9 best budget computers

Budget computers typically refer to desktop computers or computer systems that are designed to be cost-effective while providing basic computing functionality.These computers are often sought after by individuals or organizations that have limited budgets or specific computing needs that don't require high-end hardware. Here are some key points related to budget computers:

  1. Price Range: Budget computers are characterized by their affordability. They are available at lower price points compared to high-performance desktops or custom-built PCs. Prices can vary widely, but they are generally more budget-friendly.

  2. Components: While budget computers may not have the most powerful or cutting-edge components, they typically include essential hardware components like a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), storage (usually HDD or SSD), motherboard, and integrated graphics.

  3. Performance: The performance of budget computers is suitable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, word processing, email, and media consumption. They may not be ideal for resource-intensive activities like gaming or video editing.

  4. Operating System: Budget computers often come with a pre-installed operating system, typically Windows or a Linux distribution. Some budget options may also be Chromebooks, which run on Chrome OS.

  5. Upgradability: Depending on the specific model, budget computers may offer limited upgradability options. It's essential to check if you can easily upgrade components like RAM or storage if needed in the future.

  6. Form Factors: Budget computers are available in various form factors, including traditional tower desktops and smaller form factors like mini PCs. The choice of form factor depends on space requirements and specific use cases.

  7. Connectivity: Budget computers usually come with a standard set of connectivity options, including USB ports, audio jacks, and network ports. Higher-end features like advanced graphics cards or high-speed USB-C ports are generally not found in budget models.

  8. Brand and Warranty: Recognizable computer brands often offer budget-friendly options with warranties. It's advisable to research brands known for reliability and customer support.

  9. Purpose: Budget computers are suitable for tasks like web browsing, office work, online education, and streaming media. They are not typically designed for gaming, graphic design, or other resource-intensive applications.

  10. Accessories: Consider whether the computer package includes essential accessories like a keyboard and mouse. Some budget computers may not include these peripherals.

  11. Reviews and Recommendations: Reading user reviews and seeking recommendations from experts or trusted sources can help you find a budget computer that meets your specific needs and offers good value for money.

It's important to note that the term "budget" is relative, and what constitutes a budget computer can vary from person to person. Before purchasing a budget computer, it's crucial to define your specific computing requirements and budget constraints to make an informed choice that aligns with your needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best budget computers on the market
  

Lenovo ThinkCentre Premium High Performance M91P Desktop Computer, Intel Core i5 Quad-Core Processor 3.1GHz, 8GB RAM, 1TB HDD, Windows 10 Home (Renewed)

Lenovo

Based on 947 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Utilizing an Intel Core i5 processor, you will be able to move quickly through the most demanding computational tasks. The Small form factor takes up such a small footprint for tight spaces. When time is money, count on the best. Get behind the mass majority of PC users and see what Lenovo build quality can do for you. Incredible Lenovo Quality and Blazing Fast Intel Core i5 Quad Core Processor Specifications: Processor: Intel Core i5 2400 Quad Core 3. 1 Ghz Memory: 8GB DDR3 Hard Drive: 1TB SATA Operating System: Windows 10 Home x64 Optical: DVD-ROM Video Card: Integrated HD 2000 Graphics Front USB 2. 0 Ports: 2 Rear USB 2. 0 Ports: 6 VGA Port: Yes Display Port: Yes Ethernet: 10/100/1000 Mbps, Gigabit Includes: Desktop Computer with Recovery Partition and Power Cord Keyboard & Mouse are not Included

  • Lenovo M91P SFF Intel I5 Quad-Core 3. 1 GHz Processor
  • What's Inside: 8GB RAM, 1TB Hard Drive, DVD Optical Drive,
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • Includes: USB Keyboard and Mouse,

User questions & answers

Question: how many usb ports does this have
Answer: 8 in total. 2 on the front panel and 6 in the back.
Question: does it come with wires and if it dosent what wires would i need
Answer: Mine came with a power cable. Depending on how you plan to connect to your home network, you may need a length of cat5 cable. Monitors come with their own power cable and should also have a video cable.
Question: Whats the power supply
Answer: The power supply is: Input 100 - 240v, 0.8 - 2.0 a outputs 280 w: +12v, -12v, +5.08v, +3.3v I hope this answers your question.
Question: Can I use a tv
Answer: If you get a Display Port to HDMI adapter, yes. You can use a TV with no problems. Or a VGA cable, if your tv happens to have that kind of connector.

