Welcome to our rundown of the best desktops for gamers in 2024. As technology constantly evolves, so do the needs of serious and casual gamers alike when it comes to hardware to support their gaming experience. In this article, we will highlight the current top picks in the industry, focusing on a spectrum of budgets and preferences, and provide shopping advice to help you make a well-informed investment.
When making a gaming desktop purchase, consider the following key factors:
Processor (CPU) and Graphics Processor (GPU): The dual powerhouses of contemporary gaming PCs. Be sure to look for products with the latest generation released in 2024, such as those from AMD and Intel x86 families for superior performance.
Memory (RAM) and Storage: Provide your system with memory and storage options that excel in both capacity and speed. Solid state drives (SSD) are crucial if you want quick load times and responsiveness. Balance your budget between increased RAM and SSD disk space.
Cooling: Optimize your gaming rig, whether it's cooled by air or by liquid, to maintain adequate temperatures and prolong component performance.
Size and Form Factors: From compact home theater PCs to sizable towers, personal preference and space availability rule. The right form factor can provide the perfect balance of power and footprint.
Expandability: Assess your long-term needs and select a versatile system that can provide upgrade paths for components easily, ensuring your investment can grow with your gaming demands.
Stick around as we dive in and explore the top budget, mid-range and high-end gaming PC options for 2024, as curated by our experts—all backed by hands-on experience and objective perspectives. Happy gaming desktop shopping!
Alienware Aurora R13: Best High-Performance Gaming Desktop
Dell Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop (2022) | Core i7-512GB SSD - 16... -- 1249.99(Amazon)
Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Tower Desktop Computer, 12th Gen Intel 12-Co... -- 1399(Amazon)
Dell Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop (2022) | Core i7-1TB SSD - 16GB... -- 1215.07(Amazon)
Dell Alienware Aurora R13 Gaming Desktop (2022) | Core i7-512GB SSD - 16... -- 1301.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Alienware Aurora R13 stands out for its cutting-edge performance, harnessing the power of the latest 12th Gen Intel Core processors and NVIDIA RTX GPUs. It's designed for gamers and creative professionals who demand high-speed processing and advanced graphics capabilities. The unique chassis design not only gives it a distinctive look but also incorporates exceptional cooling to keep the system running at peak efficiency.
Who It's For
This gaming desktop is ideal for serious gamers, streamers, and content creators who require top-tier performance for the latest games and demanding applications. It's also suitable for tech enthusiasts who appreciate the latest advancements in PC technology and have the budget to invest in a premium system. However, it may not be the best fit for casual users or those looking for a budget-friendly option.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Latest 12th Gen Intel Core processors for superior multitasking | ❌ Premium price may be prohibitive for some buyers |
| ✅ Powerful NVIDIA RTX GPUs ideal for gaming and creative tasks | ❌ Design aesthetic may not appeal to all preferences |
| ✅ High-speed DDR5 RAM and PCIe NVMe SSD for quick load times and responsiveness | ❌ Potential overkill for users with modest computing needs |
Corsair One i300: Best Compact Powerhouse PC
Corsair One i300 Compact Gaming PC, i9-12900K, Liquid-Cooled RTX 3080 Ti... -- 3999.99(Creation Networks)
Corsair One i300 Compact Gaming Desktop, i9-12900K, 32GB, 2TB Ssd, RTX 3... -- 3999.99(Creation Networks)
Why We Picked It
The Corsair One i300 is a top-tier compact gaming PC that doesn't compromise on performance despite its small footprint. It's equipped with the latest and most powerful hardware, including an i9-12900K processor and a liquid-cooled RTX 3080 Ti graphics card, making it a powerhouse for gaming and professional workloads. Its sleek design and space-saving form factor make it an attractive addition to any setup.
