How to Add More Storage to Gaming Pc Step-by-Step Guide for 2026

The MSI Codex Z2 (model A8NVP-436US) is a pre-built gaming desktop that brings together a potent combination of components for PC gamers, competitive players, streamers, and content creators. At its core, it features an AMD Ryzen 7-8700F processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 graphics card, paired with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB NVMe SSD. This setup is designed to tackle modern games at high settings, handle streaming workloads, and support virtual reality experiences right out of the box.

When it comes to real-world gaming performance, the RTX 5070 and Ryzen 7-8700F deliver strong results for 1440p and even 4K gaming in many titles. The 32GB of DDR5 memory ensures smooth multitasking whether you are gaming, streaming, or running creative applications. The 2TB NVMe SSD provides lightning-fast load times for games and applications, reducing downtime and keeping you in the action. As a VR-ready system, it is also well-suited for immersive experiences like Half-Life: Alyx or Beat Saber.

Cooling is handled by an ARGB air cooler paired with four system fans: three in the front pulling in cool air and one in the rear exhausting heat. This configuration helps maintain stable temperatures during long gaming sessions, which is critical for both performance and component longevity. The built-in RGB lighting can be cycled using the MSI LED button on the chassis or customized further through MSI Center software, allowing you to match the look of your gaming desk setup.

Build quality is solid for a pre-built system. The case dimensions (16 x 8.38 x 19 inches) are relatively compact for a desktop with these components, and the 21.3-pound weight makes it manageable to move if needed. Setup is straightforward: connect your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power, and Windows 11 Home is ready to go. The inclusion of a USB-C port provides modern connectivity for peripherals and external drives. Cable management inside the case appears tidy based on the product description, but as with many pre-built PCs, some users may find internal access limited for future upgrades.

One realistic limitation is that pre-built desktops often use proprietary motherboards, power supplies, or cooling mounts, which can make it harder to upgrade individual parts down the line. The product data does not specify wireless networking, so users who need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth may need to add a USB adapter or PCIe card. Additionally, the RGB lighting is present but is not as extensive as fully customizable RGB setups in enthusiast-level cases.

Overall, the MSI Codex Z2 is a strong recommendation for gamers who want high performance without the hassle of building a PC. It works well for competitive gaming (thanks to the fast CPU and GPU), casual gaming, streaming, and even light content creation. If you value convenience, strong out-of-box performance, and a cohesive aesthetic, this desktop is worth considering for your gaming setup.

The combination of the AMD Ryzen 7-8700F and NVIDIA RTX 5070 provides excellent gaming performance for both competitive and single-player titles. In games like Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, and Apex Legends, you can expect high frame rates at 1440p with medium to high settings. The 32GB of DDR5 memory helps prevent stutters during intense scenes or when running background apps like Discord or streaming software. The 2TB NVMe SSD ensures maps and levels load quickly, giving you an edge in fast-paced games. For ray tracing and DLSS supported titles, the RTX 5070 delivers crisp visuals while maintaining smooth gameplay.

The MSI Codex Z2 uses a four-fan cooling setup with an ARGB air cooler on the CPU. Three front intake fans draw cool air across the components, while one rear exhaust fan pushes hot air out. This design helps keep temperatures manageable even during extended gaming sessions. The ARGB cooler adds a touch of style while ensuring the processor stays within safe operating limits. Users who plan to push the system hard may still want to monitor CPU and GPU temperatures, but the overall airflow configuration is effective for a pre-built system in this class.

The Skytech Gaming O11 Vision is a pre-built gaming desktop that combines AMD's latest Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor with the Radeon RX 9070 XT graphics card. This combination is engineered to handle modern AAA games at 4K resolution with smooth frame rates, while also delivering high-refresh rate performance for competitive esports titles. The system comes housed in the popular Lian Li PC-O11 Vision case in white, which offers excellent airflow and a clean aesthetic that will appeal to RGB enthusiasts and gamers who value a premium look.

