Best Desktop Computers for 2022
Many people find that they need a desktop for work, gaming, or just for the home. Which option will be best for you depends on many factors – what other devices you own, your budget, and what your needs are. Those who often upload and edit videos, for example, will need a more powerful machine than those who just want the ability to browse the internet occasionally.
With desktops, you get more for your money than you do when buying a laptop, as you don’t need to compromise on storage or power for portability. Most desktops will offer you better graphics, faster loading times, and a higher storage capacity.
The list below describes the best desktop computers available to buy right now. Keep reading to find out which one will best suit your needs.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Best Desktop Computer: Dell XPS
- Best Budget Desktop: Aspire TC Desktop
- Best All in One Desktop: HP Envy All-in-One - 32-a0035
- Best Mac: iMac 24 Inch
- Best Gaming Desktop: Alienware Aurora Ryzen
- Best Desktop Computer for the Money: HP ENVY Desktop TE01-1150xt
- Best Budget Gaming Desktop: Cyberpower Gamer Xtreme
- Best Desktop for Creatives: Microsoft - Surface Studio 2
- Best Desktop for Home: Dell G5
- Best Business Desktop: Lenovo Yoga A940
- Best Mini PC: HP Chromebox G3
- Desktop Computer Buying Advice
- Key Takeaways
Best Desktop Computer: Dell XPS
The Dell XPS comes out on top overall for the best desktop computer due to its powerful processor and amount of RAM. This machine is a great all-arounder to use for a variety of activities, from gaming to work and design.
Specifications
| Processor | 11th Gen Intel® Core™ i7-11700 processor |
| Graphics | NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 1650 SUPER™ 4GB GDDR6 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD + 1TB HDD |
| Dimensions | 14.45" x 6.65" x 12.13" |
| Ports | USB 3.1, 2 USD 2.0, HDMI 1.4, SD card slot |
| Price | $$ |
Pros
· Excellent amount of RAM
· Excellent graphics
Cons
· Costly
The Dell XPS has a slimline chassis that won’t clutter up your desk. Due to its powerful processor, it is capable of easily performing power-hungry tasks such as using video editing software, gaming, and streaming HD videos. The NVIDIA graphics card enables this desktop to be used with VR technology for a 360° gaming experience.
As this desktop has a good amount of RAM, you will be able to easily have many apps, tabs, and browsers open at once without experiencing delays or glitches. These features are what earned the Dell XPS the top spot as the Best Desktop Computer.
Best Budget Desktop: Aspire TC Desktop
The Aspire TC Desktop can be picked up for around $550, making this one of the cheapest desktops on this list. However, you get a lot for the price with a hexa-core processor and a decent amount of storage.
Specifications
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i5-9400 processor Hexa-core |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630D |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 1 TB HDD |
| Dimensions | 13.4" x 6.4" x 13.8" |
| Ports | 2 USB 2.0, 6 USB, Memory card reader |
| Price | $ |
Pros
· Cheap
· Powerful processor
Cons
· Low RAM
For those with a small budget, the Aspire TC Desktop should be suitable for most of your needs. Easily browse the web and complete everyday tasks with this model.
However, the low amount of RAM may result in a slower system. You may notice that this computer takes longer to start up, shut down, and perform other processes than other models.
For the needs of most families, 512GB of storage would be enough. However, if you are completing tasks that require a lot of storage, such as uploading videos or editing photographs, you may find that you run out of space. For the price, however, this is one of the best desktop computers you will find.
Best All in One Desktop: HP Envy All-in-One – 32-a0035
All-in-one desktops have gotten a bad name for being less powerful than their larger counterparts. However, in 2021, that’s no longer the case. This HP Envy All-in-One is the perfect example, with a 6-core processor and both integrated and discrete graphics for higher performance.
Specifications
| Processor | Apple M1 chip; 8-core CPU |
| Graphics | Apple 8-Core GPU |
| RAM | 16GB Unified Memory |
| Storage | Up to 2TB SSD |
| Dimensions | 18.15" x 21.54" x 5.79" |
| Ports | Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, USB 3.1 Gen 2 |
| Price | $$$ |
Pros
· Good amount of RAM
· Affordable
Cons
· Low storage capacity
With a 27″ diagonal floating glass screen featuring a Micro Edge display, you will be able to see every inch of detail on this computer’s monitor. The large screen is excellent for photo editing, long-form writing, and even just browsing the web. The HP Envy All-In-One is a beautiful machine that’s perfectly sleek, ideal for the modern home.
As this desktop is all-in-one, you get a desktop, screen, and speakers all in one device. The speakers are quad HP and deliver immersive sound quality to add to your streaming or gaming experience.