Dell Optiplex 9010 Tower Premium Business Desktop Computer (Intel Quad-Core i7-3770 up to 3.9GHz, 8GB DDR3 Memory, 2TB HDD + 120GB SSD, DVD, WiFi, Windows 10 Professional) (Renewed)

Dell

Based on 293 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Designed for heavy use in the corporate environment, this Dell computer has been Renewed with higher quality components than you'll find in typical off the shelf retail models. Perfect for business, home and school, this computer has been professionally refurbished by a Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR). Every component is tested for full functionality to ensure years of ongoing performance and reliability. Exterior cosmetics are restored to a like-new condition with little to no visible signs of previous use. A fresh and authentic installation of Microsoft Windows 10 is performed with the new license digitally rendered in the PC for an easy and secure start upon first use.

CPU: 3rd Gen. Intel Quad Core i7 Processor

RAM: 8 GB DDR3

Hard Drive: 120 GB SSD and 2 TB HDD

Operating System: Windows 10 Professional

Optical: DVD Drive

Peripherals: USB Keyboard and Mouse, USB WiFi Adapter

  • Processor: Intel Quad-Core i7-3770 3.4GHz (Turbo up to 3.9GHz) 8MB Cache; USB Wifi Adapter included for wireless connection
  • Memory: 8GB (4 slots, supports up to 16GB), 2TB 7200 rpm Hard Drive + 120GB SSD, Intel HD Graphics;
  • DVD ROM, USB Keyboard, Mouse, Integrated Audio, 10/100/1000Mbps LAN; Slots: 10 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x Ethernet port, 1 x VGA port, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x audio out jack, 1 x line-in jack, 1 x microphone jack
  • Windows 10 Professional 64 bit, Activation code is on the tower; the best operating system for business

User questions & answers

Question: In the photo i see two hmdi ports. but i read it doesn’t have hmdi ports. does it or not? i need to plug two monitors
Answer: Starting with this: My Service Tag is HBD5CX1. That is a MiniTower ("MT") 9010 with an NVIDIA Graphics Card. https://downloads.dell.com/manuals/all-products/esuprt_desktop/esuprt_optiplex_desktop/optiplex-9010_owner%27s%20manual2_en-us.pdf Page 35. Shows 2 PCI Express x16 slots also PCIe X1 slot. On my machine, all 3 are empty just like the picture on page 35. David
Question: Does it support Bluetooth
Answer: 275. I found this out while trying to put in a graphics card in.
Question: How many free pcie slots available
Answer: 460w, both types
Question: What is the power supply watts
Answer: usb floppy drive

CUK Continuum Micro Gamer PC (AMD Ryzen 3 3200G with Radeon Vega 8 Graphics, 16GB 3000MHz RAM, 256GB SSD, 500W PSU, AC WiFi, No OS) Gaming Desktop Computer

Computer Upgrade King

Based on 195 reviews Check latest price
  • Operating System: None is included. You will be responsible for installation and activation in adherence to applicable EULA terms.
  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3200G Quad Core Processor (4MB Cache, 3.6GHz-4.0GHz) 65W
  • RAM: 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3000MHz (14GB available after 2GB reserved for Vega graphics vRAM.) | Hard Drive: 256GB Solid State Drive
  • Graphics: AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics | Motherboard: A320M Motherboard | Power Supply: 500W 80+ Power Supply
  • Accessories: USB AC WiFi Adapter & Wired LED Backlit USB Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Included | 3-Year CUK Limited Warranty (View warranty section below for more details.)

User questions & answers

Question: Ethernet, does it have an Ethernet port
Answer: yes it has!
Question: Does this come with windows
Answer: If it says "No OS" in the title and has bullet pt reading "Operating System: None is included. You will be responsible for installation and activation in adherance to applicable EULA terms.", then without a shadow of any doubt, it will not come with a Windows license. There are multiple listings attached and each has a different spec so please read the title and bullet points so you know what you are getting.
Question: So basically all I’d need is a monitor and a keyboard
Answer: Actually, this PC comes WITH a keyboard and mouse! So all you need is a monitor and a cable to connect to the monitor. The keyboard is "okay", not great. The mouse isn't bad, but if you're a serious gamer, you probably want a better one (or already have a better one). If you're just starting out, just worry about the monitor to start.
Question: Can i change the lights to one color
Answer: It comes with 6 addressable RGB fans in addition to the addressable RGB strip that lights up the infinity window front panel. Included is a controller that has cable that connects to high end motherboards that have the 3-pin 5V connection for controlling the lighting using the motherboard software i.e. ASUS Aura, Gigabyte Fusion, MSI Mystic Lighting. It also comes with a remote. Every single 1 comes with a remote. It shouldn't ever be missing. The remote always provides a myriad of different color options not just single colors. Among the color options are fade, rainbow, blinking, and it has 20 or so colors on the spectrum. Again its addressable RGB so every single bulb can be programmed differently so they don't have to be all the same color at same time but to make full use of this feature you would have to buy more expensive model that has motherboard (i.e. Z390) supporting it.

