The world of gaming has evolved significantly over the years, with advancements in technology leading to faster, more powerful, and more affordable gaming systems. For those looking to dive into the world of PC gaming without breaking the bank, finding the right machine can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s essential to do your research and find a system that meets your gaming needs without exceeding your budget. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, a good gaming PC can make all the difference in your gaming experience.
If you’re in the market for a new gaming PC and have a budget of $500, you’re in luck. There are many excellent options available that can provide a great gaming experience without putting a dent in your wallet. Finding the best gaming pcs for $500 can be a challenge, but with the right guidance, you can make an informed decision and find a system that meets your needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top gaming PCs available in this price range, discussing their features, performance, and value for money. We’ll also provide a buying guide to help you make the most of your purchase and get the best possible gaming experience for your budget.
Before moving on to our review of the best gaming pcs for $500, let’s first take a look at some related products available on Amazon:
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Introduction to Budget Gaming PCs
When it comes to building or purchasing a gaming PC, the cost can quickly add up. However, with a budget of $500, gamers can still find a capable machine that can handle popular games at decent settings. In recent years, advancements in technology have made it possible to create powerful gaming PCs at lower price points. This has opened up the world of PC gaming to a wider audience, allowing more people to experience the thrill of gaming on a computer.
For those new to PC gaming, a budget of $500 may seem limiting, but it can actually go a long way. With careful selection of components, it’s possible to build a gaming PC that can handle games at 1080p resolution and medium to high graphics settings. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to try out PC gaming without breaking the bank. Additionally, many pre-built gaming PCs in this price range often come with a range of features that enhance the overall gaming experience.
One of the key considerations when looking for a gaming PC on a budget is the balance between performance and price. Gamers need to find a machine that can handle their favorite games without sacrificing too much in terms of graphics quality or frame rate. Fortunately, the best gaming pcs for $500 can offer a great balance between these factors, making it possible to enjoy a smooth gaming experience without overspending. By carefully evaluating the components and features of different gaming PCs, gamers can find a machine that meets their needs and fits their budget.
In the world of budget gaming PCs, there are many options available, ranging from pre-built machines to DIY builds. With a little research and planning, gamers can find a powerful and affordable gaming PC that meets their needs. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, a budget of $500 can go a long way in creating a great gaming experience. By exploring the different options available, gamers can find the perfect machine to enjoy their favorite games and take their gaming to the next level.
Best Gaming Pcs For $500 – Reviewed
Acer Aspire TC-885-UA92
The Acer Aspire TC-885-UA92 is a powerful gaming PC that offers great performance at an affordable price. With its 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, it can handle most modern games at high settings. The PC also comes with a 512GB NVMe SSD, which provides fast loading times and responsive performance. Additionally, the Acer Aspire TC-885-UA92 has a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI, and Ethernet.
In terms of gaming performance, the Acer Aspire TC-885-UA92 is capable of running games like Fortnite and League of Legends at high frame rates. The PC also comes with a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, which provides smooth graphics and fast rendering. Overall, the Acer Aspire TC-885-UA92 is a great option for gamers who want a powerful PC without breaking the bank. With its combination of strong performance, fast storage, and affordable price, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their gaming setup.
CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme SLC840
The CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme SLC840 is a high-performance gaming PC that offers exceptional value for its price. With its AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor and 16GB of RAM, it can handle demanding games and applications with ease. The PC also comes with a 1TB HDD and a 500GB NVMe SSD, providing ample storage for games, programs, and files. Additionally, the CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme SLC840 has a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI, and Ethernet.
In terms of gaming performance, the CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme SLC840 is capable of running games like Assassin’s Creed and Call of Duty at high frame rates. The PC also comes with a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, which provides fast rendering and smooth graphics. Overall, the CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme SLC840 is a great option for gamers who want a powerful PC with plenty of storage and connectivity options. With its combination of strong performance, ample storage, and affordable price, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their gaming setup.
HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-0170
The HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-0170 is a compact and powerful gaming PC that offers great performance in a small package. With its AMD Ryzen 5 5600G processor and 8GB of RAM, it can handle most modern games at high settings. The PC also comes with a 256GB NVMe SSD, which provides fast loading times and responsive performance. Additionally, the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-0170 has a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI, and Ethernet.
In terms of gaming performance, the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-0170 is capable of running games like Overwatch and Apex Legends at high frame rates. The PC also comes with a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super graphics card, which provides smooth graphics and fast rendering. Overall, the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-0170 is a great option for gamers who want a compact and powerful PC. With its combination of strong performance, fast storage, and compact design, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their gaming setup without taking up too much space.
Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5 90NB000CUS
The Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5 90NB000CUS is a powerful gaming PC that offers great performance and plenty of features. With its AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor and 16GB of RAM, it can handle demanding games and applications with ease. The PC also comes with a 1TB HDD and a 512GB NVMe SSD, providing ample storage for games, programs, and files. Additionally, the Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5 90NB000CUS has a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI, and Ethernet.
In terms of gaming performance, the Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5 90NB000CUS is capable of running games like Destiny 2 and The Witcher 3 at high frame rates. The PC also comes with a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, which provides fast rendering and smooth graphics. Overall, the Lenovo IdeaCentre Gaming 5 90NB000CUS is a great option for gamers who want a powerful PC with plenty of storage and connectivity options. With its combination of strong performance, ample storage, and affordable price, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their gaming setup.
Dell G5 Gaming Desktop DG500-5490
The Dell G5 Gaming Desktop DG500-5490 is a high-performance gaming PC that offers exceptional value for its price. With its 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, it can handle most modern games at high settings. The PC also comes with a 512GB NVMe SSD, which provides fast loading times and responsive performance. Additionally, the Dell G5 Gaming Desktop DG500-5490 has a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI, and Ethernet.
In terms of gaming performance, the Dell G5 Gaming Desktop DG500-5490 is capable of running games like Rainbow Six Siege and Rocket League at high frame rates. The PC also comes with a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 graphics card, which provides smooth graphics and fast rendering. Overall, the Dell G5 Gaming Desktop DG500-5490 is a great option for gamers who want a powerful PC without breaking the bank. With its combination of strong performance, fast storage, and affordable price, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their gaming setup.
Why Buy Gaming PCs for $500
The world of gaming has evolved significantly over the years, with advancements in technology leading to more complex and visually stunning games. To fully immerse themselves in these games, gamers require powerful computers that can handle demanding graphics and processing requirements. While it may seem excessive to spend $500 on a gaming PC, the truth is that this amount can get you a high-quality machine capable of delivering exceptional gaming performance.
One of the primary reasons people need to buy gaming PCs for $500 is that pre-built computers often lack the necessary hardware to run modern games smoothly. Integrated graphics and low-end processors can lead to lag, low frame rates, and poor overall performance, making it difficult to enjoy the gaming experience. By investing in a gaming PC, gamers can ensure they have the necessary hardware to run their favorite games at high settings, resulting in a more enjoyable and immersive experience.
When searching for the best gaming pcs for $500, it’s essential to consider the components that make up the system. A good gaming PC should have a powerful processor, a dedicated graphics card, and sufficient RAM to handle demanding games. Additionally, features such as storage, cooling, and connectivity options should also be taken into account. By carefully selecting a gaming PC that meets these requirements, gamers can enjoy a seamless gaming experience without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, buying a gaming PC for $500 is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about gaming. With the right combination of hardware and features, a gaming PC can provide an unparalleled gaming experience, with fast load times, high frame rates, and stunning visuals. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, a gaming PC is an essential tool for getting the most out of your games, and $500 can get you a high-quality machine that will last for years to come.
Key Components to Consider When Buying a Gaming PC for $500
When buying a gaming PC for $500, it’s essential to consider the key components that make up the system. The processor, also known as the CPU, is the brain of the operation and handles all the calculations. For a gaming PC, you’ll want a processor that can handle demanding games and applications. The AMD Ryzen 3 and Intel Core i3 are popular choices for budget-friendly gaming PCs.
The graphics card, or GPU, is another critical component that handles the graphics processing. For a $500 gaming PC, you can expect a dedicated graphics card with at least 2GB of video memory. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 and AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT are popular choices for budget-friendly gaming PCs.
In addition to the processor and graphics card, you’ll also want to consider the amount of RAM and storage. For a gaming PC, 8GB of RAM is the minimum recommended, but 16GB is ideal. When it comes to storage, a 512GB solid-state drive (SSD) is a good starting point, but you may also want to consider a hard disk drive (HDD) for additional storage.
Lastly, the operating system is also an essential component to consider. For a gaming PC, Windows 10 is the most popular choice, but you may also want to consider Linux as a more budget-friendly option.
Benefits of Pre-Built Gaming PCs vs. Building Your Own
When it comes to buying a gaming PC for $500, you have two options: pre-built or build-your-own. Pre-built gaming PCs are systems that are already assembled and ready to use. They offer several benefits, including convenience, warranty, and support. With a pre-built gaming PC, you don’t have to worry about assembling the components or troubleshooting any issues.
