Best Desktops under $800 for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS NUC NUC 14 Pro Tall Barebone Kit Mini PC 2025

79.3 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 135H 32GB RAM 2TB Intel Arc Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its compact, 0.77kg toolless chassis houses a 14-core Intel Core Ultra 5 135H processor and supports high-speed DDR5 RAM and PCIe 4.0 storage. The system excels as a space-efficient business hub with Thunderbolt 4 and dual HDMI 2.1 outputs for connecting up to four displays. This barebone kit is ideal for office IT managers building standardized, compact workstations or digital signage players.

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ASUS V500 V500 Home & Business

67.5 Developers Score
4.9 GHz core_i7 16GB RAM 1TB Intel UHD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 10-core Intel Core i7-13620H processor provides strong multi-threaded performance for demanding workloads, supported by fast DDR5 RAM and PCIe SSD storage. The desktop offers excellent connectivity with seven USB ports and dual-monitor support, coming ready with a wired keyboard and mouse. This tower is best for developers compiling code or business users running multiple virtual machines and productivity applications.

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ASUS ExpertCenter PN54 Mini Barebone

67.2 Developers Score
AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 32GB RAM 0 AMD Radeon 860 Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its compact 0.55kg chassis houses an AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 processor and supports up to 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM, making it a powerful yet space-efficient unit. The inclusion of WiFi 7 and a discrete AMD Radeon 860 GPU provides excellent connectivity and solid graphical output for a business desktop. This system is best for business users and developers who need a reliable, high-performance mini PC for office applications and coding environments.

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ASUS ExpertCenter PN54 Mini Barebone desktop
Price $668

ASUS V500 15L Desktop PC|

60.7 Developers Score
Intel Core i7-13620H 32GB RAM 1TB Intel UHD Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

With a 10-core Intel i7-13620H and 32GB of DDR5 RAM, it offers substantial processing power for a mini desktop. Its compact form factor and integrated Intel UHD Graphics make it a space-efficient solution for office environments. This system is best for developers needing a powerful, quiet workstation for coding and compilation tasks in a small footprint.

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ASUS NUC 15 Pro NUC 15 Pro Mini Black 2025

59.8 Developers Score
Intel Core 5 210H 16GB RAM 512GB Intel Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its compact 0.36kg chassis houses a modern Intel Core 5 210H processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM, offering solid performance for its size. It stands out with exceptional connectivity, including Wi-Fi 7 and support for driving four 4K displays simultaneously via its dual HDMI 2.1 and Thunderbolt ports. This mini-PC is best for developers or office users who need a reliable, highly connected desktop in an extremely small footprint for multi-monitor productivity setups.

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ASUS V440 V440 24" White 2025

59.4 Developers Score
Intel 13th Generation Core i5 16GB RAM 512GB Intel UHD Graphics aio
Why we recommend this

Its 24-inch anti-glare touchscreen and integrated two-way AI noise-canceling make it a strong choice for video conferencing in bright home offices. The 13th Gen Intel Core i5 H-series processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM provide capable multitasking for everyday business applications. This all-in-one is best for professionals in shared or public workspaces who need a secure, compact desktop with excellent call clarity.

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ASUS PM700 Dark Gray 2025

56.5 Developers Score
AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 16GB RAM 1000GB AMD Radeon mini-tower
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 processor with a 50-TOPS NPU, enabling fast on-device AI tasks within its compact 15L mini-tower chassis. The desktop is highly upgrade-friendly, offering a free 3.5" bay, multiple SATA and M.2 slots, and a generous port selection for multi-monitor setups. This PC is best for home office users and small teams who prioritize reliable, AI-enhanced multitasking and future hardware upgrades over gaming performance.

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ASUS PM700 Dark Gray 2025 desktop
Price $700

ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ NUC 15 Pro+ Barebone Kit

51.6 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 225H 0 0 Intel Arc Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its compact 0.59kg chassis houses a 14-core Intel Ultra 5 processor and integrated Intel Arc graphics with 16GB of dedicated VRAM, making it a uniquely powerful mini PC. The system offers excellent future-proofing with PCIe 5.0 storage, DDR5 memory slots, and modern connectivity like WiFi 7 and Thunderbolt. This barebone kit is best for professionals seeking a highly portable, modular workstation for business applications and light creative tasks, not gaming.

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ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ NUC 15 Pro+ Barebone Kit desktop
Price $592

ASUS V500SV V500SV Slim Dark Gray 2025

48.4 Developers Score
Intel Core i5 13420H 8GB RAM 512GB Intel UHD Graphics Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13420H processor and 8GB of DDR5 RAM provide responsive performance for everyday multitasking. The slim chassis offers a generous port selection, including USB-C and dual video outputs, for a flexible workstation setup. This desktop is best for office workers or students who need a compact, secure PC for document work, video calls, and dual-monitor productivity.