Product features

CUK Continuum Micro AMD Gaming Desktop PC

The Continuum Micro is a compact mATX PC that was designed specifically with airflow, internal layout, and a stylish exterior in mind. The front panel features an infinity mirror and creates a symphony of color with several different lighting effects: solid, fading, strobe, breathing, and marquee. A modern design with a hinged glass side panel, providing easy access and beautifully showcases the build!

High Quality Build & Material

With solid steel construction, mesmerizing infinity mirror front panel, a tempered glass side door (3-5 times stronger than ordinary glass) that swings open, convenient top panel USB 3.0 and audio ports, interior chassis lighting by 6 RGB fans, everyone will stop to wow and gaze at your Continuum Micro gaming desktop.

Superior Cooling

Superior airflow and cooling is provided by 6 pre-installed high airflow and pressure 600-1800rpm through controller Lotus ring style remote controllable RGB fans with unique triple metal fin front panel design for maximizing airflow through 3 front mounted intake fans along with 2 top and 1 rear mounted exhaust fans allowing for extreme cooling system with up to two 240mm radiators.

Hand Crafted & Stress Tested

We’re gamers just like you, so we fully understand your expectations. Each custom desktop is hand built ensuring perfection when assembling. Finished systems go through an intensive burn-in test and over 40 quality check points. Your CUK custom built PC will be ready to plug-and-play the latest games on high settings as soon as you unbox!

Higher Performance, Incredible Technology

Intelligent, revolutionary AMD Ryzen processors are designed to bring you the ultimate, high-performance computing experience. The latest revolutionary AMD multi-threaded processing technology gives you blazing fast performance when you work or play.

No Compromise

AMD Ryzen Processors with Radeon Vega Graphics are armed with some of the most advanced, powerful computing and graphics hardware available today, fused together in a single processor to deliver the high performance you need for demanding work and serious play, without compromise.

What's In the Box

Computer Upgrade King products are packaged in CUK branded shipping box. Each Continuum Micro desktop includes:

  • 1x Desktop Gaming Computer
  • 1x Rainbow Backlit USB Keyboard
  • 1x LED USB Mouse
  • 1x AC Power Cord

VR Ready HP Pavilion Gaming PC Desktop Computer, Intel Core i5-9400F, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Windows 10 (690-0073w, Black)

HP

Based on 195 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Packs serious power. Use wisely.The HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop is all about smooth performance and crisp graphics wrapped up in a bold design. This PC offers the latest technology plus the ability to upgrade, keeping performance up-to-date.Windows 10 Home 649th Generation Intel Core i5 processor8 GB memory; 256 GB SSD storageDiscrete NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Graphics (6 GB GDDR6 dedicated) Powered by NVIDIA Pascal architecture

  • Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories

User questions & answers

Question: Will you ever have deals between 600 and 700 dollars again
Answer: 4 gauge wire is what it accept. But you can order a adaptor to increase to 0/2 gauge wiring.
Question: Can this run half life alyx
Answer: Yes it's bridgeable depending on the ohm level you want. You also have to make sure you have the power supply to keep the process.
Question: How many ram slots does it have
Answer: It is 1 ohm but for better sound and quality 2 ohm is good.
Question: Can it run rv chat with no lag
Answer: It can take 8 gauge in the two smaller terminals

Periphio Gaming Desktop Computer Tower PC, Intel Quad Core i5 3.1GHz, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD + 1TB 7200 RPM HDD, Windows 10, GeForce GTX 1650 4GB Overclocked Edition Graphics Card RGB HDMI Wi-Fi (Renewed)

