Best Desktops under $800 for gaming

Best Pick

Dell XPS 8900

41.8 Gaming Score
3.4 GHz core_i7 16GB RAM 2TB AMD Radeon R9 370 Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 6th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and discrete AMD Radeon R9 370 graphics provide solid performance for a desktop tower, supported by 16GB of DDR4 RAM. The system offers significant expandability with 10 USB ports and a Blu-ray combo drive, though it relies on a standard HDD for storage. This desktop is best for small business users or home offices needing a reliable, upgradeable workstation for general productivity and light media tasks.

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Dell Secure & Productive Business Tower

20.9 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 225 16GB RAM 1TB AMD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 10-core Intel Core Ultra 5 processor and integrated AMD graphics with 48GB VRAM provide robust multitasking and multi-monitor support for demanding office applications. The inclusion of a hardware TPM chip and physical lock slot delivers essential business-grade security in a chassis built from recycled materials. This desktop is best for small business owners or office managers needing a secure, sustainable, and highly productive multi-display workstation.

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Dell OptiPlex 7040 SFF

18.2 Gaming Score
Intel Core i5 32GB RAM 1TB AMD Graphics SFF
Why we recommend this

Its Intel Core i5-6500 processor and 32GB of RAM deliver reliable performance for multitasking in a compact SFF chassis. The inclusion of a 1TB SSD provides fast boot times and ample storage for business files. This desktop is best suited for office environments requiring dependable, space-efficient workstations for general productivity and business applications.

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Dell ECT Tower ECT1250 Desktop Computer Series 2 2025

17 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265F 64GB RAM 1TB Intel UHD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 20-core Intel Ultra 7-265F processor and 64GB of DDR5 RAM provide substantial multitasking power for heavy computational workloads. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro and a dedicated NVIDIA RTX 4060 GPU, despite its gaming score, offers valuable acceleration for professional applications and AI tasks. This tower is best for business analysts and developers running complex data simulations or local AI models that benefit from high core counts and dedicated graphics.

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Dell Vostro Vostro Desktop|

16.3 Gaming Score
Intel Core i5-12500 8GB RAM 512GB AMD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500 processor provides solid performance for general business tasks, supported by a 512GB SSD and WiFi 6 connectivity. The tower form factor and professional upgrade path offer straightforward serviceability and customization. This desktop is best for small business owners or office administrators needing a reliable, upgradeable machine for productivity software and daily operations.

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Dell Pro Standard Black

15.5 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 256GB RAM 256GB Intel Graphics Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its Intel Core Ultra 5 235 processor and integrated vPro technology provide strong remote management for IT departments. The compact, slim form factor and Windows 11 Pro make it a space-efficient and secure office machine. This desktop is best for IT-managed business environments where reliable remote administration and a small footprint are priorities.

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Dell Pro Micro Black 2025

14.6 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 235T 16GB RAM 512GB Intel Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its compact 1.4kg chassis houses a modern 14-core Intel Ultra 5 235T CPU and 16GB of fast DDR5 RAM, making it a powerful micro desktop. The system's professional Windows 11 Pro OS and dual video outputs (DisplayPort 1.4a and HDMI 2.1) are ideal for multi-monitor setups. This machine is best for business users and home offices needing a space-saving, modern desktop for productivity and video conferencing, not for gaming.

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Dell Pro Slim Pro Slim QCS1250 Mini Desktop w/USB Hub Standard Black 2025

14.3 Gaming Score
Intel Core i5 14500 16GB RAM 512GB Intel Graphics sff
Why we recommend this

Its 14-core Intel 14500 processor and 16GB of DDR5 RAM deliver strong multi-threaded performance for demanding business applications. The compact desktop form factor and integrated Intel 770 graphics prioritize office productivity over gaming horsepower. This system is best for business users running data-intensive spreadsheets, multi-tasking with enterprise software, and managing virtual meetings.

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Dell Slim Desktop

13.6 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 225 16GB RAM 512GB Intel UHD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its Intel Core Ultra 5 processor with integrated AI acceleration is designed to boost productivity tasks, supported by 16GB of DDR5 RAM. The tool-less chassis design makes internal upgrades exceptionally convenient for long-term maintenance. This desktop is best for business environments requiring secure, multi-monitor setups and easy hardware servicing.

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Dell Inspiron 3030s Small

13.1 Gaming Score
Intel Core i5 14400 16GB RAM 512GB Intel UHD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its compact 14.7L chassis and 10-core Intel Core i5-14400 processor deliver strong multi-tasking performance in a space-saving tower form factor. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and support for multiple monitors makes it a versatile hub for a connected office setup. This desktop is best for business users and home offices needing reliable, expandable computing power without dedicated graphics for intensive tasks.

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Best Desktops under $1,500 for gaming

Best Pick

Dell Alienware Aurora Gaming

77 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF 16GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti graphics provide a powerful foundation for demanding multitasking and creative workloads. The system is well-equipped for productivity with its 1TB NVMe SSD and WiFi 7 connectivity, ensuring fast file access and networking. This desktop is best for business users and home office professionals who require reliable performance for data analysis, software development, and content creation rather than high-end gaming.

