It’s no surprise that you’ve chosen to join the growing streaming business! You’ll need a good streaming PC before you can start playing games and building a community. Therefore, the goal of this article is to help you discover the best low-cost streaming PC!

You’ll also discover the variances between an all-in-one gaming system and a specialized streaming PC.

For each use case, we’ll offer our top three recommendations.

Moreover, you may be curious about which PC components are most important for streaming. Don’t worry, we’ll also go over the specifications you shouldn’t ignore as a novice while looking for a new streaming PC.

6 Best Cheap Streaming PCs ( Prebuilt And Custom Built )

MSI has just raised the bar for prebuilt gaming PCs! The MSI MPG Trident 3 is a powerhouse for around $1000.

An Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER graphics card, an Intel Core i5-10400F processor, and 8GB of DDR4 RAM are among the highlights of this monster.

A 512GB SSD, a 1TB HDD, built-in wifi, and a wide variety of connectors, including USB Type-C, are also included. The free keyboard and mouse are very comfortable and durable.

The incredibly tiny form factor of this low-cost streaming PC is perhaps its most remarkable feature. Despite having the top-of-the-line components on the inside, MSI was able to cram them all into 4.72 liters.

Because streaming configurations may become untidy and distract you from the game and your audience, having a console-sized streaming PC might be extremely helpful.

What’s the catch, exactly? There isn’t any, to be honest. With 8GB of RAM, you’ll almost certainly need to add another memory stick down the road. Furthermore, the small form size makes it more difficult to update the components.

Except for RAM, you won’t be needing any upgrades very soon.

To summarize, the MSI MPG Trident 3 10SI-002US provides high-end specifications in a small package. With the powerful 6-core processor and Nvidia’s GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER GPU, you should be able to broadcast and play games at the maximum settings available.

Look no further if you’re just getting started with streaming! Nvidia’s GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card, AMD’s Ryzen 5 1400 processor, a 1TB HDD, and even 16GB of RAM are all included in the SkyTech Archangel II.

You’ll also receive built-in wifi, Windows 10 Home OS, five USB 3.0 ports, and a free keyboard and mouse. Most games can be streamed in 1080p quality thanks to the onboard components. When streaming, it’s best to utilize GPU encoding since the graphics card is considerably more powerful than the CPU.

While the SkyTech Archangel II is a fantastic entry-level choice, it does have certain flaws. Because SSDs are up to 20 times quicker than HDDs, the absence of a solid-state drive is a significant disadvantage. As a result, a 256GB or bigger SSD should be considered as an upgrade.

Finally, this streaming PC’s design may not appeal to many players. The futuristic appearance may either appeal to you or irritate you. Having said that, it’s great to have the option of a black case with red LEDs or a white case with blue LEDs.

To summarize, the SkyTech Archangel II Gaming Computer Desktop PC offers a lot to a new streamer. The onboard components, which include a powerful GPU and 16GB of RAM, should not disappoint most gamers. It’s worth noting that there’s no SSD and the design isn’t exactly subtle.

For less than $1000, you can have an all-in-one streaming PC with a GTX 1660 Ti GPU. Please sign us up! The Lenovo IdeaCentre T540 comes with a slew of high-end features. The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics card, a 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9400F processor, a 256GB SSD, and even 16GB of DDR4 RAM are all included in this low-cost streaming PC.

It also has a Windows 10 operating system, built-in wifi, and a variety of connectors, including USB Type-C. While there are no flashy RGB lights, Lenovo focused on high-end components and a more general, minimalist design instead.

At 60 frames per second and 1080p resolution, gaming and streaming should be no issue. The GTX 1660 Ti graphics card is ideal for GPU encoding and Virtual Reality applications.

The tiny SSD size is the sole drawback of this streaming setup. While SSDs are much quicker than HDDs, 256GB will be insufficient for most gamers. Other outstanding components, such as the GPU and CPU, greatly overcome the storage shortage.

To conclude, the Lenovo IdeaCentre T540 is a gimmick-free streaming PC with high-end internal components. Due to excellent visuals and a powerful hexa-core Intel processor, it performs well as an all-in-one system.

The CUK Continuum Micro Gamer PC provides great CPU encoding at a low price. A 6-core AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 4650G CPU, 16GB of 3200MHz RAM, a 256GB NVMe SSD, and integrated AMD Radeon graphics are among the highlights of the CUK Continuum Micro Gamer PC.

It also has a 500W power supply, built-in wifi, an LED mouse and keyboard combination, and RGB lighting that can be customized. A magnetic dust filter on top of the chassis is a great bonus.

