Buying guide for Best desktop computer
A desktop is what most people envision when they hear the word “computer.” Unlike a laptop where all the components are built into a portable chassis, a desktop’s components are traditionally housed in a tower box or computer case. It seems simple, but there are so many components that the computer relies on, that any misstep can negatively impact the performance.
For example, you could have an amazing motherboard and an excellent graphics card, but if you don’t have enough random-access memory, the computer will struggle with seemingly basic operations. That’s why it’s crucial to know exactly what you’ll be doing on a desktop, before simply buying the first one you see.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the considerations of buying a desktop. One of the biggest problems that people face is not knowing which components are compatible, what they are used for and how it affects performance.
For example, if you’ll primarily play video games, the best desktop computer to get is our top pick, the Alienware Aurora R15 Gaming Desktop. It uses one of the latest graphics cards, has more than enough storage and has enough RAM to smoothly edit 4K videos with ease. But there are other excellent options as well, and after considering 30 models, we rounded up the very best below.
Which desktop computer is best?
Best desktop computer for video games
Product specifications
Processor: Intel Core i9-13900F | Processor Speed: 5.6 GHz | RAM: 32GB DDR5 | Hard Disk Size: 1TB SSD | Graphics Card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 12GB | Dimensions: 20.83” L x 8.86” W x 20.08” H | Weight: 37.1 lb
This desktop computer might not take on the traditional form of a PC, but make no mistake, it packs a punch. Alienware is perhaps best known for its gaming laptops, but the gadget is an excellent desktop alternative.
Powered by a 13th-generation Intel i9 processor, it has 32GB of RAM and the latest Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card. Without exaggeration, there is no video game this computer won’t be able to play smoothly and with ease. It comes with a Dark Side of the Moon 750-watt power-supply unit and a liquid-cooled processor.
Best desktop computer for a home office
Product specifications
Processor: Intel i9-12900K | Processor Speed: 3.20 to 5.20 GHz | RAM: 64GB | Hard Disk Size: 4TB NVMe SSD | Graphics card: Intel UHD Graphics 770 | Dimensions: 11.57” L x 5.7” W x 13.39” H | Weight: 14.7 lb
This is the perfect desktop model if you are looking for a home office computer. It doesn’t have gaming components that drive up the price but instead has components that will make your day-to-day work faster.
It has a generous 4TB hard drive, large enough to store all your files, folders and computer back-ups. The 64GB of RAM and the Intel i9 processor ensure that any application will run smoothly, and apps, such as Excel, Word, or Spreadsheets, will open in a flash. It has two USB 3.1 ports, two USB 3.2 ports and one USB-C port.
Best All-in-One desktop computer
Product specifications
Processor: Intel Pentium Silver J5040 | Processor Speed: 2 GHz | RAM: 4GB | Hard Disk Size: 128GB | Graphics card: Intel UHD Graphics 605 | Dimensions: 19.3” L x 8.05” W x 14.99” H | Weight: 12.5 lb
Find it overwhelming to size up all the components and decide on a monitor? Then an all-in-one desktop is the perfect choice for you. You don’t have to worry about connecting all the pieces to the tower or PC case, as you only need to plug it into the monitor and you’re ready to go.
This HP model features a generous 21.5-inch LED display, two speakers built into the front and an HP webcam. Also included is a copy of Windows 11 Home, and there are two USB 2.0 ports and two USB 3.0 ports.
Another advantage of an AIO computer is that it’s more portable than traditional PC cases. Since everything is bundled in one housing, you don’t have to worry about an external monitor, cables going missing or incompatibility.
Best mini desktop computer
Product specifications
Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U | Processor Speed: 4.3 GHz | RAM: 32GB DDR4 | Hard Disk Size: 1TB PCIe SSD | Graphics card: AMD Radeon Graphics | Dimensions: 4.5” L x 4.5” W x 1.93” H | Weight: 1.5 lb
A mini desktop computer such as this one is the perfect tool if you want to work wherever you want but prefer not to use a laptop. It simply connects to an external monitor, and you’re ready to get to work. While it comes with a separate power adapter, the ExpertCenter can also draw power through a USB cable and a Power Delivery-compatible monitor.
It runs on an AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor with a maximum clock speed of 4.3 GHz. That’s powerful enough to easily open and operate Windows-based applications. It doesn’t have a powerful enough graphics card for gaming, but it does support 4K content and quad displays.
Best a desktop computer for virtual reality
Product specifications
Processor: Intel i7-12700F | Processor Speed: 2.1 GHz | RAM: 16GB | Hard Disk Size: 1TB SSD | Graphics card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 | Dimensions: 18.5” L x 7.9” W x 17.9” H | Weight: 27.7 lb
This is a great bundle if you’re looking for a virtual reality (VR) package that includes everything you need to get started immediately. It comprises a desktop tower PC, a keyboard, a mouse and a 23.8-inch Acer Nitro monitor.
