-
Introduction: Can You Really Game Under $100?
“Looking for the top 5 best gaming desktops under $ 100 in 2026 ? You are in the right place.”Let’s be honest. You will not get a brand new RTX gaming PC for $100 in 2026. But you CAN start gaming. The secret is refurbished business desktops. Companies like Dell, HP, and Lenovo sell their office PCs after 3-4 years for $70-$99. With their Intel i5 processor and 8GB RAM, they can easily handle Valorant, Fortnite, Roblox, Minecraft, CS:GO, and GTA V (low settings).
If your budget is strictly under $100, this is the smartest way to start.
What to Expect for Under $100?
Don’t expect 4K gaming. Expect:
– Processor: Intel Core i5 4th to 6th Gen
– RAM: 8GB DDR3/DDR4
– Storage: 256GB SSD (Much faster than HDD)
– Graphics: Intel HD 4600 / 530 Integrated (You can add a Low Profile GT 1030 later for $40)
Top 5 Best Gaming Desktops Under $100
1. Dell OptiPlex 7020 SFF – Best Overall ($89 on Amazon)*
This is the king of budget. With i5-4590 and 8GB RAM, it runs Valorant at 80+ FPS.
– Specs: i5-4590, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
– Pros: Very reliable, easy to upgrade, tons of parts available
– Cons: Big size
– Best For: Beginners who want to add a graphics card later.
2. HP EliteDesk 800 G2 Mini – Best Small Size ($95)
Looks like a WiFi router, but powerful. Perfect if you have small desk.
– Specs: i5-6500T, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
– Pros: Super small, quiet, power saving
– Cons: Cannot add big graphics card
– Best For: Students / Small room
3. Lenovo ThinkCentre M93p Tiny – Most Durable ($79)
Lenovo is famous for lasting long. This one is built like a tank.
– Specs: i5-4570T, 8GB RAM, 240GB SSD
– Pros: Cheapest, very durable
– Cons: Older ports
– Best For: Roblox, Minecraft, Browser Games
4. Dell OptiPlex 3040 Micro – Best for eSports ($85)
Newer than others, with Intel HD 530 which is better for gaming.
– Specs: i5-6500T, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
– Pros: Better integrated graphics
– Cons: Needs WiFi adapter
– Best For: Fortnite, Valorant
5. HP ProDesk 600 G2 SFF – Best Upgrade Path ($92)
If you plan to upgrade to 16GB RAM and a GT 1030 GPU later, buy this.
– Specs: i5-6500, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD (sometimes)
– Pros: Standard size, easy to open and upgrade
– Cons: Slightly noisy
– Best For: Future upgraders
Buying Guide: How to Choose?
1. Always take SSD, not HDD. Game loading will be 5x faster.
2. Take 8GB RAM minimum. 4GB will lag.
3. Check if WiFi is included. Many refurbished PCs don’t have WiFi. You will need a $10 USB WiFi adapter.
4. Want more FPS? Buy a Low Profile GT 1030 or RX 550 later.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
If you want the best value, buy the *Dell OptiPlex 7020*. If you want small size, buy *HP EliteDesk 800 G2 Mini*. Both will let you start gaming today under $100 and you can upgrade later.
FAQs
Q: Can I play GTA 6 on a $100 PC?
A: No, GTA 6 needs a much more powerful PC. But you can play GTA 5 smoothly.
Q: Are refurbished PCs safe?
A: Yes, if you buy from Amazon Renewed or certified sellers with 90-day warranty.