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.
- Build your own computer. Comes with step-by-step book, Raspberry Pi 3, programmable LED lights, DIY case, power button, wireless keyboard with track pad, memory, HDMI and power cables, stickers, Kano unique operating system, 100+ coding challenges, and 100+ apps.
- New - learn to code with 100's of creative challenges and stories , Voltage - 5 volts
- Make art, games and music. Hack Minecraft to do something new.
- Plugs into any HDMI screen. Browse the internet, watch YouTube, write stories, 100+ apps.
- Endless play with the Kano community. Be inspired by 700, 000+ creations. Open any creation, K the code to make it your own..Trusted by over 2000 schools and code clubs. Winners of the family choice award, webby award, red dot award, cannes gold lions and more..For ages 6+. no technical knowledge required. Includes Lifetime care and 1 year Warranty.
- 80 PLUS Platinum certified, with 92% efficiency or higher under typical loads
- 100% Japanese Capacitors and Fully Modular to reduce clutter and improve airflow
- Fully Modular to reduce clutter and improve airflow
- Full-bridge LLC Resonant Converter and DC-DC design leads to tight voltage regulation and low ripple & noise
- Fluid Dynamic Bearing Fan and EVGA ECO Mode for ultra-quiet operation and increased lifespan
- ACEMAGIC Mini PC Gaming AMD Ryzen 7 6800H 11 Pro (Up to 4.7GHz) 8GB RAM 1TB SSD, Radeon 680M Triple 4K Display Mini Computers Desktop Micro Small Pc for Gaming/Office 3.2Type-C/LAN 2.5G/BT5.2/WiFi 6
- Powerful Performance Alder Lake N97: The IPRODA mini PC boasts a lightning-fast 12th generation Alder Lake N97 processor(4C/4T, 6M Smart L3 Cache,12W TDP), delivering unparalleled performance with CPU speeds up to 3.6 GHz. Compared to its predecessors, the CPU N97 offers a remarkable 48% improvement in performance than N100/N95/N5105/N5095 that ensuring you can tackle any task effortlessly.
- Advantages of CPU N97: 1200MHz Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency and 3.6GHz Max Turbo Frequency compared with N95/N100.When other parameter configurations are same,N97’s Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency is 1200MHz,N100 only has 750MHz.The N97’s Max Turbo Frequency is up to 3.6GHz,while the N95&N100 are only 3.4GHz.
- Stable Connectivity: IPRODA mini desktop computer equipped with WiFi6/Bluetooth5.2 and LAN gigabit port design provides more applications,like home server,pf sense firewall, multicast aggregation,software router (OpenWRT/ddWRT), file storage server,DPDK, NAT network isolation and etc.The 2.4G+5G dual band WiFi6(AX101) provides a faster internet experience for streaming and surfing.Lower latency Bluetooth5.2, more stable and efficient to connect to multiple wireless devices such as keyboard,monitor,printer,projector, speakers and etc.
- Modern & Space-Saving Design: With its sleek and compact design, the IPRODA mini desktop PC fits seamlessly into any environment. Featuring 16GB DDR4 RAM (Max 2600MHz) and 512GB M.2 SATA SSD. You can replace the SSD of your small office PC to 1*1TB(MAX) to expand storage, it offers enhanced storage capabilities and streamlined data management.
- Enhanced Visual Experience: The IPRODA mini PC features UHD Graphics, offering a stunning 4K@60Hz display for a theater-like experience. With dual HDMI ports, you can connect two monitors simultaneously, enhancing productivity for tasks like office work, document editing, and online education. This mini PC is designed for both casual users and professionals, making it suitable for video playback and photo/video editing. Enjoy powerful performance in a compact form
- Good Looking, Hard Working – The Flexgrin All-in-One desktop computer with RGB Keyboard&Mouse, blends the power of a PC desktop with the beauty of a slim, modern display. Get it all with the latest technology, impressive design, and sustainable materials in one dependable PC
- Narrow Borders - Immerse yourself in an expansive 23.8"FHD(1920x1080) screen with four-side narrow borders on this all-in-one computer desktop pc. The screen size is appropriate, enjoy a stunning visual experience while perfectly integrating into your desk
- Rich interfaces - This Flexgrin Desktop Computer has Tech Specs of: 2 x USB2.0, 4 x USB 3.0 , 1 x HDMI-out Port (Rear), 1 x Audio Jack, 1 x Ethernet (RJ-45), Webcam, Mic combo, Power button, all in one pc allows you to fully enjoy the pleasure brought by technology, making it very suitable for students and business daily use!
