While preparing an upgrade to my simulator, I compared several PC builds around the spring 2024 promotions. This video explains how I distribute a budget of roughly €600 to €1,000 across components. These are configuration ideas from the time of filming, together with my thinking about upgrade possibilities; I do not present measured simulation performance here.
Why consider the complete machine
My own equipment is evolving with a new processor and motherboard. During this research, I wanted to show that a simracing PC need not be limited to the most expensive configurations. The PC’s appeal also includes peripheral choice, available simulations and modifications for games such as Assetto Corsa.
I consider the coherence of the whole before prioritising one part. A graphics card needs the outputs for the intended screens; a motherboard needs enough USB ports for cockpit hardware. I also look for components that can be retained during a future upgrade, instead of considering each purchase separately. Prices already change between preparation and recording, so totals remain historical reference points.
The proposal around €800
The first build uses an Intel Core i5-12400F, Radeon RX 6650 XT and 16 GB of DDR4 in two sticks. In the selection shown, the graphics card has outputs that allow three screens to be considered. This prepares for a future installation without claiming that every game will run identically across triple screens.
I include a 750 W MSI power supply meeting ATX 3.0 and a motherboard with Wi-Fi and numerous USB ports. More recent connections form part of my reasoning about upgrading the machine. I also review memory and storage slots because those areas can be expanded.
Initial storage is a 500 GB NVMe SSD. A simple Thermalright air cooler and a case with fans complete the list. Case selection allows personal choice, but I point out that lighting adds cabling: this detail can matter to someone assembling a first computer.
What I add with a larger budget
Approaching €1,000, the video explores an RTX 4060, a 1 TB Samsung 980 Pro SSD and 32 GB of memory. These are separate spending areas: graphics, storage capacity and memory do not serve the same need. I also present an Arctic Liquid Freezer II 280 liquid cooler, particularly with a later processor upgrade in mind.
These options are not all essential for starting out. My aim is to show where additional money goes and which components someone might want to retain longer. The video announces a future step-by-step build; it does not yet replace that assembly guide.
Reducing the budget towards €700 and €600
The intermediate proposal retains the Intel machine’s main components but reduces motherboard and power-supply costs. I present it as a way to prioritise immediate needs with less investment in features anticipated for an upgrade.
The least expensive selection moves to a Ryzen 5 3600 and retains the RX 6650 XT, DDR4 and a small-capacity SSD. The case becomes simpler and more compact. I consider its supplied fans and the option to add one at the rear. Even at this budget, the case, power supply and cooling belong in the total being compared.
What to retain from this selection
This video mainly provides a method: count every component, check the connections needed by the cockpit and identify what should be upgradeable. The promotions and references shown belong to March 2024. No frame-rate measurements validate a specific game, resolution or triple-screen setup here; these builds remain explained proposals rather than a benchmark test.
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