This PC is best suited for PC gamers who want a powerful, ready-to-use system without the hassle of building one themselves. It is an excellent choice for competitive gamers who play fast-paced FPS games like Warzone or Valorant, as the Ryzen 7 9800X3D's 3D V-Cache technology helps reduce latency and improve frame pacing. Streamers and content creators will also appreciate the 32GB of DDR5 RAM and 2TB NVMe SSD, which provide plenty of memory for multitasking and fast storage for game captures and video projects. Casual gamers who want to play the latest releases at high settings without worrying about compatibility will find this system very capable.

In real-world use, the O11 Vision excels at delivering smooth, responsive gameplay. User reviews highlight that it can achieve over 500 FPS in Warzone at low settings and 200 FPS at high settings in 1440p, making it a great fit for esports. The 360mm AIO liquid cooler keeps the CPU temperatures under control even during long gaming sessions, which helps maintain consistent performance. The Lian Li case offers ample space for airflow, and the included ARGB fans can be customized to match your setup's lighting theme. The system also includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily connect peripherals without extra dongles.

Build quality is generally solid, but some user feedback points to variability in component selection. The motherboard and GPU brand may vary, and a few users have reported issues like fan noise or GPU sag. The RGB control software has been noted as somewhat limited unless you pay for a subscription, though you can manage fan speeds through the BIOS. The included keyboard and mouse are basic but functional for getting started. Cable management inside the case is tidy, but the tight routing around the GPU could be a concern for some users if they need to upgrade components later.

Setting up the O11 Vision is straightforward: it arrives fully assembled with Windows 11 pre-installed and no bloatware. You just need to connect power, monitor, and peripherals, and you're ready to game. The system is designed to be upgrade-friendly, using standard ATX components, so you can swap out the GPU, add more storage, or upgrade the RAM in the future. Maintenance is simple thanks to the case's tool-less side panels and dust filters.

Overall, the Skytech Gaming O11 Vision is a strong option for gamers who want top-tier performance without building their own PC. It offers excellent value for the price, especially with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D and RX 9070 XT combo, which competes well with higher-priced alternatives. If you are a PC gamer, streamer, or esports player looking for a reliable, high-performance pre-built with great aesthetics, this system is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of potential variability in component brands and consider the software limitations before purchasing.

The Skytech Gaming O11 Vision delivers outstanding gaming performance across a wide range of genres. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor, with its 3D V-Cache, significantly reduces latency in CPU-intensive titles, making it ideal for competitive shooters like Warzone and Valorant. User reviews indicate that this system can achieve over 500 FPS at low settings in Warzone and maintain 200 FPS at epic settings in 1440p. For AAA games like Black Myth Wukong or Elden Ring, the RX 9070 XT 16GB GPU provides smooth 4K gameplay at 60+ FPS with high visual settings. The 32GB of DDR5 6000MHz RAM ensures seamless multitasking, allowing you to game while streaming or running background apps without stutter.

The O11 Vision is built around the Lian Li PC-O11 Vision case, known for its premium construction and excellent airflow. The case features tempered glass panels on the front and side, showcasing the internal components and RGB lighting. The white finish gives it a clean, modern look that fits well in any gaming setup. Internally, the cable management is decent, though some users have noted that cables are tightly routed around the GPU, which could make upgrades a bit more involved. The included 360mm AIO cooler is a high-quality unit that effectively cools the Ryzen 7 9800X3D under load. However, some users have reported variability in component brands (e.g., motherboard, GPU), which may affect overall consistency. The system also includes a basic keyboard and mouse, which are functional but not premium.

The Lian Li O11 Vision case is designed for optimal airflow, with a mesh front panel and multiple fan mounting points. The system comes with a 360mm ARGB AIO liquid cooler for the CPU and three ARGB case fans, providing excellent thermal performance. User feedback indicates that the system runs cool even during extended gaming sessions, with the AIO effectively managing the Ryzen 7 9800X3D's heat output. The case also includes dust filters on the top and bottom, making maintenance easier. Some users have reported a rattling sound from a fan or AIO pump, but this appears to be an isolated issue. Overall, the cooling setup is more than adequate for the hardware inside, ensuring stable performance without thermal throttling.

