Joybuy Insights

Buying a gaming PC: how to choose a ready-made desktop without making a costly mistake

Buying a gaming PC seems straightforward: choose a graphics card, check the amount of RAM and compare the price. But the biggest differences often lie in details that only become apparent after purchase. These include too little storage, a weak power supply or a compact case that makes upgrading difficult.

This buying guide helps gamers, esports fans, content creators and demanding home users compare a gaming desktop or gaming computer objectively.

Three common pitfalls when buying a gaming PC

1. Looking only at the graphics card

A gaming PC with an RTX 5060 or RTX 5070 sounds appealing, but the graphics card works alongside the processor, RAM and power supply. An older or less well-matched CPU can become a bottleneck at high frame rates. So always check the complete configuration.

Also look out for the difference between a desktop graphics card and a laptop graphics card. An RTX 5070 Laptop GPU is not automatically equivalent to an RTX 5070 in a desktop.

2. Misjudging 16GB RAM and 1TB of storage

A gaming PC with 16GB RAM is a practical starting configuration for many games and everyday use. However, if you stream at the same time, use lots of browser tabs or edit video, you may benefit from having room to upgrade. Check how many memory slots are free and what the maximum capacity is.

With a gaming PC with a 1TB SSD, the usable space is lower than the stated capacity. Windows, recovery files and installed software already take up some of it. A system with a 480GB or 512GB SSD can therefore fill up more quickly if you install several large games.

3. Overlooking connections, the power supply and size

A desktop needs to fit on or under your desk and have enough connections for your monitors, headset, keyboard and external storage. Also check the power supply’s wattage, the available video ports and the ventilation openings.

A compact mini gaming PC saves space, but often offers fewer options for adding a dedicated graphics card or extra storage. A tower usually has more room for upgrades, but also takes up more space and can be heavier.

Which specifications matter most?

Processor: Ryzen gaming PC or Intel gaming PC?

A Ryzen gaming PC can be a good choice for gaming, multitasking and content creation, depending on the model you choose. Don’t just look at the processor name. Check:

  • the number of cores and threads;
  • the maximum boost frequency;
  • the processor generation;
  • the motherboard’s upgrade options;
  • the type of RAM: DDR4 or DDR5.

An Intel gaming PC can also offer a range of performance levels. The Intel Core 5 210H in the Acer Nitro 20, for example, is in a different class from the Intel Core i7-14700F in a larger desktop. So compare the full product specifications rather than using only “Intel” or “Ryzen” as your deciding factor.

Graphics card: 1080p or 1440p?

For 1080p and 1440p gaming, the graphics card is usually a key consideration. Look at:

  • the exact GPU model;
  • the amount of video memory;
  • the available HDMI and DisplayPort connections;
  • support for features such as ray tracing and DLSS;
  • the power supply included by the manufacturer.

An RTX 5060, RTX 5060 Ti or RTX 5070 may be part of a suitable configuration, but your gaming experience also depends on the game, settings, resolution, cooling and screen you use. Manufacturer claims about frame rates are therefore no guarantee for every user.

Storage, RAM and operating system

A Windows 11 gaming PC is ready to use once set up, but check that Windows is listed as an installed operating system. Some systems may come with an evaluation version.

Also check whether the SSD is an NVMe model and whether there is a free M.2 slot or an additional drive bay. The MSI MAG Infinite S3 models, for example, list space for additional 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch drives, while the M.2 slot is already occupied.

Recommended configurations for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Shark Max Bite R501 Gaming PC RTX5060/R5/16GB/1TB

Shark Max Bite R501 Gaming PC RTX5060/R5/16GB/1TB

Why it suits this user: This ready-made gaming PC combines an AMD Ryzen 5 5500, RTX 5060, 16GB DDR4 and 1TB of NVMe storage in a relatively compact case.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The configuration lists more than just the GPU: it also specifies the CPU, RAM, storage, power supply and Windows 11 Home. That lets you check the complete setup.

Key benefit & highlights

RTX 5060 with 8GB, 16GB DDR4, 1TB NVMe and a case measuring 388 × 200 × 423 mm.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Shark Ultimator R700 Gaming PC RTX5070/R7/16GB/1TB

Shark Ultimator R700 Gaming PC RTX5070/R7/16GB/1TB

Why it suits this user: The combination of Ryzen 7 7800X3D, RTX 5070 with 12GB and DDR5 memory is designed for demanding gaming and multitasking setups.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The power supply is rated at 750W and the desktop uses a 360mm liquid cooler. However, check beforehand that the case will fit on your desk.

Key benefit & highlights

Ryzen 7 7800X3D, RTX 5070 12GB, 16GB DDR5, 1TB NVMe and Windows 11 Home.

Suitable for: Specialist needs & intensive users
Lenovo Legion T5 30AGB10 AMD Ryzen 5 RTX 5060

Lenovo Legion T5 30AGB10 AMD Ryzen 5 RTX 5060

Why it suits this user: This tower combines a Ryzen 5 7600 with an RTX 5060 and offers four memory slots, an 850W power supply and several USB connections.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The upgrade information is specific: up to 32GB RAM, four DIMM slots and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD.

Key benefit & highlights

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 2.5Gb Ethernet, 1TB SSD and a 30-litre tower case.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about gaming PCs

How much does a gaming PC cost?

The price depends mainly on the graphics card, processor, storage and upgrade options. A system for 1080p gaming may cost less than a desktop designed for high settings at 1440p. So compare the full specifications, not just the GPU label.

Is 16GB RAM enough for gaming?

16GB RAM is suitable for many games. For streaming, video editing and demanding multitasking, upgrade options matter more. Before you buy, check the number of free memory slots and the maximum RAM capacity.

How long does a gaming PC last?

Its lifespan depends on the games you play, settings, cooling and future software requirements. A desktop with standard components, plenty of ventilation and free expansion slots can be easier to upgrade than a mini gaming PC with soldered memory. Keep the computer clear of dust and don’t block the ventilation openings.