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Home > Blog > Which PC Requirements Do I Need to Play Ark?

POSTED: 26 November, 2024

Which PC Requirements Do I Need to Play Ark?

Are you ready to tame dinosaurs, build fortresses, and explore a vast prehistoric world without your PC holding you back? 

ARK: Survival Evolved has been a fan-favourite among survival game enthusiasts for years. With its vast, open-world gameplay filled with prehistoric creatures, crafting, and exploration, it provides an immersive gaming experience that requires a decent gaming setup. But what exactly are the PC requirements to play Ark? Whether you're just getting started or looking to upgrade, this guide will help you understand the minimum requirements, recommended specifications, and which products offer the best value to give you the smoothest experience possible. 

We'll also take a look at some fantastic deals on affordable gaming PCs and AMD gaming laptops that are perfectly suited for ARK. Keep reading to ensure your system meets the mark! 

Minimum PC Requirements to Play ARK: Survival Evolved 

Before diving into hardware suggestions, let’s start with the minimum PC requirements you’ll need to get ARK running. It's essential to know these specifications so you can avoid lag, crashes, or poor visual quality while playing. Here's what you need: 

Minimum PC Requirements for ARK 

  • Operating System: Windows OS 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions only) 
  • Processor: Intel Core i5-2400 or AMD FX-8320 
  • Memory: 8 GB RAM 
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB or AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB 
  • DirectX: Version 10 
  • Storage: At least 60 GB available space 

These minimum requirements are necessary to get the game running but keep in mind that running ARK at these settings means you're likely to experience lower frame rates and lower graphics quality. Still, it can be sufficient if you're on a tight budget or not aiming for high-end graphics. 

Recommended PC Specs for a Better ARK Experience 

While the minimum requirements will get you started, ARK's world is expansive and filled with complex details that can make the game taxing on your system. To truly enjoy the game at a smooth frame rate with decent visuals, you’ll want to aim for higher PC specs. 

Recommended PC Requirements for ARK 

  • Operating System: Windows OS 10 (64-bit) 
  • Processor: Intel Core i5-4670K or AMD Ryzen 5 2600 
  • Memory: 16 GB RAM 
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX 670 or AMD Radeon R9 280 
  • DirectX: Version 11 
  • Storage: At least 100 GB available space (with mods and expansions) 

The key here is the combination of a good processor, a decent graphics card, and 16 GB of RAM. This setup will ensure that you can explore ARK’s world without significant lag, allowing for a seamless gaming experience. Now that you know the PC requirements, let's explore some excellent options for both affordable gaming PCs and AMD gaming laptops that will let you play ARK smoothly. 

The Best Affordable Gaming PCs for ARK: Survival Evolved 

If you're in the market for a gaming rig that meets the PC specs for ARK but doesn’t break the bank, there are plenty of options. Box.co.uk offers a range of affordable gaming PCs designed to meet the demands of modern games, including ARK. Here are some great choices: 

ASUS ROG NUC RNUC14SRKU7168A3I Gaming Mini Desktop PC (Perfect for ARK) 

ASUS ROG NUC RNUC14SRKU7168A3I

The ASUS ROG NUC RNUC14SRKU7168A3I is a compact powerhouse that’s perfect for playing ARK: Survival Evolved. With an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and 16GB RAM, you can enjoy a seamless gaming experience even during ARK’s most demanding moments. The NVIDIA RTX 4060 ensures that ARK’s immersive world looks stunning, while the 512GB SSD keeps load times quick. Its advanced cooling system ensures stable performance during long gaming sessions. This mini desktop provides high performance for a space-efficient setup without sacrificing power, allowing you to enjoy ARK at high settings with smooth frame rates and vibrant visuals. 

Specifications: 

Feature 

Specification 

Processor 

Intel Core Ultra 7 

RAM 

16GB 

Storage 

512GB SSD 

Graphics Card 

NVIDIA RTX 4060 

Operating System 

Windows 11 

Cooling System 

Advanced cooling system for high performance 

Medion Erazer Engineer X32 Gaming Desktop PC (Elevate Your ARK Experience) 

Medion Erazer Engineer X32 Gaming Desktop PC

For gamers seeking maximum power in ARK, the Medion Erazer Engineer X32 is an ideal choice. Featuring an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and an NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics card, this machine allows you to explore ARK’s massive open world on ultra settings with fluid performance. The 1TB SSD ensures fast load times, meaning you won’t have to wait long to dive into the next adventure. Its RTX 4070 GPU brings ray-traced environments to life, enhancing the rich visuals and allowing you to experience ARK’s full graphical potential. If you’re looking for a future-proof desktop that can handle ARK and other demanding games with ease, the Medion Erazer is a top contender. 

Specifications: 

Top AMD Gaming Laptops for Playing ARK 

Sometimes you want the power of a gaming PC but the flexibility of portability. That’s where AMD gaming laptops come in. If you’re looking to play ARK on the go or just want a more compact gaming setup, there are several fantastic options available at Box.co.uk. 

