Gaming can be expensive, but building a budget-friendly PC that crushes Age of Empires IV doesn't have to cost a fortune. Whether you're a strategy game enthusiast or a casual player looking to dive into epic historical battles, this guide will show you exactly how to create a powerful gaming rig that won't break the bank.
Age of Empires IV demands specific hardware to run smoothly, and we're here to break down the most cost-effective way to build a system that delivers performance without the premium price tag.
Understanding the Hardware Requirements
Before diving into component selection, let's look at the game's minimum and recommended specifications:
Minimum Requirements
- CPU: Intel Core i5-6300U or AMD Ryzen 5 2400G
- RAM: 8GB
- GPU: Intel HD 520 or AMD Radeon RX Vega 11
- Storage: 50GB available space
Recommended Specifications
- CPU: Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
- RAM: 16GB
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580
- Storage: SSD preferred
8 Budget-Friendly PC Building Strategies
1. Choose a Powerful Yet Affordable Processor
Top budget CPU options:
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
- Intel Core i5-10400F
- Price range: $150-$250
- Offers excellent performance-to-price ratio
2. Smart Motherboard Selection
Look for:
- B550 or B460 chipsets
- Compatibility with your chosen processor
- Future upgrade potential
- Price range: $80-$130
3. RAM: Balancing Performance and Cost
Optimal choices:
- 16GB DDR4 (2x8GB)
- 3200MHz speed
- Brands like Crucial or G.Skill
- Price range: $60-$100
4. Graphics Card: The Heart of Gaming Performance
Budget-friendly options:
- NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super
- AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT
- Price range: $200-$300
- Excellent performance for Age of Empires IV
5. Storage Solutions
Recommended setup:
- 500GB SSD (boot drive)
- 1TB HDD for additional storage
- Brands like Samsung or Western Digital
- Price range: $80-$150
6. Power Supply: Don't Skimp Here
Key considerations:
- 550W-650W capacity
- 80+ Bronze certification
- Brands like EVGA or Corsair
- Price range: $60-$100
7. Case Selection
Budget-friendly options:
- Mid-tower ATX cases
- Good airflow
- Cable management features
- Price range: $50-$80
8. Cooling Strategy
Cost-effective cooling:
- Stock CPU cooler (for budget builds)
- 1-2 additional case fans
- Price range: $0-$50
Total Budget Breakdown
Estimated total cost: $600-$900
- Provides smooth Age of Empires IV experience
- Upgradeable components
- Future-proof design
Performance Statistics
- Average FPS in Age of Empires IV: 60-90
- Graphic settings: Medium to High
- Load times: Under 20 seconds
In Closing
Building a budget gaming PC for Age of Empires IV isn't just possible—it's completely achievable. With smart component selection and strategic shopping, you can create a powerful gaming machine that won't drain your savings.
Remember: It's not about spending the most money, but spending money smartly.