Greetings, tech-savvy scholars and digital pioneers of academia! As the new academic year unfolds, the quest for the ultimate desktop to accompany you through lectures, research, and late-night study sessions is more crucial than ever. In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, students require a desktop that not only keeps pace with their academic demands but also fits snugly into a student-friendly budget. Welcome to BuySmart.ai, where we've meticulously curated a list of the Best Desktops for Students in 2024, tailored to empower your educational journey with cutting-edge performance and value.
In the digital era, a student's desktop is their academic lifeline. It's the hub where creativity meets productivity, where essays are crafted, complex calculations are computed, and innovative designs take shape. Understanding this, we've focused on desktops that offer robust processors capable of breezing through multitasking, essential for those intensive coding sessions or graphic design projects. RAM, the cornerstone of smooth multitasking, is also a top priority, with our selections boasting no less than 8GB to ensure seamless operation across all your applications.
Moreover, we recognize that the physical footprint and aesthetic of your desktop can significantly impact both your workspace and your well-being. Thus, our recommendations span from sleek all-in-ones that maximize desk real estate to ergonomically designed towers that prioritize your comfort during those marathon study sessions. Whether you're a budding filmmaker requiring substantial storage for your footage or a computer science major looking for lightning-fast SSDs for quick compile times, our guide is poised to navigate you to the perfect desktop that aligns with your academic pursuits and lifestyle. Stay with us as we explore the nuances of each recommended system, ensuring you're well-equipped to make an informed decision that will see you through your scholarly endeavors.
Dell XPS 8940: Balanced Performance Desktop for Students and Professionals
XPS 8940 Desktop Computer Tower - Intel Core i7-11700, 32GB DDR4 RAM, 51... -- 1054.99(Amazon)
XPS 8940 Desktop Computer - 11th Gen Intel Core i7-11700 up to 4.9GHz CP... -- 1510(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Dell XPS 8940 Desktop Computer offers a robust blend of performance and value, making it an excellent choice for students and professionals alike. With its 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, ample 32GB DDR4 RAM, and a combination of SSD and HDD storage, it delivers smooth performance for a wide range of tasks. The inclusion of both Windows 11 Pro and Windows 10 Pro options ensures users can choose the operating system that best fits their needs, while the wired keyboard and mouse combo, along with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity, provide convenience and flexibility in setup.
Who It's For
This desktop is ideal for students and professionals looking for a reliable, high-performance computer that can handle a variety of workloads, from document processing and research to light photo and video editing. It's also suitable for those who appreciate having ample storage for their files and documents. However, it may not be the best fit for individuals requiring a machine capable of handling highly demanding tasks like advanced video editing, 3D modeling, or high-end gaming.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor for smooth multitasking | ❌ May struggle with highly demanding tasks like advanced video editing |
| ✅ Generous memory and hybrid storage options for fast access and ample space | ❌ Integrated graphics may not suffice for intensive 3D applications |
| ✅ Comes with both Windows 11 Pro and Windows 10 Pro, offering flexibility | ❌ Price point may be slightly high for students on a tight budget |
Apple iMac 24-inch (M1, 2021): Sleek Design, Powerful Performance
Apple 24" iMac with M1 Chip (Mid 2021, Yellow) -- 899.99(Best Buy)
2021 Apple iMac (24-inch, Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU and 8‑core GPU, ... -- 880.95(Amazon)
Apple iMac 24" 4.5K Retina M1 256GB SSD 8GB 7-Core GPU Blue -- 849.99(DoorDash - Best Buy US)
2021 iMac All in one Desktop Computer with M1 chip: 8-core CPU, 8-core G... -- 1048.97(Amazon)
Apple iMac 24-Inch (Retina 4.5K 7gpu, Blue) 3.2GHz 8-Core M1 (2021) Desk... -- 1149(B&H Photo-Video-Audio)
Why We Picked It
The Apple iMac 24-inch (M1, 2021) stands out for its exceptional display quality and powerful performance, thanks to the Apple M1 chip. Its sleek, ultra-thin design not only saves space but also adds a touch of elegance to any setting. The inclusion of a 4.5K Retina display, combined with a P3 wide color gamut and 500 nits of brightness, ensures vibrant and sharp visuals, making it an ideal choice for creative students and professionals alike. The M1 chip's 8-core CPU and GPU deliver fast and efficient performance for a variety of tasks, from graphic design to video editing. Additionally, its studio-quality three-mic array and six-speaker sound system provide an immersive audio-visual experience, whether you're on a call or enjoying media.
