As the tech landscape evolves, so does the need for a robust personal computer that meets the demands of gaming, creativity, and productivity. If you’re looking for the best computer you can build for $1200, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 components you can purchase from Amazon to assemble a powerful machine. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or working on resource-intensive tasks, this guide is designed to help you maximize your budget while achieving exceptional performance.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Kano Computer Kit – A Computer Anyone Can Make | $410.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
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EVGA Supernova 1200 P3, 80 Plus Platinum 1200W, Fully Modular, Eco Mode with FDB Fan, Includes Free... | $357.08 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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ACEMAGIC S1 Mini PC Win11 Pro, Dual Nic with DIY LCD Display, N97 CPU(up to 3.6 GHz), 16GB RAM 512GB... | $189.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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iProda Mini PC with Intel Alder Lake N97 CPU (up to 3.6GHz), Mini Desktop Computer PC Windows 11... | $189.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
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FLEXGRIN 23.8" FHD All-in-One Desktop Computer PC, Intel Celeron N5095 2.9GHz, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD,... | $335.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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Blair Tech Workstation Desktop Computer - Editing/Design | Nvidia Quadro P620 2GB | Intel i7-8700 |... | $499.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
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GEEKOM XT13 Pro Mini PC, 13th Gen Intel i7-13620H NUC13 Mini Computers(10C/16T Up to 4.9GHz), 32GB... | $611.10 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
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Piper Computer Kit: Award-Winning Build-A-Computer Age 8+ STEAM Learning, with Raspberry Pi, Google... | $399.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
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Thermalright Assassin X120 Refined SE CPU Air Cooler, 4 Heat Pipes, TL-C12C PWM Fan, Aluminium... | $17.90 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
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Fractal Design Core 1100 - Mini Tower Computer Case - mATX - High Airflow and Cooling - 1x 120mm... | $45.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Contents
- Buying Guide for Building the Best Computer Under $1200
- Top 10 Products for Your $1200 Computer Build
- 1. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X CPU
- 2. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super
- 3. MSI B450 TOMAHAWK MAX ATX AM4 Motherboard
- 4. Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200MHz RAM
- 5. Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB NVMe M.2 SSD
- 6. Seagate Barracuda 2TB HDD
- 7. EVGA 600 W1, 80+ WHITE 600W Power Supply
- 8. NZXT H510 ATX Mid Tower Case
- 9. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition CPU Cooler
- 10. Windows 10 Home
- Conclusion
Buying Guide for Building the Best Computer Under $1200
Before we dive into the components, it’s important to understand what to consider when building your computer. Below, we provide a brief overview of what each component does, along with purchasing considerations.
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU acts as the "brain" of the computer and is critical for speed and performance. For a build under $1200, a high-quality mid-range processor is essential.
2. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The GPU is crucial for gaming and any graphic-intensive tasks. Ensure you choose a graphics card that offers a balance between performance and cost.
3. Motherboard
The motherboard connects all components. Choose one that supports your CPU and has enough ports for your needs.
4. RAM
Random Access Memory (RAM) affects multitasking capabilities. Opt for at least 16GB for efficient performance.
5. Storage
Solid State Drives (SSDs) are preferred for speed, but a combination of SSD and Hard Disk Drive (HDD) can provide ample storage.
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Your PSU must provide enough power for all components. Look for reliable brands and check the wattage requirements of your build.
7. Case
An appropriate case ensures good airflow and space for your components.
8. Cooling System
Whether air or liquid cooling, a good cooling solution is vital for maintaining high performance, especially under load.
9. Operating System
Don’t forget to consider the cost of an operating system. Windows or Linux are popular choices.
10. Accessories
Lastly, consider peripherals like the monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Now, let’s delve into our top 10 essential products for building the best computer you can assemble for $1200.
Top 10 Products for Your $1200 Computer Build
1. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X CPU
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X offers 6 cores and 12 threads, making it perfect for both gaming and multitasking. With a base clock of 3.7 GHz and the ability to boost up to 4.6 GHz, this processor ensures an impressive performance for modern games and productivity applications.
