The best gaming PC 2022 – take the pre-built route to greatness

The best gaming PC 2022 – take the pre-built route to greatness

The best gaming PCs are those models which offer that essential balance between price and performance in 2022. At a time when accessible hardware now seems to be more available to people, we’ve witnessed some of the best models from both the budget, mid-range, and high-end machines in more demand than ever. This is due to the graphics card shortage appearing to be coming to an end, so now could be the ideal time to get your hands on a readymade rig at a great price. 
While the likes of CPUs and RAM have been largely unaffected by increased demand and reduced demand, the best gaming PCs on the market this year are defined by their price-to-performance ratio given the availability of hardware people can afford. With this information in mind, we’ve carefully selected options that are geared towards budgets and preferences, from entry-level rigs, mid-tier machines, and high-end towers ready for ray tracing in the highest resolutions.
Because from a technical level the best gaming PCs are the models running the best graphics cards on the market while being bolstered up by cutting edge SSDs, too. We’re currently seeing a shift towards PCIe 5.0 compatibility, and with Nvidia’s Ampere successor rumored to launch at the end of this year, things are changing fast. You’ll find both boutique-built and manufacturer-made machines below at competitive price points to get you armed and online ready for the platform exclusives and multi-plats pushed to the max. 
The best gaming PCs in 2022

1. Acer Predator Orion 3000
The best overall gaming PC for most people
Specifications
CPU: Intel Core i7-10700GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070Memory: 16GB DDR4 HyperX Fury @ 2,666MHzStorage: 512GB SSD (Boot) + 1TB HDDWeight: 9kg / 19.8lbsToday’s Best DealsView at WalmartView at AmazonView at NeweggSee all prices (17 found)
Reasons to buy
+Fantastic 1440p performance, 4K capable+The price is very reasonable+Easy to upgrade
Reasons to avoid
-Some elements are on the cheaper side
Our favorite configuration: 

Acer Predator Orion 3000 | RTX 3070 | i7-11700F at AmazonIn terms of stellar value for money, this Acer Predator Orion 3000 configuration packs in enough horsepower for both 1440p and 4K without too much of a struggle. For the asking price, you’re getting a stellar build that’s ready for today’s games, while also being fast enough for tomorrow’s titles, too.  

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The Acer Predator Orion 3000 is our number one pick for the best gaming PC that you can buy at the moment and it comes down to one important factor – the value for money. Our review unit featured the powerful a 10th gen i7 CPU RTX 3070 GPU, and 16GB RAM, which retails for $1,500 / £1,500. 
Our testing found that these specs made the Orion 3000 a true powerhouse for both 1440p and 4K gaming, with impressive figures in our suite of benchmark games and software, such as Metro Exodus, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, and The Division 2, where all titles easily smashed 1080p and 1440p at well above 100FPS and managing that more-than-playable numbers in 2160p, too, with many titles averaging 4K60 or above. We’ve found though that this configuration was far more comfortable in QHD at higher frame rates than when you doubled the resolution, you may need to be crafty with those settings sliders to keep things rock solid when in Ultra HD. 

Acer has done a great job when it comes to matching the internal components at play in this PC. No one part of this build is going to bottleneck you, or hold you back when you’re contemplating upgrades a few years down the road.
Acer Predator Orion 3000 review

There’s only really one aspect at where the cost-saving measures come into the fold for the Acer Predator Orion 3000, and that’s in the onboard SSD’s sequential performance. Our review unit was running a PCIe 3.0, with our test figures reporting 2,477 MB/s read and 1,812 MB/s write, which is fairly average especially compared to what’s possible with the best SSDs around right now. 
However, these rates far excel figures that are possible from traditional hard drives and SATA units, so you should still experience respectable loading times and in-game performance, too. We found the drive to be adequate enough with games still loading quickly via PCIe 3.0, though it’s worth stating that you can simply add another one in via the case’s free slot inside, too. 

(Image credit: HP)
2. HP Omen 25L
The best gaming PC under $1,200
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel Core i5-12400 / AMD Ryzen 5 5600GGPU: Up to RTX 3060Memory: 8GB DDR4Storage: 256GB NVMe SSDWeight: 25.26 lbs / 11.45 kgToday’s Best DealsRecommended Retail…View at HP (US)View at AmazonView at Best BuySee all prices (180 found)
Reasons to buy
+Affordably priced configurations+Benefits from stellar build quality +Easy enough to upgrade in the future
Reasons to avoid
-Can get hot under stress
Our favorite configuration: 

HP Omen 25L | GTX 1660 Super | i5-10400F at Best Buy
Priced at $949.99, this HP Omen 25L has everything you need to experience 1080p60 in the latest games without breaking a sweat. As far as budget builds go, you’re benefitting from the manufacturer’s build quality, and respectable hardware for your money here, too.

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The HP Omen 25L line is the most accessible price-wise of the entire Omen division, which currently features support for the latest Intel 12th gen and Ryzen 5000 CPUs. At around the $1,200 mark, and below, you can expect high performance for both 1080p and 1440p all built inside a sleek chassis. What’s more, the HP Omen 25L is easy to upgrade making it easy to swap out parts, such as graphics cards and RAM in the near future. 
The one negative that has circulated around the HP Omen 25L, and likely implemented as a cost-saving measure, are small issues with airflow due to the chassis’ small size. This could be down to the fact that the Omen 25L lacks the same front intake fan of the larger Omen 30L. If you’re aiming for modest components here then thermal throttling is unlikely to be a problem, but it’s something to keep in mind all the same. 
If you want to keep the costs down even further, you can opt for a machine running the likes of the still more-than-capable GTX 1600-series and older Intel chipsets which are still being sold. It all depends on your usage, as RTX 3060-enabled configurations can be found in this budget running the latest hardware.

