CPU
Our CPU of choice for this budget is the Intel Core i3-7100, which meets Oculus's minimum requirement. While it features only two cores, the i3-7100 also employs hyperthreading to help close the gap between it and a 4-core i5. Hyperthreading adds an additional logical core for each physical core, which is handy for streaming, video editing, and multi-tasking CPU-intensive tasks. The i3-7100 includes a stock cooler, so a 3rd-party cooler isn't necessary.
Motherboard
We're using a parametric selection to constantly select the best-priced mATX motherboard of a list of boards hand-selected for their pricing, quality, and USB availability.
All of the motherboards feature B250 chipsets and 4 DDR4 DIMM slots for future expansion, and the compatibility engine will filter out anything not compatible with the build.
Memory
A parametric filter is being applied to choose the best priced 2x4GB kit of memory within Intel's recommended specifications. With this selection, we have space on the motherboards for 2 more sticks of RAM, leaving room for future expansion.
Storage
We're using a parametric filter to select the best-priced 2TB mechanical drive. Unfortunately, with the rising cost of NAND, in addition to the rising cost of video cards due to the current mining craze, we've had to cut out the SSD in order to keep this build more budget-friendly. Everyone's needs are different, so feel free to increase capacities or add an SSD to fit yours.
GPU
We're using the Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti as our video card, which meets Oculus's minimum requirement. We've created a parametric filter to show you the lowest priced GTX 1050 Ti which will be powerful enough for most AAA games both in and out of VR.
Case
The Corsair Carbide Series Spec-04 is a fairly compact ATX mid-tower that doesn't take up a ton of room but gives you plenty of room to work in when building. It features a number of cable management holes, 3x 3.5" bays, 2x 2.5" bays, and a built-in dust filter that you can remove for easier cleaning. It also includes 1x USB 3.0 and 1x USB 2.0 ports on the front panel, along with front 120mm LED fan.
If black and red isn't your thing, you can tone it down with the black and gray version or go bold with black and yellow.
Cases tend to be highly personal choices, so make sure you browse our listed cases to see what suits you.
PSU
For the PSU, we're using a parametric selection of a few well-reviewed semi-modular and modular units, which are all rated for good power efficiency and can provide plenty of power for this build.
