While laptops have become more and more popular over the years, desktops still have their place in the home and office. The best Computadora de escritorio tends to be more powerful than laptops, offering better CPU and graphics cards as well as much more memory and storage. Many desktop models offer both SSD and traditional hard-disk drives for faster boot times and file access as well as more reliable, expanded storage for large files. On top of that, you can often get a top-rated desktop for less than a premium or even mid-range laptop.
Desktops are also easier to upgrade and customize than laptops, though if you want to be able to upgrade your computer yourself, you’ll have to go with a Windows or Chrome-based model rather than a Mac, which has integrated components that can’t be removed at home. Many desktop PCs now have extra RAM and storage drive slots for either just dropping in additional memory and storage (relatively easy) or completely reconfiguring your new rig (way more advanced). This is especially helpful for gamers who maybe want to start with a mid-level pre-built gaming PC and then upgrade piecemeal as they become more confident or have larger budgets.
Pre-built desktops are also some of the only options you have if you want to get the new Nvidia 3000 or AMD Radeon 5000 series graphics cards; whether it’s the ongoing chip shortage or outrageous prices from scalpers, the latest GPUs are exceptionally difficult to buy right now.
Simply put, there are a lot of reasons to invest in the best desktop computers of 2021:
- Can be more affordable than laptops
- Typically more powerful than laptops
- Most 2021 models are very compact
- Customizable components
If you’re worried about a bonkers-huge tower taking up precious desk or floor space, you don’t have to worry anymore. Plenty of manufacturers like Apple and HP offer sleek, compact models that range from the size of a shoebox to truly tiny boxes that can fit in the palm of your hand. These compact desktop computers are also perfect for anyone who has a small work-from-home space or just prefers something on the teeny-tiny side for a more streamlined workspace.
Confused by Configurations? How To Pick the Right Desktop Computer
In general, the best pre-built and all-in-one desktops are best suited for everyday users who don’t necessarily want or need fancy graphics cards or oodles of storage space. If you’re just looking for a desktop that can handle everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and maybe your kids’ homework, there are a few things you should look for:
- 8-16GB of RAM
- At least 512GB hard drive
- An AMD Ryzen 3 or Intel Core i3 CPU
- And dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity
For professionals who need to perform more complex tasks, we recommend buying a newer laptop like the new Apple iMac with M1, the HP Envy 34 or the Dell Inspiron 27 7000, which offer more advanced configurations. The new iMac is powered by the ultra-fast M1 Chip, which we’ve been raving about since it debuted in late 2020. And if you prefer a PC, you’ll want to splurge on a more advanced configuration of a machine like the Dell Inspiron featuring an Nvidia GPU, Intel’s Core i7 processor and a 1TB hard drive. For the average user, these specs are overkill, but for photo and video editing, they’re essential.
Finally, you’ll also want to make sure your new desktop has plenty of USB inputs for transferring files, saving to flash drives or connecting devices like printers so you don’t have to constantly unplug and re-plug cords.
Below, you’ll find our ranking of the best desktop computers for sale in 2021, with options for every type of user and budget.
The Best Desktop Computers of 2021
To help you pick the perfect PC, we’ve selected 13 of the best desktop computers of the year from brands like HP, Dell, Apple, and Alienware covering a range of uses from remote learning and working from home to high-end gaming. We even included a few options that creative professionals like digital artists or sound designers may like. You can check out our picks below to see which desktop is the best choice for your needs and budget.
So whether you’re looking for a new family computer, need a desktop for video editing, or want to find the best desktop computers for small businesses, we’ve picked 11 fantastic options for you to consider. Keep reading for the best desktop computers of 2021 from top brands like Dell, Microsoft, Apple and HP.
The 12 Best Desktop Computers of 2021:
Dell XPS Special Edition
M1 Mac Mini
Apple iMac with M1
Dell XPS Desktop
HP Pavilion TP01
HP Envy 34 All-In-One PC
Apple iMac with Retina 5K Display (2020)
HP Pavilion All-In-One
HP Chromebox G3
Dell Inspiron 27 7000 All-In-One