Gaming PCs have exploded in popularity in recent years, with more options than ever for prebuilt systems. Two of the biggest names in prebuilt gaming PCs are Origin PC and NZXT.
But which one offers the best combination of performance, customization, and value?
Let’s take an in-depth look at the pros and cons of Origin PC and NZXT to see how they stack up.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Origin PC | NZXT |
| Customization Options | Extremely high customization – You can pick every single component | More limited – Pick CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage |
| Performance | Top tier – Can configure with the most powerful gaming components | Excellent – Quality components optimized for gaming |
| Design & Aesthetics | Unique and flashy – Custom paint jobs and etching available | Sleek and minimalist – Clean, symmetrical cases |
| Price | $1500 to over $8000 | $900 to $3000 |
| Support | 24/7 lifetime support | Shorter hours but still great support |
| Ease of Building | Fully customized so more complex | Simplified buying process for prebuilts |
| Overclocking Options | Excellent – Systems built for overclocking | Decent – But simpler BIOS and cooling |
| Upgradeability | Total flexibility to swap any part | Some limits on future compatibility |
Overview of Origin PC
Origin PC was founded in 2009 and is now one of the most well-known gaming PC brands.
Their systems are highly customizable, allowing you to select specific components like the CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, and more.
This makes them appealing for gamers who want a tailored system.
Some key things to know about Origin PC:
- Wide selection of components from top brands like Intel, Nvidia, AMD, and more
- Lifetime 24/7 tech support based in the US
- Custom paint and etching available
- High-end systems with unique designs and custom liquid cooling
- Prices range from $1500 to over $8000
Overview of NZXT
NZXT entered the prebuilt PC market in 2017 and has quickly become a top competitor with Origin PC. Their PCs feature a simpler range of configuration options but high-quality components.
Some key things to know about NZXT:
- Fewer customization options compared to Origin but still excellent performance
- Sleek, minimalist case designs
- Starter, streaming, and high-end systems available
- Prices range from $900 to $3000
- Primarily ships PCs prebuilt; more limited customization compared to Origin
Also Read: Differences Between Maingear And Origin PC.
Key Differences Between NZXT And Origin PC
Now that we’ve outlined the basics of each brand, let’s do a detailed comparison of the pros and cons.
- Performance
When it comes to sheer performance, Origin PC and NZXT are fairly evenly matched.
Both use top of the line components like Nvidia RTX 30 series GPUs and Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 CPUs on their high-end configs.
You can equip an Origin PC with just about any component on the market, giving you an edge in maximum performance potential.
But NZXT’s pre-built systems are still very capable, using quality components in optimized configurations.
For the average user, both will provide an excellent gaming experience with smooth frame rates at 1440p or 4K resolution. Enthusiasts that want the absolute highest frames may benefit from Origin PC’s expansive customization.
Winner: Tie
- Design & Aesthetics
Here is where the brands start to diverge. Origin PC offers countless custom paint design and lighting options that let you make your PC a showpiece. This includes custom laser etching, hydro dipping, airbrushing, and more. NZXT on the other hand has a minimalist, elegant aesthetic.
Their cases come in just a few color options but look great on a desk thanks to their sleek symmetrical shape and tempered glass panels. For users that want a PC that makes a statement, Origin is the way to go. But if you prefer a simpler, refined look, check out NZXT.
Winner: Tie
- Customer Support
Having responsive customer support is hugely important for any PC, and both these brands deliver. Origin PC offers lifetime 24/7 support over phone, email, and chat. Their techs are gaming experts that really know the ins and outs of the systems.
NZXT support has shorter hours but is still very competent. Overall user reviews for support are excellent for both companies.
Winner: Tie
- Customization
This category definitely goes to Origin PC. They allow you to pick every single component in your system and tailor every detail. At NZXT, you can choose some core components like the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. But you have fewer selections for the specific models.
Origin PC also offers a wider array of case options, including many from other brands. The ability to laser etch and paint the exterior is another layer of customization. If you want to hand pick every part to make your dream PC, Origin PC is the clear choice.
But for those who don’t need that level of detail, NZXT’s simpler options work fine.