This computer offers plenty of ports for plugging in your various devices, such as external hard drives, headphones, and more. Many competing all-in-ones have compromised on port options in favor of a more compact device.
Best Mac: iMac 24 Inch
The iMac came out on top as the best Mac desktop because it has more RAM and storage than other options from the Mac family. 2TB of storage offers you plenty of space to save files on the computer without running out of space.
Specifications
| Processor | Apple M1 chip; 8-core CPU |
| Graphics | Apple 8-Core GPU |
| RAM | 16GB Unified Memory |
| Storage | Up to 2TB SSD |
| Dimensions | 18.15" x 21.54" x 5.79" |
| Ports | Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, USB 3.1 Gen 2 |
| Price | $$$ |
Pros
· New M1 chip
· Fast processing
· Plenty of storage
Cons
· Expensive
The main component that makes the iMac stand out from the other desktops on this list is the Apple M1 chip. This was developed especially for Macs and newly released in November 2020. This signals Apple’s move away from Intel chips, now that they make their own.
The M1 chip combines the processor, RAM, graphics, and other components all into one. This seamless integration is what makes the M1 chip far faster than the previously used Intel chips and better than many other options on the market.
In a nutshell, the M1 chip allows the different components to work more efficiently by accessing the same pool of data. This makes the newer Macs faster and more efficient than their predecessors. It is the use of this new chip that caused the iMac to achieve the title of Best Mac.
Best Gaming Desktop: Alienware Aurora Ryzen
Alienware desktops are explicitly designed with the needs of gamers in mind, and the Aurora Ryzen is no exception. It has a powerful processor to avoid game lag and a decent amount of RAM so that you can easily switch between apps.
Specifications
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ 7 5800 8-core |
| Graphics | NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3060 Ti 8GB GDDR |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Dimensions | 18.9" x 8.771" x 17" |
| Ports | 9 USB 3.2, SPDIF Digital Output, 6 USB 2.0, |
| Price | $$$$ |
Pros
· Powerful Processor
· Great storage
Cons
· Expensive
Any serious gamer will already be familiar with the Alienware brand that designs computers specifically for their compatibility with gaming. That’s why this desktop has such a powerful processor and tremendous amount of storage – to accommodate the needs of gamers.
The Alienware Aurora Ryzen is the best gaming desktop that you can buy today if you can afford the price tag. While the standard model comes with an 8-core processor, there are options to upgrade this up to 16-cores, which is hard to find, even in gaming PCs.
If you want to ensure that you can play games with excellent graphics and no lag time, this is the computer to get.
Best Desktop Computer for the Money: HP ENVY Desktop TE01-1150xt
The HP Envy Desktop TE01-1150xt is the second HP Envy on this list because this all-in-one version undoubtedly offers excellent value for a desktop computer. At around $699 from some outlets, this computer is extremely affordable while still offering plenty of power to meet your everyday computing needs.
Specifications
| Processor | 10th-generation Intel Core i5 CPU, 6 cores |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Dimensions | 6.12" x 11.97" x 13.28" |
| Ports | 3-in-1 Media Card Reader, 4 USB 2.0, 1 USB Type C, 4 USB Type A, |
| Price | $ |
Pros
· Reasonably priced
Cons
· Low RAM
· Low storage capacity
This desktop computer is highly affordable, depending on the model you select. However, at its cheapest, you only get 256GB of storage, so it might be worth upgrading if you will be storing a lot of files or downloading software onto your computer.
It features 5.1 surround sound for crystal clear sound quality while watching movies or gaming. The HP Envy Desktop supports Bluetooth, so you can easily connect wireless headphones and other devices.
For the everyday needs of a family computer, this model offers excellent value and is suitable for surfing the web and low-level use of software.
Best Budget Gaming Desktop: Cyberpower Gamer Xtreme
The Cyberpower Gamer Xtreme is a great option for entry-level gamers, as it is powerful enough for casual gaming and has excellent storage capacity. It is also much cheaper than comparable desktop gaming options.
Specifications
| Processor | Intel Core i5-9400f 2. 9GHz 6-Core |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 6GB Video Card |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 120GB SSD, 1TB HDD |
| Dimensions | 18.5" x 7.9" x 17.9" |
| Ports | 2 USB 2.0, 6 USB 3.0, 1 HDMI |
| Price | $$ |
Pros
· Affordable
· Plenty of storage
Cons
· Less powerful processor than other gaming computers
One of the most appealing features of the Cyberpower Gamer Xtreme is the design of its chassis, as it has an eye-catching front panel of lights that glow in a variety of colors. This desktop can be used with VR games for a fully immersive gaming experience.
Graphics are an essential consideration for gamers, and the graphics card in this model outperforms previous-generation graphics cards by up to 3x.