- Optimized to do More - The all in one computer is installed with Intel Celeron N5095 processor, base frequency 2Ghz, maximum frequency 2.9Ghz, support 4K. The N5095 exhibits outstanding performance on the same level of CPU, both in terms of operation, power consumption, and heat dissipation.
- High Speed - 8GB DDR4 RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; 512GB SSD allows to fast bootup and data transfer. This all in one desktop computer aslo installed Windows 11 Pro provides more security features and options to users. It supports multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, German, etc. very large memory space that has exceeded 80% of the time on a computer. Users do not need to replace or add memory, it can fully meet the needs of work, learning, entertainment, and so on.
- ✔️【13th Gen Core Intel i7-13620H】 GEEKOM XT13 Pro Mini Computer is powered by the Latest 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13620H (10C/16T, 24M Cache, up to 4.90GHz,35W TDP). It runs faster than AMD R9-6900HX, R7-7735HS, Intel Core i7-12650H and i7-11390H processors. This Intel i7-13620H mini PC is smaller, only 4.06x4.37x1.51 inches. Easier to carry anywhere for flexible working. Compact size makes the mini computer the top choice for your light Office work, 4K video playback, online education, design and etc.
- ✔️【Dual-channel 32GB DDR4 + 1TB PCIe GEN4 SSD】GEEKOM XT13 Pro mini pc Windows 11 Pro with high-speed 32GB dual-channel DDR4-3200MHz RAM (upgradeable to 64GB), i7-13620H comes with a superfast M.2 PCIe4.0*4 2280 NVMe SSD of up to 2TB. That way, it can support tasks like memory-hogging multitab browsing and opening a huge graphic file quickly and easily. If you want more storage space, you can also add a 2.5"" SSD (no included) to expand the memory upgrade storage to 2TB to expand the memory wonderful safety data bank.
- ✔️【IceFlow 1.5 Cooling system】 The easily removable XT13 Pro Desktop Computer comes with GEEKOM’s latest IceFlow 1.5 Technology, an actively cooling system that features a highly efficient cooling fan, a large sink, dual heat pipes and best-in-class thermal grease. The XT13 Pro Mini Pc cool and stable when executing heavy workloads. Stop worrying about dying and getting hot!
- ✔️【WiFi 6E & BT5.2 & 2.5GbE LAN】The Mini XT13 Pro Mini PC is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E technology, delivering unparalleled speed for seamless file downloads. With Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, you can quickly link up to wireless keyboards, mice, speakers, and other devices. The 2.5Gb Ethernet LAN port ensures lightning-fast network speeds, guaranteeing a smooth online 8K video streaming, and real-time VR experience.
- ✔️【4 Displays Support & Faster USB4】The Desktop Computer has multiple ports, including 3* USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 2*USB4 ports( Type-C ), 1*USB 2.0 port, and 2*HDMI 2.0 ports. Not only can the mini PC run four 4K displays simultaneously, but you will also have the option to hook it up with an external GPU via one of the USB4 ports to level up your gaming and productivity.
- BUILD A COMPUTER: Includes all the components needed to build a fully-functioning computer! A Raspberry Pi, 7" screen, DIY speaker, rechargeable battery. Teaching kids to be STEAM-capable; coding their own games, interactive projects and more!
- HANDS-ON STEAM PROJECTS: Building the computer is only the beginning! Using Piper’s StoryMode, kids are guided through a secret mission, attaching wires and connecting electronic components to move around an immersive world and controlling the outcome.
- LEARN TO CODE: With a Piper Computer Kit, kids learn the basics of coding with 11 progressively challenging projects using an easy, drag-and-drop visual coding language. Using PiperCode, kids progress through tangible tasks that increase their level of confidence.