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ASUS ROG RYUO IV SLC 360 ARGB All-in-one CPU Liquid Cooler

9.1 Developers Score
0 0 All-in-One

Best Desktops under $1,500 for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS NUC 14 Pro NUC 14 Pro Mini

79.5 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 155H 32GB RAM 2TB Intel Arc Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its 16-core Intel Ultra 7 155H processor and 32GB of DDR5 RAM deliver substantial multitasking power for a mini desktop. The extensive connectivity, including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and support for quad displays, makes it highly versatile for complex workstation setups. This system is best for developers and business users who need a compact but powerful machine for coding, virtualization, and managing multiple monitors.

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ASUS Mini PC NUC 15 Pro Plus

79 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 32GB RAM 1TB Intel Arc Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its compact 0.60kg form factor houses a capable 16-core Intel 255H processor and 32GB of DDR5 RAM, making it a powerful yet space-efficient desktop. The inclusion of Thunderbolt and WiFi 7 connectivity provides excellent future-proofing for high-speed peripherals and networks. This mini PC is best for developers and home office users who need substantial processing power in a minimal footprint, but not for graphics-intensive tasks.

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ASUS Mini PC NUC 15 Pro Plus desktop
Price $1,168

ASUS NUC 15 Pro Mini Desktop w/USB Hub

78.3 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 255H 64GB RAM 2TB Intel Arc Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its compact 0.59kg chassis houses a 16-core Intel Ultra 7 processor and 32GB of DDR5 RAM, making it a potent mini workstation. The inclusion of a portable USB hub and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports enhances its connectivity for a desktop-replacement setup. This system is best for developers and engineers who need substantial processing power in a highly portable, desk-agnostic form factor.

ASUS ROG G700 Gaming 2025

78.1 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 32GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 64-core Intel 265F CPU and RTX 5060 GPU deliver immense power for high-fidelity gaming and demanding multitasking. The dual-glass chassis with tool-less access and robust cooling system prioritizes both aesthetics and long-term upgradeability. This desktop is best for gamers who prioritize raw performance and future-proofing over a compact footprint.

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ASUS VM670 VM670 27" White 2025

69.8 Developers Score
AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 32GB RAM 1000GB AMD Radeon 860 aio
Why we recommend this

Its 27-inch touchscreen and integrated AMD Radeon 860M graphics are well-suited for office tasks and light creative work, supported by a 50-TOPS NPU for on-device AI acceleration. The anti-glare IPS display with a 93% screen-to-body ratio provides crisp, roomy visuals ideal for a shared workspace. This all-in-one is best for home office users who prioritize a clean desk setup and need a capable machine for video calls, presentations, and everyday productivity.

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ASUS ExpertCenter PN65

69.5 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 155H 64GB RAM 2TB Intel Arc Graphics Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its standout 64GB of DDR5 RAM and Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor provide exceptional multitasking power for heavy computational workloads. The compact 1.41kg chassis houses a generous 2TB SSD and a comprehensive port selection including Wi-Fi 7 for high-speed connectivity. This mini PC is best for developers running multiple virtual machines or data scientists processing large local datasets, not for gaming due to its integrated graphics.

ASUS ROG Strix GL10DH Gaming

62.7 Developers Score
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 16GB RAM 512GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Tower
Why we recommend this

Its AMD Ryzen 7 3700X processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics provide solid 1080p gaming performance. The system's customizable Aura Sync RGB lighting and transparent side panel offer a distinct, gamer-focused aesthetic. This desktop is best for budget-conscious gamers seeking a ready-to-play tower with strong core specs for mainstream titles.

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Best Desktops under $2,500 for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS ROG G700 Gaming

87.7 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF 32GB RAM 2.0TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its 20-core Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti GPU deliver top-tier power for demanding games and creative applications. The tool-less design and dual-glass panels make it exceptionally easy to upgrade and customize for enthusiasts. This desktop is best for competitive gamers and streamers who need maximum performance and future-proofing for high-refresh-rate gaming.

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ASUS Republic of Gamers NUC Republic of Gamers NUC NUC15JNK Mini

87.1 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX 32GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Mini
Why we recommend this

Its 24-core Intel Ultra 9 275HX CPU and discrete NVIDIA RTX 5070 graphics deliver exceptional performance for gaming and demanding tasks within a compact 3.12kg chassis. The system is further bolstered by its 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM and comprehensive connectivity, including Thunderbolt and WiFi 7. This mini desktop is best for competitive gamers and software developers who need maximum power in a minimal footprint.

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ASUS Republic of Gamers NUC Republic of Gamers NUC NUC15JNK Mini desktop
Price $2,349

ASUS Mini PC NUC 15 Pro+

74.9 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 285H 32GB RAM 1TB Intel Arc Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its 16-core Intel 285H CPU and 32GB of DDR5 RAM provide exceptional multi-threaded performance for compiling code and running VMs in a remarkably compact 0.6kg chassis. The inclusion of Thunderbolt and WiFi 7 offers excellent connectivity for modern development setups and multi-monitor workstations. This mini PC is best for software developers and IT professionals who need a powerful, portable desktop alternative for coding, testing, and server management tasks.