- AMD's fastest 6 core processor for mainstream desktop, with 12 processing threads
- Can deliver elite 100 plus FPS performance in the world's most popular games
- Bundled with the quiet, capable AMD Wraith Stealth cooler. System Memory Type: DDR4
- 4.6 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 35 MB of cache, DDR-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform, can support PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards . OS Support: Windows 11 - 64-Bit Edition, Windows 10 - 64-Bit Edition, RHEL x86 64-Bit, Ubuntu x86 64-Bit
2. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super
For gamers looking to play titles on high settings, the GTX 1660 Super is a solid choice. It features 6GB of GDDR6 memory and delivers excellent performance at 1080p resolution, making it ideal for those who want a premium gaming experience without breaking the bank.
- 【Amazing Gaminig Experience】GTX 1660 Super graphics card is a mainstream gaming GPU built on the 12 nm process, equipped with 192-Bit and 6GB GDDR6 memory with 14000 MHz. Providing computer enthusiasts with a smoother, higher quality gaming experience.
- 【High Definition Display Effect 】GTX 1660S 6GB Graphics Card has 3 monitor support ouput included 1X DVI Port+ 1X Display Port + 1X HDMI Port, can support three monitors. GTX 1660 super is connected to the rest of the system using a PCI-Express 3.0 x16 interface, supports up to 8K display, delivers more higher definition pc gaming effect.
- 【Powerful Cooling Performance】ZER LON cooling system uses a combination of traditional grooved and copper powder sintered composite heat pipes that directly contact the GPU core to quickly export core heat. At the same time, the integrated thermal design makes the core, memory, power supply MOS tube and the heatsink fully in contact, effectively reducing the working temperature, avoiding MOS tube overheating caused by full load degradation and other reasons, thus improving the stability and life
- 【VR-Ready Graphics】Equipped with advanced technologies, such as NVIDIA VRWorks, the GTX 1660S 6G graphics card provides an excellent virtual reality (VR) gaming experience. It ensures low latency, high compatibility, and stunning visuals for VR applications.
- 【What You Will Get】1x GTX 1660 Super 6GB graphics card, 2-Year Limited warranty, professional after-sale service.
3. MSI B450 TOMAHAWK MAX ATX AM4 Motherboard
This motherboard is compatible with AMD’s Ryzen processors and offers excellent features for a budget build. It supports overclocking and has two M.2 slots for SSDs, making it versatile for future upgrades.
- Support for 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors and future AMD Ryzen processors with BIOS update.Audio ports (Rear): 5plus Optical S/PDIF (Realtek ALC1200 / ALC1220P Codec)
- Supports dual channel DDR4 memory up to 128 GB (4866 MHz)
- On-board dual LAN: 2.5G LAN plus Gigabit LAN
- Mystic Light: RGB LED lighting and extendable pin headers – 16.8 million colors / 29 effects
- Audio Boost rewards your ears with studio grade sound quality for immersive gaming experiences
4. Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3200MHz RAM
With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, this kit ensures smooth multitasking and gaming. The 3200MHz speed offers superior performance, perfect for high-end gaming and productivity applications.
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5. Samsung 970 EVO Plus 500GB NVMe M.2 SSD
An SSD is crucial for rapid load times and overall system responsiveness. The Samsung 970 EVO Plus features read speeds up to 3,500 MB/s, making it one of the fastest drives on the market.
- INNOVATIVE V-NAND TECHNOLOGY: Powered by Samsung V-NAND Technology, the 970 EVO Plus SSD’s NVMe interface (PCIe Gen 3.0 x4 NVMe 1.3) offers enhanced bandwidth, low latency, and power efficiency ideal for tech enthusiasts, high end gamers, and 4K & 3D content designers
- BREAKTHROUGH READ WRITE SPEEDS: Sequential read and write performance levels of up to 3,500MB s and 3,300MB s, respectively; Random Read (4KB, QD32): Up to 600,000 IOPS Random Read. Operating Temperature: 0 - 70 ℃
- PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION AND DATA SECURITY: Seamless cloning and file transfers with Samsung Magician Software, the ideal SSD management solution for performance optimization and data security with automatic firmware updates
- SUPERIOR HEAT DISSIPATION: Samsung’s Dynamic Thermal Guard automatically monitors and maintains optimal operating temperatures to minimize performance drops. WWN not supported
- 5-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: 5-year limited warranty or 600 TBW (Terabytes Written). Power consumption (Idle) - Max. 30 mW Actual power consumption may vary depending on system hardware & configuration. Voltage - 3.3 V 5 % Allowable voltage. AES 256-bit Full Disk Encryption, TCG/Opal V2.0, Encrypted Drive (IEEE1667)
6. Seagate Barracuda 2TB HDD
For larger storage needs, the 2TB Seagate Barracuda HDD provides plenty of room for your files and games. It operates at 7200 RPM, ensuring decent access speeds for an HDD.