1. ASUS TUF Gaming A15 

ASUS TUF Gaming A15 

The ASUS TUF Gaming A15 is a robust choice that will easily meet the recommended requirements for ARK while remaining budget-friendly. 

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 4800H 
  • Memory: 16GB RAM 
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti 6GB 
  • Storage: 512GB SSD 
  • Operating System: Windows 10 

With its AMD Ryzen 7 processor and GTX 1660 Ti, this laptop will allow you to explore ARK’s prehistoric landscapes without any hiccups. 

2. MSI Alpha 15 AMD Gaming Laptop 

The MSI Alpha 15 is another great AMD gaming laptop that offers solid performance for a reasonable price. 

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 4600H 
  • Memory: 16GB RAM 
  • Graphics Card: AMD Radeon RX 5500M 4GB 
  • Storage: 512GB SSD 
  • Operating System: Windows 10 

The combination of Ryzen 5 and Radeon RX graphics will ensure that ARK runs smoothly, even with complex visual effects and large-scale battles. 

3. Lenovo Legion 5 

Lenovo Legion 5

For those who want both power and portability, the Lenovo Legion 5 is a fantastic choice. This model offers high-end gaming performance in a portable package. 

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5800H 
  • Memory: 16GB RAM 
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB 
  • Storage: 512GB SSD 
  • Operating System: Windows 11 

With its powerful specs, you can run ARK at high settings with ease, enjoying smooth frame rates and gorgeous visuals. The Legion 5 is a beast for its price point. 

4. HP Omen 15 

hp omen 16

The HP Omen 15 is a premium AMD gaming laptop that offers stellar performance, perfect for gaming enthusiasts who want the best possible experience with ARK. 

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX 
  • Memory: 16GB RAM 
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 8GB 
  • Storage: 1TB SSD 
  • Operating System: Windows 10 

With its high-end Ryzen 9 processor and RTX 3070 GPU, this laptop can run ARK at ultra-high settings with stunning graphics and smooth gameplay. It’s perfect for gamers who want portability without compromising performance. 

Explore these laptops at Box.co.uk and pick your perfect portable gaming solution for ARK! 

Affordable vs High-End Gaming PCs: What’s Best for ARK? 

When deciding on a system to play ARK: Survival Evolved, you'll be balancing two key factors: budget and performance. The good news is, with advancements in technology, even affordable gaming PCs can handle ARK at decent settings, while high-end machines will give you unmatched performance and visuals. Here’s what you need to know about choosing the right system for your needs. 

Affordable Gaming PCs for ARK 

You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy ARK. If you’re looking for an affordable gaming PC, there are several options that meet or even exceed the minimum requirements for ARK, without costing a fortune. These PCs are ideal if you’re looking to jump into the game without maxing out every visual setting, but still want a smooth, enjoyable experience. 

Best Affordable Gaming PCs: 

  • Medion Erazer P72030 Gaming PC: The Medion Erazer P72030 Gaming PC is designed to provide a solid gaming experience without breaking the bank. With its robust Intel Core i5 processor and GTX 1660 graphics card, it ensures smooth gameplay in demanding titles like ARK: Survival Evolved. Players can explore the vast open world, tame prehistoric creatures, and build elaborate structures without lag. This system strikes a balance between affordability and performance, making it an ideal choice for both newcomers and seasoned players eager to dive into ARK's expansive environment. 

  • HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop: The HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop combines sleek design with powerful hardware, featuring a Ryzen 5 processor and GTX 1650 graphics. This setup is perfect for experiencing the dynamic landscapes and rich graphics of ARK. With its capable performance, players can immerse themselves in ARK's challenging survival mechanics, whether they're hunting for resources or battling formidable foes. Its competitive pricing ensures gamers can enjoy a high-quality experience without overspending, making it a great gateway for players entering the world of ARK. 

You can explore the full range of affordable gaming PCs from Box's website to find the right fit for your gaming needs. 

High-End Gaming PCs for ARK 

If you're all about maxing out graphics and pushing your system to the limit, a high-end gaming PC will deliver the ultimate ARK experience. These systems go beyond the recommended specs, allowing you to enjoy ARK at its best—beautiful, smooth, and lag-free. Expect to play with ultra settings, high frame rates, and the ability to multitask with ease (even if you’ve got mods and other applications running). 

Best High-End Gaming PCs: 

  • MSI MAG Infinite S3 Gaming PC: The MSI MAG Infinite S3 Gaming PC is a powerhouse designed for serious gamers. Featuring an Intel i7 processor and RTX 3060 graphics, it delivers exceptional frame rates and stunning visuals, elevating the ARK gameplay experience. With its capability to run high settings, players can fully appreciate the detailed environments, intricate creature animations, and complex graphics ARK offers. This gaming rig ensures that you won't miss a moment of action while exploring, building, and surviving in ARK's breathtaking world. 

  • Acer Predator Orion 3000: The Acer Predator Orion 3000 is engineered for ultimate performance, equipped with an Intel i9 processor and RTX 3080 graphics card. This top-tier machine can handle ARK: Survival Evolved at maximum settings, ensuring flawless gameplay and breathtaking graphics. Players can effortlessly manage extensive bases and interact with a myriad of creatures, all while enjoying an immersive experience. The Predator Orion 3000 is an excellent choice for dedicated ARK enthusiasts looking to conquer the game's challenges with superior power and speed. 