The Skytech Gaming O11 Vision features vibrant ARGB lighting throughout the case, including the AIO pump head, case fans, and RAM modules. The white case interior reflects the lighting nicely, creating a visually striking setup. The system includes a remote control for basic fan speed and lighting adjustments, but the included RGB control software has some limitations. The software offers basic lighting presets but requires a subscription to unlock full fan control features. Users can also manage fan speeds through the BIOS if needed. The lighting can be synchronized with other compatible components for a unified look. Overall, the RGB implementation is solid out of the box, but enthusiasts may want to invest in third-party software for more granular control.

The Lenovo Legion Tower 5i is a pre-built gaming desktop designed for PC gamers who want solid performance without building from scratch. It packs an Intel Core Ultra 7 265F processor and NVIDIA RTX 5060 Ti graphics, making it a strong candidate for 1440p gaming, streaming, and content creation. This system targets gamers, streamers, esports players, and anyone looking for a ready-to-use PC with upgrade headroom.

Performance-wise, the Core Ultra 7 265F handles modern AAA titles and multitasking with ease, while the RTX 5060 Ti delivers high frame rates in popular shooters like Valorant and Call of Duty, plus ray tracing in visually demanding games. Based on the specifications, this rig should provide smooth gameplay at 1440p with high settings, and even push 1080p high-refresh monitors effectively. The 16GB of DDR5 memory at 5600MHz is fast, but some users may want to upgrade to 32GB for streaming or heavier workloads.

Build quality is a highlight: the tool-less transparent side panel makes upgrades simple, and the interior layout uses standard ATX components. Customizable RGB lighting adds a personal touch, perfect for gaming setup enthusiasts. The case design is clean and professional, fitting well in most desk setups. Connectivity is modern with WiFi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet, ensuring low latency for online gaming and streaming. The front I/O includes USB ports for easy access.

Cooling is handled by optimized air cooling rated for 180W TDP, keeping the system quiet under load. While it's sufficient for stock operation, users planning CPU overclocking may want to consider aftermarket cooling. The 1TB NVMe SSD provides quick load times, though large game libraries might require additional storage down the line.

One limitation is that the 16GB RAM and 1TB storage are entry-level for a $1250 system; however, the upgradeability here is straightforward. The included 3-month PC Game Pass adds immediate value. Overall, the Legion Tower 5i is a practical choice for gamers who want a balanced pre-built with room to grow. It suits college gamers, work-from-home gamers, and content creators who need a reliable desktop for both play and productivity.

The Alienware Aurora ACT1250 is a pre-built gaming desktop designed for U.S. PC gamers who want strong performance without the time and effort of building a custom PC. This machine is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 265F processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060Ti graphics card, making it capable of running today's most demanding games at high settings. Whether you're diving into competitive FPS titles, exploring open-world RPGs, or streaming your gameplay on Twitch, this desktop delivers a smooth, responsive experience.

Build quality is a highlight here. The chassis features a matte basalt black finish and a clear side panel that lets you show off the internal components. AlienFX RGB lighting with customizable zones, including the stadium lighting effect, adds a striking visual element that RGB setup enthusiasts and gaming desk builders will appreciate. The 500W Platinum-rated PSU provides stable power, which is critical during long gaming sessions or when multitasking with streaming software.

In terms of real-world performance, the RTX 5060Ti offers solid frame rates at 1440p in most games, and the 16GB of DDR5 RAM keeps things snappy for multitasking. The 1TB SSD provides fast load times, though heavy content creators may want to add more storage down the line. The Intel Core Ultra 7 handles both gaming and productivity tasks like video editing or live streaming with ease, making this a versatile option for streamers and content creators.

