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As we enter 2026, building a gaming PC presents both challenges and opportunities. With a budget slightly exceeding $1900, assembling an upper-midrange gaming rig that performs well at 1440p is achievable. This guide aims to assist you in making informed decisions for your build, particularly in light of the current RAM shortages affecting pricing and availability.
Despite the obstacles posed by rising memory costs, this build is designed to provide a solid gaming experience for titles such as ARC Raiders, Elden Ring, and Battlefield 6. Each component will be detailed, with alternatives and upgrades considered to ensure your investment remains worthwhile.
Understanding the current market conditions
Building a new gaming PC today is no easy task. A significant factor influencing your choices is the inflated prices of RAM. Manufacturers have shifted much of their production to meet the growing demands from artificial intelligence (AI) companies, which has left traditional consumers at a disadvantage. As a result, memory prices have soared, complicating the search for affordable options.
In some cases, purchasing pre-built gaming systems under $2000 may prove more economical than assembling your own. System integrators (SIs) often have better access to components and can absorb price fluctuations more effectively than individual builders. However, it is important to recognize that these prices are also increasing.
Component selection for your gaming PC
For our PC build, we have selected components that balance performance, aesthetics, and cost. The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D serves as the foundation of this build, recognized for its strong gaming performance relative to newer models. While it may be available from third-party sellers, purchasing through reputable platforms like Newegg can mitigate risks.
Graphics processing unit (GPU)
The AMD Radeon RX 9070 stands out among graphics cards in 2026, priced between $536 and $550. Its performance rivals that of the more expensive NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti, making it an attractive option for gamers seeking high-quality visuals without overspending. Depending on the specific game, the RX 9070 and RTX 5070 often exhibit comparable performance, so your decision may hinge on current pricing trends.
Memory and storage considerations
Currently, the memory market is volatile, making it challenging to recommend specific DDR5 options. If you have existing RAM from a previous build, using that could help avoid steep prices. Otherwise, the lowest available kits are approximately $300 for a standard 32GB setup. In this uncertain market, opting for 16GB kits priced around $200 may also be a viable alternative.
For storage, the choice of a Silicon Power 2TB UD90 NVMe M.2 SSD effectively balances capacity and speed, making it suitable for most users. While speed is essential, it may not be necessary unless you have specific requirements.