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Best Desktop Computers in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: August 6th, 2024

💻Picking the right desktop computer can be a real headache with so many options out there. To make it easier for you, we've put together a list of the best desktop computers based on insights from all the latest reviews and data.

Whether you're after a gaming beast, a sleek home office system, or something budget-friendly, we've got you covered. These choices are all about meeting different needs while delivering solid performance.

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Overall Best: Dell XPS Desktop 8960

Dell XPS 8960 Desktop - 14th Generation Intel Core i7-14700 Processor, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, Intel UHD 770 Graphics, Windows 11 Home, Onsite & Migrate Service - Black

For most users, the Dell XPS Desktop 8960 offers an exceptional balance of performance, customization, and affordability. This versatile desktop comes with various configuration options, ranging from budget-friendly to high-end models, making it suitable for tasks like home office work, casual gaming, and more. The sleek design adds a touch of elegance to any workspace, and the extensive selection of ports ensures future-proof connectivity. Overall, the Dell XPS Desktop 8960 is a reliable and powerful choice for a broad range of users.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$1,049.99 at Amazon

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Runner-up: Apple iMac 24-inch (M3)

Apple 2023 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer with M3 chip: 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 24-inch Retina Display, 8GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage, Matching Accessories. Works with iPhone/iPad; Silver

Apple's iMac 24-inch with the M3 chip stands out for its powerful performance wrapped in a compact, stylish design. The 4.5K Retina display is a visual delight, perfect for creative professionals and general productivity. While it doesn't offer the upgrade flexibility of traditional desktops, its user experience and design more than compensate. The iMac's seamless integration with other Apple products enhances its appeal, making it a top choice for users who prioritize aesthetics and performance.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$1,499.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Apple iMac M3 (2023)? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Can you upgrade the RAM or storage on the 2023 iMac?

Hey, if you’re wondering about upgrading the RAM or storage on the 2023 iMac with the M3 chip, here's the deal: you can't. Our research shows that Apple has integrated these components directly into the motherboard. So once you've bought it, there's no way to change or increase them later. This setup is pretty common for Apple these days, which can be a bit annoying if you're someone who likes to tweak or upgrade your tech down the line. So, it's really important to pick the right specs for what you need right from the get-go. Think about how you'll be using it—if you're going to be doing stuff like video editing or running a bunch of programs at once, you might want to go for higher RAM and more storage right off the bat. So yeah, even though you can't upgrade the internal bits, the 2023 iMac is still pretty amazing in other ways. It's got a sharp design and is packed with solid processing power. The M3 chip handles daily tasks and more demanding ones pretty well, and the [24-inch Retina Display](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D24-inch%2BRetina%2BDisplay%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) is noted for its vibrant and crisp visuals, which is awesome if you're working on creative projects or just watching media. Bottom line: the inability to upgrade RAM and storage might be a bummer for some, but this iMac does come ready to impress out of the box. Just try to plan your initial purchase well, so it keeps meeting your needs in the long run.

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Is 8GB RAM enough for the iMac M3?

So, you're trying to figure out if 8GB of RAM is enough for the iMac M3? Our research gives us a pretty good idea. For everyday stuff like web browsing, using office applications, and watching videos, 8GB is usually just fine. The M3 chip is made to handle these types of tasks without breaking a sweat. On the other hand, if you're getting into more intense activities like video editing, graphic design, or running multiple demanding apps, you might notice the 8GB starts to feel a bit cramped. Our data suggests that while the M3 chip brings some improvements, having more RAM can make a big difference with multitasking and memory-hungry programs. Also, the iMac M3 has two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and is mainly set up for just one external display, based on the manufacturer's product description. If you're thinking of using multiple monitors, that'll push your RAM needs even more. It might seem okay at first, but over time and as your projects get more complex, the limited RAM might become an issue. Considering upgrading the RAM when you buy the iMac is a good idea since you can't change it later on. Going for a higher RAM option could help keep things smooth as your workload grows. In a nutshell, if you're sticking to basic use, 8GB should cover you. But if you're planning for more resource-heavy tasks or want multiple displays, upgrading to 16GB might be a smart move to keep everything running smoothly.