3. Alienware Aurora Ryzen R10
The best Ryzen gaming PC
Specifications
CPU: up to AMD Ryzen 9 5950XGraphics: up to Nvidia RTX 3090RAM: up to 64GB DDR4Storage: up to 2TB M.2 SSD & 2TB HDDToday’s Best DealsView at DellView at Best BuyView at AmazonSee all prices (7 found)1 Walmart customer review☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Fantastic performance+The case is easy to open up +Many customization options
Reasons to avoid
-Love it or hate it design-Loud under stress
Our favorite configuration:

Alienware Aurora Ryzen R10 | RTX 3060 | Ryzen 7 5800 at DellWe’ve seen prices on the Alienware Aurora Ryzen R10 come down fairly often, with this wallet-friendly configuration usually in the ballpark of $1,300 or so. For the money, you’re getting a capable machine running current-gen components that’s ready for 1080p and 1440p gaming with minimal compromises.
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The Alienware Aurora R10 continues to impress as the best Ryzen gaming PC you can get at the moment. This is due to the expanse of options available to you, with the system being available in many different setups at competitive price points. Our test system utilized a Ryzen 7 CPU and an RTX 2070 Super, however, newer iterations are running all the latest Ampere video cards (RTX 30 series). 
As for the performance you can expect from the Alienware Aurora R10, we found in our testing that this rig performed at its best when playing titles in both Full HD and 1440p. The mid-tier Turing card delivered frame rates far above 60 FPS in both resolutions in games such as Metro Exodus, Red Dead Redemption II, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider just to name a few. 
You are paying a premium on that Alienware name, though, at that’s an accepted piece of the puzzle that’s persisted for as long as the brand has been in existence. While the physical aesthetics may not be to everyone’s personal tastes, we can tell you that the case is easy to get inside of, requiring just one screw to come off granting access to the internals. 

There’s no doubting the machine’s performance, however, so you can’t really go wrong with this gaming PC from a capability perspective
Aurora Ryzen R10 review

 The main downsides are that it can get somewhat loud, almost as if it is a spaceship engine trying to take off, and accessing the components within isn’t an easy task thanks to the placement of the PSU cage. You can definitely do much worse when buying a pre-built PC though, and that Ryzen / Nvidia combo is a brilliant one that offers exquisite performance even in 2022. 

(Image credit: Corsair)
4. Corsair One i300
The best compact gaming PC
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel i9-12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900XGPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 or RTX 3080 TiMemory: Up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM @ 4,800MHzStorage: 1TB or 2TB NVMe SSDWeight: VariesToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at CORSAIRView at AmazonSee all prices (4 found)
Reasons to buy
+RTX 3080 Ti performs incredibly at all resolutions+Incredibly compact chassis+Sleek and stylish appearance
Reasons to avoid
-One of the most expensive pre-built PCs on the market
Our favorite configuration: 

Corsair One i300 | RTX 3080 | i9-12900K at Corsair
While this is still one of the pricier Corsair One i300 setups you can get, this configuration boasts all the power you need for exceptional 4K gaming factoring in the premium components and small form factor. What’s more, you’re benefitting from the latest 12th gen CPU and DDR5 RAM here, too.

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While this particular line of prebuilt machines has a reputation for being expensive, we believe the costs associated with the latest Corsair One i300 are justified when analyzing the specs and performance on show here. Our review unit featured the latest 12th gen i9 CPU, an RTX 3080 Ti GPU, 64GB DDR5 RAM, and a 2TB Gen 4 NVMe SSD for $4,999 – as far as the cutting-edge goes, you can’t really expect to cram much more into a machine with such a compact form factor. 
All that fancy hardware and the brand’s signature style of system would be for nothing if the Corsair One i300 didn’t have the guts to back it up, of course. Fortunately, our review unit absolutely excelled in both our industry-standard tests and made short work of our go-to games pushed to their absolute limits. Everything inside the unit is absolutely top-shelf, so particular mention goes to that stellar Gen 4 drive which serves as both boot OS and your storage, as we clocked figures of 7,061 MB/s read and 5,145 MB/s write, far more any game demands right now.

Its intelligent internal design and brilliantly small footprint are even more impressive considering that it can put many of the best gaming PCs to shame with its performance
Corsair One i300 review

Speaking of the games, the Corsair One i300 steamrolls graphically demanding titles when running titles in 4K Ultra, this includes well above 60 FPS in Red Dead Redemption II and Metro Exodus when maxed out, and just shy of 200 FPS in the likes of Shadow of the Tomb Raider and The Divison 2. 
The only real drawback we experienced in our time with the Corsair One i300 was the thermal performance. As expected from such a tiny gaming PC, the machine did get noticeably hot when under stress, and this is no doubt the case for the benchmarking tasks, too. We did not notice any throttling, though, and the system itself remained quiet despite the core temps climbing. With that said, if you’ve got the money for a truly exceptional compact gaming PC in 2022 then the i300 could very well be the One. 

5. Alienware Aurora R12
Still one of the best gaming PCs on the market
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel Core i9 (11th gens)GPU: Up to RTX 3090RAM: Up to 128GBStorage: Up to 2TB SSD + 2TB HDDToday’s Best DealsView at WalmartView at Best BuyView at DellSee all prices (4 found)
Reasons to buy
+Stellar aesthetics+Supported for the Ampere GPU line+Still technologically relevant
Reasons to avoid
-Superseded by the Aurora R13
Our favorite configuration: 

Alienware Aurora R12 | RTX 3080 | Intel Core i9-11900KF at Dell
This Alienware Aurora R12 build packs in all you need for a stellar 4K gaming experience in 2022. You’re getting not only the company’s exceptional build quality but also stellar components and all the memory/storage you could need for a very long time to come.

