The best desktop computers have long been the workhorses of both the home office and professional environment, offering high performance, flexibility, and durability. In 2024, desktop PCs continue to evolve, delivering powerful hardware options for gaming, productivity, and everyday use.
Best Overall | Bang for Your Buck | Best on a Budget | Best All-in-One Computer | Best for Gaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Dell Inspiron 3020 | Dell XPS 8960 | Lenovo ThinkCentre M70q | Apple iMac | iBUYPOWER Y40 |
 |  |  |  |  |
The Dell Inspiron 3020 offers a well-rounded package of power, flexibility, and upgradability, making it the best overall desktop of 2024. | Offering excellent performance at a reasonable price, the Dell XPS 8960 is the best value desktop for users who need power without breaking the bank. | The Lenovo ThinkCentre M70q is a compact, affordable desktop offering strong performance for business and everyday use. | The Apple iMac combines powerful performance with a sleek, all-in-one design, making it the top choice for those seeking a compact and stylish desktop. | The iBUYPOWER Y40 is a high-performance gaming desktop that provides an unbeatable combination of power, speed, and visual quality. |
What Is a Desktop Computer?
A desktop computer is a personal computing device designed to remain stationary, typically featuring a central processing unit (CPU) housed in a tower or an all-in-one configuration. Unlike laptops, desktops provide more flexibility in terms of upgradability and component replacement. They are commonly used for intensive tasks like multimedia production, gaming, business operations, and general personal use. Their superior power, durability, and expandability make them a preferred choice for many professionals and enthusiasts.
Why Buy a Desktop Computer?
People opt for desktop computers for a variety of reasons, ranging from performance to cost-effectiveness. First and foremost, desktops offer significantly more power than laptops for the same price, making them ideal for users who need to perform resource-intensive tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming. They also allow for customization and upgrades, giving users the flexibility to swap out parts such as the graphics card, RAM, or storage, which can extend the lifespan of the machine.
Another reason to choose the best desktop computers is their superior cooling systems. Since they have larger chassis, desktops can accommodate better airflow and more efficient cooling, which is critical for preventing overheating during long hours of use. Finally, desktops typically provide better ergonomics with separate monitors, keyboards, and mice, allowing users to create comfortable, customizable workstations. This makes them ideal for those who need to maintain a productive and healthy work environment.
Best Desktop Computers: What to Look For
Before purchasing the best desktop computers, it’s essential to consider these key features:
Best Overall: DELL INSPIRON 3020
Image credit: Dell
Pros:
Con:
The Dell Inspiron 3020 is an excellent choice for users seeking a balanced desktop that handles a wide range of tasks. Equipped with the 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor with speeds up to 5.1 GHz and 30MB of cache, this machine offers snappy performance for everything from business applications to multimedia production. The integrated Intel UHD 770 Graphics ensures smooth visuals for everyday tasks, although more demanding gamers might want a dedicated graphics card.
One of the standout features of the Inspiron 3020 is its connectivity options, supporting up to three FHD monitors or one 4K display via its HDMI and DisplayPort outputs. It also comes with Wi-Fi 6, providing faster and more reliable wireless connections, making it ideal for remote workers or those who frequently stream content. With 1TB of storage and 16GB of RAM (expandable up to 64GB), it offers plenty of space and speed for multitasking and handling large files.
This desktop also shines in terms of design and practicality. Its compact 14.7L chassis fits comfortably in small spaces, making it versatile for home offices or businesses. Whether you’re looking for a personal computer or something robust enough to support business needs, the Dell Inspiron 3020 excels across the board.
Bang for Your Buck: Dell XPS 8960
Image credit: Dell
Pros:
Con:
The Dell XPS 8960 offers a premium desktop experience at a mid-range price, making it the ideal choice for users seeking top-tier performance without overspending. Its 14th Gen Intel Core i7-14700 processor, combined with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, ensures smooth multitasking and fast processing speeds, especially for business and creative tasks. The DDR5 memory offers up to 60% faster clock speeds compared to DDR4, giving users an edge when handling large files or intensive workloads.
The XPS 8960’s spacious design is another major selling point. It’s built with optimal airflow in mind, reducing the risk of overheating during intensive tasks. While its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 may not meet the needs of hardcore gamers, it’s more than enough for everyday computing and professional applications. For users who want a solid, expandable machine at a great price point, the XPS 8960 is a standout choice.
Best on a Budget: Lenovo ThinkCentre M70q
Image credit: Lenovo
Pros:
Con:
For those on a budget, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M70q delivers exceptional value without compromising on essential features. Powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500T processor and 32GB of RAM, it offers enough speed and efficiency to handle business applications, internet browsing, and multimedia use. The compact mini-PC design makes it ideal for small offices or minimalistic setups, while still delivering the power needed for day-to-day tasks.
With integrated Intel UHD 770 graphics, this system is capable of running most non-demanding applications smoothly. Additionally, it comes with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1, ensuring fast and stable connectivity. The ThinkCentre M70q proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a reliable, performance-oriented desktop.
Best All-in-One Desktop Computer: Apple iMac
Image credit: Apple
Pros:
Con:
The Apple iMac is a versatile all-in-one desktop that delivers top-notch performance and a minimalist design. Featuring Apple’s next-generation M3 chip, this iMac is perfect for creative professionals, gamers, and anyone who values a beautiful, high-performance machine. The 24-inch 4.5K Retina display is a highlight, offering vibrant colors and sharp clarity that makes everything from video editing to streaming a joy.
Additionally, the iMac works seamlessly with other Apple devices, allowing users to easily transfer files or answer FaceTime calls. It’s an ideal solution for users who prefer a clean and organized workspace without the clutter of a separate monitor and tower setup.
Best for Gaming: iBUYPOWER Y40
Image credit: iBUYPOWER
Pros:
Con:
For gaming enthusiasts, the iBUYPOWER Y40 offers an excellent balance of performance and style. Powered by an Intel Core i7-14700KF processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060Ti graphics card, this desktop is built to handle the latest AAA games with ease. The 32GB DDR5 RAM ensures smooth multitasking and lightning-fast performance, making it ideal for gamers who also need a powerful machine for content creation or streaming.
Additionally, the iBUYPOWER Y40’s RGB-lit tempered glass case adds a stylish touch to any gaming setup. While its price is higher than non-gaming PCs, the performance and visuals make it worth the investment for serious gamers.