Who It's For
The Corsair One i300 is ideal for gamers and professionals who demand high performance but have limited space. It's also perfect for those who appreciate a minimalist and modern aesthetic in their tech. However, it may not be the best choice for users who prioritize the ability to upgrade components frequently due to its custom compact design.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-end i9-12900K processor for peak performance | ❌ Limited upgradeability due to the custom compact design |
| ✅ Liquid-cooled RTX 3080 Ti for top-tier gaming and creative tasks | ❌ High price point may not be accessible for all budgets |
| ✅ Space-saving design that fits in any environment | ❌ Potential for increased heat due to the compact size |
HP Omen 45L: Best High-Performance Gaming Desktop
OMEN 45L Gaming Desktop, AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB Solid State ... -- 1879.95(Amazon)
HP Omen 45L Gaming Desktop GT22-2000t|Intel Core i7 11th Gen|Windows 11 ... -- 1899.99(HP)
HP Omen 45L GT22-1160 Gaming Desktop Computer -- 1499(B&H Photo-Video-Audio)
OMEN 45L Gaming Desktop, 13th Generation Intel Core i9-13900KF, 16 GB RA... -- 2398(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The HP Omen 45L is a powerhouse gaming desktop that combines top-tier components such as the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti graphics card to deliver exceptional performance. Its patented OMEN CRYO CHAMBER cooling system ensures that the system remains cool even under heavy loads, making it an ideal choice for gamers and professionals who demand high performance and reliability. The inclusion of Windows 11 Home and a variety of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, make it a future-proof investment.
Who It's For
This desktop is perfect for serious gamers, content creators, and professionals who require a high-performance machine that can handle demanding tasks like gaming at ultra settings, video editing, 3D rendering, and more. It's also suitable for users who appreciate the ability to upgrade components easily. However, due to its size, it may not be the best fit for those with limited space or who prefer a more minimalist setup.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 and NVIDIA RTX 3080 Ti combo for top-notch gaming and multitasking | ❌ Large size may not be suitable for all spaces |
| ✅ Advanced OMEN CRYO CHAMBER cooling system for efficient thermal management | ❌ Premium components come with a higher price tag |
| ✅ Easy upgradability and robust connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 | ❌ Some configurations can be expensive for budget-conscious buyers |
Asus ROG Strix GA35: Best High-Performance Gaming Desktop
ROG Strix GA35 Gaming Desktop PC, GeForce RTX 3090, AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, 3... -- 2799.99(Amazon)
Asus GA35DX-MB776 ROG Strix Ga35 Ryzen 7-5800x 3.8GHz Nvidia GeForce RTX... -- 2149(Sam's Club)
Asus ROG Strix GA35DX Gaming Desktop Computer Ryzen 9 5900x RTX 3090 - -- 2799.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Asus ROG Strix GA35 is a powerhouse gaming desktop designed to deliver an exceptional gaming experience. It's equipped with top-of-the-line components such as the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 graphics card, ensuring that it can handle the most demanding games and applications with ease. The inclusion of both a 1TB PCIe SSD and a 2TB HDD offers a blend of rapid load times and ample storage space. Its customizable RGB lighting and transparent glass panel cater to gamers who value aesthetics as much as performance.
Who It's For
This gaming rig is ideal for serious gamers and professionals who require robust performance for gaming, content creation, and heavy multitasking. It's also suitable for esports enthusiasts and those who attend LAN parties, thanks to its carry handle and hot-swap SSD bays. However, due to its premium components and features, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those on a tight budget.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 5900X and NVIDIA RTX 3090 combo | ❌ High cost, particularly with further upgrades |
| ✅ Fast storage with 1TB PCIe SSD and ample 2TB HDD | ❌ May be overkill for casual gaming needs |
| ✅ Esports-ready features with hot-swap bays and carry handle | ❌ Large and heavy, not as portable as some compact gaming PCs |
MSI MEG Aegis Ti5: Futuristic High-Performance Gaming PC
MSI Meg Aegis TI5 Gaming PC, 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700KF + Z690 Chips... -- 2191.51(Microless.com)
MSI MEG Aegis Ti5 10TD-057AE 10th Gen - Intel Core i9-10900K, 64GB (32G*... -- 4900.19(Microless.com)
MSI MEG AEGIS TI5 12VTE-028US I9K 3070 TI 32GB 2TB SSD+2TBHDD - AEGTI512... -- 3423.5(Sunol Tech)
MSI Meg Aegis Ti5 12VTF 027us Gaming Desktop PC - Intel Core i9-12900K -- 999.3(Weekly Hype)
Why We Picked It
The MSI MEG Aegis Ti5 stands out for its futuristic design and cutting-edge hardware, making it a top choice for gamers and tech enthusiasts looking for AI-enhanced performance features. With configurations that include up to 12th Gen Intel Core processors, high-capacity RAM, and powerful NVIDIA graphics, this gaming PC is built to deliver exceptional performance for the most demanding games and applications. Its AI capabilities further enhance the gaming experience by optimizing system performance in real-time.