Who It's For
This iMac is best suited for creative students and professionals who prioritize display quality and performance for their projects. It's also a great fit for those looking for a stylish, space-saving desktop that can handle everyday tasks with ease. However, its higher price point and limited upgradeability might not appeal to budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer a more customizable computing experience.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Immersive 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with vibrant colors and sharp visuals | ❌ Higher price point compared to some competitors |
| ✅ Powerful Apple M1 chip performance for creative and everyday tasks | ❌ Limited upgradeability post-purchase |
| ✅ Sleek, ultra-thin design in vibrant colors, saving space and adding style | ❌ Fewer ports than some might need for extensive peripheral connectivity |
HP Pavilion Desktop: Affordable Everyday Computing Power
Pavilion Gaming Desktop, AMD Radeon RX 5500, AMD Ryzen 3 5300G Processor... -- 541(Amazon)
HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop AMD Radeon RX 5500 AMD Ryzen 3 5300g Processo... -- 573(eBay)
Pavilion Desktop PC, AMD Ryzen 5 5600G, 12 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, Windows 1... -- 480(Amazon)
HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop Intel Core i5-10400F Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 ... -- 799.99(Walmart - Coldriver20 Electronics Inc)
Pavilion Desktop - AMD Ryzen™ 5 5600G (6-core) Processor 12GB DDR4-3200M... -- 469.47(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The HP Pavilion Desktop series offers a balance of performance and affordability, making it a practical choice for students and everyday users. The inclusion of the AMD Ryzen 3 5300G processor and AMD Radeon RX 5500 graphics card provides sufficient power for a range of tasks, while the 512 GB SSD ensures quick boot times and responsive software execution. The pre-built PC tower comes with Windows 11 Home and a variety of USB ports for connectivity, along with a keyboard and mouse combo, making it a convenient and ready-to-use system right out of the box.
Who It's For
This desktop is ideal for students and home users who need a reliable computer for everyday tasks like document editing, web browsing, and light media creation. It's also suitable for casual gamers who play less demanding games. However, it may not be the best fit for hardcore gamers or professionals who require high-end graphics performance for intensive gaming or graphic design tasks.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Good balance of price and performance for everyday tasks | ❌ Not suitable for high-end gaming or intensive graphic work |
| ✅ Fast SSD storage for quick system response | ❌ Limited RAM may affect multitasking capabilities |
| ✅ Includes Windows 11 Home and necessary ports for easy connectivity | ❌ May require future upgrades for more demanding software or tasks |
Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i: Powerful Desktop for Students and Professionals
Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i Desktop Computer with 2.1 GHz Intel Core 16GB of 32... -- 979(B&H Photo-Video-Audio)
IdeaCentre Gaming 5i - 2022 - Gaming Desktop - NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 -... -- 699.99(Amazon)
Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i Desktop PC, Intel Core i7, 16GB Memory, 512GB Solid... -- 679.99(Office Depot)
IdeaCentre Gaming 5i - 2022 - Gaming Desktop - NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 -... -- 880.93(Amazon)
Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i Desktop, i5-10400, UHD Graphics 630, 8gb, 256gb Ssd... -- 399(Walmart - BestDeal)
Lenovo - IdeaCentre Mini Desktop - Intel Core i5-13500H - 8GB Memory - 2... -- 465.69(antonline.com)
Why We Picked It
The Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i stands out for its robust performance, backed by the latest Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, making it a powerhouse for both work and play. Its variety of ports ensures easy connectivity for all your peripherals, essential for students and professionals alike who rely on multiple devices. Despite its focus on functionality, it doesn't compromise on aesthetics, offering a sleek design that fits well in any setting.
Who It's For
This desktop is ideal for students and professionals who need a reliable, high-performance computer that can handle multitasking and demanding applications without breaking a sweat. It's also suitable for casual gamers thanks to its dedicated NVIDIA graphics. However, those looking for the most modern or avant-garde design might find it a bit traditional.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Equipped with the latest Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics for top-notch performance | ❌ Design may not appeal to those seeking a more modern or avant-garde aesthetic |
| ✅ Offers a wide range of ports for easy connectivity with multiple devices | ❌ Price point may be a bit high for budget-conscious buyers |
| ✅ Sleek design that fits well in any home office or gaming setup | ❌ While suitable for casual gaming, hardcore gamers might seek more specialized gaming rigs |
Acer Aspire TC-895: Best Budget-Friendly Desktop for Students
Aspire TC-895-UA92 Desktop, 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10400 6-Core Processo... -- 559(Amazon)
Aspire TC-1770-UR11 Desktop | 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13400 10-Core Proce... -- 439.99(Amazon)
Acer Aspire TC-895-UA91 Desktop, 10th Gen Intel Core i3-10100 4-Core Pro... -- 518(Amazon)
Acer Aspire TC-895-UA91 Desktop, 10th Gen Intel Core i3-10100 4-Core Pro... -- 788.51(Newegg.com - e-wireless technologies)
Why We Picked It
The Acer Aspire TC-895 series offers a compelling balance of performance and value, particularly suited for students and home users who need a reliable desktop without breaking the bank. With a 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, ample RAM, and a fast SSD, it delivers the necessary power for productivity tasks and some light multimedia creation.
