Buying Guide

The Best Gaming PC for Streaming

Five gaming PCs compared, from the SKYESEV 5600 to the Element Black, with the trade-offs of each named.

By The PC Journal editorial team

12 min read5 products evaluated

NVIDIA RTX cards include a hardware encoder that streaming apps can use, which frees the CPU. Every pick has an RTX card and 32GB or more of RAM.

Our comparison rests on published figures for graphics card, VRAM and processor; where a maker leaves out memory type, we say so, and no figure here comes from our own testing.

Quick Picks

Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.

  1. Lowest Price Here

    SKYESEV Prebuilt Gaming PC (Ryzen 5 5600, RTX 3050 6GB, 32GB)

    The lowest price among these gaming PCs at the time of writing.

    Best for: Getting 32GB of DDR4 under $1,000 at the time of writing for the least money.

    Our take Check price for SKYESEV Prebuilt Gaming PC (Ryzen 5 5600, RTX 3050 6GB, 32GB) (opens in a new tab)

  2. Also Consider

    Skytech Gaming PC (Ryzen 7 5700, RTX 5060, 32GB)

    32GB of RAM at an RTX 5060 price.

    Best for: Buyers who want 32GB of RAM at an RTX 5060 price.

    Our take Check price for Skytech Gaming PC (Ryzen 7 5700, RTX 5060, 32GB) (opens in a new tab)

  3. Strong Alternative

    STORMCRAFT Sirius (Core i7-14700F, RTX 5060 Ti 8GB)

    A 650W Gold PSU and 32GB of RGB DDR4.

    Best for: Buyers who want 650W Gold PSU and 32GB of RGB DDR4.

    Our take Check price for STORMCRAFT Sirius (Core i7-14700F, RTX 5060 Ti 8GB) (opens in a new tab)

  4. Largest SSD Capacity

    CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR (Core Ultra 5 225F, RTX 5060 8GB)

    The largest SSD capacity here (2TB).

    Best for: Buyers who put SSD capacity first.

    Our take Check price for CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR (Core Ultra 5 225F, RTX 5060 8GB) (opens in a new tab)

  5. Premium Pick

    iBUYPOWER Element Black (Ryzen 7 8700F, RTX 5060 8GB)

    The highest-priced pick here at the time of writing, with 32GB of DDR5 RGB memory.

    Best for: Buyers who want the most complete package.

    Our take Check price for iBUYPOWER Element Black (Ryzen 7 8700F, RTX 5060 8GB) (opens in a new tab)

Our Picks

SKYESEV Prebuilt Gaming PC (Ryzen 5 5600, RTX 3050 6GB, 32GB)

Lowest Price Here1 of 5

SKYESEV Prebuilt Gaming PC (Ryzen 5 5600, RTX 3050 6GB, 32GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

SKYESEV 5600 pairs a Ryzen 5 5600 with an RTX 3050 with 6GB of VRAM, plus 32GB of DDR4-3200 and a 1TB SSD.

Best for

Getting 32GB of DDR4 under $1,000 at the time of writing for the least money.

Skip if

Worth skipping when 6GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440 is a problem.

Why we like it

It also comes with 32GB of DDR4 under $1,000 at the time of writing. Its PSU wattage isn't published, so ask the seller before a GPU upgrade. Its 6GB VRAM is the least in this group; the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB leads at 8GB.

It matches the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB, the Sirius i7 and the Element Black on SSD capacity (1TB). It is the only pick here with an RTX 3050 graphics card; the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB has an RTX 5060 graphics card instead. It is the only pick here with a ryzen 5 5600 processor; the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB has a ryzen 7 5700 processor instead.

Like the Sirius i7, it has a DDR4-3200 memory type, while the Gamer Xtreme 225F uses a DDR5 memory type. It was the cheapest of the group when we checked; the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB was the next step up.

Key dimensions & specs

  • Graphics card: RTX 3050
  • VRAM: 6GB
  • Processor: Ryzen 5 5600
  • Memory: 32GB
  • Memory type: DDR4-3200
  • SSD: 1TB

Pros

  • A RTX 3050 graphics card
  • 32GB of RAM
  • 32GB of DDR4 under $1,000 at the time of writing
  • Ryzen 5 5600 processor, the only one here

Cons

  • 6GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
  • VRAM trails the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB (8GB)
Skytech Gaming PC (Ryzen 7 5700, RTX 5060, 32GB)

Also Consider2 of 5

Skytech Gaming PC (Ryzen 7 5700, RTX 5060, 32GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Skytech's Ryzen 7 5700 build doubles the usual memory to 32GB alongside an RTX 5060.

Best for

Buyers who want 32GB of RAM at an RTX 5060 price.

Skip if

Worth skipping when 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440 is a problem.