Periphio

Based on 471 reviews Check latest price
  • Repurposed For Value: Maximize your spending power without compromising performance thanks to a repurposed motherboard tested to exceed detailed quality inspections and an Intel Core i5 Quad Core processor (3.1GHz)
  • Configured To Perform: 8GB New Periphio DDR3 | 120GB New Periphio SSD | 1TB HDD | Genuine Windows 10 Home 64-bit
  • Graphics That Pop: New GeForce GTX 1650 4GB Video Card Overclocked Edition | 1x HDMI | 1x DisplayPort | 3 x USB 3.0 | 8 x USB 2.0 | 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet
  • Special Features: New Custom Case with Multi-Color LED Lighting adjusted via the mode button | Tempered glass window panel | Wi-Fi
  • Warranty: 1 Year Warranty and Free Tech Support

User questions & answers

Question: Could I stream and play Fortnite on this at the same time
Answer: You should indeed be able to stream games from this PC without issue.
Question: Can i run rts games like the total war series. i run medieval 2 on a regular pc without problem, but i want to get total way attila
Answer: No the computer does not have enough stock ram to handle it
Question: what’s the ryzen of this pc
Answer: its intel not ryzen
Question: Which i5 generation is this
Answer: It's a second gen i5 processor. It came out in 2011. The processor is almost certainly going to bottleneck the graphics card. The real kicker is if you want to upgrade to something modern in the future you'll also have to upgrade the motherboard as the socket is no longer used.

Periphio Portal Gaming PC Desktop Computer Tower, Intel Quad Core i5 3.2GHz, 8GB RAM, 120GB SSD + 500GB 7200 RPM HDD, Windows 10, AMD Radeon RX570 4GB DDR5, HDMI, Wi-Fi (Renewed)

Periphio

Based on 34 reviews Check latest price
  • Repurposed For Value: Maximize your spending power without compromising performance thanks to a repurposed motherboard tested to exceed detailed quality inspections and an Intel Core i5 Quad Core processor (3.2GHz)
  • Configured To Perform: 8GB New Periphio DDR3 | 120GB New Periphio SSD | 500GB HDD | Genuine Windows 10 Home 64-bit
  • Graphics That Pop: New AMD Radeon RX570 4GB DDR5 | 1x HDMI | 3x DisplayPort | 4 x USB 3.0 | 2 x USB 2.0 | 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet
  • Special Features: Sleek White Case | Sleeper Aesthetic | Wi-Fi
  • Warranty: 1 Year Warranty and Free Tech Support

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work on any roblox game at max game performance
Answer: My son has this and runs games like Fortnite and Apex Legends with no issues. I imagine it can handle Roblox with no issues.
Question: What generation i5 processor is installed? 1st, 5th, 10th
Answer: This computer has a 3rd Gen i5-3470 processor installed.
Question: What kind of ram is installed? I l know it’s ddr3 but what is the size, quantity, and speed..... thanks
Answer: Don't buy it. It makes sounds like a bad car engine.
Question: Does this come with the power cord
Answer: Ours came with the power cord and was packaged very well.

iBUYPOWER Gaming PC Computer Desktop Element Mini 9300 (AMD Ryzen 3 3100 3.6GHz, AMD Radeon RX 550 2GB, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 240GB SSD, Wi-Fi Ready, Windows 10 Home)

iBUYPOWER

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

iBUYPOWER Gaming PC Computer Desktop Element Mini 9300 (AMD Ryzen 3 3100 3.6GHz, AMD Radeon RX 550 2GB, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 240GB SSD, Wi-Fi ready, Windows 10 Home).

  • System: AMD Ryzen 3 3100 3.6GHz (3.9GHz Max Turbo); 8GB DDR4 RAM; 240GB SSD; Genuine Windows 10 Home 64-bit
  • Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 550 2GB Dedicated Graphics Card; Display connectors - Dual link DVI-D, HDMI
  • Connectivity: 4 x USB 3.0; 2 x USB 2.0; 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet 10/100/1000; Audio: 7.1 Channel
  • Special Add-Ons: Tempered glass RGB gaming case 802.11AC Wi-Fi included 16 color RGB lighting case free iBuyPower Gaming keyboard & RGB gaming mouse no bloatware
  • Warranty: 1 year parts & labor + free lifetime US tech support; Assembled in the U.S.A

User questions & answers

Question: Is there room for a second ssd drive
Answer: Yes,as long as your MacBook has a 3.5mm headphone jack.The small pc speaker is powered by USB.Suitable for most Mobile Phone, iPad, Laptop, Xbox One or other device that has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.
Question: How many watts is the power supply
Answer: Yes it will.If your PS4 has a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Question: Can it run roket league good
Answer: Each speaker is 3 watts,and they can provide a powerful sound.
Question: Can I play call of duty warzone on with this pc
Answer: This model does not.

