Introducing the new Acer Predator Orion 3000 desktop series: an exceptional and budget-friendly gateway to PC gaming. While not tailored for elite gamers, its mid-range setup effortlessly achieves 60+ fps on most AAA titles.
Pros:
- Excellent value proposition
- Simple upgradeability
- Compact micro-ATX form factor
Cons:
- Limited SSD storage capacity
- Noisy cooling fans when running at full capacity
Acer Predator Orion 3000: Quick Overview
The Acer Predator Orion 3000 desktop PC offers an excellent entry point for new gamers, combining affordability with performance. It presents a compelling option for those diving into PC gaming.
Featuring various mid-tier configurations, including a 12th Gen Intel processor, Nvidia RTX 30-series graphics card, and up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, the latest Predator Orion 3000 lineup boasts powerful hardware neatly packed into a compact micro ATX case.
While some compromises are made in component selection for cost-saving purposes, such as including just 256GB of SSD storage in basic configurations and sticking with DDR4 RAM instead of DDR5, these don’t overshadow the overall gaming experience.
With its user-friendly upgradability and solid performance, the Acer Predator Orion 3000 series is well-suited for the average gamer looking for a reliable gaming setup.
Acer Predator Orion 3000: Pricing and Availability
- Starting price: $1,449 / £1,099
- Currently available at Acer store and third-party retailers
- Available for purchase in the US, UK, and globally
Spec Sheet:
- CPU: 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12400F (2.50 GHz)
- Graphics: Nvidia RTX 3060 Ti
- RAM: 16GB DDR4
- Storage: 256GB M.2 SSD + 1TB HDD
- Optical drive: Not included
- Front Ports: 1 x USB-A 3.1, 1 x USB-C, 1 x headphone jack, 1 x microphone jack
- Rear Ports: 2 x USB-A 3.1, 4 x USB-A 3.0, 3 x analog audio jacks, 3 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI, Ethernet
- Operating system: Windows 11 Home
- Connectivity: Intel Killer E2600 Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.0
- Weight: 21 pounds (9.5 kg)
- Size: 15.4 x 15.2 x 6.9 inches (392 x 386 x 175 mm)
The Acer Predator Orion 3000 gaming PC series is available for purchase worldwide, offering a variety of configurations to suit individual preferences.
Featuring the new Intel Alder Lake chipsets, the base model starts at $1,449 / £1,199, equipped with a 12th Gen Intel Core i5 CPU, Nvidia RTX 3060 GPU, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, and 1TB HDD storage. Higher-priced options allow customization with an Nvidia RTX 3060 Ti or 3070 GPU and a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor.
We reviewed a slightly enhanced UK model priced at £1,299 (approximately $1,600 in the US), emphasizing the Predator Orion 3000’s exceptional value proposition, notable gaming performance, and esports-ready hardware. Additionally, potential discounts with Acer promo codes could further enhance its affordability.
Acer Predator Orion 3000: Design Overview
- Compact micro ATX chassis with classic gaming black-and-RGB design.
- Front features USB Type-C, USB 3.1 Type-A, and headphone/microphone ports.
- Rear panel offers standard gaming computer ports including USB Type-A, analog audio, and HDMI/DisplayPort for GPU connectivity.
- Pre-installed Acer PredatorSense software enables temperature monitoring, fan control, and RGB lighting customization.
- Cooling fans can be loud at maximum speed, potentially distracting even with headphones.
- Competes closely with HP Omen in terms of hardware and affordability.
- Predator Orion 3000 stands out for its sleek design, contrasting with HP Omen’s bulkier full ATX case known for uninspired aesthetics.
Acer Predator Orion 3000: Performance Breakdown
- Impressive gaming performance with solid CPU benchmarks.
- Limited SSD storage in entry-level configurations.
Benchmarks:
- 3DMark: Night Raid: 50,215; Fire Strike: 22,948; Time Spy: 10,381
- Cinebench R23 multi-core: 11,164 points
- GeekBench 5: 1,436 (single-core); 7,537 (multi-core)
- PCMark 10 (Modern Office): 7,160 points
- Total War: Warhammer III (1080p, Ultra): 78 fps; (1080p, Low): 246 fps
- Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p, Ultra): 76 fps; (1080p, Low): 115 fps
- Dirt 5 (1080p, Ultra): 98 fps; (1080p, Low): 219 fps
The Acer Predator Orion 3000 offers exceptional gaming performance despite being budget-friendly. With Nvidia 30-series graphics cards, it effortlessly handles graphically demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Total War: Warhammer III, achieving over 70 fps on Ultra settings.
In benchmark tests, the Predator Orion 3000 surpassed expectations. Equipped with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 Ti and Intel Core i5 processor, it scored 7,160 points in PCMark 10, outperforming 93% of other PCs and surpassing the average premium gaming PC from two years ago.
While lacking DDR5 RAM and featuring only 256GB SSD storage in base models, these minor drawbacks are overshadowed by the product’s affordability. Offering a wide range of configurations, the Predator Orion 3000 caters to most gamers entering the PC gaming realm. Though not for those seeking premium hardware, it remains an excellent choice for balancing performance and price.
Should You Buy the Acer Predator Orion 3000?
Buy it if
- Just Starting in PC Gaming: For newcomers to PC gaming, the Acer Predator Orion 3000 offers a compelling option with its reasonable price and solid gaming performance.
- Seeking Budget-Friendly Option: With its affordability and potential for future upgrades, thanks to its 12th Gen Intel Core CPU and Nvidia RTX 30-series GPU, the Acer Predator Orion 3000 is a wise investment for those looking to save money.
Don’t buy it if
- Desire Cutting-Edge Hardware: As an entry-level gaming PC, the Acer Predator Orion 3000 may not satisfy players seeking the latest in processing and graphics capabilities.
- Prefer Full-Size PCs: If you prefer full-size PCs for easier upgrading, alternatives may suit your needs better than the compact micro ATX design of the Acer Predator Orion 3000.