- Note: Graphics May Vary and Size (3.5") refer to the size of the data platters not the size of the hard drive mechanism.Specific uses: Personal
- Store more, compute faster, and do it confidently with the proven reliability of BarraCuda internal hard drives
- Build a powerhouse gaming computer or desktop setup with a variety of capacities and form factors
- The go to SATA hard drive solution for nearly every PC application—from music to video to photo editing to PC gaming
- Confidently rely on internal hard drive technology backed by 20 years of innovation
7. EVGA 600 W1, 80+ WHITE 600W Power Supply
This PSU provides reliable power at an affordable price. With 600 Watts of power, it can handle your components with ease, while the 80+ White rating ensures energy efficiency.
- Quiet and Intelligent Auto Fan for near-silent operation
- Heavy-duty protections, including OVP (Over Voltage Protection), UVP (Under Voltage Protection), OCP (Over Current Protection), OPP (Over Power Protection), SCP (Short Circuit Protection), and OTP (Over Temperature Protection)
- 3 Year Warranty
8. NZXT H510 ATX Mid Tower Case
The NZXT H510 case combines simplicity with excellent cooling potential. It includes a tempered glass side panel, allowing you to showcase your components while ensuring proper airflow.
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE AIRFLOW - Perforated front and top panels direct filtered air through the case to cool down components and enhance performance
- DEDICATED GPU FAN - An angled 120mm fan draws air from below the case to provide direct cooling for your power-hungry graphics card
- SPACIOUS COOLING SUPPORT - Up to 280mm radiator support in the front, 240mm up top, and 120mm in the rear. Comes with two pre-installed 120mm fans
- READY FOR PERFORMANCE - Fits most NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series graphics cards with its 365mm max GPU clearance. Display your GPU vertically using the NZXT Vertical GPU Mounting Kit (sold separately)
- EASILY MANAGE CABLES - Wide cable channels with hooks, bridges, and straps take the guesswork out of organized cable management
9. Cooler Master Hyper 212 Black Edition CPU Cooler
This air cooler is known for its fantastic cooling performance and quiet operation. It’s an excellent choice for keeping your Ryzen CPU cool, especially during gaming or other intensive tasks.
- Direct contact technology: 4 Heat Pipe with exclusive direct contact Technology effectively provides excellent heat dissipation; Air flow: 42 CFM; Noise level: 26.0 decibels
- Precise air flow: Stacked fin array ensures least airflow resistance which allows cooler air flow into the heatsink
- Smart fan sensor for jam protection: Never worry about your cables getting snagged or components being mucked up ever again
- Snap and play: Intuitive fan bracket design makes upgrading and removing the fan a breeze
- CPU socket support: Intel: LGA2066, LGA2011 v3, LGA2011, LGA1151, LGA1150, LGA1156, LGA1155, LGA1366, AMD: AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2+, FM2, FM1
10. Windows 10 Home
To complete your build, you’ll need an operating system. Windows 10 Home is user-friendly and compatible with most applications and games, making it a solid choice for your setup.
- STREAMLINED & INTUITIVE UI, DVD FORMAT | Intelligent desktop | Personalize your experience for simpler efficiency | Powerful security built-in and enabled.
- OEM IS TO BE INSTALLED ON A NEW PC with no prior version of Windows installed and cannot be transferred to another machine.
- OEM DOES NOT PROVIDE SUPPORT | To acquire product with Microsoft support, obtain the full packaged “Retail” version.
- PRODUCT SHIPS IN PLAIN ENVELOPE | Activation key is located under scratch-off area on label.
- GENUINE WINDOWS SOFTWARE IS BRANDED BY MIRCOSOFT ONLY.
Conclusion
In 2024, building the best computer you can assemble for $1200 is entirely feasible. With a balanced mix of robust components from the CPU to the GPU and sufficient storage, you can create a computer that meets your needs, whether for gaming, video editing, or everyday tasks. The products listed above have been carefully selected to ensure optimal performance while staying within budget. Always check for compatibility and best deals before finalizing your purchase to get the most out of your investment.
Consider your usage scenarios while building your PC, and don’t hesitate to upgrade components in the future as your needs evolve. Happy building!
Last update on 2024-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.