It has plenty of power for all of your gaming needs, and many of the Amazon reviews state that it is the best gaming PC to buy if you’re looking for a good balance of value and performance.
Best Desktop for Creatives: Microsoft – Surface Studio 2
The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is the perfect option for creatives, as it lets you easily and quickly upload and edit video and photos. The touchscreen allows you to access and intuitively interact with drawing and design apps.
Specifications
| Processor | Intel 7th Generation Core i7 |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Dimensions | Display - 25.1” x 17.3” x 0.5” |
| Ports | 4 USB 3.0, full-size SD™ card reader |
| Price | $$$$$ |
Pros
· Plenty of RAM
· Intuitive touchscreen
Cons
· Extremely expensive
Many creatives require a touchscreen desktop for drawing and other activities. However, these can be hard to find. The touchscreen is just one of the aspects of the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 that makes it ideal for creatives. The flexible base can push the screen up high for ergonomic comfort or be folded down so you can draw on it like a tablet.
The PixelSense display offers vibrant colors, perfect for artists and graphic designers who want to see the true color of their work.
It claims to be the fastest Surface ever, which is impressive, considering the speed of previous Surface products.
If you are a graphic designer, videographer, photographer, or otherwise have a job that requires a computer with extremely high performance capability, this one is definitely the best choice. However, if you are not in any of these careers, the average user won’t use all of its capabilities and would be better off finding a cheaper option.
Best Desktop for Home: Dell G5
The Dell G5 was actually designed as a gaming desktop; however, this model is also ideal for family use. It is powerful enough for your teens to begin gaming and has plenty of storage capacity for saving all of your family photos and home videos.
Specifications
| Processor | 10th Gen Intel® Core™ i5 6 core |
| Graphics | NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 1650 SUPER™ 4GB GDDR6 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Dimensions | 14.45" x 6.65" x 12.12” |
| Ports | 2 USB 2.0, 1 USB 3.0, 1 USB 3.1 Type C, HDMI |
| Price | $$$ |
Pros
· High storage capacity
· 6-core processor means shorter loading times
Cons
· Low amount of RAM
Never worry again about your computer overheating, as the G5 features a cooling system with airflow fueled by the 65W CPU cooler. You can even adjust the thermal mode to suit whether you are going to be studying, streaming, or gaming.
If you later realize that you need to upgrade this computer, you can easily remove the side panel yourself to access and swap out the graphics card, central processing unit, and memory drive. This allows you to get more storage capacity if you run out or improve the graphics for gaming.
This computer can respond to a command in a split second, allowing you to perform everyday tasks faster than ever. Load webpages, begin typing in a Word document, or open a game quickly. That’s what makes this machine ideal for the whole family – it’s an excellent all-round device that will suit a range of uses.
Best Business Desktop: Lenovo Yoga A940
If you need a business desktop either for your workplace or home office, the Lenovo Yoga A940 is the ideal choice. It has an exceptional amount of RAM, allowing you to easily switch in and out of different apps and browsers without delay. It also has plenty of storage for all of your work documents.
Specifications
| Processor | 9th Generation Intel® Core™ i7-9700 8 cores |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon™ RX 560 4 GB |
| RAM | 32GB |
| Storage | 1 TB PM HDD + 256 GB SSD |
| Dimensions | Display - 3840 x 2160 |
| Ports | 1 Intel® Thunderbolt™, 4 USB 3.1, HDMI |
| Price | $$ |
Pros
· Great RAM
· 8-core processor
Cons
· An all-in-one, so you can’t choose a larger screen
This desktop is an excellent choice for a business computer. It has 1TB of storage, so you can keep all of your files on the device. The 32GB of RAM ensures that you can quickly and easily switch between tasks without any delay. Go from writing a report to fact-checking online in an instant.
Creatives will love this desktop, as it can be tilted so that you can comfortably draw on it using the digital pen provided. The content creation dial allows you to add your favorite programs and lets you scroll around while drawing. If you have a job with some creative functions or love to create digital art as a hobby, this computer will suit your needs perfectly.
The camera offers facial recognition to keep your computer secure in the office. It also has a wireless charging dock – just rest your phone on this area to quickly recharge it. As business desktops go, this is one of the best you can get.
Best Mini PC: HP Chromebox G3
Measuring 5.7 inches by 5.7 inches, computers don’t come much smaller than the HP Chromebox G3. If you only have the space or need for a mini PC, this is by far the best option. It can meet your basic computing needs with an Intel processor and wi-fi connectivity.
Specifications
| Processor | Intel® Celeron® 5205U, dual-core |
| Graphics | Intel® UHD Graphics |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 32GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 5.87 x 5.87 x 1.57 in |
| Ports | 3-in-1 SD card reader, 5 SuperSpeed USB, 2 HDMI |
| Price | $ |
Pros
· Very cheap
· Portable
Cons
· Not as powerful as other models
· Low storage capacity
This device is an excellent option for those without much space or businesses that need a portable desktop. Bring it with you on the road to have a computer and access the internet anywhere you go.