The Alienware Command Center software is a useful tool for managing lighting profiles, performance modes, and game libraries. You can create custom lighting themes for different setups and monitor system performance in real-time. This is especially handy for gamers who like to fine-tune their RGB aesthetics or optimize power states for various games.

One realistic limitation is the air cooling solution. While it's adequate for most gaming scenarios, users pushing the system hard for extended periods may notice higher fan noise or thermal throttling. Similarly, 16GB of RAM is sufficient for gaming but may feel tight for heavy multitasking or memory-intensive creative work. The price is also on the premium side, but you're paying for a ready-to-go system with a warranty and support.

Overall, the Alienware Aurora ACT1250 is a great choice for PC gamers, streamers, and gaming setup builders who want a reliable, good-looking desktop without the DIY hassle. It's also a solid pick for college gamers or anyone working from home who needs a machine that can handle both play and productivity. Just be aware of the cooling and RAM limitations if you plan to push it hard.

The YAWYORE MX240 is a prebuilt gaming PC tower designed for gamers who want solid everyday performance without breaking the bank. At its heart, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600GT processor, paired with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a speedy 1TB NVMe SSD, makes light work of web browsing, office tasks, and even some light gaming. The standout feature is the visually impressive case with five ARGB fans that you can control with the included remote, adding a vibrant touch to any gaming desk setup.

In real-world use, the integrated Radeon Vega graphics can handle popular titles like Fortnite, Valorant, and CS at 1080p with low to medium settings. Many user reviews mention that adding a dedicated GPU, such as a GTX 1070 Ti, transforms the PC into a capable machine for higher frame rates and better graphics. This makes it a smart choice for first-time PC gamers, college students on a budget, or anyone looking for a reliable workstation that can be upgraded later.

Build quality is impressive for the price. The tempered glass side panel shows off the clean interior and RGB fans, while the cable management keeps things tidy. Setup is straightforward Windows 11 Home comes preinstalled, and you only need to connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The system runs quietly even under load, and the ARGB fans provide good airflow to keep temperatures in check during long gaming sessions or streaming.

There are some limitations to consider. The integrated graphics won't deliver smooth performance in AAA titles at higher settings, so this PC is best viewed as a starting point. A few negative reviews mention hardware failures after a couple of months, but the majority of feedback is positive. Additionally, the 550W power supply is adequate for the stock configuration, but if you plan to install a power-hungry GPU, you'll likely need to upgrade the PSU.

Overall, the YAWYORE MX240 offers strong value for its price point. It's perfect for casual gamers, students, or anyone building a budget-friendly gaming setup that can grow with their needs. If you're looking for a prebuilt that looks great, runs quietly, and leaves room for upgrades, this desktop is a practical choice for both work and play.

Out of the box, the integrated AMD Radeon Vega graphics are best suited for less demanding games. User feedback indicates that Fortnite and Valorant run at playable frame rates on low settings, and some light indie titles run smooth. For a significant boost, many users recommend pairing this PC with a dedicated graphics card like a GTX 1070 Ti or RX 6600, which allows for 1080p gaming at higher settings. The Ryzen 5 5600GT processor has enough power to keep up with mid-range GPUs without bottlenecking, making this a great platform for gradual upgrades.

The YAWYORE MX240 features a sturdy steel chassis with a tempered glass side panel. The five ARGB fans are pre-installed and come with a remote control for easy lighting customization. Internal cable management is tidy, leaving plenty of room for future upgrades. The power supply is a 550W 80 Plus Bronze unit, which is adequate for the stock configuration but may limit higher-end GPU installations. Overall, the build feels solid and well put together for its price range.

The iBUYPOWER Y40 PRO is a prebuilt gaming desktop designed for enthusiasts who want high-end performance without the hassle of building their own rig. It's tailored for PC gamers, competitive esports players, streamers, content creators, and anyone who demands smooth 4K gaming, fast multitasking, and reliable productivity. Packed with an AMD Ryzen 9 7900X and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070Ti, this system handles demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Call of Duty at max settings with ease.