On the other hand, building your own gaming PC can be a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to choose the exact components you want and customize the system to your needs. However, it also requires technical expertise and can be time-consuming.
Another benefit of pre-built gaming PCs is that they often come with a warranty and support. This means that if anything goes wrong with the system, you can contact the manufacturer for assistance. With a build-your-own gaming PC, you’re on your own when it comes to troubleshooting and repairs.
Ultimately, the decision between a pre-built and build-your-own gaming PC comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you want a hassle-free experience and don’t mind paying a premium, a pre-built gaming PC may be the way to go. However, if you’re tech-savvy and want to customize your system, building your own gaming PC can be a great option.
Gaming Performance and Graphics Quality on a $500 Budget
When it comes to gaming performance and graphics quality on a $500 budget, you can expect to play modern games at medium to high settings. The graphics card is the most critical component in determining gaming performance, and for a $500 gaming PC, you can expect a dedicated graphics card with at least 2GB of video memory.
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 and AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT are popular choices for budget-friendly gaming PCs. These graphics cards can handle demanding games like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Overwatch at medium to high settings. However, they may struggle with more demanding games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and The Witcher 3.
In terms of graphics quality, you can expect to play games at 1080p (1920×1080) resolution with medium to high settings. This means that you’ll get smooth frame rates and decent graphics quality, but you may not get all the bells and whistles like ray tracing and artificial intelligence-enhanced graphics.
Overall, a $500 gaming PC can provide a great gaming experience, but you may have to make some compromises on graphics quality and performance. However, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that can still play modern games, a $500 gaming PC is a great choice.
Upgradability and Future-Proofing of a $500 Gaming PC
When buying a gaming PC for $500, it’s essential to consider upgradability and future-proofing. A gaming PC that can be easily upgraded can extend its lifespan and allow you to keep up with the latest games and technologies.
One of the most critical components to consider when it comes to upgradability is the motherboard. A motherboard with a socketed CPU and expandable RAM slots can make it easy to upgrade the processor and add more memory.
Another component to consider is the graphics card. A graphics card with a separate power connector and a PCIe slot can make it easy to upgrade to a more powerful graphics card in the future.
In terms of future-proofing, it’s essential to consider the latest technologies like Wi-Fi 6, USB 3.2, and DDR4 memory. A gaming PC with these features can ensure that you’re ready for the latest games and applications.
Overall, a $500 gaming PC can be a great option for those on a budget, but it’s essential to consider upgradability and future-proofing to ensure that your system can keep up with the latest technologies and games.
Ultimate Buying Guide for Gaming PCs
When it comes to buying a gaming PC, there are numerous factors to consider, especially if you’re on a budget of $500. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, with the right guidance, you can find the perfect gaming PC that meets your needs and provides an exceptional gaming experience.
Processor
The processor is the brain of your gaming PC, and it plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance of your system. When looking for a gaming PC, you should consider a processor that has multiple cores and threads, as this will enable you to run multiple applications simultaneously without any lag. A good processor should also have a high clock speed, which will enable you to run games and applications smoothly. Some of the popular processor options for gaming PCs include Intel Core i3, i5, and i7, as well as AMD Ryzen 3, 5, and 7.
The processor you choose will also depend on the type of games you want to play and the level of graphics quality you expect. For example, if you want to play games with high graphics settings, you may need a more powerful processor such as Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7. On the other hand, if you’re looking to play less demanding games, a lower-end processor such as Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 may be sufficient. It’s also important to consider the power consumption of the processor, as this will affect the overall cost of running your gaming PC.
Graphics Card
The graphics card is another critical component of a gaming PC, as it determines the quality of graphics you can expect. When looking for a gaming PC, you should consider a graphics card that has a high amount of video memory, as this will enable you to run games with high graphics settings. Some of the popular graphics card options for gaming PCs include NVIDIA GeForce and AMD Radeon. You should also consider the type of games you want to play and the level of graphics quality you expect, as this will help you choose the right graphics card.
A good graphics card should also have a high clock speed, which will enable you to run games smoothly. Additionally, you should consider the power consumption of the graphics card, as this will affect the overall cost of running your gaming PC. It’s also important to consider the compatibility of the graphics card with your processor and other components, as this will ensure that your system runs smoothly. When choosing a graphics card, you should also read reviews and benchmarks to get an idea of its performance and compare it with other options.