Winner: Origin PC
- Price and Value
When it comes to affordability, NZXT pulls ahead. Their lower cost of entry and competitive pricing throughout the product range make them a better value overall. Here are some examples of entry level configs:
Origin PC – $1,793 Core i5-12600K, RTX 3060 Ti, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 500GB SSD
NZXT – $1,499 Intel Core i5-11400F, RTX 3060, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD
The NZXT system costs over $200 less while including a beefier SSD. The pricing advantage holds up across most of the product stack outside the high-end. NZXT is the way to go if you’re budget conscious. But with Origin PC’s superior customization, there are reasons to pay more depending on your needs.
Winner: NZXT
- Gaming Performance
For most gamers, both NZXT and Origin PC deliver excellent performance that will handle 1440p or 4K gaming smoothly. Entry level rigs from both will easily hit 60+ fps in most titles at max settings.
Origin PC has the upper hand in sheer performance capabilities thanks to expansive component choices. An Origin system with a top of the line i9-12900K and RTX 3090 Ti will outpace even NZXT’s best configurations.
But outside of 4K max settings gaming, it’s tough to justify the high cost of that elite performance edge Origin provides.
Winner: Origin PC
Also, watch this video to see my points!
- Ease of Building
One advantage of NZXT is the convenience of buying a ready-made prebuilt PC. With Origin, you’re forced to make at least a few component selections. If you find picking PC parts overwhelming, NZXT simplifies the process.
Origin does offer prebuilt configurations but you’ll still end up picking from various options. For those less comfortable navigating PC builds, NZXT can be worth it. However, building with Origin PC isn’t overly complex either and their expert support can guide you.
Winner: NZXT
- Overclocking Support
Origin PC pulls ahead when it comes to overclocking. Their systems are designed with performance in mind, including beefy power supplies, flexible BIOS options, and liquid cooling support. This makes it easy to push clock speeds higher.
While certainly possible on a NZXT machine, their simpler BIOS and configuration options are less ideal for overclocking. For beginning or intermediate overclockers, an Origin PC provides a better starting point.
Winner: Origin PC
- Upgradeability
Given Origin PC’s fully customizable nature, they also win when it comes to future upgradability. You can swap out the GPU, CPU, RAM, and more down the line. NZXT uses off-the-shelf components too, so compatibility isn’t an issue.
However, their case and cooler mounting options are more limited compared to Origin PC. This potentially restricts which new parts you can install later on. With an Origin PC, nearly any component is fair game in the future.
Winner: Origin PC
Also Read: Comparison of iBUYPOWER And Build Redux Gaming PC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, NZXT is considered one of the top gaming PC brands thanks to their well-built systems, quality components, attractive designs, and reasonable pricing. While not as customizable as Origin PC, their focus on sleek prebuilt configs appeals to many gamers who value convenience. Their excellent customer support rounds out their offering as a recommendable gaming PC maker.
If you’re looking for a plug-and-play gaming PC experience without complex customization, NZXT is a great choice. Their PCs deliver strong 1080p and 1440p gaming performance in stylish cases. Unless you need the maximum graphics power that fully customizable brands like Origin PC offer, NZXT provides excellent value and quality. Building a PC with NZXT is worth it for most mainstream gamers.
Some of NZXT’s biggest competitors in the prebuilt gaming PC space are Origin PC, CyberPowerPC, iBUYPOWER, and MAINGEAR. Brands like Alienware from Dell also offer high-end prebuilt systems. But among this competitive field, NZXT stands apart with their minimalist aesthetic and focus on delivering a simplified PC buying experience compared to extremely customizable brands.
Some other gaming PC companies with similar levels of customization as Origin PC include MAINGEAR, Digital Storm, Falcon Northwest, and Puget Systems. Alternatives like CyberPowerPC and iBUYPOWER also allow lots of component selection but with more branding on their systems. If you’re seeking an experience of selecting every part and building your ideal gaming rig, brands like these match what Origin PC offers.
Also Read: Comparison Between NZXT And Maingear Gaming PC.
Final Thoughts
Overall, for gamers who value customization over all else, Origin PC is likely the better choice. Their expansive component options, unique paint jobs, and performance focus can’t be beat. But NZXT holds their own with a simpler yet still compelling pitch of refined, high quality prebuilts.
You really can’t go wrong with either brand though depending on your priorities. Both Origin PC and NZXT make buying an exceptional gaming PC easy.