- CREATED FOR KIDS AGES: Designed by educators to foster self-paced learning, kids advance from foundational tasks through more challenging projects at their own pace. They can progress to pre-loaded Python programming language, deepening their engagement and competence.
- THE BUILD IS JUST THE BEGINNING: Piper Computer Kit features an integrated, build-it-yourself speaker and 7" HDMI screen. The kit is engineered for multi-rebuilds, with a sturdy carrying case. Beyond the build, Piper Computer Kit launches kids into an expansive, adventurous world of learning disguised as fun, with dozens of playable projects from Day One.
- [Brand Overview] Thermalright is a Taiwan brand with more than 20 years of development. It has a certain popularity in the domestic and foreign markets and has a pivotal influence in the player market. We have been focusing on the research and development of computer accessories. R & D product lines include: CPU air-cooled radiator, case fan, thermal silicone pad, thermal silicone grease, CPU fan controller, anti falling off mounting bracket, support mounting bracket and other commodities
- [Product specification]AX120R SE; CPU Cooler dimensions: 125(L)x71(W)x148(H)mm (4.92x2.8x 5.83 inch); Product weight:0.645kg(1.42lb); heat sink material: aluminum, CPU cooler is equipped with metal fasteners of Intel & AMD platform to achieve better installation
- 【PWM Fans】TL-C12C; Standard size PWM fan:120x120x25mm (4.72x4.72x0.98 inches); fan speed (RPM):1550rpm±10%; power port: 4pin; Voltage:12V; Air flow:66.17CFM(MAX); Noise Level≤25.6dB(A), the fan pairs efficient cool with low-noise-level, providing you an environment with both efficient cool and true quietness
- 【AGHP technique】4×6mm heat pipes apply AGHP technique, Solve the Inverse gravity effect caused by vertical / horizontal orientation. Up to 20000 hours of industrial service life, S-FDB bearings ensure long service life of air-cooler radiators. UL class a safety insulation low-grade, industrial strength PBT + PC material to create high-quality products for you. The height is 148mm, Suitable for medium-sized computer case
- 【Compatibility】The CPU cooler Socket supports: Intel:1150/1151/1155/1156/1200/1700/17XX/1851,AMD:AM4 /AM5; For different CPU socket platforms, corresponding mounting plate or fastener parts are provided
- An extremely compact micro ATX case, designed for exceptional airflow and cooling
- Brushed aluminum-look front panel with a sleek, three-dimensional textured finish
- Easy access I/O on front panel, with audio and both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports
- Innovative vertical HDD bracket, which can hold two 3.5" drives or three 2.5" drives, or one drive of each size
- Front: 1 x 120mm fans (included is 1 Fractal Design silent 120mm fan, 1200 RPM speed) Side: 1 x 120mm fan (not included)
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. System Memory Type: DDR4
- Can deliver elite 100+ FPS performance in the world's most popular games
- Bundled with the quiet, capable AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
- 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
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, Before installing the driver, you must uninstall the old driver first, otherwise it may cause the driver installation to fail. You can download the driver for this graphics card directly from the official website. Select the driver corresponding to your computer's operating system for download and installation. Alternatively, you can use software that automatically installs drivers for the installation process.
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.
- Migrate and clone data from old drives with ease using our free Seagate DiscWizard software tool
- 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.
- Specification Compliance: ATX12V/EPS12V
- Efficiency: 80%
- Number of Fans: 1
- Modular: No
- Number of +12V Rails: 1
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.
- Cool for R7 | i7: Four heat pipes and a copper base ensure optimal cooling performance for AMD R7 and *Intel i7.
- SickleFlow 120 Edge: Experience premium airflow and cooling with our optimized PWM blade curve fan.
- Dynamic PWM Fan: A PWM 4-pin header allows adjustable fan speeds from 690 to 2,500 RPM, to balance noise and airflow.
- Simplify Brackets: Redesigned brackets simplify installation on AM5 and LGA 1851|1700 platforms.
- Versatile Compatibility: 152mm tall design offers performance with wide chassis compatibility.
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 2026-02-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | hishecozy.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.