The colorful RGB computer case has a tempered glass side panel, custom lighting options and four RGB fans. The computer is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor, and while it doesn’t come with a VR headset or system, the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card and two DisplayPort connections make it easy to attach a VR system.
The bundled wide-screen monitor has a maximum resolution of 1080p, is compatible with AMD FreeSync technology, and has two HDMI ports and one DisplayPort.
Operating system
The operating system, sometimes abbreviated to OS, is the software heart of any computer. Without an OS, it’s impossible for a computer to operate, as it’s the core software that dictates the functions and provides a user interface.
The most popular operating system is Microsoft’s Windows, which has been around for more than 30 years, through several different iterations. The latest version is Windows 11, which is installed on 23% of computers globally running Microsoft’s OS. Overall, Windows enjoys almost 70% of the global OS market share.
While popular, Windows isn’t your only option, as you can opt to install the free and open-source Linux instead. It is generally more stable than Windows and has a growing community of developers improving the iterations, but not all apps are available for it.
Finally, there is also macOS, used exclusively by Apple’s desktop computers such as the iMac. It functions in very much the same way as the MacBook and is only compatible with macOS apps. Unless you specifically want an iMac for video editing, design or creative work, it isn’t a viable option if you are looking for a desktop computer.
Internal components
The internal components of a desktop computer determine the machine's capabilities. Unlike in a laptop or an all-in-one system, the internal components of a desktop computer are removable, replaceable and upgradeable. This is a great feature, as it allows you to keep your preferred tower or case but upgrade the component for faster actions.
Central processing unit
The central processing unit is the brain of your computer, the part that processes every bit of data and governs how fast a machine is. It also plays a big role in the overall cost: machines with the fastest processors are always the most expensive. All the components in a computer look toward the CPU for instructions, and it acts as the technological leader, dictating what happens when, how, where and how fast. For Windows computers, you have the choice between an Intel or AMD processor.
Random-access memory
RAM is the memory that your computer uses to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. We recommend a minimum of 8GB of RAM on standard computers and 2GB of RAM on microcomputers. Essentially, the more RAM you have, the better your computer will remember and execute multiple instructions — it can make a big difference.
Graphics card
Even if you aren’t a gamer, the graphics card in your computer is hugely important for the smooth operation of resource-intensive tasks, such as video editing and, of course, playing video games. Essentially, a graphics card determines the quality level of content, and if it’s insufficient, it can lead to apps and games stuttering. It works in tandem with RAM to ensure an excellent experience. In Windows computers, you can choose an AMD or Nvidia graphics card.
Motherboard
It might sound like a silly name for a component, but the motherboard plays a critical role in keeping all the components together. All motherboards are either compatible with Intel CPUs or AMD processors and have dedicated slots where the CPU, RAM and graphics card clip into. Depending on the make and model of the motherboard, it will also have additional built-in components such as a Wi-Fi receiver, on-board sound card or extra fans for heat extraction. The peripherals you use to control the computer (the mouse and the keyboard) plug directly into the motherboard.
Internal storage
Even if you have the best components in your case, your computer isn’t going to do you much good if it doesn’t have a hard drive installed. In case you need a refresher, the hard drive’s size determines how much space you have to store files and install applications. For most people, between 512GB and 1TB is enough. Generally, there are three kinds of hard drives you can install: a traditional 3.5-inch platter drive, a solid-state drive and an M.2 module.
Connectivity
Every desktop computer has multiple ports for connecting to other devices. For example, you’ll see an Ethernet port for connecting to your local network, a 3.5-millimeter jack for connecting headphones, and USB ports for connecting peripherals like your mouse and keyboard. Consider what you’ll need to be connecting and whether you’ll need to meet modern standards like USB-C, and make sure the desktop computer you buy has room for all of them.
Types of desktop computers
If you are looking for a desktop computer, you have several options. For those who prefer to be in control of every aspect that goes into the system, it’s best to buy the computer case and all the components separately. Then, with the help of a technologically inclined friend or technician, the components are individually installed into the case or PC tower. Some computer stores let you choose or customize some components, then build the PC for you.
If that seems to be too overwhelming with choice, you can opt to buy a computer that is already fully assembled. This will be a complete system, with a hard drive, RAM and graphics card included. In most cases, you’ll also get a license for the Windows operating system and some free software. The only components you’ll have to add are a keyboard, mouse and monitor.