The advantages and disadvantages of this low-cost streaming PC are quite obvious. The ultra-fast Ryzen 5 processor is the primary benefit. The CUK Continuum Micro Gamer PC’s CPU is what makes it such a great dedicated streaming choice.

When it comes to drawbacks, the GPU and lack of storage are the most significant. While the integrated GPUs and 256GB of SSD are insufficient for most games, you are gaming on a separate PC.

Furthermore, since this PC costs about $800, you may spend an additional $200 to update the graphics card on your gaming PC.

Finally, due to its excellent CPU encoding capabilities, the CUK Continuum Micro Gamer PC is one of the best-specialized streaming PCs.

While the integrated graphics and storage are inadequate, it is a reasonable trade-off, particularly given the CPU’s quality, the quantity of RAM, and the low price.

If you’re looking for a low-cost dual-PC configuration, the CUK AsRock DeskMini is the way to go! CUK AsRock DeskMini has an integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 graphics card, an AMD Ryzen 3 3200G processor, a 512GB NVMe SSD, and a generous 16GB of 3200MHz DDR4 RAM for around $600.

Also, this ultra-cheap streaming PC is built to last and has a pleasant appearance. The most startling feature is the ridiculously tiny form factor.

It has dimensions of 6.1 x 3.15 x 6.1 inches and weighs just 7 pounds. Having a small dedicated streaming PC may be extremely useful when it comes to streaming. While you may not have enough room in your room for two full-size gaming PCs, the CUK AsRock DeskMini should fit on your desk just fine.

However, since the processor is strong enough, you should utilize CPU encoding with this computer. Furthermore, even if you decide to update the GPU, the overall cost will likely be less than most prebuilt PCs.

In summary, the CUK AsRock DeskMini will perform well as a dedicated streaming PC. Because it’s so little, it won’t take up as much space in your streaming setup. Finally, the cheap cost is a major benefit, particularly considering the high cost of multiple PC configurations.

Finally, a dedicated streaming PC that is also an AIO may be of interest to you. You may obtain an all-in-one powerhouse instead of purchasing a new monitor and PC.

A 24′′ FHD IPS touchscreen display, a 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10400T CPU, 12GB of DDR4 RAM, a 256GB SSD, and an Intel HD Graphics 630 GPU are all included in the HP Pavilion All-in-One 24.

A great webcam, built-in wifi, Windows 10 OS, a USB Type-C connector, an HDMI connection, a USB extension cable, a mouse pad, and a keyboard and mouse combination are all included.

It’s one of the most costly PCs on the list, but it’s also one of the most feature-rich. There are many benefits to using a two-monitor streaming arrangement.

For starters, the HP Pavilion All-in-One 24 may be used for both broadcasting and viewing Twitch conversations. It also features an IPS display with broad viewing angles, which is a great addition.

Even though the integrated graphics aren’t bad, you’re unlikely to use this computer for gaming. The powerful 6-core processor, coupled with 12GB of RAM, should perform a fantastic job encoding your live broadcasts.

Overall, the HP Pavilion All-in-One 24 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dual-screen configuration. This dedicated streaming PC has a powerful CPU, lots of RAM, and great build quality.

Streaming PC Buying Guide

Prebuilt streaming PCs aren’t all made equal. Some manufacturers prioritize a powerful GPU, while others prioritize the most recent CPU.

There are three major factors to consider when choosing an all-in-one or a dedicated streaming PC:

  • Graphics card
  • Processor
  • Gaming memory

These will have the most impact on the quality of your stream.

Keep in mind that your visitors are unlikely to notice your bright RGB case. Even if they did, smooth, zero-lag graphics remain their primary goal.

Graphics Card

If you’re looking for an all-in-one streaming PC, the graphics card is the most essential component to consider.

The majority of popular games, such as Fortnite and League of Legends, rely heavily on graphics cards. As a result, a strong graphics card will help a lot.

Choose Nvidia’s NVENC encoder if you’re broadcasting using OBS or Streamlabs. You’ll be able to take some of the burdens of the processor this way.

Dedicated Streaming PC: While the GPU is still an important component, it is mainly significant for gaming computers.

When you use GPU encoding instead of CPU encoding, the quality of your stream will suffer.

Processor

All-in-One Streaming PC: In terms of significance, the processor is second only to the GPU.  Because you’ll most likely be using GPU encoding, a 4-core processor should be enough.

Moreover, the CPUs from Intel and AMD are almost identical. Intel CPUs, on the other hand, are more likely to come with more powerful graphics cards.

Dedicated Streaming PC: Your primary aim should be to get a fast multicore CPU.

Given the high cost of multiple PC configurations, opting for an AMD CPU will save you a lot of money.

The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 processor, for example, is a fantastic budget choice that yet enables you to stream at excellent resolutions.

