The 3 parts of real gaming PC cost

1. The desktop itself: CPU + GPU + RAM + NVMe SSD + case/cooling + PSU.
2. The setup: monitor (resolution + Hz), keyboard/mouse, headset, and sometimes a better desk setup.
3. The “later cost”: upgrades, storage expansion, extra fans, or replacing a weak PSU if the prebuilt cut corners.

If you budget only for the tower, you often end up paying twice.

Price tiers in 2025 (what you can expect)

Exact prices vary by country and promos, but the experience in each tier is pretty consistent. Use this to set realistic expectations for a gaming desktop computer in 2025.

Tier 1: Entry / budget

• Best for: 1080p gaming, popular titles, medium settings
• What to prioritize: 16 GB RAM, NVMe SSD (avoid tiny drives), sensible cooling
• Common trap: 8 GB RAM or small SSD, forcing upgrades

Tier 2: Midrange (best value for most)

• Best for: 1080p high settings or 1440p for many games
• What to prioritize: balanced GPU/CPU, 16–32 GB RAM, 1 TB NVMe SSD
• Common trap: strong GPU but weak CPU or poor airflow

Tier 3: High end

• Best for: 1440p high Hz, heavy AAA, streaming + multitasking
• What to prioritize: cooling/noise, PSU margin, upgradeability
• Common trap: paying for “premium” branding while the PSU/cooling is average

Tier 4: Enthusiast

• Best for: 4K, very high FPS goals, “no compromises” builds
• What to prioritize: top-tier GPU, strong CPU, excellent cooling and case airflow
• Common trap: forgetting the monitor cost (4K/high Hz can cost a lot)

Hidden costs people forget

1) Monitor upgrade (the biggest “surprise cost”)

A stronger desktop often makes you want a better monitor. 1440p 144 Hz is the common “sweet spot” upgrade in 2025. If you buy a powerful tower but keep a basic screen, you won’t feel the improvement as much.

2) RAM and SSD upgrades

• RAM: 16 GB is the minimum. 32 GB is smart for headroom.
• SSD: NVMe is the baseline. 1 TB is often the practical minimum for multiple games.

3) Cooling and noise

Cheaper cases and fewer fans can mean a louder, hotter PC and lower sustained performance. Sometimes the “real cost” is paying later for fans, better cooling or a new case.

4) PSU (power supply)

A weak PSU can limit upgrades and stability. A good PSU with margin is part of what makes a desktop feel “future-proof”.

5) Time and hassle (support and warranty)

If something goes wrong, easy service and clear support can be worth more than a tiny discount.

How to compare value (performance per $/kr)

When comparing two prebuilts, give 1 point for each:

1. Matches your monitor target (1080p/1440p/4K and Hz)
2. Exact GPU and CPU clearly listed and balanced
3. 16 GB+ RAM (32 GB if streaming/multitasking)
4. NVMe SSD and practical size (often 1 TB)
5. Sensible cooling and airflow (quiet under load)
6. Upgradeability (free RAM slots, free M.2 slot, PSU margin)
7. Warranty/service you trust

The “cheapest” desktop often loses this score because it forces upgrades later.

Ready-built examples (easy to compare)

Want concrete models as reference points for gaming PC cost vs specs? See all desktops here: https://greencom.no/butikk/greencom-pc

1) Entry V894G (budget start)

View Entry V894G

2) ArcticStorm iZ539X (midrange all-round)

View ArcticStorm iZ539X

3) Phoenix Z569CR (more headroom)

View Phoenix Z569CR

4) ZENITH hX97Z2 (high end)

View ZENITH hX97Z2

See all Gaming PCs: https://greencom.no/butikk/greencom-pc

FAQ

What is the minimum you should spend for a “real” gaming desktop in 2025?

It depends on your monitor target, but the true baseline is: a modern GPU/CPU combo, 16 GB RAM, and an NVMe SSD (preferably 1 TB). If a “deal” misses those, you often pay later.

Is a cheap gaming PC ever worth it?

Yes, if it matches 1080p goals and doesn’t cut too hard on RAM/SSD/cooling. The danger is buying “cheap now, expensive later”.

What costs the most long-term?

Usually upgrading the monitor, then storage and RAM. Also: paying for quiet cooling if the case airflow is poor.