In real-world use, the combination of 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 2TB NVMe SSD ensures quick load times and seamless switching between games, streaming software, and editing tools. The RTX 5070Ti's 16GB VRAM provides excellent visual clarity at high resolutions, while the 240mm liquid cooler keeps the CPU running cool even during extended gaming marathons. Many users report smooth frame rates in modern games with ray tracing enabled, making this a solid choice for immersive experiences.

Build quality is a highlight here. The HYTE Y40 PRO case features a tempered glass side panel and RGB fans that create an attractive display. The included iBUYPOWER AW4 liquid cooler and fan setup maintain good airflow without excessive noise. The bundled keyboard and mouse are decent for starting out, though competitive players might prefer upgrading to mechanical peripherals. The system also comes with Windows 11 Home pre-installed and minimal bloatware, so you can start gaming right away.

Setting up the Y40 PRO is straightforward. After unboxing, you simply connect power, display, and peripherals, then follow the Windows setup. Some users have noted a minor issue with Windows activation, but this is easily resolved by entering the product key from the system. The motherboard offers four RAM slots for future upgrades, and the case provides ample room for additional storage or cooling modifications.

One realistic limitation is the RAM speed of 5200MHz, which is decent but not the fastest available. Additionally, while the warranty is standard, a few user reviews mention challenges with customer support for defective parts. However, the majority of feedback highlights excellent performance and reliability. The price point is competitive for a prebuilt with these specs, offering strong value for those who prefer a ready-to-use system.

Overall, the iBUYPOWER Y40 PRO is a well-rounded gaming PC that delivers on performance and aesthetics. It's best suited for gamers and creators who want a powerful, reliable machine without the complexity of building their own. If you're looking for a high-end prebuilt that can handle 4K gaming, streaming, and content creation, this is a solid investment.

The iBUYPOWER Y40 PRO is built for high-performance gaming, thanks to the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X and NVIDIA RTX 5070Ti. This combo easily runs modern titles at 4K with ray tracing enabled, delivering smooth frame rates in demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, and Fortnite. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM ensures fast multitasking, so you can stream, browse, and game without stutters. The 2TB NVMe SSD dramatically reduces load times, getting you into matches quickly. For competitive gamers, the system handles high refresh rate monitors at 1440p with ease, providing low-latency gameplay.

The Y40 PRO features the HYTE Y40 PRO case with a tempered glass side panel and three RGB fans for a clean, customizable look. Cooling is handled by the iBUYPOWER AW4 240mm liquid CPU cooler, which keeps the Ryzen 9 7900X at optimal temperatures even under heavy load. The case design promotes good airflow, with mesh panels and ample venting. During extended gaming sessions, the system remains quiet, with fans ramping up only when necessary. The included RGB lighting can be controlled via the motherboard software, allowing you to match your setup's aesthetic.

The STGAubron Gaming PC Desktop is a pre-built tower designed for gamers who want a plug-and-play experience without the hassle of building their own system. It pairs an Intel Core i7 8th Gen processor (up to 4.1GHz, 6 cores, 12 threads) with a GeForce RTX 3050 6GB GPU, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 1TB SSD. This configuration is well-suited for 1080p gaming at medium to high settings in popular titles like Fortnite, Valorant, Apex Legends, Call of Duty Warzone, and GTA V, often hitting 60+ FPS according to the product description.

This PC is ideal for casual gamers, competitive players on a budget, streamers just starting out, content creators doing light editing, college gamers, and work-from-home users who need a reliable all-in-one desktop. The included RGB keyboard and mouse add to the value, letting you dive into gaming immediately. The four RGB fans not only look great but also help maintain good airflow for extended sessions.

In terms of real-world performance, the RTX 3050 6GB is capable for esports titles and older AAA games, but don't expect to run modern ray-traced games at high settings. The 1TB NVMe SSD ensures fast boot and load times, while 16GB RAM handles multitasking between games, Discord, and streaming software without issue. WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 provide low-latency wireless connections, ideal for online gaming.