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Alienware’s Aurora R12 is leading Alienware into the next generation of gaming; as well as 10th-gen Intel processors and the possibility of liquid-cooled graphics cards, it offers a variety of builds to suit most budgets. If you want to get into PC gaming for the first time or would like to upgrade your existing setup then this is the most cost-effective way to do it.
Ranging from affordable starter rigs to pimped-out super PCs, the Aurora R12 strikes a good balance of choice. Better still, these desktops can be easily opened and upgraded with different parts as and when you see fit. Want more RAM or a larger SSD? No problem. Because the power supply unit swings out on a metal arm, you get more room to fiddle with the PC’s insides.
The R12’s design is of a similar form for the last few years and is attractive enough – and unique if nothing else. Although it sticks with the distinctive case and scooped-out front of its predecessor, this update enriches that formula with new lighting around the central strip in some cases. It’s an addition that turns heads and makes the design feel even more futuristic than it did before.

6. HP Omen 30L
The best mid-range gaming PC
Specifications
CPU:: Up to Intel Core i9 10th-genGPU: : Up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090Memory:: Up to 64GBStorage: : Up to 2TB SSD + 2TB HDDWeight: 12.9kg / 28.5lbToday’s Best DealsView at Best BuyLow StockView at WalmartCheck Amazon
Reasons to buy
+Available in many different configurations+Reasonable pricing for a pre-built system+Fantastic aesthetic 
Reasons to avoid
-Somewhat messy interior
Our favorite configuration: 

HP Omen 30L | RTX 3070 | AMD Ryzen 7 5800X at Best Buy
As far as value for money goes, this setup melds both the surprisingly powerful RTX 3070 with the current-gen Ryzen 7 CPU for a price-to-performance ratio gaming experience that few competitors can rival.

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If you’re not out to build your own PC (or you’ve had no luck with the current GPU lottery) but still want a powerhouse desktop for some next-gen gaming, check out HP’s Omen 30L line. Custom-built inside a slick Omen chassis, they offer solid hardware with plenty of customization options and the potential for easy future upgrades.

It’s hard to deny that this is an exceptional pre-built gaming system
HP Omen 30L

The HP Omen 30L we’ve reviewed comes with some slick, understated RGB lighting, as well as a 10th-gen Intel processor and RTX 2080 Super GPU. This version costs $1,999 (with a year’s warranty included), but pricier models are available with RTX 3000-series cards (though be prepared for all kinds of stock fluctuation given it is the year 2022). The case has two tempered glass panels to showcase your system, with easy access for adjustments and excellent ventilation to prevent overheating.
While the interior isn’t the tidiest we’ve seen amongst the best gaming PCs, the performance speaks for itself. The RTX 2080 Super GPU is still a beast at 1440p and respectable in 4K, too, with its liquid-cooled processor never getting too hot even playing the most demanding titles. HP has proven that it is taking pre-built machines seriously, so the Omen 30L gets a thumbs up from us.

7. iBUYPOWER Element CL Pro
The best boutique built gaming PC
Specifications
CPU: up to Intel Core i7-12700KFGPU: up to RTX 3070Memory: up to 32GB DDR4-3600 RAMStorage: up to 1TB NVMe SSDToday’s Best DealsView at iBUYPOWERView at iBUYPOWERCheck Amazon
Reasons to buy
+Eye-catching, RGB and liquid-cooled design+Incredible pre-built, pre-cooled system for price+Simple access for making adjustments+Excellent performance
Reasons to avoid
-May be hard to find specific models 
The iBUYPOWER Element CL Pro deftly handles one of the more difficult challenges in the creation of the best gaming PCs: custom liquid-cooling. Normally reserved for only the priciest machines due to expensive shipping costs, the Element CL Pro offers a gorgeous, custom loop liquid-cooled rig at a reasonable price – you can get this beauty for less than $2K. 

If you’re looking for a pre-built, custom liquid-cooled desktop PC, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything better at the price point
iBuyPower Element CL Pro review

The Element CL Pro is a step above the previous Element CL Plus models because it can now support RTX 3070 cards, and the numbers it churns out prove it handles 4K gaming well. It can’t quite hit 4K 60fps for Metro Exodus, but it can easily reach that with Red Dead Redemption 2 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider on the highest graphical settings. The rig reaches 60fps across multiple games at lower resolutions (1440p and 1080p). Simply put – it produces excellent and consistently amazing gameplay. 
If you’re someone who loves to tinker with your PCs, the Element CL Pro offers incredibly easy access for upgrades and maintenance. An all-glass side panel lets you get to the GPU and CPU with ease and refilling the liquid cooling system is a breeze as it’s located outside of the system so there’s no need to worry about accidental spillage. The iBUYPOWER Element CL Pro is a gorgeous machine that offers excellent performance at a price that won’t hurt your wallet.

8. Asus ROG GA15
Still a high performing gaming PC in 2022
Specifications
CPU: Ryzen 5 3600X / 7 3700X / 3800XGPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 to RTX 2080RAM: 8GB to 32GB DDR4-2666Storage: Up to 512GB SSD + 2TB HDDToday’s Best DealsView at WalmartCheck Amazon25 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Excellent value for money and bang-to-buck performance+Great design+Superb use of Ryzen and Nvidia components
Reasons to avoid
-Specific models may be harder to come by
The Asus ROG GA15 is a tremendous machine and one that really harnesses a great power to performance to price balance. It’s a great new design from ASUS and is a welcome addition to the pre-built gaming PC market. I use this PC every day so I am a bit biased perhaps, I’d argue, it’s a well-placed bias! It’s a joy to use as a work PC that seamlessly changes to a monster. 
The components of my build, particularly, demonstrate the GA15’s successful inhabiting of a place of balance between performance and value. Inside is a 3700X processor, a 2060 Super graphics card (itself probably the best bang for buck GPU in the ray-tracing category), 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD + 2TB HDD combo. It’s got a sweet design, plenty of ports, runs quiet, and has some RGB fun too on the front – with ASUS making so many great gaming laptops right now, it’s no wonder they’ve come out with an excellent new desktop range. 

