Best Desktop Computers For Small Business 2020

Running a small business means watching every penny. You need reliable desktop computers, but blowing the budget on fancy features nobody uses is a recipe for disaster. This guide cuts through the marketing fluff to deliver the best, most budget-friendly desktop options for 2020.

Why Desktop Computers Matter for Small Businesses

While laptops offer portability, desktops still reign supreme for sheer processing power and value. Desktops are more easily upgraded and repaired, meaning you can extend their lifespan and get more bang for your buck. Let's face it, a dead laptop is a paperweight; a sluggish desktop can get a new lease on life with a cheap RAM upgrade.

Our Shortlist of Budget-Conscious Desktops (2020)

We've curated a list of desktops, each excelling in a particular area of value. These picks balance performance, reliability, and most importantly, affordability. Think of this as your cheat sheet to avoiding buyer's remorse.

The Overall Value King: Dell OptiPlex 3070

The Dell OptiPlex 3070 offers a sweet spot of performance and price. It’s a workhorse designed to handle everyday business tasks without breaking a sweat.

The Ultra-Budget Champion: HP 290 G2 MT

Looking for the absolute cheapest option that still gets the job done? The HP 290 G2 MT is your answer. Don't expect blazing-fast speeds, but it's reliable enough for basic office duties.

The Refurbished Rockstar: Various (Look for Business-Class Models)

Don't underestimate the power of a good refurbished machine. Often, you can snag a high-end business-class desktop from a few years back for a fraction of the original price. Just ensure it comes with a warranty from a reputable seller.

Detailed Reviews

Dell OptiPlex 3070 Review

The OptiPlex 3070 shines in its versatility. It comes in various configurations, allowing you to choose the processor and RAM that best suits your needs. It also features a tool-less design, making upgrades and maintenance a breeze.

While not a powerhouse, the OptiPlex 3070's Intel Core i3 or i5 processor options are more than adequate for most office tasks. The generous port selection ensures compatibility with a wide range of peripherals.

HP 290 G2 MT Review

The HP 290 G2 MT is all about bare-bones functionality. Its unassuming design hides a surprisingly capable machine for basic tasks like word processing and email. It's perfect for employees who don't require high-performance computing.

However, don't expect to run demanding applications or handle large datasets smoothly. The integrated graphics card is sufficient for basic display needs but struggles with graphics-intensive tasks. Keep it light and simple.

Refurbished Business-Class Desktops Review

The refurbished market is a goldmine for savvy business owners. Look for models like the Dell OptiPlex 7000 series, HP EliteDesk 800 series, or Lenovo ThinkCentre M series. These were high-end machines in their prime and still offer impressive performance.

Before buying refurbished, thoroughly check the seller's warranty and return policy. Ensure the machine has been properly tested and cleaned. A well-maintained refurbished desktop can save you a fortune.

Side-by-Side Specs & Performance Table

Customer Satisfaction Survey Data

Based on aggregated customer reviews and surveys, here's a general sentiment overview:

• Dell OptiPlex 3070: Users praised its reliability and performance for everyday tasks. Minor complaints included the somewhat bland design.
• HP 290 G2 MT: Customers appreciated its affordability but noted its limitations in demanding applications. Its small size was seen as a plus for space-constrained environments.
• Refurbished Business-Class: Satisfaction varied depending on the seller and specific model. Those who found reputable sellers were generally thrilled with the value they received.

Maintenance Cost Projections

Maintenance costs are generally low for all three options. Desktops are easier and cheaper to repair than laptops.

Expect to pay for occasional hardware upgrades (RAM, storage) and software maintenance (antivirus, operating system updates). Refurbished models might require more frequent maintenance due to their age.

Factoring in potential repairs and upgrades, the annual maintenance cost should be under $100 per machine. This assumes you have basic IT skills or a reliable local repair shop.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right desktop for your small business is a balancing act. You need to weigh performance, reliability, and cost. The Dell OptiPlex 3070 offers a solid all-around option. The HP 290 G2 MT is the go-to for ultra-budget needs. Refurbished business-class desktops provide the most performance for the price if you're willing to do some research.

Before making a decision, consider your specific business needs and budget. Think about the software your employees will be using and the tasks they will be performing. Don't overspend on features you don't need.

Take Action Now!

Ready to equip your business with reliable desktops without emptying your wallet? Research these models, compare prices from different vendors, and read customer reviews. Take the plunge and invest in the tools your business needs to thrive. Remember, a penny saved is a penny earned!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the ideal amount of RAM for a small business desktop?

A: For general office tasks, 8GB of RAM is usually sufficient. If your employees work with large spreadsheets or graphics-intensive applications, 16GB is recommended.

Q: Should I choose an HDD or SSD for storage?

A: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are significantly faster than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). An SSD will dramatically improve boot times and application loading speeds. If your budget allows, opt for an SSD or a combination of SSD (for the operating system and applications) and HDD (for storage).

Q: What should I look for when buying a refurbished desktop?

A: Check the seller's warranty and return policy. Ensure the desktop has been thoroughly tested and cleaned. Look for a reputable seller with positive customer reviews. Pay attention to the processor generation and RAM capacity.

Q: Is it better to buy pre-built desktops or build my own?

A: For most small businesses, buying pre-built desktops is the more practical option. It's simpler, faster, and often cheaper than building your own. Building your own requires technical knowledge and can be time-consuming.

Q: How often should I replace my business desktops?

A: With proper maintenance and occasional upgrades, a desktop computer can last for 5-7 years. However, performance will gradually decline over time. Consider replacing your desktops every 4-5 years to ensure optimal productivity.