Who It's For
This desktop is best suited for students and budget-conscious users who require a solid, everyday computer for tasks like document editing, web browsing, and media consumption. It's also a good fit for home offices or small businesses looking for an affordable yet capable workstation.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor for robust performance | ❌ Potential bloatware that may require removal for optimal performance |
| ✅ 12GB of DDR4 memory and a 512GB NVMe SSD for quick access to files and applications | ❌ Integrated graphics may not be suitable for intensive gaming or professional graphic work |
| ✅ Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for faster and more reliable internet | ❌ Limited upgradability due to the compact form factor |
Microsoft Surface Studio 2: Premium All-in-One for Creatives
Surface Studio 2+ 28-inch Touchscreen All-In-One Desktop Computer, Intel... -- 4384.99(Amazon)
Microsoft Surface Studio 2 28 inch i7 32GB 1TB Windows 10 All-in-One Tou... -- 3999.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is a premium all-in-one desktop that offers a high-resolution touchscreen with a 4500 x 3000 display, making it an exceptional tool for students in design and art-related fields. Its powerful Intel Core i7 processor, ample 32GB RAM, and dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card provide the performance necessary for demanding creative tasks, while its striking design and versatile touchscreen enhance productivity and creative workflows.
Who It's For
The Surface Studio 2 is best suited for design and art students or professionals who require a high-performance computer with a top-tier display for detailed and color-accurate work. However, due to its high price point, it may not be the best option for students on a tight budget or those who do not need its advanced graphics capabilities.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning 28-inch PixelSense™ touchscreen with 4500 x 3000 resolution | ❌ High cost may be prohibitive for budget-conscious students |
| ✅ Powerful hardware with Intel Core i7, 32GB RAM, and NVIDIA RTX 3060 | ❌ Lacks an optical drive, which may be a drawback for some users |
| ✅ Elegant design with a versatile screen that supports various angles for creativity | ❌ Limited number of USB ports compared to some other desktops |
Asus ROG Strix G15CK: High-Performance Gaming Powerhouse
Asus Strix G15CK-BS772 - Core i7-10700KF - RTX 2070S - 16GB - 512GB SSD -- 1969(Amazon)
ROG Strix G15 (2022) Gaming Laptop, 15.6” 300Hz IPS FHD Display, NVIDIA ... -- 979.99(Amazon)
ROG Strix G16 (2024) Gaming Laptop, 16” Nebula Display 16:10 QHD 240Hz, ... -- 1699(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Asus ROG Strix G15CK is a formidable gaming desktop that combines a powerful 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER graphics card, making it an excellent choice for gamers and productivity users alike. Its features like the Flow Tech ventilation for superior cooling, EMI-reducing transparent side panel for a full view of the system, and ASUS Aura Sync RGB lighting for customization, ensure both performance and aesthetics are top-notch. The inclusion of a solid-state drive (SSD) for faster boot and load times, along with ample connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, make it a versatile and future-proof choice.
Who It's For
This gaming desktop is best suited for serious gamers and power users who require high performance for gaming, content creation, and productivity tasks. It's also a great pick for those who appreciate a gaming aesthetic and are looking for a system that stands out visually. However, its higher price point and gaming-centric design may not appeal to students or users looking for a more understated or budget-friendly option.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA RTX 2070 SUPER graphics for top-tier gaming and multitasking | ❌ Gaming aesthetic may not appeal to all, especially those looking for a more understated design |
| ✅ Advanced cooling system and customizable RGB lighting for both performance and aesthetics | ❌ Pricier than non-gaming PCs, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users |
| ✅ Includes fast SSD storage and ample connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 | ❌ May be overkill for users with modest gaming and productivity needs |
CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR: High-Performance VR Gaming PC
Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC, Intel Core i7-13700F 2.1GHz, GeForce RTX 4060... -- 1299.99(Amazon)
Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC, Intel Core i9-13900KF 3.0GHz, GeForce RTX 407... -- 2129(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR series stands out for its powerful combination of the latest Intel Core processors and high-performance NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards, making it an ideal choice for students and gamers interested in VR and demanding gaming experiences. With features like DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD, it offers fast and ample storage for games, applications, and multimedia content. The inclusion of Wi-Fi readiness and Windows 11 Home adds to its appeal as a versatile and future-proof gaming PC.