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How good is the display on the 24-inch iMac M3?

The 24-inch iMac with the M3 chip comes with a pretty impressive display. Its Retina Display boasting a 4.5K resolution means everything looks super sharp and the colors are really spot on. This can be great if you're into graphic design, photography, or video editing. From what we've gathered, folks really like the vibrant colors and crispness—images and videos tend to pop and look quite lifelike. One neat thing is [Apple's True Tone tech](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Btrue%2Btone%2Btech%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which automatically adjusts the display to match your room's lighting. This helps provide a comfy viewing experience, especially if you're working for hours on end. It can help cut down on eye strain and keep colors accurate all day. Now, besides the display, the iMac's powered by the M3 chip, which is packed with an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU. According to the manufacturer's product description, this is geared towards handling multimedia tasks smoothly, and the display works hand-in-hand with this hardware to give you great graphics performance. So, if you're editing or just watching videos, everything should run seamlessly. From our research, people have noted that it handles intensive tasks smoothly too, which is super important if you need precision and speed. In terms of display, if that's what you're after, the iMac M3 seems to hit the mark. It's a great pick for creatives looking for a dependable all-in-one machine with a stellar screen.

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Budget Pick: Apple Mac Mini M2 (2023)

Apple 2023 Mac Mini Desktop Computer with Apple M2 chip with 8‑core CPU and 10‑core GPU, 8GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage, Gigabit Ethernet. Works with iPhone/iPad

The Apple Mac Mini M2 (2023) is our top pick for those seeking a budget-friendly yet powerful desktop computer. Despite its compact size, this machine is equipped with the latest Apple silicon, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and light creative work. Its small footprint makes it an excellent choice for tight spaces, and it easily integrates with existing peripherals, offering great versatility for home or office use.

Lowest at Amazon

$699.00 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$35.00 at DICK'S Sporting Goods

Best Premium Gaming PC: Alienware Aurora R16

Alienware Aurora R16 Gaming Desktop - Intel Core i7-13700F, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD + 1TB HDD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 8GB GDDR6 Graphics, Windows 11 Home, 1 Year Premium Support - Basalt Black Core i7-13700F 16GB RTX 4060 Basalt Black

For gamers and content creators looking for top-tier performance, the Alienware Aurora R16 is a standout choice. This premium gaming PC boasts exceptional ventilation, a compact design, and high-end components that can tackle the most demanding tasks with ease. The Aurora R16's customizable options and premium build quality make it a worthwhile investment for serious users seeking performance and reliability.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$1,399.97 at Amazon

Best Mini PC: Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini (Gen 8)

The Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini (Gen 8) is perfect for users with limited space who need respectable performance in a compact form factor. This mini PC features an Intel Core H-series CPU that can handle everyday tasks effortlessly, making it ideal for home, office, or retail environments. The generous selection of ports ensures connectivity for various peripherals, enhancing its overall utility and convenience.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$485.46 at Amazon

Best All-in-One: HP Envy Move All-in-One PC

HP Envy Move 23.8 inch All-in-One PC, QHD Display, 13th Generation Intel Core i3-1315U, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, Intel UHD Graphics, Windows 11 Home, 24-cs0040 (2023)

The HP Envy Move All-in-One PC redefines versatility with its portable design, built-in battery, and 24-inch QHD touch display. This all-in-one PC is not just a stationary desktop but a movable workstation that adapts to your needs. It's ideal for a hybrid work style, offering both convenience and high performance. The Envy Move is a unique blend of innovation and practicality, making it a top pick for those who value flexibility in their computing setup.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$926.99 at Amazon

Best Custom Build: Maingear MG-1

The Maingear MG-1 stands out for its deep customization options and high-performance capabilities. This desktop is built by enthusiasts who appreciate a clean build, excellent cable management, and future upgrade paths. It's perfect for gamers and power users seeking a bespoke computing experience that can grow with their needs. If you're looking for a tailored system that offers both performance and expandability, the Maingear MG-1 is the way to go.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

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