It’s a reliable, very well-performing gaming PC from a reputable gaming tech name, and it deserves to be spoken about as one of the best pre-built gaming computers of the year
Asus ROG GA15 review

Just for clarity and to reassure you if you’re following links, you might see this machine listed as a G15DH or G15 – do not worry, it’s the same one as the GA15. Your options of specs might also slightly differ depending on your location: the above list is taken straight from ASUS itself in terms of what the machine can house, but I have seen some slightly different builds – including the odd Intel CPU build – crop up at some retailers. 
Regardless, this is still a PC build that is extremely easy to recommend and each variant will have that ASUS stamp of quality and pedigree within that you can have confidence in. What’s more, with the 30-series graphics cards now being firmly here (we know), this PC can offer a more budget-perspective and level, often being one of the best gaming PCs for under $1,000.

9. CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme
The best gaming PC for upgrading
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel Core i7 11th-genGPU: Up to Nvidia RTX 3060 TiRAM: Up to 16GBStorage: Up to 1TB HDD + 500GB SSDToday’s Best DealsView at Best BuyView at NeweggView at AmazonSee all prices (34 found)6 Amazon customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Fantastic performance per dollar+Runs very cool out of the box+Decent range of low-to-midrange builds
Reasons to avoid
-Lower-end capabilities may not appeal
Our favorite configuration: 

CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme | RTX 3060 Ti | Intel Core i7-11700F at Best BuyAs far as value for money goes, we think that this CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme setup is going to be right for most people. This is because of the modest asking price and respectable hardware inside that means 1440p and entry-level 4K should be no problem at all here.
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The Cyberpower Gamer Xtreme is a great PC to rock the current generation of games and do it all as one of the best gaming PCs under $1,000, too. Even beyond that and branching into the increasingly large world of VR, this machine will get you there on a shoestring: it’s VR-ready right out of the box (just) and will be easy to upgrade when newer, more fancy headsets become more available.
The Xtreme is also great for anyone looking for a PC to match the capabilities of consoles, and something that will complement a PS4/Xbox One or PS5/XSX setup. And the Gamer Xtreme is also modular and upgradeable enough to allow you to quickly adapt when specs for when you need to allow for solid upgradeability and future proof-ness. Again, all without breaking the bank.
If you want to save money on new gaming hardware, then we’re rounding up the best cheap gaming PC deals with frequent updates and options well under the $1,000 mark. Alternatively, you can play the long game, as we’re anticipating great things from the Prime Day PC deals happening in July.
Best gaming PCs – frequently asked questions
We’ve utilized our knowledge and experience with the best gaming PCs in order to answer some of the internet’s burning questions regarding the platform in 2022. 
Is it cheaper to build or buy a gaming PC?
A couple of years ago this question would have been far more straightforward to answer, as, before the pandemic hit, it was always cheaper to build with individual components than opt for a prebuilt. In 2022, however, even with the graphics card shortage appearing to be coming to an end, graphics card prices haven’t quite returned to normal just yet, so you’re still paying over the odds to assemble a full system piece-by-piece. It may be cheaper in certain instances to build with each part, though, depending on which GPU you intend to slot into your system, going for a prebuilt rig could save you in the long run, especially if they are higher-end Ampere video cards. 
Is it worth buying a PC for gaming?
Despite the fact that a gaming PC will cost you substantially more than the likes of an Xbox Series X and PS5, at least in the majority of cases, we think that the initial investment is justified by the expanse of what the platform offers over consoles. For example, PC games tend to be cheaper than the same titles on Sony and Microsoft systems, you also have far more options regarding backwards compatibility, for far more expansive digital libraries. Perhaps the biggest advantage of a gaming PC is that it’s also, of course, a fully fledged computer when you remove the gaming element, meaning it can used in a myriad more ways than a typical games console can for work, media production, coding, home server, etc. too. 
Which PC brands are best for gaming?
While there are many gaming PC brands that certainly deserve your attention, we typically view the prebuilt market in two distinct categories – boutique built (ABS, Skytech, iBuyPower, etc.) and manufacturer made (Alienware, HP, Corsair, etc.). If you want something sleek that benefits from a manufacturer’s guarantee and extended warranty then the latter is going to be preferable for you, however, should you want minimal bloatware and consumer-level components inside (instead of proprietary parts) then the former is the way to go. 
How we test gaming PCs
While we’ve outlined how we test gaming PCs in our full hardware policy, it’s worth giving the rundown here, too. We treat each gaming PC both as the sum of its parts and the unit together. This means that we’re analyzing specific components, such as the speed of the processor, the prowess of the graphics card, the effectiveness of the RAM, and the sequential performance of the storage drives. 
Any gaming PC that we have in for the review period generally replaces that of our daily driver unit, meaning that we test them thoroughly, sure, but also use them as PC gamers ourselves. This means that benchmarking is conducted as are regular play sessions, meaning you get a thorough, but also a faithful write-up of models we’ve had personal experience with. 
Make the most of the best gaming PCs with the best gaming keyboards, best gaming mouse, and best gaming monitors. 
Round up of today’s best dealsAcer Predator Orion 3000$1,119.45ViewSee all pricesHP Omen 25L$1,484.84ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceAlienware Aurora R10$1,399.99$1,199.99ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceCorsair One i300$3,999.99$3,750.59ViewSee all pricesAlienware Aurora R12$1,799.99ViewSee all pricesHP OMEN 30L$1,349.99ViewSee all pricesiBUYPOWER Element CL Pro$2,049ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceASUS ROG G15DH$2,787.94$1,599.99ViewSee all pricesCyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme$779.99ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by