Who It's For
The MSI MEG Aegis Ti5 is best suited for hardcore gamers, tech enthusiasts, and content creators who demand top-tier performance and are willing to invest in high-end hardware. Its unique design and AI-enhanced features make it a standout choice for those who prioritize cutting-edge technology and style in their gaming setup. However, its high price tag and unconventional design may not appeal to everyone, especially those on a tighter budget or with a preference for more traditional PC aesthetics.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Equipped with up to 12th Gen Intel Core processors and NVIDIA graphics for top-notch performance | ❌ Unconventional design may not appeal to all tastes |
| ✅ AI-enhanced features optimize gaming and system performance in real-time | ❌ High price tag makes it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers |
| ✅ Futuristic design makes it a standout addition to any gaming setup | ❌ May require additional investment in compatible peripherals to fully leverage its design and features |
CyberPowerPC Gamer Supreme: High-Performance Gaming Powerhouse
Gamer Supreme Liquid Cool Gaming PC, AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 4.2GHz, GeForce... -- 1999.99(Amazon)
Gamer Supreme Liquid Cool Gaming PC, AMD Ryzen 9 7900X 4.7GHz, GeForce R... -- 1929.99(Amazon)
Gamer Supreme Liquid Cool Gaming PC, AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 4.2GHz, GeForce... -- 1679.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The CyberPowerPC Gamer Supreme series stands out for its exceptional price-to-performance ratio, offering a range of configurations to cater to various budgets without compromising on quality. Each model boasts high-end components, including the latest AMD Ryzen processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards, ensuring top-tier gaming performance. The inclusion of features like liquid cooling, custom RGB lighting, and a sleek chassis design further enhances the appeal, making it a compelling choice for gamers looking for a powerful, ready-to-use gaming PC.
Who It's For
This series is ideal for serious gamers and content creators who demand high-performance computing for gaming, video editing, and multitasking. It's also a great fit for those who appreciate aesthetics in their gaming setup, thanks to its striking design and customizable lighting. However, it might not be the best choice for those highly concerned about brand recognition and resale value, given CyberPowerPC's position in the market compared to more established brands.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Top-tier AMD Ryzen processors and NVIDIA GeForce graphics for superior gaming performance | ❌ Brand may not be as well-known, potentially affecting resale value and customer support |
| ✅ Variety of configurations to suit different budgets without sacrificing quality | ❌ Higher-end configurations can be pricey, though justified by the performance offered |
| ✅ Sleek design with liquid cooling, custom RGB lighting, and a tempered side case panel | ❌ Limited brand recognition may concern some users accustomed to more established names |
Origin PC Chronos: High-Performance Custom Gaming Desktop
Origin PC Chronos V3 - Small Form Factor Gaming Desktop - Up to Intel i9... -- 2009(Origin PC)
Skytech Chronos Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i7 12700F 2.1 GHz, NVIDIA... -- 1699.99(Amazon)
Skytech Gaming Chronos Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i7 12700F 2.1 GHz,... -- 1599.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Origin PC Chronos stands out for its exceptional customizability and high-performance capabilities, making it an ideal choice for gamers and professionals alike who demand top-tier performance from their desktops. With options for up to an Intel i9 processor and advanced NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti graphics, it's built to handle the most demanding applications and games at ultra settings and 4K resolution. The focus on custom builds allows users to tailor their systems to their specific needs, ensuring they get exactly what they want out of their investment.
