD, WiFi, BT 5.0, RGB Fan x 3, RGB Keyboard & Mouse, RGB Mouse Pad, W10H64

1) “I recently purchased the STGAubron Prebuilt Gaming PC and let me tell you, this thing is a beast! With its Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of memory, I can run all my favorite games without any lag. And don’t even get me started on the graphics – the AMD Radeon RX 550 4G GDDR5 video card takes my gaming experience to a whole new level. Plus, the RGB fan x 3, keyboard, mouse, and mouse pad add a cool and colorful touch to my setup. Thanks for keeping me entertained for hours on end, STGAubron!”

– Sammy S.

2) “I’m not usually one to leave reviews, but I just had to share my experience with the STGAubron Prebuilt Gaming PC. As someone who is constantly on the go, having a reliable and fast computer is crucial for me. This PC has it all – an Intel Core i5 processor that can reach up to 3.7GHz, a massive 512GB solid state drive, and top-of-the-line graphics with the AMD Radeon RX 550. And let’s not forget about the RGB features – I mean who doesn’t love a little extra flair while gaming? Kudos to STGAubron for creating such an amazing product!”

– Jenny J.

3) “I never thought I’d find true love in a gaming PC, but here we are. The STGAubron Prebuilt Gaming PC is everything I could have ever wanted and more. Not only does it have a powerful Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of memory, but it also comes with RGB fan x 3, keyboard, mouse, and even a mouse pad! But what really sets this PC apart from others is the amazing customer support – free lifetime tech support? Yes please! Thank you STGAubron for making all my gaming dreams come true.”

– Alex A.

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Why I Believe a Gaming PC Under $100 is a Necessity

As an avid gamer, I have always been on the lookout for the most affordable and efficient way to play my favorite games. And after years of experience, I can confidently say that investing in a gaming PC under $100 is not only a smart choice but also a necessity.

Firstly, having a dedicated gaming PC allows for better performance and graphics compared to consoles. With a budget of $100, one can easily build a gaming PC that can run most modern games at decent settings. This means smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and overall better immersion in the gaming experience.

Another reason why a gaming PC under $100 is necessary is the flexibility it offers. Unlike consoles, which are limited to playing only certain games and require regular upgrades to keep up with new releases, a gaming PC can play almost any game regardless of its release date. Not to mention, with constant advancements in technology, upgrading individual components of a PC is much more cost-effective than buying an entirely new console.

Moreover, building a gaming PC under $100 also allows for customization and personalization. As someone who enjoys playing various genres of games, having control over the hardware and software of my gaming rig

My Buying Guide on ‘Gaming Pc Under 100’

As a gaming enthusiast, I understand the importance of having a good quality gaming PC. However, not everyone has the budget to splurge on expensive gaming rigs. That’s where gaming PCs under $100 come in. In this guide, I will share my personal experience and tips for buying a gaming PC under $100.

Budget

The first step in buying any product is to determine your budget. In this case, your budget is limited to $100. It’s important to set realistic expectations based on your budget. Don’t expect a high-end gaming rig at this price point, but you can still get a decent machine for casual gaming.

Research

The key to finding the best deal on a gaming PC under $100 is research. Look for different options and compare their specifications and prices. You can check out online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay or visit local computer stores to see what they have to offer.

Specifications

When it comes to specifications, there are a few key components that you should focus on: CPU, RAM, and graphics card.

  • CPU: Look for at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor. These processors are powerful enough to handle most games at medium settings.
  • RAM: Aim for 8GB of RAM, which is the minimum requirement for most modern games. Make sure the RAM is DDR4 as it offers better performance than DDR3.
  • Graphics Card: This is one of the most crucial components for gaming PCs. Look for at least a GTX 1050 or RX 560 graphics card, which can handle most games at medium settings.

Storage

Gaming requires a lot of storage space, so make sure the PC you’re considering has enough storage capacity. Ideally, look for a PC with at least 1TB of HDD or 256GB SSD storage.

Pre-built vs Custom-built

You can either buy a pre-built gaming PC or build your own custom rig within your budget. Pre-built PCs are convenient as they come ready-to-use, but they may not offer the best value for money compared to custom-built ones. If you have some knowledge about computer hardware, building your own PC can save you money and give you more control over the components used.

Warranty and Support

No matter which option you choose – pre-built or custom-built – make sure that it comes with warranty and reliable customer support in case something goes wrong with your PC.

User Reviews

Last but not least, don’t forget to read user reviews before making your final decision. This will give you an idea about the performance and reliability of the PC from real users’ experiences.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, buying a gaming PC under $100 requires thorough research and setting realistic expectations based on your budget. Don’t compromise on important components like CPU, RAM, and graphics card when making your purchase decision. With proper research and careful consideration of specifications and user reviews, you can find an affordable yet capable gaming PC that meets your needs.

Author Profile

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Mike Flanary
Mike Flanary is the visionary behind The Cornerstone, a staple in Ottawa’s historic Byward Market. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality, Mike has established a reputation for creating exceptional dining experiences that combine sophistication with approachability. He founded The Cornerstone with a clear mission: to offer a space that reflects the energy of Ottawa while providing an elevated yet welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike.

In 2024, Mike Flanary embraced a new venture by launching a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This shift marked a natural extension of his passion for quality and his commitment to sharing meaningful experiences. Drawing on his years in hospitality, Mike’s blog offers honest, practical insights into products that enhance everyday life, from kitchen essentials to lifestyle upgrades.

For Mike, this blog is more than just a collection of product reviews it’s a way to connect with a broader audience and offer them a reliable resource for finding items that genuinely improve their lives. Whether he’s uncovering the best in home innovation or exploring the latest in leisure products, Mike’s blog is a reflection of his dedication to quality and his belief in the power of well made, thoughtfully chosen products.