Best Home Desktop Computers 2021
In today's digital age, a reliable desktop computer remains a cornerstone for productivity, entertainment, and everything in between. This review dives deep into the best home desktop computers of 2021, specifically tailored for value-conscious shoppers seeking optimal performance without breaking the bank. We understand the need to balance features, processing power, and price, making this guide your essential resource for informed decision-making.
Why a Desktop Matters in 2021
While laptops offer portability, desktops provide superior customization, upgradeability, and often a better price-to-performance ratio. Desktops excel in demanding tasks such as video editing, gaming, and running complex software. A well-chosen desktop can be a long-term investment that adapts to your evolving needs, offering greater longevity and value.
Shortlist of Top Desktop Computers (2021)
Here are some of the best desktop computers that are tailored to different audiences or budgets:
- Best Overall Value: Dell XPS Desktop (8940)
- Best for Budget Gaming: HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2000
- Best for Creative Professionals: Apple iMac 27-inch (2020)
- Best Compact Desktop: Intel NUC 11 Enthusiast Phantom Canyon
- Best for Home Office: Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i (24")
Detailed Reviews
Dell XPS Desktop (8940) - Best Overall Value
The Dell XPS Desktop (8940) strikes an impressive balance between performance, price, and expandability. It offers a wide range of configuration options, from Intel Core i3 to i9 processors and various graphics card choices. Its sleek design and quiet operation make it a welcome addition to any home office.
The ample ports and internal expansion slots allow for future upgrades. It is also relatively affordable making it an excellent choice for a home desktop.
HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2000 - Best for Budget Gaming
For gamers on a budget, the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2000 provides a solid entry point into PC gaming. It's equipped with capable processors and dedicated graphics cards, offering decent performance for most modern games at 1080p resolution. The aggressive design is aimed at gamers.
While not the most powerful gaming rig, it delivers great value for its price, making it a good option for casual gamers.
Apple iMac 27-inch (2020) - Best for Creative Professionals
The Apple iMac 27-inch (2020) remains a top choice for creative professionals who work with visual content. Its stunning 5K Retina display offers exceptional color accuracy and detail. The powerful Intel processors and ample RAM ensure smooth performance for demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design.
However, its price tag might be a deterrent for budget-conscious users but is an investment for serious creative work.
Intel NUC 11 Enthusiast Phantom Canyon - Best Compact Desktop
The Intel NUC 11 Enthusiast Phantom Canyon packs a surprising amount of power into a tiny form factor. It's powered by Intel's 11th-generation Core i7 processor and features dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics. It's a great option for those with limited desk space who still need performance for gaming or content creation.
Despite its size, it offers excellent connectivity and supports multiple displays.
Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i (24") - Best for Home Office
The Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i (24") is a sleek all-in-one desktop designed for home office productivity. The integrated display and slim design saves space and reduces clutter. It offers enough performance for everyday tasks, web browsing, and video conferencing.
It is a good choice for users who prioritize simplicity and convenience.
Side-by-Side Specs Table with Performance Scores
The table will give you clear view about each of desktop's specific technical information and general performance score.
| Desktop | Processor | Graphics | RAM | Storage | Price (USD) | Performance Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dell XPS Desktop (8940) | Intel Core i5-11400 | Intel UHD Graphics 730 | 8GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $700 | 7 |
| HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2000 | AMD Ryzen 3 5300G | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 | 8GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $750 | 7.5 |
| Apple iMac 27-inch (2020) | Intel Core i5-10600 | AMD Radeon Pro 5300 | 8GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $1800 | 8.5 |
| Intel NUC 11 Enthusiast Phantom Canyon | Intel Core i7-1165G7 | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB SSD | $1400 | 9 |
| Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i (24") | Intel Core i3-10100T | Intel UHD Graphics 630 | 8GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $600 | 6.5 |
Practical Considerations
Before making a purchase, consider your specific needs and usage scenarios. Gaming requires a dedicated graphics card and a powerful processor. Creative work benefits from a high-resolution display and ample RAM. Home office tasks prioritize reliability and ease of use. Budget is always a consideration. Factor in the cost of peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Also think about the operating system that you want. You can choose between Windows and Mac OS.
Summary
Choosing the best home desktop computer involves carefully weighing performance, price, and features. The Dell XPS Desktop provides a great overall value. The HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop excels in budget gaming. The Apple iMac 27-inch is ideal for creative professionals. The Intel NUC 11 Enthusiast offers a compact powerhouse. The Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i offers a space-saving solution for home office use.
Consider your specific needs, budget, and desired features before making your final decision.
Call to Action
Ready to upgrade your home computing experience? Explore the models discussed in this review and visit the manufacturer websites for detailed specifications and current pricing. Make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget, and enjoy the benefits of a powerful and reliable desktop computer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best operating system for a home desktop computer?
The best operating system depends on your personal preferences and software requirements. Windows is the most popular choice, offering broad software compatibility and a wide range of hardware options. macOS is known for its user-friendly interface and strong ecosystem, but it's limited to Apple hardware.
How much RAM do I need for a home desktop computer?
8GB of RAM is sufficient for most everyday tasks, but 16GB is recommended for gaming, content creation, and running multiple applications simultaneously. For demanding tasks like video editing, consider 32GB or more.
Is it better to buy a pre-built desktop or build my own?
Buying a pre-built desktop is generally more convenient and cost-effective for most users. Building your own PC offers greater customization and potentially better performance for the price, but it requires technical knowledge and time.
What is the difference between an SSD and a HDD?
An SSD (Solid State Drive) is significantly faster and more durable than an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). SSDs offer faster boot times, application loading, and file transfer speeds. HDDs are typically cheaper and offer more storage capacity for the same price.
How long should a desktop computer last?
A well-maintained desktop computer can last for 5-7 years or more. However, performance may degrade over time as software and hardware requirements evolve. Regular maintenance and upgrades can extend the lifespan of your desktop.