Build quality is typical for a pre-built in this price range: a black steel case with side panel, decent cable management, and easy access to internals for future upgrades. The included peripherals are functional but basic - many users may prefer to upgrade to a mechanical keyboard and higher-DPI mouse over time. Setup is straightforward: plug in power, monitor, and peripherals, then Windows 11 Home walks you through the rest.

A realistic limitation is the older 8th-gen CPU, which means the motherboard socket (LGA 1151) limits CPU upgrades to the same generation. The RTX 3050 6GB is entry-level for ray tracing. For heavy content creation or ultra settings in the latest games, you may want a more powerful GPU. Additionally, with zero reviews at the time of writing, it's wise to buy from a retailer with a good return policy.

Overall, the STGAubron Gaming PC offers solid value for budget-conscious gamers and streamers who need a complete, ready-to-use system. It handles modern esports and casual gaming well, provides modern connectivity, and includes helpful extras. If you're looking for a hassle-free gaming desktop under $750, this is a strong contender.

The STGAubron Gaming PC comes with a matching RGB gaming mouse and keyboard, allowing you to start gaming right away. The keyboard features basic membrane switches with adjustable RGB backlighting, while the mouse offers a standard optical sensor with DPI settings and RGB lighting. While not high-end, these peripherals are functional for everyday gaming and can be upgraded later. Also included are a power cord, SATA cables, and a user manual. Free lifetime tech support and a 1-year parts/labor warranty add peace of mind.

The Horizon Autherium Dragon RGB I9 RTX Gaming PC is a pre-built powerhouse designed for PC gamers, streamers, and content creators who want top-tier performance without the hassle of building their own rig. It pairs an unlocked Intel Core i9 processor (up to 5.4GHz) with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 OC graphics card, 64GB of DDR4 RAM, and a hybrid storage solution offering 5TB total capacity. This combination is built to handle demanding AAA titles, intensive multitasking, and creative workloads like video editing or 3D rendering with ease.

In real-world gaming scenarios, the RTX 5070 OC with 12GB VRAM delivers smooth frames at high resolution and detail settings. DLSS 4.0 support further boosts performance by intelligently upscaling visuals, making competitive games like first-person shooters and MOBAs feel responsive. The 64GB RAM ensures that even with dozens of browser tabs, streaming software, and a game running, there is no noticeable slowdown. For streamers on Twitch or YouTube, this system can encode and stream high-quality content without stuttering.

Cooling is handled by a 360mm AIO liquid cooler and eight case fans, plus three on the GPU and one on the power supply, all controlled by an AI auto-cooling system that balances thermal performance and noise. User feedback consistently mentions how quiet the system remains, even during long gaming sessions. The gold dragon fishtank design on the front glass panel is a conversation starter, and the ARGB lighting is customizable via onboard button or software for thousands of color options.

Build quality is solid, with premium components chosen for reliability. The case itself is a tempered glass fishtank-style unit that looks clean and allows full view of the interior. Connectivity includes USB-C 3.2, eight USB 3.0 ports, Ethernet up to 2.5Gbps, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect peripherals, monitors, and VR headsets. Windows 11 Pro pre-installed adds advanced security and is ready for both gaming and productivity out of the box.

Setting up the PC is straightforward for most users, though some have reported minor hiccups like needing to activate Windows, but that was resolved quickly with a simple phone call to support. The system is large and heavy at 17 x 18 x 18 inches and 35 pounds, so you will need a sturdy desk or floor area with good airflow. Cable management inside is clean, though you may want to do minimal tidying if you add drives or upgrade later.

On the realistic side, the price is high, and the sheer size may not suit everyone's desk space. Also, the included HDD is slower than an all-SSD setup, though the primary NVMe drive makes boot and load times snappy. Overall, this gaming PC is a strong choice for serious gamers, content creators, and anyone who wants a pre-built system that can handle anything thrown at it, backed by excellent customer support. If you are looking for a head-turning, high-performance rig that works right out of the box, this is one to consider.