RAM and Memory
The amount of RAM and memory in your gaming PC will also affect its performance. When looking for a gaming PC, you should consider a system that has at least 8GB of RAM, as this will enable you to run multiple applications simultaneously without any lag. You should also consider the type of RAM, as DDR4 is currently the most popular and fastest option. Additionally, you should consider the amount of storage in your gaming PC, as this will determine how many games and applications you can install.
A good gaming PC should also have a fast storage drive, such as an SSD, as this will enable you to load games and applications quickly. You should also consider the type of storage drive, as some options such as NVMe are faster than others. When choosing a gaming PC, you should also consider the upgradability of the RAM and storage, as this will enable you to upgrade your system in the future. This is especially important if you’re looking to buy one of the best gaming pcs for $500, as you may need to upgrade your system in the future to keep up with the latest games and technology.
Display and Resolution
The display and resolution of your gaming PC will also affect your gaming experience. When looking for a gaming PC, you should consider a system that has a high-resolution display, such as 1080p or 1440p, as this will enable you to enjoy games with high graphics quality. You should also consider the type of display, as some options such as IPS and VA are better than others. Additionally, you should consider the refresh rate of the display, as a higher refresh rate will enable you to enjoy smoother gameplay.
A good gaming PC should also have a display that is compatible with the latest technologies such as G-Sync and FreeSync, as this will enable you to enjoy games with high graphics quality and low latency. You should also consider the connectivity options of the display, as some options such as HDMI and DisplayPort are better than others. When choosing a gaming PC, you should also consider the adjustability of the display, as this will enable you to customize your gaming experience. For example, you may want to adjust the brightness and contrast of the display to suit your gaming environment.
Operating System and Software
The operating system and software of your gaming PC will also affect your gaming experience. When looking for a gaming PC, you should consider a system that has a 64-bit operating system, as this will enable you to run the latest games and applications. You should also consider the type of operating system, as some options such as Windows 10 are better than others. Additionally, you should consider the software that comes with the gaming PC, as some options such as antivirus and gaming software are essential.
A good gaming PC should also have a user-friendly interface, as this will enable you to customize your gaming experience and access the latest features and updates. You should also consider the compatibility of the operating system and software with your games and applications, as this will ensure that your system runs smoothly. When choosing a gaming PC, you should also consider the customer support and warranty offered by the manufacturer, as this will enable you to get help and support when you need it. This is especially important if you’re new to gaming PCs and need help setting up and customizing your system.
Connectivity and Ports
The connectivity and ports of your gaming PC will also affect your gaming experience. When looking for a gaming PC, you should consider a system that has a variety of ports, such as USB, HDMI, and Ethernet, as this will enable you to connect your peripherals and accessories. You should also consider the type of connectivity, as some options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are better than others. Additionally, you should consider the quality of the ports, as some options such as USB 3.0 are faster than others.
A good gaming PC should also have a high-quality Ethernet port, as this will enable you to enjoy fast and reliable internet connectivity. You should also consider the availability of ports, as some gaming PCs may have limited ports and require you to use adapters or hubs. When choosing a gaming PC, you should also consider the upgradability of the ports, as this will enable you to upgrade your system in the future. For example, you may want to add more USB ports or upgrade to a faster Ethernet port. This will enable you to customize your gaming experience and keep up with the latest technology and peripherals.
FAQs
What is the best gaming PC for $500?
The best gaming PC for $500 can vary depending on several factors such as the type of games you want to play, the level of performance you require, and the features you need. However, some of the top-rated gaming PCs in this price range include the Acer Predator Orion, the CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme, and the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop. These PCs offer a great balance of performance, features, and price, making them ideal for gamers who want a reliable and powerful machine without breaking the bank.
When choosing the best gaming PC for $500, it’s essential to consider the specifications and features that matter most to you. Look for a PC with a powerful processor, such as an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, at least 8GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card, such as an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 or AMD Radeon RX 560X. Additionally, consider the storage options, connectivity features, and any additional features you may need, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a high-quality sound system.
What are the key components to look for in a gaming PC?
When building or buying a gaming PC, there are several key components to look for to ensure that your machine can handle demanding games and applications. The processor, also known as the CPU, is the brain of the operation, and it’s responsible for executing instructions and handling tasks. A powerful processor, such as an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, can make a significant difference in performance. Additionally, the graphics card, also known as the GPU, is responsible for rendering images and handling graphics processing.
A dedicated graphics card, such as an NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon, is essential for gaming, as it can handle the demanding graphics requirements of modern games. Other key components to consider include the RAM, which should be at least 8GB, and the storage, which can be a hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD). The motherboard, power supply, and cooling system are also important components to consider, as they can affect the overall performance and reliability of the PC. By choosing the right components, you can build or buy a gaming PC that meets your needs and provides a great gaming experience.
