Smart PC upgrades for under $100

With soaring hardware costs driven by AI demand, PC builders face a challenge: how to meaningfully upgrade a system without spending hundreds of dollars. This guide identifies a practical middle ground—component upgrades like secondary displays, premium air coolers, and AIO liquid cooling units that deliver tangible improvements without breaking the bank.

The recommendations focus on quality-of-life and performance enhancements from reputable brands like Noctua, Thermalright, and Arctic, offering solutions for better cooling, connectivity, and system monitoring. The key takeaway is that even in a price-inflated market, thoughtful, budget-conscious upgrades can still extend a PC's capabilities and lifespan, making smart hardware tweaks a viable alternative to costly full-system overhauls.