Why we like it

That extra RAM helps when a game shares the PC with a stream or browser. It ships in a triple-glass case with an ARGB air cooler, and the parts and labour warranty runs for a year. On VRAM it ties with the Sirius i7, the Gamer Xtreme 225F and the Element Black at 8GB.

On SSD capacity it ties with the SKYESEV 5600, the Sirius i7 and the Element Black at 1TB. It shares an RTX 5060 graphics card with the Gamer Xtreme 225F and Element Black; the Sirius i7 goes with an RTX 5060 Ti graphics card. A ryzen 7 5700 processor is unique to it among these picks, while the Sirius i7 uses a core i7-14700F processor. When we checked, only the SKYESEV 5600 cost less, and the Sirius i7 cost more.

Key dimensions & specs

  • Graphics card: RTX 5060
  • VRAM: 8GB
  • Processor: Ryzen 7 5700
  • Memory: 32GB
  • SSD: 1TB
  • Warranty: 1 year parts and labor

Pros

  • A RTX 5060 graphics card
  • 32GB of RAM
  • 32GB of RAM at an RTX 5060 price
  • VRAM of 8GB, ahead of the SKYESEV 5600

Cons

  • 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
  • Costs more than the SKYESEV 5600 at the time of writing
STORMCRAFT Sirius (Core i7-14700F, RTX 5060 Ti 8GB)

Strong Alternative3 of 5

STORMCRAFT Sirius (Core i7-14700F, RTX 5060 Ti 8GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Sirius i7 pairs a Core i7-14700F with an RTX 5060 Ti with 8GB of VRAM, plus 32GB of DDR4-3200 and a 1TB SSD.

Best for

Buyers who want 650W Gold PSU and 32GB of RGB DDR4.

Skip if

Pass on it if 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440 rules it out for your setup.

Why we like it

It also comes with a 650W Gold PSU and 32GB of RGB DDR4. It matches the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB, the Gamer Xtreme 225F and the Element Black on VRAM (8GB). It is the only pick here with an RTX 5060 Ti graphics card; the SKYESEV 5600 has an RTX 3050 graphics card instead.

It is the only pick here with a core i7-14700F processor; the SKYESEV 5600 has a ryzen 5 5600 processor instead. Like the SKYESEV 5600, it has a DDR4-3200 memory type, while the Gamer Xtreme 225F uses a DDR5 memory type. Check the Sirius i7's ports against your monitor: most graphics cards use DisplayPort and HDMI, so match the cable to the refresh rate you want.

The 650W power supply is the stated figure; check its connectors before a later GPU upgrade. Its price falls between the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB and the Gamer Xtreme 225F, based on our last check.

Key dimensions & specs

  • Graphics card: RTX 5060 Ti
  • VRAM: 8GB
  • Processor: Core i7-14700F
  • Memory: 32GB
  • Memory type: DDR4-3200
  • SSD: 1TB
  • Power supply: 650W
  • PSU rating: 80 Plus Gold

Pros

  • A RTX 5060 Ti graphics card
  • 32GB of RAM
  • A 650W power supply
  • An 80 Plus Gold power supply

Cons

  • 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
  • Costs more than the SKYESEV 5600 at the time of writing
CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR (Core Ultra 5 225F, RTX 5060 8GB)

Largest SSD Capacity4 of 5

CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR (Core Ultra 5 225F, RTX 5060 8GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Inside the Gamer Xtreme 225F are a Core Ultra 5 225F and an RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM, backed by 32GB of DDR5 and 2TB of SSD storage.

Best for

Buyers who put SSD capacity first.

Skip if

Choose another pick if you can't accept this: 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p.

Why we like it

Its PSU wattage isn't published, so ask the seller before a GPU upgrade. On VRAM it ties with the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB, the Sirius i7 and the Element Black at 8GB. On SSD capacity it leads this guide at 2TB, ahead of the SKYESEV 5600 (1TB).

A core Ultra 5 225F processor is unique to it among these picks, while the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB uses a ryzen 7 5700 processor. You get a DDR5 memory type here, which sets it apart from the SKYESEV 5600 and its a DDR4-3200 memory type. Check the Gamer Xtreme 225F's ports against your monitor: most graphics cards use DisplayPort and HDMI, so match the cable to the refresh rate you want.

At 8GB of VRAM, 1080p is the comfortable target for new games. When we checked, only the Sirius i7 and cheaper picks cost less, and the Element Black cost more.

Key dimensions & specs

  • Graphics card: RTX 5060
  • VRAM: 8GB
  • Processor: Core Ultra 5 225F
  • Memory: 32GB
  • Memory type: DDR5
  • SSD: 2TB

Pros

  • A RTX 5060 graphics card
  • 32GB of RAM
  • A 2TB SSD
  • 32GB of DDR5 and a 2TB SSD with an RTX 5060

Cons

  • 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
  • Costs more than the SKYESEV 5600 at the time of writing
iBUYPOWER Element Black (Ryzen 7 8700F, RTX 5060 8GB)

Premium Pick5 of 5

iBUYPOWER Element Black (Ryzen 7 8700F, RTX 5060 8GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

iBUYPOWER's Element Black pairs a Ryzen 7 8700F with an RTX 5060 and 32GB of DDR5-5200.

