Popular Twitch streamers like Asmongold, Emiru, MoistCr1TiKaL, and Sodapoppin share a common thread beyond their streaming success: they endorse Starforge Systems gaming PCs. Starforge stands out in the prebuilt PC market, not just for celebrity endorsements, but because these streamers reportedly have ownership stakes in the company. This review examines the Starforge Navigator, a mid-range offering among their 15 configurations, to see if it lives up to the hype.
Specs, Pricing, and Component Transparency
RAM inside the Starforge Navigator.
The Starforge Navigator offers compelling specifications for its $1,900 price tag. It boasts an RTX 4070 GPU, a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, 32GB of DDR5-6000 RAM, a DeepCool 240mm liquid cooler, and a reputable MSI motherboard and power supply. Starforge commendably lists the specific components included, eliminating the guesswork often associated with prebuilt PCs.
While most parts are specified, the graphics card is listed as an RTX 4070, with an MSI model pictured on the product page. Our review unit included a PNY model. Given the fluctuating GPU market, this is understandable.
| Component | Model |
|---|---|
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 5 7600X |
| CPU Cooler | Starforge Custom DeepCool LT520 240mm Liquid Cooler |
| Memory | Teamgroup Delta RGB 32GB DDR5-6000 (2x16GB) |
| GPU | Nvidia RTX 4070 |
| Motherboard | MSI Pro B650-P Wi-Fi |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD |
| Power Supply | MSI MAG A750GL PCIe 5.0 |
| Case | XPG Invader X |
Pricing out the individual components totals around $1,450, excluding additional fans and a Windows license. The $400 build fee includes a two-year parts and labor warranty and the advantage of knowing exactly what hardware you’re receiving. Starforge offers a range of configurations, from the entry-level Horizon II at $1,050 with an RX 6650 XT and i5-12400F, to the high-end Voyager II Elite at $4,600 with an i9-14900K and RTX 4090.
Build Quality and Internal Design
The Starforge Navigator PC with the side panel removed.
Unboxing the Navigator was straightforward, arriving in a standard cardboard box with protective packaging. Internal components were secured with expandable foam, ensuring safe arrival. While the seven fans contribute to a noticeable hum, even at idle, they are strategically positioned for optimal airflow, with four intakes and three exhausts. Dust filters on all intakes simplify maintenance.
The accessories box for the Starforge Navigator PC.
Included accessories comprise a power cable, quick start guide, and a box containing extra parts for the XPG case, such as a vertical GPU mount and cable ties. Notably, our review unit lacked extra PSU cables, which Starforge indicated are typically included. Clearer documentation for these accessories would be beneficial. Inside, the Navigator showcases meticulous cable management, enhanced by cable combs for a clean aesthetic, exceeding the standards of many mainstream prebuilt PCs.
Cable comb inside the Starforge Navigator PC.
While other reviews have highlighted minor assembly issues, these appear to be isolated incidents. Given the high profile of Starforge’s ownership, quality control is likely a priority.
Warranty, Support, and Software
The CPU cooler inside the Starforge Navigator PC.
Starforge offers a two-year warranty covering parts and labor for the core components, excluding modifications. While modifications void the warranty, there are no intrusive warranty stickers, allowing for internal access without jeopardizing coverage. Returns are accepted within 30 days for a full refund, excluding shipping unless the PC was damaged in transit. Subsequent returns incur a 15% restocking fee and a $75 daily rental fee.
Unlike mainstream brands, Starforge avoids bloatware, preinstalling only essential applications like Google Chrome and the Nvidia App. The BIOS is configured optimally, with Resizable BAR enabled and the XMP profile for the memory selected.
Gaming Performance and Benchmarks
The GeForce RTX 4070 inside the Starforge Navigator PC.
The Navigator aims to deliver performance equivalent to a self-built system using the same components, and it largely achieves this. Benchmark results align with expectations for the Ryzen 5 7600X and RTX 4070. While the CPU showed minor variances in Cinebench multi-core performance compared to a standalone 7600X, the difference is negligible.
| Benchmark | Starforge Navigator | Ryzen 5 7600X Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cinebench R23 Multi-Core | 14,751 | 15,366 |
| Cinebench R23 Single-Core | 1,948 | 1,965 |
GPU performance was consistent with a standalone RTX 4070 across various games and resolutions, achieving playable frame rates at 4K, especially with DLSS enabled. The RTX 4070 shines at 1440p, exceeding 100 fps in less demanding titles.
| Game & Settings | Starforge Navigator | RTX 4070 Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Horizon Zero Dawn 4K | 78 fps | 78 fps |
| Cyberpunk 2077 4K | 27 fps | 31 fps |
| Cyberpunk 2077 4K RT DLSS 3 | 61 fps | 73 fps |
| Horizon Zero Dawn 1440p | 142 fps | 146 fps |
| Cyberpunk 2077 1440p | 74 fps | 72 fps |
| Cyberpunk 2077 1440p RT DLSS 3 | 120 fps | 121 fps |
While the Ryzen 5 7600X is suitable for gaming, CPU-bound titles might benefit from a higher-end processor like the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Offering CPU upgrade options would enhance the Navigator’s flexibility.
Conclusion
The Starforge Navigator PC with the side panel removed.
The Starforge Navigator presents a compelling option in the prebuilt gaming PC market. While the $400 build fee adds to the cost, the meticulous cable management, solid performance, and transparent component selection justify the premium. The system’s noise level and limited CPU options are minor drawbacks. Overall, the Starforge Navigator offers a well-built and well-performing gaming PC, making it a worthy consideration for those seeking a hassle-free, high-quality prebuilt system.