Unless your CPU is weaker than your graphics card, use the x264 encoder if you’re using OBS or Streamlabs.

RAM

All-in-One Streaming PC: Aim for at least 16GB of RAM, since it is required for both gaming and streaming.

Bear in mind that RAM is among the most straightforward and inexpensive components to replace. As a result, concentrate first on future-proofing the GPU and CPU.

Dedicated Streaming PC: Because you’ll be dividing the load between two PCs, 8GB of RAM should be enough.

However, if you want to broadcast at the maximum resolution Twitch allows (1080p 60fps), you’ll need to upgrade your PC’s RAM to 16GB.

Capture Card

If you’re going to purchase a dedicated streaming PC, a good capture card should be on your list as well.

A capture card is a device that records and encodes everything on your screen, including your gameplay. A capture card links your gaming PC to your dedicated streaming PC in a dual PC configuration.

The maximum Twitch resolution is 1080p, so that’s all you need when looking for a capture card. Choose a card that supports the frame rate you want to broadcast at, whether it’s 30 or 60 frames per second.

One thing to keep in mind is that high-quality capture cards may be very costly. If you don’t have the funds for a capture card right now, you may always utilize free NDI software.

Be warned that there may be a delay and/or a loss of quality.

In conclusion:

  • Your primary focus should be on the graphics card and processor.
  • RAM and storage may be readily increased in the future if necessary.
  • Capture cards are getting more affordable, and if you utilize a dedicated streaming PC, they may improve your broadcasting quality to the next level.

Ending

You now have a thorough understanding of streaming PCs. As you can see, low-cost may also imply high-powered.

There’s a build for everyone, whether you want an all-in-one streaming setup or a specialized streaming PC.

When it comes to assessing the components of a cheap streaming PC, the GPU, CPU, and amount of RAM are the most important factors to consider.

Keep in mind that the more readily a computer can be upgraded, the more future-proof it will be.

Before you start streaming with your new PC, tell us why you decided to get into this growing business. Also, share this information with anyone who has sluggish streams or old PCs.

Here’s how to choose the best low-cost streaming PC

Dedicated Streaming PC vs. All-in-One Gaming/Streaming Rig

Before we start searching for your new streaming PC, you need to ask yourself one thing.

Should you choose an all-in-one computer or a dual-computer setup?

Both alternatives have advantages and disadvantages. The most important factors influencing your choice are your budget, existing PC configuration, and the kinds of games you want to play.

What Exactly Is an All-in-One Streaming Computer?

A streaming system based solely on a single computer is known as an all-in-one streaming PC.

In this manner, the game and streaming are both handled by the same PC components.

The majority of Twitch broadcasters use a single PC configuration, while the bulk of the best streamers split their workload across two systems.

Pros of a Single-PC Setup

Much less hassle

It’s possible to save a lot of money.

Upgrades are less difficult.

Cons of a Single-PC Setup

Possibly of worse quality.

Less dependable

As you can see, for new streamers, an all-in-one gaming setup makes a lot of sense. A single PC configuration is not only more simple, but it may also be much less expensive.

When it comes to updates, you only have to worry about one computer. An extra 8GB RAM stick, for example, will help with both streaming and gaming.

However, not every gaming PC will be strong enough to handle both jobs. Because gaming is mostly GPU-based, a single PC setup without a powerful graphics card may suffer from poor stream quality.

What Is a Dedicated Streaming PC?

A dedicated streaming PC is a two-computer configuration in which one computer runs the game while the other streams it.

Dual-PC setups are only feasible if you have a capture card or utilize software like NDI.

Dedicated PC Pro

Enhanced performance

more dependable

Future-proofing

Cons of a Dedicated PC

Setup is difficult.

It may be more costly.

Performance and dependability are the two main advantages of a specialized streaming PC.

With an extra CPU and GPU, the quality of your game will never deteriorate. Most significantly, your stream will not be affected if the PC that runs your game crashes.

Many top broadcasters use a dedicated streaming PC because of the dependability aspect. It takes time to resume a broadcast, and it may also cost you a lot of viewers.

The expense and the setup procedure are the two main drawbacks of a dual PC configuration.

You’d have to purchase two different gaming PCs if you just had a poor laptop, for example.

If your existing system is strong enough to handle most games, however, a dedicated PC for streaming may be just what you need.

When it comes to creating a dedicated streaming PC, you’ll need to link it to all of your other sources.

The microphone, camera, and broadcast deck should not be using the resources of your gaming PC.

In conclusion:

  • A single PC configuration makes sense if you’re on a tight budget or just don’t want to deal with the brother that comes with two PCs.
  • A dedicated streaming PC is your best option if you want the most polished viewing experience, particularly for more GPU-demanding games.