Can I build my own gaming PC for $500?
Building your own gaming PC can be a cost-effective and rewarding experience, and it’s possible to build a powerful machine for $500. However, it requires some technical knowledge and research to choose the right components and assemble them correctly. You’ll need to select a processor, motherboard, graphics card, RAM, storage, and power supply that are compatible with each other and meet your performance requirements.
To build a gaming PC for $500, you’ll need to be mindful of your budget and choose components that offer the best value for money. Consider buying last year’s model or a refurbished component to save money, and look for deals and discounts online. Additionally, you may need to compromise on some features, such as the graphics card or storage, to stay within your budget. With some research and planning, you can build a powerful gaming PC for $500 that meets your needs and provides a great gaming experience.
What is the difference between a gaming PC and a regular PC?
A gaming PC is designed specifically for gaming and is typically more powerful than a regular PC. It’s equipped with a dedicated graphics card, a fast processor, and plenty of RAM to handle the demanding requirements of modern games. A gaming PC also often features specialized cooling systems, high-quality sound systems, and other features that enhance the gaming experience.
In contrast, a regular PC is designed for general use, such as browsing the internet, working with office applications, and streaming media. While a regular PC can handle some light gaming, it’s not designed to handle the demanding requirements of modern games, and it may not provide the same level of performance or features as a gaming PC. If you’re a serious gamer, a gaming PC is the better choice, as it’s designed to provide a fast, smooth, and immersive gaming experience.
How do I choose the right graphics card for my gaming PC?
Choosing the right graphics card for your gaming PC depends on several factors, including the type of games you want to play, the level of performance you require, and your budget. You’ll need to consider the graphics card’s performance, power consumption, and compatibility with your PC’s components. NVIDIA and AMD are the two main manufacturers of graphics cards, and they offer a range of models with different levels of performance and features.
When choosing a graphics card, consider the games you want to play and the level of graphics quality you require. If you want to play demanding games at high resolutions and frame rates, you’ll need a powerful graphics card, such as an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT. On the other hand, if you’re on a budget or only play less demanding games, a lower-end graphics card, such as an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT, may be sufficient. Be sure to research and compare different models to find the best graphics card for your needs and budget.
What is the importance of RAM in a gaming PC?
RAM, or random access memory, is a critical component of a gaming PC, as it provides temporary storage for data and applications. The amount and speed of RAM can significantly impact the performance of your PC, especially when running demanding games and applications. More RAM allows you to run more applications simultaneously and switch between them quickly, while faster RAM can improve the overall performance and responsiveness of your PC.
In a gaming PC, at least 8GB of RAM is recommended, but 16GB or more is ideal for serious gamers. The speed of the RAM is also important, with faster speeds, such as DDR4 3200MHz, providing better performance than slower speeds, such as DDR4 2133MHz. Additionally, consider the type of RAM, such as DDR4 or DDR5, and ensure that it’s compatible with your PC’s motherboard. By choosing the right amount and speed of RAM, you can improve the performance and responsiveness of your gaming PC and enjoy a smoother gaming experience.
Can I upgrade my gaming PC in the future?
Yes, one of the advantages of a gaming PC is that it can be upgraded and modified in the future to keep up with the latest technology and performance requirements. You can upgrade individual components, such as the graphics card, RAM, or storage, to improve performance and extend the life of your PC. Additionally, you can add new features, such as a sound card or networking card, to enhance the overall gaming experience.
When upgrading your gaming PC, consider the compatibility of the new components with your existing hardware and software. Ensure that the new components are compatible with your PC’s motherboard, power supply, and operating system, and that they meet the performance requirements of your games and applications. With some research and planning, you can upgrade your gaming PC and keep it running smoothly and efficiently, even as new technology and games are released. This can help you save money and extend the life of your PC, rather than having to buy a new one every few years.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the world of gaming PCs has evolved significantly, offering a wide range of options to cater to different needs and budgets. For those seeking an immersive gaming experience without breaking the bank, the options outlined in this article provide a solid foundation. With careful consideration of key components such as processor, graphics card, and RAM, it’s possible to find a machine that delivers seamless performance and stunning visuals.
Ultimately, when searching for the best gaming pcs for $500, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each model, considering factors such as upgradability, cooling systems, and overall value for money. By doing so, gamers can make an informed decision that meets their specific requirements, ensuring a thrilling and uninterrupted gaming experience. With the right machine, gamers can dive into their favorite worlds, explore new territories, and enjoy the thrill of competition, all while staying within their budget.