#gaming #prebuilt #route #greatness

The best gaming PC 2022 – take the pre-built route to greatness

The best gaming PCs are those models which offer that essential balance between price and performance in 2022. At a time when accessible hardware now seems to be more available to people, we’ve witnessed some of the best models from both the budget, mid-range, and high-end machines in more demand than ever. This is due to the graphics card shortage appearing to be coming to an end, so now could be the ideal time to get your hands on a readymade rig at a great price. 
While the likes of CPUs and RAM have been largely unaffected by increased demand and reduced demand, the best gaming PCs on the market this year are defined by their price-to-performance ratio given the availability of hardware people can afford. With this information in mind, we’ve carefully selected options that are geared towards budgets and preferences, from entry-level rigs, mid-tier machines, and high-end towers ready for ray tracing in the highest resolutions.
Because from a technical level the best gaming PCs are the models running the best graphics cards on the market while being bolstered up by cutting edge SSDs, too. We’re currently seeing a shift towards PCIe 5.0 compatibility, and with Nvidia’s Ampere successor rumored to launch at the end of this year, things are changing fast. You’ll find both boutique-built and manufacturer-made machines below at competitive price points to get you armed and online ready for the platform exclusives and multi-plats pushed to the max. 
The best gaming PCs in 2022

1. Acer Predator Orion 3000
The best overall gaming PC for most people
Specifications
CPU: Intel Core i7-10700GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070Memory: 16GB DDR4 HyperX Fury @ 2,666MHzStorage: 512GB SSD (Boot) + 1TB HDDWeight: 9kg / 19.8lbsToday’s Best DealsView at WalmartView at AmazonView at NeweggSee all prices (17 found)
Reasons to buy
+Fantastic 1440p performance, 4K capable+The price is very reasonable+Easy to upgrade
Reasons to avoid
-Some elements are on the cheaper side
Our favorite configuration: 

Acer Predator Orion 3000 | RTX 3070 | i7-11700F at AmazonIn terms of stellar value for money, this Acer Predator Orion 3000 configuration packs in enough horsepower for both 1440p and 4K without too much of a struggle. For the asking price, you’re getting a stellar build that’s ready for today’s games, while also being fast enough for tomorrow’s titles, too.  

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The Acer Predator Orion 3000 is our number one pick for the best gaming PC that you can buy at the moment and it comes down to one important factor – the value for money. Our review unit featured the powerful a 10th gen i7 CPU RTX 3070 GPU, and 16GB RAM, which retails for $1,500 / £1,500. 
Our testing found that these specs made the Orion 3000 a true powerhouse for both 1440p and 4K gaming, with impressive figures in our suite of benchmark games and software, such as Metro Exodus, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, and The Division 2, where all titles easily smashed 1080p and 1440p at well above 100FPS and managing that more-than-playable numbers in 2160p, too, with many titles averaging 4K60 or above. We’ve found though that this configuration was far more comfortable in QHD at higher frame rates than when you doubled the resolution, you may need to be crafty with those settings sliders to keep things rock solid when in Ultra HD. 

Acer has done a great job when it comes to matching the internal components at play in this PC. No one part of this build is going to bottleneck you, or hold you back when you’re contemplating upgrades a few years down the road.
Acer Predator Orion 3000 review

There’s only really one aspect at where the cost-saving measures come into the fold for the Acer Predator Orion 3000, and that’s in the onboard SSD’s sequential performance. Our review unit was running a PCIe 3.0, with our test figures reporting 2,477 MB/s read and 1,812 MB/s write, which is fairly average especially compared to what’s possible with the best SSDs around right now. 
However, these rates far excel figures that are possible from traditional hard drives and SATA units, so you should still experience respectable loading times and in-game performance, too. We found the drive to be adequate enough with games still loading quickly via PCIe 3.0, though it’s worth stating that you can simply add another one in via the case’s free slot inside, too. 

(Image credit: HP)
2. HP Omen 25L
The best gaming PC under $1,200
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel Core i5-12400 / AMD Ryzen 5 5600GGPU: Up to RTX 3060Memory: 8GB DDR4Storage: 256GB NVMe SSDWeight: 25.26 lbs / 11.45 kgToday’s Best DealsRecommended Retail…View at HP (US)View at AmazonView at Best BuySee all prices (180 found)
Reasons to buy
+Affordably priced configurations+Benefits from stellar build quality +Easy enough to upgrade in the future
Reasons to avoid
-Can get hot under stress
Our favorite configuration: 

HP Omen 25L | GTX 1660 Super | i5-10400F at Best Buy
Priced at $949.99, this HP Omen 25L has everything you need to experience 1080p60 in the latest games without breaking a sweat. As far as budget builds go, you’re benefitting from the manufacturer’s build quality, and respectable hardware for your money here, too.

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The HP Omen 25L line is the most accessible price-wise of the entire Omen division, which currently features support for the latest Intel 12th gen and Ryzen 5000 CPUs. At around the $1,200 mark, and below, you can expect high performance for both 1080p and 1440p all built inside a sleek chassis. What’s more, the HP Omen 25L is easy to upgrade making it easy to swap out parts, such as graphics cards and RAM in the near future. 
The one negative that has circulated around the HP Omen 25L, and likely implemented as a cost-saving measure, are small issues with airflow due to the chassis’ small size. This could be down to the fact that the Omen 25L lacks the same front intake fan of the larger Omen 30L. If you’re aiming for modest components here then thermal throttling is unlikely to be a problem, but it’s something to keep in mind all the same. 
If you want to keep the costs down even further, you can opt for a machine running the likes of the still more-than-capable GTX 1600-series and older Intel chipsets which are still being sold. It all depends on your usage, as RTX 3060-enabled configurations can be found in this budget running the latest hardware.