Best for

Buyers who want the most complete package.

Skip if

Pass on it if 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440 rules it out for your setup.

Why we like it

It has the most memory of the RTX 5060 systems here, tied with Skytech's 32GB build. On VRAM it ties with the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB, the Sirius i7 and the Gamer Xtreme 225F at 8GB. A ryzen 7 8700F processor is unique to it among these picks, while the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB uses a ryzen 7 5700 processor.

You get a DDR5-5200 memory type here, which sets it apart from the Sirius i7 and its a DDR4-3200 memory type. Check the Element Black's ports against your monitor: most graphics cards use DisplayPort and HDMI, so match the cable to the refresh rate you want. The Element Black's PSU wattage isn't published, so ask the seller before planning a GPU upgrade.

At our last price check it topped the group, with the Gamer Xtreme 225F the nearest cheaper option. Memory is its weakest area, and the SKYESEV 5600 covers it better at 32GB.

Key dimensions & specs

  • Graphics card: RTX 5060
  • VRAM: 8GB
  • Processor: Ryzen 7 8700F
  • Memory: 32GB
  • Memory type: DDR5-5200
  • SSD: 1TB

Pros

  • A RTX 5060 graphics card
  • 32GB of RAM
  • 32GB of DDR5 RGB memory
  • VRAM of 8GB, ahead of the SKYESEV 5600

Cons

  • 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
  • SSD capacity trails the Gamer Xtreme 225F (2TB)
  • Costs more than the SKYESEV 5600 at the time of writing

How We Chose

Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.

Power and upgrades
We recorded PSU wattage and rating where listed, which decides later GPU upgrades.
Price and warranty
We compared prices at the time of writing and the warranty terms each listing states.
Stated parts
We included only listings that name the CPU, the GPU with its VRAM, the RAM and the SSD capacity.
Balance
We compared how the CPU, memory and storage match the graphics card's class.

What to Look for in a Gaming PC for Streaming

Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.

  1. How much SSD capacity you need

    Among these picks, SSD capacity runs from 1TB on the Element Black to 2TB on the Gamer Xtreme 225F. Pick the lowest figure that covers your use; the extra usually costs more than it returns.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

How to Choose a Gaming PC for Streaming

By priority

PriorityConsiderWhy
Getting 32GB of DDR4 under $1,000 at the time of writing for the least moneySKYESEV 5600The lowest price among these gaming PCs at the time of writing
Buyers who want 32GB of RAM at an RTX 5060 priceSkytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB32GB of RAM at an RTX 5060 price
Buyers who want 650W Gold PSU and 32GB of RGB DDR4Sirius i7A 650W Gold PSU and 32GB of RGB DDR4
Buyers who put SSD capacity firstGamer Xtreme 225FThe largest SSD capacity here (2TB)
Buyers who want the most complete packageElement BlackThe highest-priced pick here at the time of writing, with 32GB of DDR5 RGB memory

Scroll sideways to see every column.

Key specs side by side

Figures as each maker states them.

Prebuilt PCGraphics cardVRAMProcessorMemory
SKYESEV 5600RTX 30506GBRyzen 5 560032GB
Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GBRTX 50608GBRyzen 7 570032GB
Sirius i7RTX 5060 Ti8GBCore i7-14700F32GB
Gamer Xtreme 225FRTX 50608GBCore Ultra 5 225F32GB
Element BlackRTX 50608GBRyzen 7 8700F32GB

Scroll sideways to see every column.

By price at the time of writing

Prices change often; these tiers reflect Amazon prices when this guide was updated.

Price tierPrebuilt PCs
About $500 to $1000SKYESEV 5600
About $1000 to $1500Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB, Sirius i7
Over $1500Gamer Xtreme 225F, Element Black

Frequently Asked Questions

How do these gaming PCs compare on VRAM?

The Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB leads at 8GB, ahead of the Sirius i7 at 8GB; the SKYESEV 5600 sits at the other end with 6GB.

Which is the cheapest pick in this guide?

At our last price check the SKYESEV 5600 was the cheapest pick and the Element Black the most expensive; the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB was the next step up from the SKYESEV 5600.

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.

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.

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 SKYESEV 5600, chosen for the lowest price among these gaming PCs at the time of writing. Look at the Skytech 5700 RTX 5060 32GB for 32GB of RAM at an RTX 5060 price, the Sirius i7 for a 650W Gold PSU and 32GB of RGB DDR4 and the Gamer Xtreme 225F for the largest SSD capacity here (2TB) if those matter more to you.

Select the NVENC encoder in OBS to use the graphics card for encoding.