PC gaming continues to dominate as one of the fastest-growing segments in the industry. With platforms like Steam setting the standard, developers are increasingly optimizing their games for PC, catering to hundreds of millions of monthly users. Investing in a gaming PC offers unmatched flexibility—you can spend anywhere from $500 to over $10,000 depending on your budget and needs. Unlike consoles, PCs provide a wide spectrum of options, from affordable entry-level builds to premium high-performance rigs. The market even offers portable handheld gaming PCs for those prioritizing mobility.
Remember, PC technology evolves rapidly, with new hardware launching weekly. While there are consistent sales throughout the year, certain periods deliver the deepest discounts. Below, we've outlined the best times to buy a gaming PC in 2025, helping you plan your purchase for maximum savings.
Note: Due to potential U.S. tariff changes, now may be the optimal time to buy PC hardware. The current tariff suspension expires on August 12, 2025, and if reinstated, imported components could see significant price increases.
Best Times to Buy a Gaming PC
After New Hardware Releases
Prices hit their lowest shortly after new hardware launches as retailers clear out older stock. Whether you're eyeing the latest 50-series GPUs or a pre-built system, you'll find steep discounts on previous-generation models soon after major releases. While Amazon and other retailers often slash prices on components like CPUs, GPUs, and RAM, pre-built deals are best found directly on manufacturer sites like Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
Holiday Weekends
Major holidays like President's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day typically bring significant gaming PC discounts. Retailers including Dell, Walmart, and Amazon roll out exclusive promotions, making these weekends ideal for scoring a bargain. The next big sale window is around the Fourth of July, with expected deals from top brands.
Prime Day
Amazon's Prime Day (July 8-11, 2025) is a prime opportunity to save on gaming PCs. While Amazon takes center stage, competitors like Walmart and Target usually match with their own sales, offering additional options for budget-conscious buyers.
Black Friday / Cyber Monday
Black Friday remains the king of tech deals, with gaming PCs often hitting annual lows. Cyber Monday extends the savings with online-exclusive promotions, particularly on manufacturer websites. Dell, for example, frequently discounts Alienware pre-builts during this period.
Start of the Calendar Year
January sees retailers clearing leftover holiday inventory, sometimes offering better discounts than Black Friday. With new CPUs and GPUs typically launching in Q1 or Q4, early-year sales can be especially lucrative for those seeking older models at reduced prices.
PC Hardware Is Always Evolving
Hardware advancements happen rapidly—what's cutting-edge today may be surpassed in months. However, this continuous cycle benefits bargain hunters, as outgoing models see steep price cuts when newer tech arrives. If building your own PC, consider buying components individually during sales or waiting for comprehensive bundle deals. Staying informed about market trends ensures you'll find the best deals at the right time.