3. Alienware Aurora Ryzen R10
The best Ryzen gaming PC
Specifications
CPU: up to AMD Ryzen 9 5950XGraphics: up to Nvidia RTX 3090RAM: up to 64GB DDR4Storage: up to 2TB M.2 SSD & 2TB HDDToday’s Best DealsView at DellView at Best BuyView at AmazonSee all prices (7 found)1 Walmart customer review☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Fantastic performance+The case is easy to open up +Many customization options
Reasons to avoid
-Love it or hate it design-Loud under stress
Our favorite configuration:

Alienware Aurora Ryzen R10 | RTX 3060 | Ryzen 7 5800 at DellWe’ve seen prices on the Alienware Aurora Ryzen R10 come down fairly often, with this wallet-friendly configuration usually in the ballpark of $1,300 or so. For the money, you’re getting a capable machine running current-gen components that’s ready for 1080p and 1440p gaming with minimal compromises.
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The Alienware Aurora R10 continues to impress as the best Ryzen gaming PC you can get at the moment. This is due to the expanse of options available to you, with the system being available in many different setups at competitive price points. Our test system utilized a Ryzen 7 CPU and an RTX 2070 Super, however, newer iterations are running all the latest Ampere video cards (RTX 30 series). 
As for the performance you can expect from the Alienware Aurora R10, we found in our testing that this rig performed at its best when playing titles in both Full HD and 1440p. The mid-tier Turing card delivered frame rates far above 60 FPS in both resolutions in games such as Metro Exodus, Red Dead Redemption II, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider just to name a few. 
You are paying a premium on that Alienware name, though, at that’s an accepted piece of the puzzle that’s persisted for as long as the brand has been in existence. While the physical aesthetics may not be to everyone’s personal tastes, we can tell you that the case is easy to get inside of, requiring just one screw to come off granting access to the internals. 

There’s no doubting the machine’s performance, however, so you can’t really go wrong with this gaming PC from a capability perspective
Aurora Ryzen R10 review

 The main downsides are that it can get somewhat loud, almost as if it is a spaceship engine trying to take off, and accessing the components within isn’t an easy task thanks to the placement of the PSU cage. You can definitely do much worse when buying a pre-built PC though, and that Ryzen / Nvidia combo is a brilliant one that offers exquisite performance even in 2022. 

(Image credit: Corsair)
4. Corsair One i300
The best compact gaming PC
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel i9-12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900XGPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 or RTX 3080 TiMemory: Up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM @ 4,800MHzStorage: 1TB or 2TB NVMe SSDWeight: VariesToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at CORSAIRView at AmazonSee all prices (4 found)
Reasons to buy
+RTX 3080 Ti performs incredibly at all resolutions+Incredibly compact chassis+Sleek and stylish appearance
Reasons to avoid
-One of the most expensive pre-built PCs on the market
Our favorite configuration: 

Corsair One i300 | RTX 3080 | i9-12900K at Corsair
While this is still one of the pricier Corsair One i300 setups you can get, this configuration boasts all the power you need for exceptional 4K gaming factoring in the premium components and small form factor. What’s more, you’re benefitting from the latest 12th gen CPU and DDR5 RAM here, too.

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While this particular line of prebuilt machines has a reputation for being expensive, we believe the costs associated with the latest Corsair One i300 are justified when analyzing the specs and performance on show here. Our review unit featured the latest 12th gen i9 CPU, an RTX 3080 Ti GPU, 64GB DDR5 RAM, and a 2TB Gen 4 NVMe SSD for $4,999 – as far as the cutting-edge goes, you can’t really expect to cram much more into a machine with such a compact form factor. 
All that fancy hardware and the brand’s signature style of system would be for nothing if the Corsair One i300 didn’t have the guts to back it up, of course. Fortunately, our review unit absolutely excelled in both our industry-standard tests and made short work of our go-to games pushed to their absolute limits. Everything inside the unit is absolutely top-shelf, so particular mention goes to that stellar Gen 4 drive which serves as both boot OS and your storage, as we clocked figures of 7,061 MB/s read and 5,145 MB/s write, far more any game demands right now.

Its intelligent internal design and brilliantly small footprint are even more impressive considering that it can put many of the best gaming PCs to shame with its performance
Corsair One i300 review

Speaking of the games, the Corsair One i300 steamrolls graphically demanding titles when running titles in 4K Ultra, this includes well above 60 FPS in Red Dead Redemption II and Metro Exodus when maxed out, and just shy of 200 FPS in the likes of Shadow of the Tomb Raider and The Divison 2. 
The only real drawback we experienced in our time with the Corsair One i300 was the thermal performance. As expected from such a tiny gaming PC, the machine did get noticeably hot when under stress, and this is no doubt the case for the benchmarking tasks, too. We did not notice any throttling, though, and the system itself remained quiet despite the core temps climbing. With that said, if you’ve got the money for a truly exceptional compact gaming PC in 2022 then the i300 could very well be the One. 

5. Alienware Aurora R12
Still one of the best gaming PCs on the market
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel Core i9 (11th gens)GPU: Up to RTX 3090RAM: Up to 128GBStorage: Up to 2TB SSD + 2TB HDDToday’s Best DealsView at WalmartView at Best BuyView at DellSee all prices (4 found)
Reasons to buy
+Stellar aesthetics+Supported for the Ampere GPU line+Still technologically relevant
Reasons to avoid
-Superseded by the Aurora R13
Our favorite configuration: 

Alienware Aurora R12 | RTX 3080 | Intel Core i9-11900KF at Dell
This Alienware Aurora R12 build packs in all you need for a stellar 4K gaming experience in 2022. You’re getting not only the company’s exceptional build quality but also stellar components and all the memory/storage you could need for a very long time to come.