Explore these high-performance gaming PCs at Box.co.uk and find the perfect system for your ARK adventures! 

AMD Gaming Laptops: A Portable Solution for ARK 

Not everyone prefers a desktop. If you’re a gamer on the go or simply want the flexibility of gaming from different locations, AMD gaming laptops offer a portable and powerful solution. With AMD’s latest Ryzen processors and Radeon graphics, these laptops can run ARK without compromising on performance, giving you the power of a gaming rig in a portable form. 

Why Choose an AMD Gaming Laptop for ARK? 

  1. Performance on the Move: AMD gaming laptops combine powerful processors and graphics cards, allowing you to play demanding games like ARK without being tied to a desk. 
  2. High-Quality Graphics: With Radeon graphics cards, these laptops can render ARK’s detailed landscapes and intricate creatures with stunning clarity. 
  3. Energy Efficiency: AMD chips are known for their efficiency, meaning you can game for longer without needing to constantly plug in your charger. 
  4. Great for Multitasking: Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or even working, AMD gaming laptops are equipped to handle multiple tasks at once without slowing down. 

Best AMD Gaming Laptops for ARK: 

ASUS ROG Strix G15 AMD Ryzen 7 Gaming Laptop: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 6800H processor and Radeon RX 6800M graphics, this laptop brings desktop-level performance to a portable device. With its sleek design and high-end components, you'll be able to play ARK at high settings seamlessly, enjoying detailed graphics and smooth gameplay. 

HP OMEN 16 AMD Ryzen 9 Gaming Laptop: Featuring an AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX processor and Radeon RX 6700M graphics, this laptop is the ultimate portable powerhouse. Whether you're navigating ARK's vast landscapes or working on intensive creative projects, this laptop has the ability to handle it all without missing a beat. 

Explore these top-tier gaming laptops at Box.co.uk to elevate your ARK experience! 

Building Your Own PC for ARK: Is It Worth It? 

For many gamers, the idea of building a custom PC is appealing. It allows for complete control over the components, tailoring your build to your exact needs and budget. But is it worth it if you’re just looking to play ARK? Let’s break it down. 

Pros of Building Your Own PC 

  • Customisation: You can pick the exact components that suit your gaming style, whether it’s a high-end GPU for ultra settings or a budget CPU to save costs. 
  • Future-Proofing: Building your own system often means easier upgrades down the line. Want to add more RAM or swap out your GPU? You’ll have the freedom to do so. 
  • Cost Control: While high-end pre-built gaming PCs can be expensive, building your own allows you to prioritise components based on what you can afford, often resulting in better performance for the price. 

Cons of Building Your Own PC 

  • Time-Consuming: It takes time to research, purchase, and assemble components, which can be a turn-off if you’re eager to start gaming immediately. 
  • No Support: If something goes wrong, there’s no tech support to call. Troubleshooting will be entirely up to you. 
  • Initial Learning Curve: For first-time builders, the process can be intimidating. Choosing compatible components and ensuring everything works together requires research and patience. 

If you’re up for the challenge and want to create a custom gaming PC for ARK, it can be a rewarding project. But if you’re more interested in jumping straight into the game, pre-built gaming PCs offer an easier, hassle-free solution. 

The Ultimate ARK Experience: 4K Gaming and Beyond 

For those seeking the pinnacle of gaming, nothing beats playing ARK in 4K resolution. The game's prehistoric world is incredibly detailed, from the lush environments to the complex creatures that inhabit it. However, to enjoy ARK at 4K, you’ll need a PC or laptop with some serious power under the hood. 

What You’ll Need for 4K ARK Gaming 

  • Processor: At least an Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA RTX 3080 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT for 4K performance 
  • Memory: 32GB of RAM for smooth multitasking and handling large mods 
  • Storage: A fast SSD to reduce load times and improve overall performance 

With these specs, you’ll be able to enjoy ARK at its best—ultra settings, fluid frame rates, and breathtaking detail in every corner of the game’s vast world. 

Ready to Take the Leap? 

If you’re serious about pushing ARK to its limits, take a look at some of the best high-performance gaming PCs and laptops available at Box.co.uk. Whether you’re building your own rig or buying a ready-made system, Box.co.uk has a wide range of gaming PCs and AMD gaming laptops to suit every type of gamer. 

Conclusion: The Perfect PC for ARK Awaits 

Finding the right PC or laptop for ARK: Survival Evolved doesn’t have to be a challenge. By understanding the game’s PC requirements, you can make an informed decision and pick a system that fits your budget and performance needs. Whether you opt for an affordable gaming PC, a high-end gaming rig, or a portable AMD gaming laptop, the key is to ensure that your specs meet or exceed the recommended requirements for the best experience. 

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the prehistoric world of ARK with the confidence that your gaming setup can handle the challenge. Explore gaming PCs and laptops at Box.co.uk today and get ready to take control of your adventure!