Custom gaming PC builds under $1,000 demonstrate the value of combining used systems with new components

A head-to-head competition between Austin Evans and Ken explores the performance potential of a $1,000 budget by mixing used pre-built systems with new hardware. Austin Evans utilized a 2013 Dell Optiplex 3020 with an Intel Core i5-4570 as his base, heavily modifying the chassis with a Dremel to accommodate an AMD Radeon RX 7600 and an auxiliary 500W power supply. Ken opted for a more modern ASUS ROG pre-built featuring a Ryzen 7 processor, which he transferred into a Lian Li A3-mATX case and paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060. Performance testing in Forza Horizon 5 revealed a significant CPU bottleneck in Austin's older system, which achieved 45 FPS compared to Ken's 78 FPS. However, Austin's strategy focused on maximizing peripheral quality, specifically including a 240Hz AOC QD-OLED monitor that cost approximately $380. Despite the benchmark deficit, Austin was declared the winner based on the overall value of his peripheral package and bonus points awarded for remaining further under the initial component budget. The builds highlight that while older CPUs limit frame rates, they allow for higher-tier displays and GPUs within a strict total cost limit.

Tech4K StaffVideo report

A head-to-head competition between Austin Evans and Ken explores the performance potential of a $1,000 budget by mixing used pre-built systems with new hardware. Austin Evans utilized a 2013 Dell Optiplex 3020 with an Intel Core i5-4570 as his base, heavily modifying the chassis with a Dremel to accommodate an AMD Radeon RX 7600 and an auxiliary 500W power supply. Ken opted for a more modern ASUS ROG pre-built featuring a Ryzen 7 processor, which he transferred into a Lian Li A3-mATX case and paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060. Performance testing in Forza Horizon 5 revealed a significant CPU bottleneck in Austin's older system, which achieved 45 FPS compared to Ken's 78 FPS. However, Austin's strategy focused on maximizing peripheral quality, specifically including a 240Hz AOC QD-OLED monitor that cost approximately $380. Despite the benchmark deficit, Austin was declared the winner based on the overall value of his peripheral package and bonus points awarded for remaining further under the initial component budget. The builds highlight that while older CPUs limit frame rates, they allow for higher-tier displays and GPUs within a strict total cost limit.

Ken's Ryzen 7-based system outperformed Austin's 4th-generation Intel i5 system by 73% in Forza Horizon 5 benchmarks. Austin Evans successfully integrated a modern RX 7600 into a 2013 Dell Optiplex 3020 using a PCIe riser and external power supply.

The AOC QD-OLED monitor used in Austin's build features a 240Hz refresh rate and cost approximately $380. Ken's build utilized a Lian Li A3-mATX case with a wood-finish front panel to house transferred pre-built components.

Austin's build required an auxiliary 500W power supply specifically to provide power to the dedicated graphics card. The final scoring favored Austin due to bonus points for budget efficiency and the superior quality of his OLED display.

Chapter guide

Initial PC SelectionAustin and Ken choose their starting pre-built systems to begin the $1,000 challenge.Component UpgradesThe participants select GPUs, cases, and power supplies at Micro Center.Peripheral ChallengeThe remaining budget is spent on monitors, keyboards, and mice to complete the setups.Austin's Build ProcessAustin modifies the Dell Optiplex chassis and installs the RX 7600 using a riser cable.Ken's Build ProcessKen performs a case swap of the ASUS ROG components into the Lian Li A3.Final JudgingGuest judge Matt compares the aesthetics and peripheral choices of both systems.Performance TestingThe systems are tested in Forza Horizon 5 benchmarks and Counter-Strike 2.Results and ScoringBonus points are calculated and a winner is declared for the Junkyard Battle.

Worth noting

  • The video is sponsored by Micro Center.
  • Austin's dual power supply and LEGO-supported GPU setup is described as a fire hazard and not recommended for home users.
  • The video labels a GPU as an 'RTX 5060,' which was not a commercially available product at the time of filming; it is likely an RTX 4060 with a modified label.
  • Performance results are limited to two specific games and may not represent broader gaming capabilities.

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