Desktop computers

How to choose a desktop computer

For the same money a desktop delivers more performance than a laptop and can be upgraded later — swap the graphics card or add memory and the machine lasts years longer.

• Use case. For gaming pick a model with a discrete graphics card (GeForce RTX) — Lenovo Legion, LOQ or Acer Predator. For office work a compact SFF/Micro PC with Intel Core i3/i5 is plenty.
• Processor. Intel Core Ultra 7/9 and AMD Ryzen 7/9 handle games and heavy workloads; Core i3 and U7 cover documents, web and video.
• RAM and storage. 16 GB is today's sensible minimum, 32 GB for gaming and editing. SSD from 512 GB, 1 TB for a game library.
• Chassis. A tower leaves room for upgrades and cooling; Slim/Micro fits on the desk and runs quieter.
• The screen is separate. Unlike a laptop, you pick the monitor for the job — 144 Hz for gaming, 27″ 4K for work.

Related categories

See also monitors, keyboards, mice and laptops. Building your own? Browse graphics cards, processors and other PC components.

Frequently asked questions

Desktop or laptop? If the machine stays in one place, a desktop gives more performance per euro, better cooling and upgradeability.

Pre-built or self-built? A pre-built system carries a manufacturer warranty for the whole machine and works out of the box. Building your own makes sense when you know exactly what you want — the components are in our store.

What do I need for gaming? For Full HD an RTX-series graphics card with a Ryzen 7 / Core Ultra 7 processor is enough; for 1440p and 4K choose a stronger GPU.