Buying Guide
The Best $500 Gaming PCs
Five mini gaming PCs near $500 with integrated graphics, from Radeon 760M to Radeon 680M, each with its CPU, graphics, memory and storage named.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
No listing we found under $500 pairs a tower with a separate graphics card and names every part, so every pick here is a mini PC that games on Radeon integrated graphics. At $500, the stronger Radeon chips and 1TB SSDs start to appear.
Our comparison uses what each seller states, not hands-on testing. Listings without a named CPU, a GPU with its VRAM, a RAM figure or an SSD size were dropped, as were renewed units and outlier prices.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
GMKtec M6 Ultra Pick
GMKtec M6 Ultra (Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M)
The GMKtec M6 Ultra configuration's parts.
Best for: Light and older games at modest settings.
Our take Check price for GMKtec M6 Ultra (Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M) (opens in a new tab)
BOSGAME P3 Pick
BOSGAME P3 (Ryzen 9 6900HX, Radeon 680M)
The BOSGAME P3 configuration's parts.
Best for: Light and older games at modest settings.
Our take Check price for BOSGAME P3 (Ryzen 9 6900HX, Radeon 680M) (opens in a new tab)
UM690L Slim Pick
MINISFORUM UM690L Slim (Ryzen 9 6900HX, Radeon 680M)
The UM690L Slim configuration's parts.
Best for: Light and older games at modest settings.
Our take Check price for MINISFORUM UM690L Slim (Ryzen 9 6900HX, Radeon 680M) (opens in a new tab)
Trycoo 1TB Pick
Trycoo Mini PC (Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M, 1TB)
The Trycoo 1TB configuration's parts.
Best for: Light and older games at modest settings.
Our take Check price for Trycoo Mini PC (Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M, 1TB) (opens in a new tab)
Most Memory
BOSGAME P6 Neo (Ryzen 7 6800H, Radeon 680M)
24GB of RAM.
Best for: Gaming alongside streaming, browsers or editing.
Our take Check price for BOSGAME P6 Neo (Ryzen 7 6800H, Radeon 680M) (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
GMKtec M6 Ultra Pick1 of 5
GMKtec M6 Ultra (Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The GMKtec M6 Ultra build pairs a Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M integrated graphics, 16GB of DDR5-4800 and a 1TB SSD.
Best for
- Light and older games at modest settings.
Skip if
- Worth skipping when 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editin is a problem.
Why we like it
There is no separate graphics card, so plan on lighter games and esports titles at modest settings. It matches the BOSGAME P3, the UM690L Slim and the Trycoo 1TB on memory (16GB). Like the Trycoo 1TB, it has a radeon 760M (integrated) graphics card, while the BOSGAME P3 uses a radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card.
Like the Trycoo 1TB, it has a ryzen 5 7640HS processor, while the UM690L Slim uses a ryzen 9 6900HX processor. No other pick in this guide offers a DDR5-4800 memory type; compare the Trycoo 1TB, which has a DDR5-5600 memory type. Check the GMKtec M6 Ultra's ports against your monitor: most graphics cards use DisplayPort and HDMI, so match the cable to the refresh rate you want.
The GMKtec M6 Ultra's PSU wattage isn't published, so ask the seller before planning a GPU upgrade. It was the most expensive pick when we checked, so weigh what it adds over the BOSGAME P3.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: Radeon 760M (integrated)
- Processor: Ryzen 5 7640HS
- Memory: 16GB
- Memory type: DDR5-4800
- SSD: 1TB
Pros
- A Radeon 760M (integrated) graphics card
- 1TB SSD at about $500
- 16GB of DDR5-4800 memory
- SSD capacity of 1TB, ahead of the BOSGAME P3
Cons
- 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing
- Costs more than the BOSGAME P6 Neo at the time of writing
BOSGAME P3 Pick2 of 5
BOSGAME P3 (Ryzen 9 6900HX, Radeon 680M) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Inside the BOSGAME P3 are a Ryzen 9 6900HX and Radeon 680M integrated graphics, backed by 16GB of DDR5 and 512GB of SSD storage.
Best for
- Light and older games at modest settings.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing.
Why we like it
There is no separate graphics card, so plan on lighter games and esports titles at modest settings. It matches the GMKtec M6 Ultra, the UM690L Slim and the Trycoo 1TB on memory (16GB). It matches the UM690L Slim and the BOSGAME P6 Neo on SSD capacity (512GB).
Like the UM690L Slim and BOSGAME P6 Neo, it has a radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card, while the GMKtec M6 Ultra uses a radeon 760M (integrated) graphics card. Like the UM690L Slim, it has a ryzen 9 6900HX processor, while the GMKtec M6 Ultra uses a ryzen 5 7640HS processor. No other pick in this guide offers a DDR5 memory type; compare the Trycoo 1TB, which has a DDR5-5600 memory type.
