PC Buyers Guide for Sim Racing (All Budgets in 2024)

When discussing sim racing gear, most conversations typically focus on wheels, wheelbases, and pedals. However, the computer that powers all these components is just as crucial. Without it, you simply can't run any sim racing software. In this post, I'll guide you through the essentials of sim racing PCs to help you choose the best setup for your budget.

Also, keep in mind that daily deals on sim racing and PC parts can be found on SimSpots.com and a video-version of this guide can be found in the video below!

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Understanding the Basics

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Sim racing, much like traditional PC gaming, requires specific hardware components. Key differences, however, lie in the CPU requirements. Simulation games such as Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC) and BeamNG.drive demand more from the CPU than the average game. For a typical sim racing setup, the processor and graphics card are paramount. You’ll also need a motherboard, RAM, storage, a power supply, and a case. Generally, 16 GB of RAM suffices for most sim racing titles, though upgrading to 32 GB is beneficial if you plan to create content or stream. The choice of other components largely depends on your budget.

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Budget Builds: Starting at $500

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At this entry-level price, you're looking at the lower end of gaming computers. Despite budget constraints, you can still enjoy a solid gaming experience. For the processor, I recommend Intel's i3 12100f, a competitively priced option offering good performance for the money. Pair this with a MSI PRO B760M-P motherboard, or a similar B760 or B660 board, which can be found for around $100. These boards deliver all the necessities without bottlenecking your system.

For RAM, DDR4 remains a cost-effective choice. A 16 GB kit costs about $40 and offers sufficient speed for budget builds. Storage-wise, opt for an SSD; a 1 TB PCIe 3rd gen model offers fast load times for around $50. Don’t skimp on the power supply—look for a reliable 550 or 650-watt unit, which will cost between $60 and $80 but is crucial to protect your investment. For the case, you can use any basic model that supports ATX or M-ATX motherboards, with ample mounting for fans, costing around $50.

The graphics card is the trickiest part due to fluctuating prices and availability. Consider a used RTX 2060 or RX 5600 XT, or possibly a new RTX 3050 if you find a good deal. This component will largely dictate the final cost of your build.

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Mid-Range Builds: Up to $1000

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With a slightly higher budget, you can significantly enhance your rig's performance and aesthetics. An Intel Core i5 14400f is a great mid-range CPU that delivers excellent performance for its price. Pair it with a B760 motherboard of your choice, like the Gigabyte B760 Gaming X DDR4, which supports DDR4 RAM and offers a robust platform for gaming.

Consider a 2 TB SSD for games like Assetto Corsa, which benefit from large storage for mod folders. Brands like WD offer fast SSDs with ample storage at reasonable prices. For cases, you can find attractive options from Corsair, Lian Li, and Fractal Design for $80-$90. Again, don’t economize on the power supply; a good 650 or 750-watt model is advisable. For graphics, the RTX 4060 Ti offers a good balance of price and performance, fitting nicely into this budget range. If you can stretch your budget, the RX 7700XT provides an extra performance boost.

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High-End Builds: Around $2000

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At this level, you can build a top-tier PC that meets all your sim racing needs. For the graphics card, the RX 7900 XT is a powerhouse, suitable for intense applications like triple-monitor setups at 4K resolution. The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D, with its 3D Cache technology, maximizes gaming performance, potentially outperforming many other CPUs in FPS metrics. This CPU can be cooled effectively with a high-quality air cooler like the DeepCool AG620, though an AIO water cooling system is also an option.

Opt for a B650 motherboard, which offers additional luxury features like extra M.2 slots and superior audio chips. Although more expensive, these boards are justified within this budget. DDR5 RAM is recommended here, with 32 GB kits being optimal, though 16 GB remains sufficient. For the case and storage, similar recommendations as the mid-range build apply, though you might consider investing more in aesthetics and additional space.

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In summary, building a sim racing PC requires careful consideration of your budget and needs. Whether you're assembling a budget-friendly setup or a high-end machine, choosing the right components ensures an optimal gaming experience. For ongoing deals on sim racing hardware, check out Simspots.com—a fantastic resource for discounts on sim racing gear and PC peripherals.