ASUS Mini PC NUC 15 Pro+ desktop
Price $2,097

ASUS Republic of Gamers Republic of Gamers G700TF-XS776 Desktop Gaming

73.2 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265F 32GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its 20-core Intel Core Ultra 7 265F CPU and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 with 12GB GDDR7 VRAM provide a powerful foundation for demanding tasks. The system is further bolstered by fast 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD for excellent responsiveness. This desktop is best for competitive gamers and 3D artists who require high frame rates and fast rendering with modern ray-traced titles.

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ASUS Republic of Gamers Republic of Gamers G700TF-XS776 Desktop Gaming desktop
Price $1,944
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ASUS ExpertCenter PN54 Mini

69.1 Developers Score
AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 16GB RAM 1TB AMD Radeon 860 Mini
Why we recommend this

Its AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 8-core CPU and integrated Radeon 860M graphics provide solid performance for office tasks in a remarkably compact 0.55kg chassis. The inclusion of WiFi 7 and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD ensures fast connectivity and storage for modern workflows. This mini PC is best for home office users and small businesses needing a powerful, space-saving desktop for productivity and video conferencing.

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ASUS ROG GM700 Gaming Desktop PC

67 Developers Score
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D 32GB RAM 1TB AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT Tower
Why we recommend this

Its standout 64-core AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor and AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU deliver immense power for high-fidelity gaming and demanding creative tasks. The system is further bolstered by 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD for excellent multitasking and load speeds. This desktop is best for competitive gamers and streamers who need maximum frame rates and the headroom to encode broadcasts simultaneously.

ASUS ROG Strix Gaming

53.2 Developers Score
Intel Core i7 12700 32GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 12-core Intel i7-12700 CPU and NVIDIA RTX 3070 GPU provide strong performance for high-fidelity gaming. The 32GB of DDR4 RAM and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity support seamless multitasking and responsive online play. This desktop is best for gamers who prioritize high frame rates and ray-traced visuals at 1440p resolution.

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ASUS TUF Gaming PRC Series Special Edition Gaming

48.7 Developers Score
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X 16GB RAM 1.3TB AMD Radeon RX 5700 Tower
Why we recommend this

Its AMD Ryzen 7 5800X processor and Radeon RX 5700 XT GPU deliver solid 1080p gaming performance, housed in a durable ASUS TUF case with tempered glass. The system offers a practical dual-storage setup with a 256GB NVMe SSD and a 1TB hard drive, plus a 700W power supply for future upgrades. This desktop is best for budget-conscious gamers seeking a reliable, pre-built system for mainstream titles at high settings.

Best Desktops under $4,000 for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS ROG NUC Gaming 2025

91.5 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 32GB RAM 2TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 Mini
Why we recommend this

Its 24-core Intel 275HX CPU and discrete NVIDIA RTX 5080 GPU deliver desktop-class gaming performance in a compact 3L chassis. The system's QuietFlow cooling and tool-free upgrade design make it both quiet and user-serviceable. This mini PC is best for gamers who need maximum power in a small footprint for high-refresh-rate 1440p or 4K gaming.

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ASUS ROG Strix G700

85 Developers Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 285K 128GB RAM 4TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Tower
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the massive 192GB of DDR5 RAM paired with a 24-core Intel 285K CPU, providing extreme multitasking capability. The build is a powerful tower workstation with extensive connectivity, including Wi-Fi 6E and numerous rear ports for multiple monitors and peripherals. This desktop is best for developers running heavy virtual machines or data scientists processing large in-memory datasets.

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ASUS Ascent GX10

26.7 Developers Score
NVIDIA GB10 128GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA Grace Blackwell Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the NVIDIA GB10 Grace Blackwell Superchip paired with 128GB of LPDDR5x unified RAM, delivering petaflop-scale AI performance in a compact 1.48kg chassis. The system is further specialized with a 10Gb Ethernet port and 200Gb QSFP112 networking for high-throughput data transfer. This desktop is best for AI researchers and developers needing a powerful, integrated platform for full-stack model training and deployment.

ASUS Ascent GX10 desktop
Price $3,494

Premium Desktops for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS Ascent GX10

29.9 Developers Score
NVIDIA GB10 128GB RAM 4TB NVIDIA Grace Blackwell Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the NVIDIA Grace Blackwell Superchip, delivering petaflop-scale AI performance in a compact 1.48kg chassis. It pairs this with 128GB of unified LPDDR5x RAM and a 4TB NVMe SSD for massive data throughput. This system is built specifically for AI researchers and developers working on full-stack model training and deployment.

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Price $4,699
ASUS Ascent GX10 desktop