Joybuy Insights

Buying a gaming PC: how to choose a desktop to suit your games and budget

Buying a gaming PC seems straightforward until you start comparing processors, graphics cards, RAM and storage. A low price may look appealing, but a less suitable combination of components can lead to limited performance, insufficient storage or costly upgrades later on.

For gamers, streamers, students and home users, three pitfalls are particularly important:

  • Focusing too much on RGB lighting: RGB lighting does not affect the speed of your gaming PC. Look at the graphics card, processor and cooling first.
  • Looking only at the graphics card model: An RTX 5060 gaming PC can vary considerably depending on the processor, amount of RAM, power supply and cooling.
  • Underestimating storage: A gaming PC with a 500 GB or 480 GB SSD can quickly fill up with several large games. A gaming PC with a 1TB SSD offers more practical space, but also check whether there is a spare M.2 or SATA connection for expansion.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Graphics card: key to resolution and image quality

The graphics card, also known as the GPU, processes the visuals in your games. For 1080p, systems with an RTX 5050 or RTX 5060 are designed for modern games according to the stated product configurations. If you play at 1440p or want to use ray tracing, you may wish to consider an RTX 5060 Ti gaming PC or RTX 5070 gaming PC.

Pay attention to the following:

  • Video memory: 8 GB is available in several RTX 5050, RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti systems in this selection.
  • Connections: HDMI and DisplayPort determine which monitors you can connect.
  • Ray tracing and DLSS: According to the product information from NVIDIA and the relevant brands, these features support realistic lighting effects and image processing. Actual performance varies depending on the game, resolution and settings.
  • Integrated graphics: A mini gaming PC with Radeon 760M, Radeon 680M or Radeon 880M uses an integrated GPU. This is practical for compact systems and everyday use, but it is not the same as a desktop with a separate RTX graphics card.

2. Processor and RAM: important for multitasking

Both a Ryzen gaming PC and an Intel gaming PC can be suitable. Don’t just look at the brand name; check the exact model and the number of cores and threads.

  • A Ryzen 5 5500 or Ryzen 5 7400 is aimed at typical gaming and multitasking configurations.
  • According to the product specifications, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D in the Shark Ultimator R700 features 8 cores, 16 threads and additional 3D V-Cache.
  • The Intel Core i5-14400F and Core i7-14700F in the MSI MAG Infinite S3 systems offer 10 and 20 cores respectively, according to the configuration tables.
  • 16 GB RAM is a practical starting point for gaming, studying and everyday use. For demanding video editing, virtual machines or large CAD projects, expandable RAM can be useful.

Also check the memory type. DDR5 is newer than DDR4, but the overall system balance and upgradeability are at least as important.

3. Cooling, power supply and upgradeability

A powerful PC needs sufficient airflow. A compact case saves space, but may offer less room for additional storage or larger coolers. Therefore, check:

  • the case dimensions and the available space on or under your desk;
  • the type of CPU cooler and the number of fans;
  • the power rating and certification of the power supply, such as 80 PLUS Bronze;
  • spare RAM slots, M.2 slots and 2.5- or 3.5-inch bays;
  • the clearance around ventilation openings. HP’s product information recommends at least 10 cm of free space around OMEN desktops.

The included power supply or power cable is not described in the same way for every product. Check the package contents before purchasing. Some product listings state that a charger is not included as standard; for a desktop, it is particularly important to check that the correct power cable is included.

Recommended gaming PCs by user profile

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

Shark Max Bite R501 Gaming PC RTX5060/R5/16GB/1TB - Powered by MSI

Why it suits this profile: This ready-built gaming PC combines a Ryzen 5 5500, RTX 5060, 16 GB DDR4 and 1 TB NVMe storage. It is a straightforward option for anyone who wants to start gaming without building their own PC.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list not only RGB, but also the GPU, CPU, RAM, SSD and power supply. The 1TB SSD avoids the limited storage found in many entry-level configurations.

Key benefit & highlights

RTX 5060 with 8 GB of video memory, 1TB NVMe storage, Windows 11 Home and a case with a mesh front.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Shark Ultimator R700 Gaming PC RTX5070/R7/16GB/1TB - Powered by MSI

Shark Ultimator R700 Gaming PC RTX5070/R7/16GB/1TB - Powered by MSI

Why it suits this profile: The combination of Ryzen 7 7800X3D, RTX 5070 and 1TB NVMe is designed for gamers who value high settings, 1440p gaming and demanding applications.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The configuration includes a 360mm liquid cooler and a 750W power supply. However, check that the case fits your desk: its dimensions are 420 × 225 × 485 mm.

Key benefit & highlights

Ryzen 7 7800X3D, RTX 5070 with 12 GB of video memory, DDR5 RAM and Windows 11 Home.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
MSI MAG Infinite S3 Intel Core i7 RTX 5060 Ti Gaming PC

MSI MAG Infinite S3 14NVM7-3002EU Intel Core i7 RTX 5060 Ti Gaming PC

Why it suits this profile: This Intel gaming PC is a compelling option for anyone who streams, edits or runs multiple programmes alongside gaming.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The configuration lists 20 cores, 28 threads, 16 GB DDR5, an RTX 5060 Ti and two spare RAM slots. This makes upgrading more straightforward than with systems without spare slots.

Key benefit & highlights

Intel Core i7-14700F, RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB, 1TB SSD, Wi-Fi 6E and up to 64 GB RAM according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Compact living and working from home
FIREBAT A8 Mini PC AMD Ryzen AI 9 365

FIREBAT A8 Mini PC

Why it suits this profile: A mini gaming PC is ideal for small workspaces, students and home users who want to connect multiple screens without a large tower.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The compact case is not presented as a full-size RTX desktop. The Radeon 880M is integrated, so check beforehand that your games are suitable for this graphics solution.

Key benefit & highlights

Ryzen AI 9 365, 24 GB DDR5, 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, USB4, Oculink and support for four 4K screens according to the product listing.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about gaming PCs

Is a gaming PC suitable for 1080p and 1440p?

That depends on the combination of graphics card, processor and game settings. According to the product information, systems with an RTX 5060 are designed for 1080p and 1440p. For higher settings, ray tracing or a monitor with a high refresh rate, an RTX 5060 Ti or RTX 5070 may be the more logical choice. Always check benchmarks for the specific game and see whether DLSS is supported.

How much power does a gaming desktop use?

Consumption depends on the power supply, graphics card, processor and length of use. The wattage shown on the power supply, such as 400W, 500W, 650W or 750W, is the maximum power output and does not automatically indicate continuous consumption. Gaming generally uses more power than browsing or word processing. A plug-in energy meter will give you the most useful indication for your particular setup.

How long does a gaming PC last?

Its lifespan is affected by dust, temperature, intensity of use and future system requirements. A desktop with spare RAM slots, additional storage bays and an accessible case can be upgraded more easily. Clean ventilation openings with a dry cloth or compressed air, switch the PC off completely before carrying out maintenance and do not place it in an enclosed cabinet. Also check the warranty terms and your statutory consumer rights before ordering.