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Alienware’s Aurora R12 is leading Alienware into the next generation of gaming; as well as 10th-gen Intel processors and the possibility of liquid-cooled graphics cards, it offers a variety of builds to suit most budgets. If you want to get into PC gaming for the first time or would like to upgrade your existing setup then this is the most cost-effective way to do it.
Ranging from affordable starter rigs to pimped-out super PCs, the Aurora R12 strikes a good balance of choice. Better still, these desktops can be easily opened and upgraded with different parts as and when you see fit. Want more RAM or a larger SSD? No problem. Because the power supply unit swings out on a metal arm, you get more room to fiddle with the PC’s insides.
The R12’s design is of a similar form for the last few years and is attractive enough – and unique if nothing else. Although it sticks with the distinctive case and scooped-out front of its predecessor, this update enriches that formula with new lighting around the central strip in some cases. It’s an addition that turns heads and makes the design feel even more futuristic than it did before.

6. HP Omen 30L
The best mid-range gaming PC
Specifications
CPU:: Up to Intel Core i9 10th-genGPU: : Up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090Memory:: Up to 64GBStorage: : Up to 2TB SSD + 2TB HDDWeight: 12.9kg / 28.5lbToday’s Best DealsView at Best BuyLow StockView at WalmartCheck Amazon
Reasons to buy
+Available in many different configurations+Reasonable pricing for a pre-built system+Fantastic aesthetic 
Reasons to avoid
-Somewhat messy interior
Our favorite configuration: 

HP Omen 30L | RTX 3070 | AMD Ryzen 7 5800X at Best Buy
As far as value for money goes, this setup melds both the surprisingly powerful RTX 3070 with the current-gen Ryzen 7 CPU for a price-to-performance ratio gaming experience that few competitors can rival.

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If you’re not out to build your own PC (or you’ve had no luck with the current GPU lottery) but still want a powerhouse desktop for some next-gen gaming, check out HP’s Omen 30L line. Custom-built inside a slick Omen chassis, they offer solid hardware with plenty of customization options and the potential for easy future upgrades.

It’s hard to deny that this is an exceptional pre-built gaming system
HP Omen 30L

The HP Omen 30L we’ve reviewed comes with some slick, understated RGB lighting, as well as a 10th-gen Intel processor and RTX 2080 Super GPU. This version costs $1,999 (with a year’s warranty included), but pricier models are available with RTX 3000-series cards (though be prepared for all kinds of stock fluctuation given it is the year 2022). The case has two tempered glass panels to showcase your system, with easy access for adjustments and excellent ventilation to prevent overheating.
While the interior isn’t the tidiest we’ve seen amongst the best gaming PCs, the performance speaks for itself. The RTX 2080 Super GPU is still a beast at 1440p and respectable in 4K, too, with its liquid-cooled processor never getting too hot even playing the most demanding titles. HP has proven that it is taking pre-built machines seriously, so the Omen 30L gets a thumbs up from us.

7. iBUYPOWER Element CL Pro
The best boutique built gaming PC
Specifications
CPU: up to Intel Core i7-12700KFGPU: up to RTX 3070Memory: up to 32GB DDR4-3600 RAMStorage: up to 1TB NVMe SSDToday’s Best DealsView at iBUYPOWERView at iBUYPOWERCheck Amazon
Reasons to buy
+Eye-catching, RGB and liquid-cooled design+Incredible pre-built, pre-cooled system for price+Simple access for making adjustments+Excellent performance
Reasons to avoid
-May be hard to find specific models 
The iBUYPOWER Element CL Pro deftly handles one of the more difficult challenges in the creation of the best gaming PCs: custom liquid-cooling. Normally reserved for only the priciest machines due to expensive shipping costs, the Element CL Pro offers a gorgeous, custom loop liquid-cooled rig at a reasonable price – you can get this beauty for less than $2K. 

If you’re looking for a pre-built, custom liquid-cooled desktop PC, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything better at the price point
iBuyPower Element CL Pro review

The Element CL Pro is a step above the previous Element CL Plus models because it can now support RTX 3070 cards, and the numbers it churns out prove it handles 4K gaming well. It can’t quite hit 4K 60fps for Metro Exodus, but it can easily reach that with Red Dead Redemption 2 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider on the highest graphical settings. The rig reaches 60fps across multiple games at lower resolutions (1440p and 1080p). Simply put – it produces excellent and consistently amazing gameplay. 
If you’re someone who loves to tinker with your PCs, the Element CL Pro offers incredibly easy access for upgrades and maintenance. An all-glass side panel lets you get to the GPU and CPU with ease and refilling the liquid cooling system is a breeze as it’s located outside of the system so there’s no need to worry about accidental spillage. The iBUYPOWER Element CL Pro is a gorgeous machine that offers excellent performance at a price that won’t hurt your wallet.

8. Asus ROG GA15
Still a high performing gaming PC in 2022
Specifications
CPU: Ryzen 5 3600X / 7 3700X / 3800XGPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 to RTX 2080RAM: 8GB to 32GB DDR4-2666Storage: Up to 512GB SSD + 2TB HDDToday’s Best DealsView at WalmartCheck Amazon25 Walmart customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Excellent value for money and bang-to-buck performance+Great design+Superb use of Ryzen and Nvidia components
Reasons to avoid
-Specific models may be harder to come by
The Asus ROG GA15 is a tremendous machine and one that really harnesses a great power to performance to price balance. It’s a great new design from ASUS and is a welcome addition to the pre-built gaming PC market. I use this PC every day so I am a bit biased perhaps, I’d argue, it’s a well-placed bias! It’s a joy to use as a work PC that seamlessly changes to a monster. 
The components of my build, particularly, demonstrate the GA15’s successful inhabiting of a place of balance between performance and value. Inside is a 3700X processor, a 2060 Super graphics card (itself probably the best bang for buck GPU in the ray-tracing category), 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD + 2TB HDD combo. It’s got a sweet design, plenty of ports, runs quiet, and has some RGB fun too on the front – with ASUS making so many great gaming laptops right now, it’s no wonder they’ve come out with an excellent new desktop range. 