Who It's For
This gaming PC is best suited for students and gaming enthusiasts looking for a powerful, VR-ready system that can handle not just gaming but also intensive tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and more. It's also a great choice for those who appreciate custom RGB case lighting and the aesthetics of a gaming setup. However, it might not be the best fit for users who prioritize high-quality peripherals, as the included keyboard and mouse are noted to be of lower quality.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics for high-end gaming and VR | ❌ Included peripherals (keyboard and mouse) are not of the highest quality |
| ✅ Fast DDR5 RAM and 1TB NVMe SSD for quick loading times and ample storage | ❌ Price may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers |
| ✅ Custom RGB case lighting and tempered glass side panel for aesthetic appeal | ❌ May require additional investment in high-quality peripherals for the best experience |
Alienware Aurora R12: High-Performance Gaming Powerhouse
Aurora R12 Gaming Desktop - Intel Core i7 11700F, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB S... -- 1599.99(Amazon)
Alienware Aurora R12 Gaming Desktop - Intel Core i7 11700f, 16GB DDR4 Ra... -- 1599.99(Amazon)
Aurora R12 RTX 3080 10GB Gaming Desktop Computer Intel 8-Core i7-11700F ... -- 2089(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Alienware Aurora R12 Gaming Desktop is a powerhouse designed for those who demand high performance and future-proofing in their computing needs. With its Intel Core i7 11700F processor, options for 16GB or 32GB DDR4 RAM, and high-end NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti or RTX 3080 graphics cards, it's built to handle demanding tasks and gaming at high settings. The inclusion of both SSD and HDD storage solutions offers a balance between fast boot times and ample storage for games, software, and files. Its upgradable components ensure that tech-savvy students can keep their system at the cutting edge for years to come.
Who It's For
The Alienware Aurora R12 is best suited for tech-savvy students and gamers who require a high-performance machine that can handle intensive gaming sessions, content creation, and software development tasks without breaking a sweat. It's also ideal for those who value the ability to upgrade their system over time. However, its premium price and design might be overkill for students with more basic computing needs, such as web browsing, document editing, and light multimedia tasks.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Intel Core i7 11700F processor and NVIDIA GeForce graphics options for top-tier gaming and multitasking. | ❌ Premium price point may be prohibitive for students on a tight budget or those with modest computing needs. |
| ✅ Future-proof with upgradable components, allowing for easy updates to keep up with technological advancements. | ❌ The high-performance hardware and design features may be more than what is necessary for typical student workloads. |
| ✅ Generous storage options with a combination of SSD for speed and HDD for capacity, accommodating a vast library of games and files. | ❌ The distinctive design of Alienware products, while appealing to some, might not suit all tastes or environments. |
SkyTech Archangel Gaming Computer: Best Balance for Gaming and Productivity
Skytech Archangel Gaming Computer PC Desktop – Ryzen 5 3600 3.6GHz, GTX ... -- 1299.99(Amazon)
Skytech Gaming Archangel Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i5 12400F 2.5 GH... -- 1599.99(Amazon)
Archangel Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i7 12700F 2.1 GHz, NVIDIA RTX 4... -- 1199.99(Amazon)
Skytech Gaming - Archangel 4 Gaming Desktop PC – AMD Ryzen 5 7600X – 32G... -- 1299.99(Best Buy)
Skytech Archangel Gaming PC Desktop – Intel Core i5 12400F 2.5 GHz, NVID... -- 1249.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The SkyTech Archangel Gaming Computer is a well-rounded system that offers a harmonious balance between price and performance. It's equipped with a capable AMD Ryzen 5 3600 processor and a GeForce GTX 1660 Super graphics card, making it a solid choice for both gaming and productivity tasks. The inclusion of a 500GB SSD and 16GB DDR4 RAM ensures quick load times and efficient multitasking, which is essential for students who need a reliable machine for both their studies and entertainment.
Who It's For
This gaming PC is best suited for students who are also gaming enthusiasts. It's powerful enough to handle most modern games at high settings while also being capable of running various software for academic purposes. However, for students who do not require the gaming capabilities, this PC may offer more power than necessary, potentially leading to an unutilized premium.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Strong gaming performance with GTX 1660 Super | ❌ May be overpowered for non-gaming tasks |
| ✅ Fast multitasking with 16GB DDR4 RAM | ❌ Price point could be high for budget-conscious students |
| ✅ Sleek design with RGB fans and tempered glass case | ❌ Some components may vary from the product images |
Thanks for checking out the best desktops for students in 2024! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping!