Budget-Friendly PC: Play Cyberpunk 2077 for Just $450

Finding a budget-friendly PC that can handle the high demands of modern AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 might seem daunting.
However, with a budget of just $450, you can build a PC that provides a commendable gaming experience without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the components you need to assemble your cost-effective gaming rig, ensuring you get the best
performance for your buck. Let’s dive right in!

Choosing the Right Components

The key to building a budget-friendly gaming PC lies in selecting components that offer the best balance between price and performance.

1. Processor (CPU)

The CPU is the brain of your PC, and it’s crucial to choose one that can handle the heavy lifting in Cyberpunk 2077.

• AMD Ryzen 3 3100 – This quad-core processor offers excellent performance for its price, ensuring smooth gameplay.
• Intel Core i3-10100F – Another great budget option, with four cores and eight threads, capable of handling your gaming needs.

2. Graphics Card (GPU)

The GPU is the heart of any gaming PC, responsible for rendering the game’s visuals. For Cyberpunk 2077, you’ll need a capable GPU without overspending.

• NVIDIA GTX 1650 Super – This GPU provides a good balance between performance and affordability, ideal for 1080p gaming.
• AMD Radeon RX 570 – Another solid choice offering great value, making it a perfect fit for our budget build.

3. Memory (RAM)

RAM is another crucial component for gaming. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking and better performance in games.

• 8GB DDR4 – A single stick of 8GB RAM is sufficient for a budget build. However, if your budget allows, upgrading to 16GB can further enhance performance.

4. Storage

Fast storage impacts game load times and overall system responsiveness. Opting for an SSD over a traditional hard drive is advisable.

• 240GB SSD – A standard SSD provides quick boot times and speedy game load times.
• 1TB HDD (optional) – For additional storage, you can add a 1TB HDD for your games and files.

5. Motherboard

The motherboard ties all your components together. It’s essential to choose one that supports your CPU and other components.

• MSI B450M Pro-M2 Max – This motherboard is a reliable and budget-friendly choice for AMD Ryzen processors.
• ASRock H410M-HDV/M.2 – For Intel CPUs, this motherboard offers a solid foundation for your build without breaking the bank.

6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

The PSU is vital for delivering power to your components. Choosing a reliable unit is crucial for the stability of your system.

• EVGA 500 W1, 80+ WHITE 500W – A dependable and affordable PSU to keep your rig running smoothly.

7. Case

A well-ventilated and spacious case is essential to keep your components cool and to provide ease of assembly.

• Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L – This case offers good airflow and plenty of room for your components.

Assembling Your Gaming PC

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary components, it’s time to assemble your PC. Follow these steps for a smooth build process:

• Start by installing the CPU and RAM onto the motherboard.
• Mount the motherboard inside the case.
• Install the power supply and connect all necessary power cables.
• Secure the GPU into the appropriate PCIe slot on the motherboard.
• Install your SSD (and HDD if chosen) and connect them to the motherboard.
• Double-check all connections and ensure everything is properly seated.
• Power on your system and install your operating system.

Optimizing Performance

After assembling your PC, a few additional steps can ensure you’re getting the most out of your budget build:

• Update Drivers – Ensure you have the latest drivers for your GPU and other components.
• Adjust Game Settings – In Cyberpunk 2077, tweak the graphics settings to find a balance between visual quality and performance.
• Regular Maintenance – Keep your PC clean and check for software updates to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

Building a budget-friendly gaming PC to play Cyberpunk 2077 is entirely feasible with a carefully selected list of components. By following this guide and making smart choices, you can enjoy this blockbuster game without spending a fortune.

Happy gaming!