Gaming PC + monitor build: $2,000 budget

Hey guys,

Time to pull the trigger on a new rig. I'm looking for a hybrid setup—something for both gaming and Office work. It’s mainly for business stuff, but I definitely want enough kick to run the latest titles when I'm off the clock.

If anyone here has a spare minute to help me spec out an optimized build, I'll buy you a beer or a coffee.

I'll need a monitor recommendation too, whatever you think works best.

Looking for some solid advice so I don't end up overspending on overkill parts. Just want a reliable, well-balanced Reddit-tier build.

Thanks in advance. 😁

Look, you should probably drop the size and resolution you're actually aiming for. Just being honest—anything over 24" feels massive to me since my desk setup is pretty cramped and I'm sitting right in the screen's face. But hey, I know how some people roll; they're all about that "bigger is better" lifestyle and think even a 30" display isn't cutting it.

That’s not necessarily the case. For that budget, you could definitely pick up a 27" 1440p monitor. I know people who made the jump from 23-24" 1080p screens and felt like everything was "too small" at first due to the pixel density, but you get used to it quickly. It really all comes down to the resolution you choose.

Generally speaking, a $1,500 machine is overkill for Office work, and honestly, it might even be a bit much just for playing games in your downtime. Also, what’s your timeline for needing this PC? I ask because, just like I'd advise another user on Reddit (who is looking for a build around $1,500–$2,000 $0.00), I'd suggest waiting a bit if you can. Word is NVIDIA is about to drop a new generation of GPUs. You wouldn't want to drop your cash on a gtx 1080 or 1080ti right before a newer card hits the market that offers better performance, lower power draw, and fresher tech for the same price.

Honestly, 24" should cut it. Maybe 27" if you're feeling ambitious.

Peter Green said:Maybe let us know the size and resolution you're actually looking for. For me, anything over 24" is way too big since I sit pretty far back from my desk, but some people live by that "bigger is better" rule and think even a 30" isn't enough.

Timothy Kim60 said:Not necessarily. With that budget, he could easily grab a 27" 1440p monitor. I know people who jumped from 1080p 23-24" screens to that and felt like everything was "too small" at first because of the pixel density, but you get used to it. It really just comes down to the resolution.

Anyway, a $1,500 rig is overkill for Office work, and honestly might be overkill even for just gaming in your downtime. Also, what's your timeline? Asking because, just like someone else on Reddit looking for a $1,500-$2,000 $0.00 setup, I’d suggest waiting if you can. Word is NVIDIA is about to drop the next gen GPUs. Wouldn't want to drop cash on a gtx 1080 or 1080ti only to see something with better tech and lower power draw pop up for less money a few days later.

No huge rush, probably in the next month or two.

Look, your best bet is to check back in September. In the meantime, just keep a close eye on any announcements regarding new GPUs.