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Price $1,500
Dell Alienware Aurora Gaming desktop

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Dell Pro Tower

65.2 Gaming Score
AMD Ryzen 5 8500G 16GB RAM 512GB AMD Radeon Tower
Why we recommend this

Its discrete AMD Radeon graphics with 48GB of VRAM provide exceptional power for a tower in this class, paired with a capable AMD 8500G 6-core processor. The system offers strong business-ready features like Windows 11 Pro and DDR5 memory in a standard tower form factor. This desktop is best for entry-level gaming and business users who need reliable, dedicated graphics performance for multitasking and light creative work.

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Dell Pro Tower desktop
Price $1,206

Dell Inspiron 7700

55.8 Gaming Score
Intel Core i7 1255U 32GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA GeForce MX550 All-in-One
Why we recommend this

Its 27-inch FHD touch display and 32GB of RAM support efficient multitasking on a clean, all-in-one desk setup. The 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and discrete MX550 GPU provide enough power for everyday office applications and light media work. This AIO is best for business users and home offices needing a space-saving desktop for video conferencing, document handling, and general productivity.

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Dell OptiPlex Pro Slim QCS1250 SFF Desktop Computer Next-Gen Version

49.8 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 235 16GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA Quadro P1000 SFF
Why we recommend this

Its AMD 1700 8-core CPU and discrete NVIDIA Quadro P1000 GPU provide solid multitasking and multi-display support for a compact system. The small form factor and extensive connectivity, including four Mini DisplayPort outputs, make it a space-efficient hub. This desktop is best for office environments needing a reliable, compact PC to drive multiple monitors for administrative or light design review tasks.

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Dell Vostro Vostro Desktop|

20.1 Gaming Score
Intel Core i5-12500 32GB RAM 1TB AMD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its integrated Intel HD graphics and 32GB of DDR5 RAM provide a solid foundation for multitasking and professional software, though it's not suited for gaming. The 12th Gen i5-12500 processor delivers reliable performance for a business tower, supported by Windows 11 Pro and WiFi 6 connectivity. This desktop is best for small business owners or developers who need a dependable, upgrade-ready workstation for office tasks and coding, not for graphics-intensive applications.

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Dell Pro Micro 2025

18.4 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 Series 2 32GB RAM 1TB Intel Graphics Mini
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is its remarkably compact 1.16kg form factor, which is 96% smaller than a traditional desktop, paired with a capable Intel Core Ultra 5 processor and 32GB of DDR5 RAM. The system offers rich connectivity for a mini PC, including support for triple 4K monitor output via DisplayPort and HDMI, and its durability is backed by military-grade testing. This desktop is best for home office or business users who need a powerful, space-saving computer for multitasking and productivity, not for gaming.

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Dell Pro Micro 2025 desktop
Price $850

Dell XPS Tower Plus| Next Gen Tower |

14.8 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 32GB RAM 1TB Intel UHD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 64-core Intel 265 processor and 32GB of DDR5 memory provide exceptional multi-threaded performance for heavy computational tasks, supported by a 1TB SSD for rapid application loading. This tower is built for professional reliability, arriving with pre-installed and tested Windows 11 Pro, though it lacks a dedicated GPU. It is best suited for business analysts running complex data models and software developers compiling large codebases.

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Dell Pro Desktop Pro Slim Standard Black 2025

14.6 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 5 235 16GB RAM 512GB Intel Graphics sff
Why we recommend this

Its 3.4 GHz Intel Core Ultra 5 235 14-core processor and 16GB of fast DDR5 RAM deliver strong multitasking performance for demanding office applications. The compact, 5.89kg chassis houses a 512GB NVMe SSD for quick system responsiveness and efficient cable management. This desktop is best for business IT departments needing reliable, easy-to-deploy workstations for productivity software and enterprise environments.

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Dell Pro Desktop Pro Slim Standard Black 2025 desktop
Price $899
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Also available open box & refurbished:

Dell Slim Desktop Slim Black 2025

14.2 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265 16GB RAM 1000GB Intel UHD Graphics sff
Why we recommend this

Its standout is the 20-core Intel Core Ultra 7 265 processor with three dedicated AI engines, enabling efficient multitasking and AI-accelerated workflows. The stylish, space-saving chassis and extensive connectivity, including support for multiple 4K displays, make it a versatile office centerpiece. This desktop is best for business users and developers who need reliable, AI-enhanced performance for productivity and coding tasks in a compact form factor.

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Best Desktops under $2,500 for gaming

Best Pick

Dell Tower Plus Black 2025

84.4 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265 32GB RAM 1TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 mid-tower
Why we recommend this

Its 20-core Intel Core Ultra 7 265 processor and discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 graphics provide serious multi-threaded and gaming power. The build includes modern connectivity like WiFi 7 and Thunderbolt, housed in a standard tower form factor. This desktop is best for competitive gamers and developers needing high core counts for compiling or running virtual machines.