Check the BOSGAME P3's ports against your monitor: most graphics cards use DisplayPort and HDMI, so match the cable to the refresh rate you want. Its price falls between the UM690L Slim and the GMKtec M6 Ultra, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: Radeon 680M (integrated)
- Processor: Ryzen 9 6900HX
- Memory: 16GB
- Memory type: DDR5
- SSD: 512GB
Pros
- A Radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card
- Ryzen 9 6900HX with dual-channel DDR5
- 16GB of DDR5 memory in a mini PC
- DDR5 memory type, the only one here
Cons
- 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing
- A 512GB SSD fills quickly with modern games
- Costs more than the BOSGAME P6 Neo at the time of writing
UM690L Slim Pick3 of 5
MINISFORUM UM690L Slim (Ryzen 9 6900HX, Radeon 680M) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The UM690L Slim build pairs a Ryzen 9 6900HX, Radeon 680M integrated graphics, 16GB of LPDDR5 and a 512GB SSD.
Best for
- Light and older games at modest settings.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing.
Why we like it
It also comes with a slim chassis with USB4. There is no separate graphics card, so plan on lighter games and esports titles at modest settings. It matches the GMKtec M6 Ultra, the BOSGAME P3 and the Trycoo 1TB on memory (16GB).
It matches the BOSGAME P3 and the BOSGAME P6 Neo on SSD capacity (512GB). Like the BOSGAME P3 and BOSGAME P6 Neo, it has a radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card, while the GMKtec M6 Ultra uses a radeon 760M (integrated) graphics card. Like the BOSGAME P3, it has a ryzen 9 6900HX processor, while the GMKtec M6 Ultra uses a ryzen 5 7640HS processor.
It is the only pick here with an LPDDR5 memory type; the GMKtec M6 Ultra has a DDR5-4800 memory type instead. On price it sat third of 5, between the cheaper Trycoo 1TB and the pricier BOSGAME P3, at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: Radeon 680M (integrated)
- Processor: Ryzen 9 6900HX
- Memory: 16GB
- Memory type: LPDDR5
- SSD: 512GB
Pros
- A Radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card
- Slim chassis with USB4
- 16GB of LPDDR5 memory
- LPDDR5 memory type, the only one here
Cons
- 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing
- A 512GB SSD fills quickly with modern games
- Costs more than the BOSGAME P6 Neo at the time of writing
Trycoo 1TB Pick4 of 5
Trycoo Mini PC (Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M, 1TB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The Trycoo 1TB build pairs a Ryzen 5 7640HS, Radeon 760M integrated graphics, 16GB of DDR5-5600 and a 1TB SSD.
Best for
- Light and older games at modest settings.
Skip if
- Look at the others if this bothers you: 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing.
Why we like it
It also comes with a 1TB SSD with room to expand. There is no separate graphics card, so plan on lighter games and esports titles at modest settings. On memory it ties with the GMKtec M6 Ultra, the BOSGAME P3 and the UM690L Slim at 16GB.
On SSD capacity it ties with the GMKtec M6 Ultra at 1TB. It shares a radeon 760M (integrated) graphics card with the GMKtec M6 Ultra; the BOSGAME P3 goes with a radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card. It shares a ryzen 5 7640HS processor with the GMKtec M6 Ultra; the BOSGAME P6 Neo goes with a ryzen 7 6800H processor.
You get a DDR5-5600 memory type here, which sets it apart from the BOSGAME P6 Neo and its an LPDDR5X memory type. When we checked, only the BOSGAME P6 Neo cost less, and the UM690L Slim cost more. Memory is its weakest area, and the BOSGAME P6 Neo covers it better at 24GB.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: Radeon 760M (integrated)
- Processor: Ryzen 5 7640HS
- Memory: 16GB
- Memory type: DDR5-5600
- SSD: 1TB
Pros
- A Radeon 760M (integrated) graphics card
- 1TB SSD with room to expand
- 16GB of DDR5-5600 memory
- SSD capacity of 1TB, ahead of the BOSGAME P3
Cons
- 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing
- Memory trails the BOSGAME P6 Neo (24GB)
- Costs more than the BOSGAME P6 Neo at the time of writing
Most Memory5 of 5
BOSGAME P6 Neo (Ryzen 7 6800H, Radeon 680M) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Inside the BOSGAME P6 Neo are a Ryzen 7 6800H and Radeon 680M integrated graphics, backed by 24GB of LPDDR5X and 512GB of SSD storage.
Best for
- Gaming alongside streaming, browsers or editing.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: a 512GB SSD fills quickly with modern games.
Why we like it
There is no separate graphics card, so plan on lighter games and esports titles at modest settings. On memory it leads this guide at 24GB, ahead of the GMKtec M6 Ultra (16GB). On SSD capacity it ties with the BOSGAME P3 and the UM690L Slim at 512GB.
It shares a radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card with the BOSGAME P3 and UM690L Slim; the Trycoo 1TB goes with a radeon 760M (integrated) graphics card. A ryzen 7 6800H processor is unique to it among these picks, while the BOSGAME P3 uses a ryzen 9 6900HX processor. You get an LPDDR5X memory type here, which sets it apart from the Trycoo 1TB and its a DDR5-5600 memory type.
No other pick here cost less at our last price check, and the Trycoo 1TB was closest. SSD capacity is its weakest area, and the GMKtec M6 Ultra covers it better at 1TB.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: Radeon 680M (integrated)
- Processor: Ryzen 7 6800H
- Memory: 24GB
- Memory type: LPDDR5X
- SSD: 512GB
- Warranty: 1 year unit
Pros
- A Radeon 680M (integrated) graphics card
- 24GB of LPDDR5X memory
- Most memory of the picks (24GB)
- Ryzen 7 6800H processor, the only one here
Cons
- A 512GB SSD fills quickly with modern games
- SSD capacity trails the GMKtec M6 Ultra (1TB)
How We Chose These $500 Gaming PCs
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Price and warranty
- We compared prices at the time of writing and the warranty terms each listing states.
- Balance
- We compared how the CPU, memory and storage match the graphics card's class.
- Power and upgrades
- We recorded PSU wattage and rating where listed, which decides later GPU upgrades.
- Stated parts
- We included only listings that name the CPU, the GPU with its VRAM, the RAM and the SSD capacity.
What to Look for in a $500 Gaming PC
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Check memory and storage
16GB of RAM runs games; 32GB leaves room for streaming, browsers and editing. A 1TB SSD holds a handful of large games, so plan for a second drive if you keep a big library.
Read the warranty terms
Prebuilt warranties vary from one year of parts and labor to three years. Check who handles repairs and whether shipping is covered.
Start with the graphics card
The GPU decides gaming performance more than any other part. Match it to your monitor: an RTX 5060 class card suits 1080p, an RTX 5070 suits 1440p, and 4K high-refresh play needs an RTX 5080 or above.
Check the VRAM figure too; 8GB cards can need lower texture settings in newer games.
Look for a named power supply
A listing that states wattage and an 80 Plus rating is easier to trust and to upgrade later. When a listing is silent, ask before buying.
Trust specific listings
Prefer listings that name every part: CPU model, GPU model and VRAM, RAM, SSD and PSU. Vague terms like "Core i7" or "brand may vary" leave room for weaker parts.
Pair a sensible processor
A current six- or eight-core CPU is enough for most games. X3D chips with extra cache help at high frame rates, while older or unnamed CPUs are a warning sign in a listing.
How to Choose a $500 Gaming PC
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Light and older games at modest settings | GMKtec M6 Ultra | The GMKtec M6 Ultra configuration's parts |
| Light and older games at modest settings | BOSGAME P3 | The BOSGAME P3 configuration's parts |
| Light and older games at modest settings | UM690L Slim | The UM690L Slim configuration's parts |
| Light and older games at modest settings | Trycoo 1TB | The Trycoo 1TB configuration's parts |
| Gaming alongside streaming, browsers or editing | BOSGAME P6 Neo | 24GB of RAM |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Prebuilt PC | Graphics card | Processor | Memory | Memory type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GMKtec M6 Ultra | Radeon 760M (integrated) | Ryzen 5 7640HS | 16GB | DDR5-4800 |
| BOSGAME P3 | Radeon 680M (integrated) | Ryzen 9 6900HX | 16GB | DDR5 |
| UM690L Slim | Radeon 680M (integrated) | Ryzen 9 6900HX | 16GB | LPDDR5 |
| Trycoo 1TB | Radeon 760M (integrated) | Ryzen 5 7640HS | 16GB | DDR5-5600 |
| BOSGAME P6 Neo | Radeon 680M (integrated) | Ryzen 7 6800H | 24GB | LPDDR5X |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a prebuilt cheaper than building a PC?
Sometimes. Prebuilts include Windows, assembly and a system warranty; building yourself can cost less but you handle part choices and support.
What does "brand may vary" mean in a listing?
The builder may ship an equivalent part from a different maker. The model and capacity should match; ask the seller if it matters to you.
Can I upgrade a prebuilt later?
Usually. Check the power supply wattage and connectors, the case's GPU clearance and free RAM slots before buying a part.
How much VRAM do I need?
8GB works at 1080p with some texture compromises in newer games; 12GB to 16GB is more comfortable at 1440p and 4K.
Is 16GB of RAM enough for gaming?
For most games, yes. 32GB helps when you stream, keep many browser tabs open or edit video alongside gaming.
Do prebuilt PCs come with extra software?
Some do. Check the product page for trial software, and remove what you do not need after setup.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the GMKtec M6 Ultra, chosen for the GMKtec M6 Ultra configuration's parts. Look at the BOSGAME P3 for the BOSGAME P3 configuration's parts, the UM690L Slim for the UM690L Slim configuration's parts, the Trycoo 1TB for the Trycoo 1TB configuration's parts and the BOSGAME P6 Neo for 24GB of RAM if those matter more to you.
Integrated graphics suit esports and older games; a separate graphics card starts near $700 at the time of writing.