Product features

iBUYPOWER Element Mini

Introducing the iBUYPOWER Element Mini 9300! This system comes with an AMD Ryzen 3 3100, which is a great value for performance CPU which will help run most games at great frame rates. Booting up alongside the Ryzen 3 3100 is an AMD Radeon RX 550, this GPU is no slouch but instead is one great for light gaming.

HP 8300 4K Gaming Computer Intel Quad Core i5 upto 3.6GHz, 8GB, 1TB HD, Nvidia GT730 4GB, Windows 10 Pro, WiFi, USB 3.0 (Renewed)

HP

Based on 379 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications: Processor: Intel Core i5-3470 3.2GHz (Turbo up to 3.6GHz) 6MB Cache Processor Core: Quad-Core Memory: 8GB DDR3; supports up to 16GB Memory Slots: 4 Sound: Integrated Network: 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Wireless: Yes Front Panel: USB 2.0 Headphone Microphone Rear Panel: HDMI, DVI, VGA USB 3.0 USB 2.0 RJ-45 LAN Audio: Line-in/Microphone Audio: Line-out Serial Port Expansion Slots & Bays: Low-Profile PCI Slot Low-Profile PCI Express x16 Slot Low-Profile PCI Express x1 Slots External 5.25"Drive Bay Internal 3.5" Drive Bay External 3.5" Drive Bay Operating System: New Install of Windows 10 Professional 64-bit, Power Supply: 240W Max Dimensions: 14.9"(L) x 3.95"(W) x 13.3"(H)

  • 1 Year Warranty & Free Technical Support on Computer. New 1TB HD 7200 RPM with 3 Year Warranty on Hard Drive.
  • Great for Casual to Mid-End Gaming Nvidia GeForce 4K (Playback) Certified Video Card GT730 4GB, 4K or 1080P HDMI, 1080P DVI, VGA. 1-2 Monitor Support.
  • What's in The Box? HP 8300, Power Cable, New USB Keyboard & Mouse.
  • May not work for Advanced video games which require high end video cards

User questions & answers

Question: Can you live-streams to face book using OBS and a capture card
Answer: no
Question: what type of Motherboard is in it
Answer: hp, and its crap
Question: Can i install a 2nd hard drive? Is there an open hard drive bay
Answer: Yes.
Question: Can you run star wars the old republic on high settings
Answer: No

HP 8300 4K Gaming Computer Intel Quad Core i5 upto 3.6GHz, 8GB, 1TB HD, Nvidia GT710 2GB Windows 10 Pro, WiFi, USB 3.0 (Renewed)

HP

Based on 256 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Great for CASUAL, LIGHT, BEGINNER Gaming Only! Specifications: Processor: Intel Core i5-3470 3.2GHz (Turbo up to 3.6GHz) 6MB Cache Processor Core: Quad-Core Memory: 8GB DDR3; supports up to 16GB Memory Slots: 4 Sound: Integrated Network: 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Wireless: Yes Front Panel: USB 2.0 Headphone Microphone Rear Panel: HDMI, DVI, VGA USB 3.0 USB 2.0 RJ-45 LAN Audio: Line-in/Microphone Audio: Line-out Serial Port Expansion Slots & Bays: Low-Profile PCI Slot Low-Profile PCI Express x16 Slot Low-Profile PCI Express x1 Slots External 5.25"Drive Bay Internal 3.5" Drive Bay External 3.5" Drive Bay Operating System: New Install of Windows 10 Professional 64-bit, Power Supply: 240W Max Dimensions: 14.9"(L) x 3.95"(W) x 13.3"(H)

  • 1 Year Warranty & Free Technical Support on Computer.
  • New 1TB HD 7200 RPM with 3 Year Warranty on Hard Drive.
  • Great for Casual- Mid-End Gaming Nvidia GeForce 4K Certified Video Card GT710 2GB, 4K HDMI, 1080P DVI, VGA. 1-2 Monitor Support.
  • What's in The Box? Refurbished HP 8300 Elite Desktop Computer with Power Cable, New USB Keyboard & Mouse.

User questions & answers

Question: How many hdmi slots dose it have
Answer: 1 HDMI slot.
Question: is it perfect for fortnite
Answer: No its good for basic, beginner and casual gaming and 4K Video streaming.
Question: Can i upgrade to ddr
Answer: The previous answer is incorrect. This system, cpu, motherboard, cannot be upgraded to ddr4
Question: Can it run steam or minecraft
Answer: Yes

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