Note that the features of this desktop are limited due to its size. The processor is less powerful, with just a dual core. However, you will still be able to go online, open documents, and more with this computer. It might just take you a little more time than on a more powerful desktop.
Connect it to a monitor, and you’re ready to work at a moment’s notice. This is a handy tool for those who work flexibly from the home or office or have a hot desk, as you can bring your computer with you and easily hook it up to the monitor to begin working.
Desktop Computer Buying Advice
The desktop computer that is best for you will vary according to your needs. For graphic designers and artists, the processing power and storage capacity will be vital. Gamers will put more emphasis on the graphics card as well as the sound and picture quality. Meanwhile, those looking for a family computer will need decent specs all around.
Budget
Your budget will likely be the most significant determining factor in what you end up buying. However, just because you have a lower price range doesn’t mean you need to compromise on quality.
You could always buy a computer that has upgrade options so you can buy it cheaply now and pay for more storage or better graphics as you need them.
Operating System (Mac vs PC)
The operating system you select will largely depend on which one you have used in the past. However, more designers, videographers, and others with high processing requirements will choose Macs over PCs every time due to their speed and power.
For everyday needs such as work, study, and gaming, a PC will suffice.
Form Factor
Whether you want a desktop that has a chassis and screen or all-in-one will likely be based on how much space you have available. The separate chassis and screen often have higher specs than all-in-ones, so if you have room, you can likely get more speed and power from these types of models.
Processing Power
The processing power comes from the CPU (central processing unit). This is what affects how your computer responds when you have multiple apps, browsers, and tabs open.
The processor is a form of hardware that allows the computer to interact with the programs and applications on it. Each processor has cores, and this is part of what makes a computer run fast.
The more cores a computer has, the more powerful the device is and the more able it is to complete multiple functions at once without lagging. For example, top of the line gaming computers may have 16 cores, but that’s unheard of for a standard business or family desktop.
Most average users would not need more than 6 cores for everyday tasks like opening files and accessing the internet. Designers, photographers, artists, and other creatives should choose a computer with at least 8 cores for fast processing.
Graphics Card
Desktop computers generally all have good GPU nowadays. GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit, and this is the component of your computer responsible for loading high-resolution images, videos, and more.
There are two main types of GPUs – integrated and dedicated. Integrated GPUs are built into the same chip as the CPU and are less powerful than dedicated graphics cards. For general business or casual computer users, an integrated GPU would be fine for your requirements.
Gamers and creatives, however, should look for GPUs with dedicated graphics. These allow you to play more complex games, render in 3D, and more.
Storage and Memory
The amount of storage on your computer will affect how you use it. For example, if you prefer to store all of your photos and files on your computer rather than the cloud, you will need plenty of storage space. A minimum of 500GB would be suitable for a family computer, while those saving large files will need 1TB or more.
The other primary memory consideration is the amount of RAM your desktop has. RAM, or Random Access Memory, is another component that allows you to quickly and easily switch between software, apps, and browsers. Standard desktops come with 8GB RAM, which is acceptable for general use by families and businesses. Again, it is creatives and gamers who need more – a computer with 16GB RAM would be much better for these individuals.
Connectivity and Ports
The ports and connectivity required will depend on what you’re using your computer for. If you love using wireless products such as headphones, for example, look for a computer with Bluetooth capabilities.
Most PCs will have USB ports, headphone and microphone ports, as well as HDMI capabilities. These are the minimum connectivity requirements for the majority of computer users.
Note that Apple products have different styles of ports and usually require you to purchase additional connectors to link up to HDMI, for example.
Key Takeaways
Desktops are best for those who want more power and can compromise on the portability of their computer. Creatives and gamers would be much better off with the performance capabilities of a desktop computer. Businesses and families may be able to use a laptop instead but will get things done faster on a desktop.
· Most creatives choose Macs over PCs
· An all-in-one suits general use requirements, but you’ll need a chassis and monitor if you want a more powerful device
· Most users will need a processor with at least 6 cores for fast performance
· Integrated GPUs are great for everyday use, but serious gamers and creatives would benefit from a dedicated GPU
· Choose the amount of storage you need based on the number and size of files you plan to save on the desktop
· The more RAM your computer has, the more capable it is of processing multiple commands at once
· Check that your computer at least has USB, headphone, and HDMI ports
About the Author Marcus
Marcus has a graduate degree in computer engineering and has many years of experience in cutting-edge technology research and development in both startups and Fortune 500 corporations. In his free time, he enjoys RTS gaming.
