Yes, building your own PC is generally cheaper than buying a prebuilt machine. The reason for this is that if you buy a prebuilt machine, then you're paying for all of the parts as usual, as well as labor for building, testing, and support.

While PC gaming often entails a broad spectrum of costs, primarily your investment would fall within the $1,000 to $4,000 mark for a commendable setup. Most gamers find a comfortable middle ground with a budget spanning $1,000 to $2,500.

Generally, a $1000 gaming PC can provide a good balance of performance and affordability, allowing you to play many modern games at high settings. However, the value ultimately depends on your budget, gaming preferences, and whether the PC meets your specific requirements.