Critical Update: if you actually want to start gaming on a new PC any time before Fall 2021, you have two options: go for one of the very few pre-built PCs still on the market, or build up a system using the onboard graphics featured on Intel’s latest CPUs.  That’s because GPUs are sold out worldwide due to the ongoing cryptocurrency mining crisis. We present both pre-built and DIY options in this guide. Based on current estimates, we believe that GPUs will not be available at retail prices until September 2021 at the earliest.

Looking to build the best PC possible for $1,000? This guide will set you up! We profile a build that offers excellent performance, quiet operation, and ease of assembly, all at a great price. If you’re ready to build a PC that can handle anything you could throw at it, from gaming to content creation, just follow this guide to get the best component picks.

For June 2021, this build features Intel’s awesome Core i5-11400, which uses the latest “Rocket Lake” design and packs in six cores and 12 threads, plus a maximum boost speed of up to 4.4GHz. While AMD was aggressive in launching some new high-end CPUs in late 2020, AMD shockingly no longer has anything worth considering in the mid-range market, despite its reputation for value. Intel is now in the unusual position of offering far superior performance per dollar, and thanks to owning its own manufacturing lines (unlike AMD), will be able to keep enthusiasts going during difficult times! For the video card, our top pick is the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super 6GB, by far the best GPU under $300, but take note that like all video cards, it’s impossible to find in stock these days, so for now we suggest you use the built-in video on the Intel CPU (or an older video card you have on hand). Keeping this build fed is 16GB of DDR4-3200 RAM, along with a fast 500GB solid-state drive, both of which keep will keep this system running smoothly for years to come. This build is housed in an attractive, value-packed SilverStone Fara R1 case and powered by an efficient, high-output power supply. Learn more about the Fara R1 and post your questions in our 2020 YouTube overview video!

If you need a monitor or peripherals, you can check out our dedicated guides, although we also have some great recommendations for you at the end of this guide. Note that we provide dedicated links to Amazon, B&H, or Newegg in the US, and our Amazon links will auto-convert for readers in Canada, the UK, and parts of the EU, with regional substitutions made based on availability. To support this site, please use these links if you purchase any of the products we list.