Who It's For
This desktop is best suited for serious gamers, content creators, and professionals in fields that require high computing power, such as video editing, 3D modeling, and software development. It's also a great fit for anyone looking to future-proof their setup with a machine that's built to their exact specifications. However, it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget or those who need a computer with immediate availability due to the potential higher costs and longer wait times associated with custom builds.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Custom-built for tailored high performance | ❌ Custom builds can be significantly more expensive |
| ✅ Supports up to Intel i9 processors and NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti graphics | ❌ Longer shipping times due to the custom assembly process |
| ✅ Capable of running the most demanding games and applications at ultra settings and 4K resolution | ❌ Potential for overwhelming options and decisions for less tech-savvy users |
iBUYPOWER Pro Gaming PC Computer Desktop Element MR9270: Balanced Performance Gaming PC
Gaming PC Computer Desktop Element MR 9320 (Intel i7-10700F 2.9GHz, NVID... -- 1539(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The iBUYPOWER Pro Gaming PC Computer Desktop Element MR9270 strikes a fine balance between performance and aesthetics, making it a solid choice for gamers looking to enjoy current titles without breaking the bank. Equipped with an Intel i7-10700F processor, NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti graphics card, and ample storage options, it delivers smooth gameplay and fast load times. The customizable RGB lighting adds a personal touch to your gaming setup, enhancing the overall experience.
Who It's For
This gaming PC is best suited for gamers who prioritize solid performance and aesthetics but are on a budget. It's ideal for those who play a wide range of games and want a system that can handle most titles at good settings. However, hardcore gamers looking for ultra-high settings in the latest games or those interested in heavy content creation might want to consider systems with more powerful components.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Solid gaming performance with Intel i7-10700F and NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti | ❌ Components may not be top-of-the-line, affecting future-proofing |
| ✅ Customizable RGB lighting for a personalized gaming setup | ❌ May struggle with ultra settings in the latest games |
| ✅ Good storage options with a 240GB SSD and 1TB HDD | ❌ Lacks some of the latest connectivity options |
Skytech Shiva Gaming PC Desktop: Best Value Gaming Powerhouse
Skytech Gaming Shiva Gaming PC Desktop Intel Core i7 12700F Nvidia RTX 4... -- 1099.99(Amazon)
Skytech Shiva Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i7 12700F 2.1 GHz, NVIDIA R... -- 1099.99(Amazon)
Skytech Gaming Shiva Gaming PC Desktop Intel Core i7 12700F Nvidia RTX 3... -- 1349.99(eBay - tanyastreasuries)
Shiva Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i7 12700F 2.1 GHz, NVIDIA RTX 3060,... -- 1149.99(Amazon)
Skytech Shiva II Gaming PC Desktop Intel Core i5 12400F 2.5 GHz, RTX 306... -- 1229.99(Walmart - DemProductSales)
Why We Picked It
The Skytech Shiva Gaming PC Desktop stands out for its impressive balance of power and price, making it an excellent choice for gamers looking to maximize their gaming performance without breaking the bank. With a robust Intel Core i7 12700F processor and the latest NVIDIA RTX 4060 graphics card, it's built to handle demanding games and multitasking with ease. The inclusion of a 1TB NVME SSD and 16GB DDR4 RAM ensures quick load times and smooth operation, while the 240mm AIO cooling system keeps the system cool during intense gaming sessions.
Who It's For
This gaming PC is ideal for serious gamers who want a machine that can handle the latest titles at high settings. It's also suitable for content creators and streamers who need a powerful system for video editing and live broadcasting. However, it may not be the best fit for brand-conscious consumers who prefer established names with potentially more extensive support networks.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-performance Intel i7 processor and NVIDIA RTX 4060 GPU | ❌ Lesser-known brand may affect support and warranty perception |
| ✅ Fast 1TB NVME SSD and 16GB DDR4 RAM for quick load times and multitasking | ❌ May require additional upgrades for future-proofing beyond the included specs |
| ✅ Sleek design with RGB fans and a 240mm AIO for efficient cooling | ❌ Wi-Fi 802.11 AC may not be as fast as the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard |
Thanks for checking out the best desktops for gamers in 2024! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy gaming!