Build Lab

Cheap PC Parts: From Novice to Expert Guide

Cheap PC parts: Learn how to find, evaluate, and assemble budget components from beginner basics to expert tweaks. Get parts lists, buying tactics, and upgrade paths for smarter builds 🚀🔧

26 Nov 2025 | Quick Read | 👤 BuildByte

Loading tags...

Cheap PC Parts Guide - Budget Builds, Parts Lists & Tips

Dreaming of a new gaming rig but your wallet is feeling the pinch? Ja, we get it. Building a PC in South Africa can feel daunting, especially with fluctuating prices. But here’s the good news: scoring cheap PC parts doesn’t mean settling for a potato-tier setup. With a bit of know-how, you can assemble a powerful machine without breaking the bank. This guide will walk you through finding affordable components, turning you from a PC-building novice into a savvy expert. 🔧

The Core Four: Where to Focus Your Budget

When you're hunting for affordable PC components, it's all about strategic spending. Your performance hinges on four key parts: the CPU, motherboard, RAM, and the all-important graphics card. Getting this combination right is the foundation of a great budget build.

CPU and Motherboard: The Dynamic Duo

Your Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain, and the motherboard is the nervous system. They have to work together perfectly. You don't need the most expensive CPU on the market for a fantastic gaming experience. Often, a mid-range processor from the last generation offers incredible value. The key is to pair it with one of our affordable motherboards that has the right socket and features you actually need. For maximum value, keep an eye on Evetech's Intel and AMD-based bundle packs, which often combine a CPU, motherboard, and RAM for a lekker discount.

RYZEN 7 7800X3D 5.0GHz RTX 5060 Ti 16GB DDR5 Gaming PC

R26774.00In Stock

AMD RYZEN 7 5700 4.6GHz A1000 8GB Workstation PC

R20159.00In Stock

Intel Core Ultra 5 225F ARC A380 6GB Gaming PC

R14174.00In Stock

AMD RYZEN 5 3600 RTX 3050 Budget Gaming PC

R11024.00In Stock

RYZEN 5 9600X 5.4GHz A1000 8GB DDR5 Workstation PC

R25199.00In Stock

[Pre Built] AMD RYZEN 7 9700X RTX 5070 Gaming PC

R35699.00In Stock

Graphics Card (GPU): The Heart of Your Gaming PC

Let's be real, this is where a huge chunk of your budget will go. The GPU renders the beautiful worlds you explore, from the landscapes of Elden Ring to the streets of Los Santos. While top-tier cards come with hefty price tags, the market for budget-friendly GPUs is fiercely competitive. Look for cards that excel at 1080p resolution, as this is the sweet spot for performance and price. Check out reviews and benchmarks to see how different models perform in the games you love on our range of NVIDIA and ATI graphics cards.

RAM: Your System's Short-Term Memory

Random Access Memory (RAM) is crucial for smooth multitasking and gaming. Lagging or stuttering can often be a sign of not enough RAM. The good news? 16GB is the current sweet spot for gaming and is more affordable than ever. It provides enough headroom for your games, Discord, and a few browser tabs without a problem. You can explore a variety of gaming RAM modules to find the perfect fit for your motherboard and budget.

TIP FOR YOU

Compatibility Check ⚡

Always use a tool like PCPartPicker before you buy. It helps you check if your chosen CPU is compatible with your motherboard, if your RAM fits, and if your massive graphics card will actually squeeze into your case. This simple step can save you a lot of ZAR and a major headache!

Smart Savings on Supporting PC Components

Once you've allocated funds for the core four, you can be more frugal with the supporting cast. Finding cheap PC parts here is easier and has less impact on your frames-per-second.

Power Supply Unit (PSU): The Unsung Hero

Never, ever cheap out completely on your PSU... but don't overspend either. A faulty power supply can fry your entire system. Look for a unit with an 80 Plus Bronze rating or higher—this indicates good efficiency. You don't need a 1000W monster for a budget build; a reliable 550W-650W unit is often more than enough. Our selection of reliable power supply units offers a great balance of safety and value.

Intel Core Ultra 5 225F ARC A380 6GB Gaming PC

R14174.00In Stock

AMD RYZEN 5 3600 RTX 3050 Budget Gaming PC

R11024.00In Stock

[Pre Built] AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D RX 9070 XT Gaming PC

R67199.00In Stock

AMD RYZEN 9 9900X 5.6GHz RTX 4000 Blackwell 24GB DDR5 Workstation PC

R56174.00In Stock

RYZEN 5 9600X 5.4GHz A1000 8GB DDR5 Workstation PC

R25199.00In Stock

AMD RYZEN 5 3600 4.2GHz ARC A380 6GB Gaming PC

R9659.00In Stock

Case and Cooling: Keeping it Cool and Classy ✨

Your PC case is more than just a box; it's vital for airflow. You can find excellent, well-ventilated computer cases that don't cost a fortune. Focus on features like mesh front panels and included fans over flashy RGB lighting to save money. Similarly, while many CPUs come with a stock cooler that does the job, a simple aftermarket tower cooler can offer quieter operation and better temperatures for a small investment. Browse our effective CPU coolers if you want to give your processor some extra breathing room.

Building a PC on a budget is a journey of smart choices. By focusing your spending on the parts that directly impact performance and saving on the components where it matters less, you can create a powerful, cost-effective machine that will serve you well for years to come. Happy building! 🚀

Ready to Build Your Dream Rig? Finding affordable PC parts in South Africa doesn't have to be a mission. With the right knowledge, you can build a powerful machine that respects your budget. Explore our massive range of PC components and start piecing together your perfect setup today.

Prioritize a balanced CPU, affordable GPU alternatives, 16GB RAM, and a budget SSD — check 'best cheap PC parts for gaming' lists for compatible options.

Compare retailers, use refurbished sources, track sales, and search 'where to buy cheap PC parts' to find trusted sellers and warranties.

Yes when bought from reputable sellers; refurbished PC parts cheap options often include testing and warranties. Verify return policies and reviews.

Look for current-generation entry-level combos; search 'cheap motherboard and CPU combos' for compatible AM4 or LGA pairings with good value.

Match RAM speed to your CPU and choose 16GB for gaming; pick a reliable NVMe or SATA drive from 'best budget SSD for PC' lists.

Yes — use an efficient CPU, adequate RAM, and a capable GPU. See 'cheap parts for streaming PC' guides for encoder-friendly setups.

Start with RAM or SSD upgrades, then tackle GPU or CPU. Follow a 'budget upgrade path for PC' to fix bottlenecks and keep compatibility.