It’s a reliable, very well-performing gaming PC from a reputable gaming tech name, and it deserves to be spoken about as one of the best pre-built gaming computers of the year
Asus ROG GA15 review

Just for clarity and to reassure you if you’re following links, you might see this machine listed as a G15DH or G15 – do not worry, it’s the same one as the GA15. Your options of specs might also slightly differ depending on your location: the above list is taken straight from ASUS itself in terms of what the machine can house, but I have seen some slightly different builds – including the odd Intel CPU build – crop up at some retailers. 
Regardless, this is still a PC build that is extremely easy to recommend and each variant will have that ASUS stamp of quality and pedigree within that you can have confidence in. What’s more, with the 30-series graphics cards now being firmly here (we know), this PC can offer a more budget-perspective and level, often being one of the best gaming PCs for under $1,000.

9. CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme
The best gaming PC for upgrading
Specifications
CPU: Up to Intel Core i7 11th-genGPU: Up to Nvidia RTX 3060 TiRAM: Up to 16GBStorage: Up to 1TB HDD + 500GB SSDToday’s Best DealsView at Best BuyView at NeweggView at AmazonSee all prices (34 found)6 Amazon customer reviews☆☆☆☆☆
Reasons to buy
+Fantastic performance per dollar+Runs very cool out of the box+Decent range of low-to-midrange builds
Reasons to avoid
-Lower-end capabilities may not appeal
Our favorite configuration: 

CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme | RTX 3060 Ti | Intel Core i7-11700F at Best BuyAs far as value for money goes, we think that this CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme setup is going to be right for most people. This is because of the modest asking price and respectable hardware inside that means 1440p and entry-level 4K should be no problem at all here.
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The Cyberpower Gamer Xtreme is a great PC to rock the current generation of games and do it all as one of the best gaming PCs under $1,000, too. Even beyond that and branching into the increasingly large world of VR, this machine will get you there on a shoestring: it’s VR-ready right out of the box (just) and will be easy to upgrade when newer, more fancy headsets become more available.
The Xtreme is also great for anyone looking for a PC to match the capabilities of consoles, and something that will complement a PS4/Xbox One or PS5/XSX setup. And the Gamer Xtreme is also modular and upgradeable enough to allow you to quickly adapt when specs for when you need to allow for solid upgradeability and future proof-ness. Again, all without breaking the bank.
If you want to save money on new gaming hardware, then we’re rounding up the best cheap gaming PC deals with frequent updates and options well under the $1,000 mark. Alternatively, you can play the long game, as we’re anticipating great things from the Prime Day PC deals happening in July.
Best gaming PCs – frequently asked questions
We’ve utilized our knowledge and experience with the best gaming PCs in order to answer some of the internet’s burning questions regarding the platform in 2022. 
Is it cheaper to build or buy a gaming PC?
A couple of years ago this question would have been far more straightforward to answer, as, before the pandemic hit, it was always cheaper to build with individual components than opt for a prebuilt. In 2022, however, even with the graphics card shortage appearing to be coming to an end, graphics card prices haven’t quite returned to normal just yet, so you’re still paying over the odds to assemble a full system piece-by-piece. It may be cheaper in certain instances to build with each part, though, depending on which GPU you intend to slot into your system, going for a prebuilt rig could save you in the long run, especially if they are higher-end Ampere video cards. 
Is it worth buying a PC for gaming?
Despite the fact that a gaming PC will cost you substantially more than the likes of an Xbox Series X and PS5, at least in the majority of cases, we think that the initial investment is justified by the expanse of what the platform offers over consoles. For example, PC games tend to be cheaper than the same titles on Sony and Microsoft systems, you also have far more options regarding backwards compatibility, for far more expansive digital libraries. Perhaps the biggest advantage of a gaming PC is that it’s also, of course, a fully fledged computer when you remove the gaming element, meaning it can used in a myriad more ways than a typical games console can for work, media production, coding, home server, etc. too. 
Which PC brands are best for gaming?
While there are many gaming PC brands that certainly deserve your attention, we typically view the prebuilt market in two distinct categories – boutique built (ABS, Skytech, iBuyPower, etc.) and manufacturer made (Alienware, HP, Corsair, etc.). If you want something sleek that benefits from a manufacturer’s guarantee and extended warranty then the latter is going to be preferable for you, however, should you want minimal bloatware and consumer-level components inside (instead of proprietary parts) then the former is the way to go. 
How we test gaming PCs
While we’ve outlined how we test gaming PCs in our full hardware policy, it’s worth giving the rundown here, too. We treat each gaming PC both as the sum of its parts and the unit together. This means that we’re analyzing specific components, such as the speed of the processor, the prowess of the graphics card, the effectiveness of the RAM, and the sequential performance of the storage drives. 
Any gaming PC that we have in for the review period generally replaces that of our daily driver unit, meaning that we test them thoroughly, sure, but also use them as PC gamers ourselves. This means that benchmarking is conducted as are regular play sessions, meaning you get a thorough, but also a faithful write-up of models we’ve had personal experience with. 
Make the most of the best gaming PCs with the best gaming keyboards, best gaming mouse, and best gaming monitors. 
Round up of today’s best dealsAcer Predator Orion 3000$1,119.45ViewSee all pricesHP Omen 25L$1,484.84ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceAlienware Aurora R10$1,399.99$1,199.99ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceCorsair One i300$3,999.99$3,750.59ViewSee all pricesAlienware Aurora R12$1,799.99ViewSee all pricesHP OMEN 30L$1,349.99ViewSee all pricesiBUYPOWER Element CL Pro$2,049ViewSee all pricesReduced PriceASUS ROG G15DH$2,787.94$1,599.99ViewSee all pricesCyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme$779.99ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by

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