So, you’re looking to buy a gaming PC during this holiday season. With countless Black Friday and holiday deals from companies vying for your business, it can be challenging to discern which offers are genuine and which are scams. Here, we’ll explore some tactics companies use to sell you products and highlight key indicators to help you make informed decisions.
What to Avoid when buying a gaming PC.
1. Budget “Gaming PCs” Without Graphics Cards
You might come across budget gaming PCs priced between $500 and $700. These often lack a dedicated graphics card, which is crucial for a good gaming experience. Also, be wary of older AMD CPUs like the Ryzen 5 3400G and 5600G. While these CPUs are decent, they are not designed for gaming without a GPU. Avoid these unless your budget is extremely tight, as spending a bit more can significantly enhance performance.
2. Outdated Stock
Many companies use the holiday season to clear out old stock. For instance, an RTX 2060 might seem appealing, but it’s several years old and showing its age. Also, be cautious of listings that are vague about their components. For example, a listing might boast an Intel Core i7 and RTX 2060 but hide the fact that it uses DDR3 RAM, indicating that most components are over a decade old. No one wants to invest in a used, outdated computer.
3. Misleading Discounts
Ensure that the discounted price is genuinely a discount. Some companies inflate the original price to make the discount seem more significant. Tools like Microsoft’s shopping addon and Honey’s browser addon can help you track prices over time to verify the actual savings.
What to Look For when Buying a Gaming PC
1. Current Gen Components
Look for systems with current-generation parts that have been superseded by newer models. For example, NVIDIA’s RTX 4070 and 4070ti are still excellent choices and may be discounted due to the release of the RTX 4070 Super and 4070ti Super. Similarly, Intel’s 14th gen parts are available at steep discounts following the release of the new Core Ultra lineup, offering similar performance at a better value.
2. Free Add-ons
Many companies offer free peripherals, priority processing, software, and game bundles during the holiday season. These extras add value to your purchase and might include items you were planning to buy separately.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can navigate the holiday deals with confidence and find a cheap gaming PC that offers great performance and value. Check out our Black Friday PC Deals for 2024 and happy shopping!