Best Entry-Level PC Parts for Entry-Level PC Builders

If the reason why you’re here is to find the right parts for your first build, you’re in for a great treat. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to come up with the best entry-level desktop computer for you.

Specifically, we’ll cover topics from deciding on what you need, the best way to find these entry-level parts for entry-level builders just like you, and even share with you tips on how to check the compatibility of the parts.

Why Build When You Can Buy A Prebuilt?

Building your own computer has always been cheaper than buying a prebuilt gaming PC. And aside from being cheap, it’s also fun and fully customizable. But what’s really important in building it yourself as an entry-level builder is the bragging rights.

Down the line, you’ll learn and grow more as you ascend further as a builder so it’s just as vital that you start everything right. Now with that said, let’s get into business and talk about the best entry-level parts for entry-level builders like you.

What Do I Need?

To start out right, it’s important that you’re well-acquainted with the parts you will be needing. In this article, the best entry-level parts will only need the following, which will only cost you under $300:

• Processor (CPU)
• Memory (RAM)
• Storage (HDD)
• Power Supply (PSU)
• Motherboard (Mobo)
• Casing (Chassis)

Now that we covered the parts needed, we’ll talk about how to pick the right one along the way as well as cover how they play an integral part in the build.

Processor (CPU)

When choosing a processor for the best entry-level computer parts, it’s best that you choose an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) processor.

What makes APU processors great for such a cheap build is that that these have integrated graphics card with it- one that’s capable enough for light- to mid- gaming.

Currently, AMD’s Ryzen 3 2200G APU processor is your best bet. With the integrated Vega 8 graphics card, you can start playing games without a need of a separate entry-level graphics card like a GT 1030. This means you save at least $70 upfront.

Memory (RAM)

Because of the Ryzen 3 APU in this build, you can get an 8GB of DDR4 2666MHz RAM from Patriot Signature instead of 4GB (any brand) like most builders would, considering this is under $300.

Just don’t expect this to be filled with RGB lightning and whatnot. This may not have shrouds like most mid- to higher-end RAMs in the market but it still performs just as good, nonetheless.

Storage (HDD)

A 1TB Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is fairly cheap these days so don’t cheap out on storage and go get a 1TB Seagate Barracuda storage straight away. It’s one of the best gaming hard drives for gaming in the market.

Power Supply (PSU)

With only $300 to spend, it’s unlikely that you can get away with a reliable power supply.

So, to ensure that your system’s power is run through a reliable PSU, get a good 500W BR 80+ Bronze-Certified power supply by EVGA.

Motherboard (Mobo)

For the motherboard, you should be fine with the MSI B350M PRO-VH-PLUS motherboard. Even though this is regarded as an entry-level motherboard, it still does its job well.

Not to mention that this is from a reputable manufacturer so you shouldn’t have issues out of the box.

Casing (Chassis)

The last part on the list is the chassis or case. You can literally go with anything you like or even use an old one you have.

But in case you don’t have one put aside, Thermaltake’s Versa H15 case will be more than enough. This is packed together a free 120mm rear fan so that’s something. Plus, in this price range, you can’t find anything better than this.

How Can I Check to Confirm They Are All Compatible?

Probably the most controversial issue that surrounds every entry-level builder is compatibility. There are two ways to go around this problem:

• Read and study the compatibility section in every manual
• Check compatibility checker websites like PCPartPicker

Personally, going with the latter is the easier way to do it. Just visit the website and click on the “START A System Build” button.

When you’re there, choose the respective parts from the Selection column and an alert should be visible enough to notice should there are incompatibility issues with the parts you selected.

Before We Part…

When building an entry-level computer, you’d have to be smart enough to sacrifice the right parts if there’s a need to.

But you’d have to be smart enough to also know when to make a purchase. Prices are expected to go down across the board during events such as holiday seasons and whatnot. You can head over to CamelCamelCamel to see the price history of a certain computer part.

So, if you can wait a little longer for another big event (in this case, Valentine’s day), I suggest you check the prices from time to time and you might be lucky enough to get them at huge discounts.

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Author Bio: Ben Johnson, founder & Editorial In Chief of WePC. Ben had always been a PC enthusiast long before he realized that there was a lack of online information about PC building. That’s what motivated him to start WePC in 2011 in order to help others build a computer of their dream.