Another option that has been gaining in popularity over the past few years is all-in-one computers. These aren’t bundles with a keyboard and mouse, but rather a uniquely designed PC where all the components are housed in the computer monitor. Essentially, the monitor is the computer case, and all peripherals connect to it. It’s a great option if you want a hassle-free work environment, but AIOs are incredibly difficult to upgrade.
How to future-proof your desktop
Because AIO computers are notoriously difficult to upgrade, it’s not the best option if you want to future-proof your hardware. However, there are other ways that you can ensure you keep up with technology, and that’s by getting a desktop computer where the components are removable and upgradable.
The most important components to consider for upgrade are the CPU, RAM and graphics card. In most cases, the motherboard is compatible with several generations of components and don’t need to be replaced or upgraded as often. However, as applications become more resource-hungry and games become more graphically demanding, the RAM and graphics card will play an important role in keeping up with the times.
Niche options: Chromebox and Raspberry Pi
There are other options for desktop computers that you might not have heard of. For example, a Chromebox is essentially a mini PC, but instead of running on Microsoft’s Windows, it uses Google’s Chrome OS operating system. They are usually small boxes only a few inches across that connect to a monitor. They are excellent for surfing the web, checking email, streaming content or working on basic applications.
Budding engineers can take a stab at building their own desktop computer, not by buying the individual PC components, but by assembling it from small Raspberry Pi-compatible single-board computers. Builders start off by getting a main board and then determining which additional circuit boards to add for functionality. In addition to computers, Raspberry Pi is also used for home automation, to develop robots and stream devices.
Best desktop computer prices
The price of a desktop computer varies greatly depending on the power, brand and model of all the components. What seemed like an affordable PC can quickly turn into an expensive endeavor when you start swapping out parts for faster or more powerful ones. However, for the sake of simplicity, it can be broken down into three price categories:
Inexpensive: These desktops use simplistic cases, entry-level components and are usually a few years (and generations) behind the latest models. Expect to pay between $200 and $300 for these.
Mid-range: If you are looking for a desktop computer that will be able to do most resource-intensive operations, a mid-range PC is a great option. It might struggle when attempting to do video editing, but they are generally good for video games. A mid-range desktop will set you back around $400 to $600, depending on the components.
Expensive: To play high-resolution video games, edit 4K videos and browse around the internet at lightning speed, an expensive desktop computer is the way to go. These gadgets can cost anywhere from $800 and upward, with some of them using the latest graphics cards and CPUs that push the price to over $1,500.
How we analyzed desktop computers
The BestReviews Testing Lab has checked out countless computers over the years to help consumers find the most up-to-date models worth purchasing. There is a lot that goes into a desktop computer, and it can be challenging to arrive at the right choice for you.
However, there are universal components that make one desktop better than another. It would be unfair to compare a pre-built computer to a desktop that’s been put together with carefully selected components. So considering these factors, for this article, we looked at 30 fully assembled computers, compared the RAM, CPU and graphics card, and analyzed the number of connectivity ports, heat extraction fans and any additional features that will be useful to an everyday consumer.
FAQ
Q. What is a mini PC?
A. As the name implies, a mini PC is much smaller than a traditional case or tower. In fact, it is only a few inches wide and tall, and often it’s no bigger than a streaming box such as a Roku. However, it comes packed with components that can run basic applications such as web browsers, play video or music files, and run other apps that don’t require powerful parts. And as technology becomes better, there are some mini PCs that have components nearly as powerful as their desktop counterparts.
Q. What is a stick computer?
A. Similar to a mini PC, a stick computer looks like a USB thumb drive but has an independent processor. It easily plugs into any monitor or TV that has an HDMI port and displays the desktop just like a traditional PC would. However, since they are extremely small and don’t have powerful components, they are best used for browsing the web, checking email or watching streaming content.
Q. Are desktop computers better for gaming than laptops?
A. Yes, to some degree. Generally, a desktop computer’s case allows for swapping out any component for a more powerful one. It’s easier to upgrade so that you can play the latest games, but that’s not always possible with a laptop. As games require more resources from computers, a laptop might be able to handle it today — but not in a few years.
Q. What is the best place to buy a new computer?
A. It’s best to buy a new computer directly from the manufacturer, such as HP, Alienware or Dell. However, that isn’t always practical. Sometimes you want to see the computer case, get a feel for it and inspect it closely. In those scenarios, the best option is to go to a reputable store such as Walmart, Best Buy or Target. You’ll know exactly what goes into the machine, and if something breaks, there shouldn’t be any problems.
Q. How long do desktop computers last?
A. That’s difficult to answer as components go through several generations and eventually become obsolete. As with any gadget or household item, if you look after it and take care of it, it should last about 10 years. However, it is natural for electronic components to fail after about five or so years.