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Dell Tower Plus Desktop

80 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 285 32GB RAM 2TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Tower
Why we recommend this

Its standout AI-enhanced Intel Core Ultra 9-285 processor and NVIDIA RTX 5070 graphics deliver exceptional power for demanding creative and gaming tasks. The thoughtful thermal design ensures quiet, efficient cooling, and its easily upgradeable internal components offer strong long-term flexibility. This desktop is best for professional 3D artists and engineers who require serious local AI processing and GPU horsepower for rendering and simulation.

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Dell XPS Tower Plus Black 2025

79.5 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 Series 2 32GB RAM 2TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 mid-tower
Why we recommend this

Its 20-core Intel Core Ultra 7 265 processor and discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 graphics provide substantial power for demanding computational and rendering tasks. The inclusion of 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD ensures responsive multitasking and quick file access. This desktop is best for developers running complex virtual environments and software engineers compiling large codebases.

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Dell OptiPlex Pro Slim QCS1250 SFF Desktop Computer Next-Gen Version

70.1 Gaming Score
Intel Core i7-14700 64GB RAM 4TB NVIDIA RTX A1000 SFF
Why we recommend this

Its compact SFF chassis houses a powerful 20-core Intel 14700 CPU and a professional-grade NVIDIA RTX A1000 GPU, making it a potent workstation in a small footprint. The generous 4TB NVMe SSD provides ample high-speed storage for large project files, while Windows 11 Pro offers robust security features essential for business environments. This desktop is best for architects and engineers running demanding CAD and 3D modeling software who require professional graphics in a space-saving form factor.

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Dell Pro Max Micro 2000

44.1 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265 32GB RAM 512GB NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada Mini
Why we recommend this

Its compact 2.54kg chassis houses a powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 265 vPro 20-core processor and a discrete NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada GPU, providing substantial workstation power in a mini form factor. The system's professional-grade connectivity, including WiFi 7 and multiple DisplayPort outputs, is ideal for multi-monitor business environments. This desktop is best for business analysts and developers who require serious local compute for data processing and CAD work, but not for gaming.

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Dell Pro Max Micro 2000 desktop
Price $2,472

Dell Inspiron 3020

6.9 Gaming Score
4.6 GHz 68000 64GB RAM 2TB Intel UHD Graphics Tower
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the 13th Gen Intel 10-core processor paired with 64GB of RAM, providing substantial power for demanding multitasking and data processing. The generous 2TB SSD and extensive port selection, including front-panel USB-C and an SD card slot, offer excellent practical utility for a desktop workstation. This system is best for business users and home office workers who run complex spreadsheets, database software, or numerous virtual machines, but not for graphics-intensive tasks.

Best Desktops under $4,000 for gaming

Best Pick

Dell Alienware Aurora Gaming 2024

100 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 285K 32GB RAM 2TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, delivering top-tier performance for demanding tasks. The desktop's robust build and comprehensive connectivity, including WiFi 7, ensure it's a future-proofed system. This machine is best for competitive gamers and developers working with intensive simulation or compilation workloads.

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Price $3,300
Dell Alienware Aurora Gaming 2024 desktop

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Dell Tower Plus

63.4 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 0 512GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 24-core Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti SUPER GPU deliver exceptional performance for demanding tasks. The inclusion of an Intel AI Boost NPU and 64GB of DDR5 memory makes it a strong platform for AI-assisted workflows and multitasking. This desktop is best for gamers seeking high frame rates at 1440p or 4K and professionals running intensive AI development or 3D rendering software.

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Dell Pro Max Pro Max Tower T2 2000

53.8 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 7 265 32GB RAM 512GB NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 20-core Intel Ultra 7 265 CPU and discrete NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada GPU provide substantial power for demanding professional applications. The 32GB of DDR5 RAM and PCIe 4.0 SSD ensure smooth multitasking and fast data access. This desktop is best for business analysts running complex financial models and developers compiling large codebases.

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Premium Desktops for gaming

Best Pick

Dell Alienware Area-51 Gaming

92.9 Gaming Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 285K 32GB RAM 2TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 Desktop
Why we recommend this

Its Intel Core Ultra 9 285K 24-core processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 graphics deliver top-tier performance for demanding applications. The massive 1500W power supply and 2TB NVMe SSD support this high-end hardware, ensuring stability and fast load times. This desktop is best for competitive esports gamers and developers working with complex simulations or game engines.

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Price $4,770
Dell Alienware Area-51 Gaming desktop

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Dell XPS 8950 Gaming Desktop Computer 12th Gen

65.7 Gaming Score
Intel Core i9 12900K 8GB RAM 10TB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 Tower
Why we recommend this

Its 12th Gen Intel 12900K CPU and RTX 3090 graphics provide immense power for demanding creative and gaming tasks. The massive 10TB of storage is a significant advantage for professionals managing large media libraries. This desktop is best for video editors and 3D artists who require top-tier rendering performance and extensive local storage.

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