Whether you are buying your first desktop computer or upgrading an old system, one of the most important questions is how much a PC actually costs. With so many different components, configurations and features available, prices can vary dramatically depending on what you need the computer to do.
This guide explains the typical cost ranges for different types of PCs, what affects the overall price and how to find the best value for your budget.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a PC?
Several elements influence how much a PC will cost. The most significant include the processor (CPU), graphics card (GPU), amount of RAM, storage type and capacity, display (if included) and whether you are buying a prebuilt PC or building one yourself.
Additional costs can come from peripherals such as monitors, keyboards, mice and software including Windows licences and antivirus protection.
The intended use of the PC plays a major role too. A basic office computer for emails and spreadsheets will cost much less than a high-end gaming rig or workstation for video editing.
Entry-Level PCs
If you only need a PC for browsing the web, sending emails, writing documents or managing spreadsheets, an entry-level system should be more than enough. These PCs typically feature an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB solid-state drive.
For a desktop tower without a monitor, prices usually start from around £300 to £400. If you want a compact all-in-one or a small form factor design, the price might be slightly higher.
These machines are ideal for students, home users or office environments that do not require advanced processing power.
Mid-Range PCs
For more demanding tasks such as light photo editing, running multiple applications at once or casual gaming, a mid-range PC is a better fit. These systems often include an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 16GB of RAM and larger SSD storage. Some may also include a basic dedicated graphics card.
Prices for mid-range PCs generally fall between £600 and £900 depending on the brand and specifications. These machines offer a good balance between performance and price and are well suited to users who need a bit more power without going overboard.
High-End PCs
If you are a gamer, content creator or professional user who needs serious performance, expect to pay more for a high-end PC. These systems usually feature high-performance processors like the Intel Core i7 or i9 or AMD Ryzen 7 or 9. They also include advanced graphics cards such as NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon RX series.
Storage is often a combination of fast NVMe SSDs and large capacity hard drives. RAM starts at 16GB and can go up to 64GB or more depending on your needs.
The cost of high-end PCs can range from £1,200 to well over £3,000 especially if you want a custom-built system with high-quality components, RGB lighting and water cooling.
Gaming PCs
Gaming PCs deserve their own category because their pricing varies based on the desired frame rates, graphics settings and resolution. A budget gaming PC that can handle popular titles at medium settings might cost around £600 to £800. Mid-range systems for 1080p gaming with smooth performance often cost between £900 and £1,400.
For 1440p or 4K gaming, especially with ray tracing enabled, prices can easily exceed £2,000. The cost goes even higher for future-proofed systems with the latest graphics cards and processors.
Build Your Own vs Prebuilt
Building your own PC can be more cost-effective especially if you already have some components or can find good deals. It also allows for more control over quality and future upgrades. However, it requires time, research and confidence in assembling hardware.
Prebuilt PCs are more convenient and come with support and warranties. You often pay a premium for the convenience but many users find it worthwhile. Some prebuilt systems are also well priced especially during seasonal sales or promotions.
Do Laptops Cost More?
While this article focuses on desktop PCs, it is worth noting that laptops tend to cost more for equivalent performance due to portability. A laptop with the same specs as a desktop PC might cost an additional £100 to £300. However, the benefit is that everything is included including the display, keyboard and battery.
Software and Accessories
Do not forget to factor in the cost of software. A Windows 11 licence can add around £100 unless it is included. Office software, creative tools or games can also increase the final cost.
You may also need a monitor which can cost from £80 for basic models to over £300 for high-resolution displays. Keyboards and mice range from £20 to £150 depending on features.
Final Thoughts
The cost of a PC depends entirely on what you plan to use it for. Entry-level systems are ideal for simple tasks and cost around £300. Mid-range PCs offer excellent performance for most users and sit around the £700 mark. High-end and gaming PCs can range from £1,200 to over £3,000 depending on your expectations.
By deciding on your priorities and comparing specifications carefully, you can find a PC that fits your needs and your budget. Whether you build your own or buy prebuilt, there are good options available at every price point.