The Starforge Systems $899 PC is still overpriced: Our top alternatives

OTK’s new venture, Starforge Systems, has already come under fire for how the faces of the company have responded to the criticism. But it’s true: Starforge prebuilt PCs are overpriced.

Yesterday, Starforge Systems was unveiled, a brand-new system integrator that was created in a joint effort by OTK and Moistcr1TiKaL. However, the launch has not been going steady, with multiple issues regarding pricing for their systems, and a community backlash that followed it.

Needless to say, Starforge Systems, which is spearheaded by the EX-COO of Artesian Builds, has had a rocky launch thus far, especially when it comes to just how much the Starforge Systems prebuilt PCs cost.

Looking at NZXT’s prebuilt systems at $999, it is clear that they have priced out a ‘starter system’ which will get you up and running with everything you need. However, they are now aging, as we rapidly approach a new generation of PC hardware.

This is also the case for the Starforge Systems Horizon PC, which costs the same amount as NZXT’s PC while featuring significantly worse specs.

The Starforge Systems Horizon PC features an i3-10100F and GTX 1660 Ti, both of which are older-generation parts, and are not really suitable to purchase this late into 2022, and feature-rich GPUs such as the RTX 3050 can be had at a similar price.

NZXT includes the RTX 3050, a better-supported card, and one that can use DLSS to eke out more performance. The NZXT system will last far longer at $999 than the $899 Starforge Systems Horizon PC, and it only costs $100 more.

You’ll also find that the i5-10400F included in the NZXT is superior to the i3-10100F in just about every conceivable way, even though they are both a few generations old.

Starforge Systems has been quick to address the issue of pricing by dropping the price of numerous systems by $100, as promised by Moistcr1TiKaL. But, it still does not address the issue of the lower-end Horizon PC.

StarForge vs NZXT vs iBuyPower vs DIY $899 entry system comparison

Starforge Systems’ machine is now $899, and NZXT’s machines cost $999. Going for the SlateMR from iBuyPower via Best Buy can save you around $70 when on sale. Building yourself a machine under $999 can be done with some caveats for around $970.96 (via PCPartPicker).

If you can replace the RAM, we do recommend buying the Best Buy iBuyPower device, due to the excellent 12400F inside, which will actually do you incredibly well for all your 1080p gaming or esports needs.

Get the iBuyPower SlateMR gaming desktop for $929 (which was $999).

It has been speculated that much of Starforge Systems’ stock of parts could have potentially been purchased from the Artesian Builds’ auction during its liquidation. We’ve reached out to Starforge Systems and OTK for comment regarding this.

Looking at the other tiers of PCs, we’re confident in saying that there are better options out there for similar prices. While these other models aren’t especially egregious like the $999 one, you are still best off shopping around or considering building your own.

StarForge vs NZXT vs iBuyPower vs DIY $1500 system comparison

StarForge vs NZXT vs iBuyPower vs DIY $2399 system comparison

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