The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Best Desktop PC in 2024
Embarking on the journey to find the perfect desktop PC can be overwhelming, with a plethora of options available from renowned brands like HP, Dell, Apple, and Lenovo. To simplify your decision-making process, we have meticulously evaluated dozens of desktop PCs running both Windows and macOS to present you with the top 10 choices that will surpass your expectations in 2024.
1. Dell XPS 8960: The Epitome of Versatility
The Dell XPS 8960 stands tall as the undisputed champion of our list, seamlessly blending understated elegance with exceptional performance. This customizable desktop PC empowers you to tailor it to your specific needs, whether you seek a workhorse for demanding tasks or a gaming powerhouse for immersive entertainment. With a wide range of configurations available, you can effortlessly find the perfect match for your budget and requirements.
2. Apple iMac 24-inch: A Stunning Fusion of Style and Substance
Apple’s iMac 24-inch has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging with the M3 chip at its core. This aesthetic masterpiece boasts the same captivating design and exquisite display that won our hearts a few years ago, now amplified by the M3 chip’s impressive performance. Experience a lightning-fast computing experience, particularly in graphics-intensive applications, as the iMac 24-inch outperforms even some of Apple’s older Pro series chips.
3. Mac Studio: Pro-Level Powerhouse in a Compact Form
The Mac Studio has finally found its footing, delivering a compelling blend of performance and compactness. Equipped with the M2 Ultra or M2 Max, this premium Mac offers exceptional capabilities that rival high-end PC components. Its diminutive size defies expectations, occupying a mere fraction of your desk space while delivering awe-inspiring performance. Despite its compact design, the Mac Studio boasts an impressive array of professional features, including support for massive storage arrays and exceptional external monitor connectivity.
4. HP Envy Move: Portability Meets Productivity
The HP Envy Move shatters conventional desktop PC designs by introducing a unique combination of portability and functionality. At its core, it’s a versatile all-in-one PC, but its ingenious legs fold automatically, allowing you to effortlessly pick it up and take it with you. A dedicated carrying handle ensures easy transportation, and the included battery grants you the freedom to work or play wherever inspiration strikes.
5. Lenovo ThinkStation P620: A Workstation for the Demanding
The Lenovo ThinkStation P620 is a true workstation in every sense of the word, meticulously engineered to handle the most resource-intensive tasks imaginable. Tailored for professionals in fields such as engineering, data science, machine learning, 3D modeling, and video editing, this powerhouse is equipped with the latest AMD Threadripper 5000 Pro processors, supporting up to a staggering 64 cores and 128 threads. With the option to add up to two Nvidia Quadro GV100 GPUs, the ThinkStation P620 empowers you to conquer even the most challenging computing endeavors.
6. Starforge Systems Navigator: A Pre-built Gaming Machine with a Custom Look
Starforge Systems has carved a niche in the competitive PC market by offering a concise lineup of pre-built gaming PCs that prioritize both performance and aesthetics. The Navigator, in particular, stands out with its sleek XPG case and a mesmerizing liquid cooler that complements its exceptional performance. This $1,900 build boasts an Nvidia RTX 4070 and an AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, delivering an immersive gaming experience that rivals custom-built PCs.
7. Corsair One i500: A Monstrous PC in a Tiny Package
The Corsair One i500 embodies the epitome of compact computing power, featuring an astounding RTX 4090 and a Core i9-14900K in a remarkably small chassis. Liquid cooling technology keeps temperatures in check and ensures whisper-quiet operation, even under heavy loads. Despite its diminutive footprint, the Corsair One i500 delivers performance that closely matches elaborate custom-built desktops, making it an exceptional choice for space-conscious enthusiasts.
8. Lenovo Yoga AIO 9i: A 4K Display Marvel
The Lenovo Yoga AIO 9i captivates with its stunning 4K display, boasting an impressive size of 32 inches and a mesmerizing glossy finish. This all-in-one desktop PC offers exceptional color accuracy and features a concealed wireless charging pad for your smartphone. Its integrated Intel Core i9-13900H processor provides ample power for work applications and even allows for casual photo or video editing. Additionally, you can configure the machine with a mobile RTX 4050 graphics card, enhancing its capabilities for gaming.
9. Ayaneo Retro Mini PC AM01: A Nostalgic Powerhouse
The Ayaneo Retro Mini PC AM01 is a unique blend of retro aesthetics and modern performance. Its charming design, reminiscent of vintage Macs, houses a surprisingly powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5700U CPU, up to 64GB of memory, and up to 2TB of SSD storage. Priced from just $200, this compact PC punches above its weight, delivering exceptional performance given its size and affordability. The AM01 excels as an emulator, providing a perfect platform for retro gaming while retaining the functionality of Windows 11.
10. Mac mini M2: A Compact Powerhouse for Value-Conscious Users
The Mac mini M2 is a testament to Apple’s ability to deliver exceptional performance in a compact form factor. Despite its diminutive size, it packs a punch with the M2 chip, offering a significant upgrade over its M1 predecessor. The base M2 model is a solid choice for basic computing needs, but the real star is the M2 Pro chip, which transforms the Mac mini into a capable content creation machine for demanding tasks. Its impressive feature set includes support for external monitors and extensive storage capacity, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of power and affordability.
