How Do I Choose the Best Home Desktop Computer? (with pictures)
A home desktop computer can be an investment for a home based business, or it can be used for personal computing and storing important data such as photos and videos at home. It allows users to have Internet access, and serves as one of the main forms of entertainment in many homes. Choosing a home desktop computer is often a difficult task, because there are so many options and variables available to select from. Buyers usually intend to keep a home desktop computer for several years, so durability is often as important as the many features that a PC offers.
Before making a purchase, make sure that a computer's technology is up to date.
The best home desktop computer should have enough storage memory to serve the user’s needs. If the buyer takes many family photos and home movies, and has a large collection of MP3s and digital videos, a high amount of memory is necessary. Many desktop computers come equipped with a minimum of 500 GB of memory, which may not be sufficient if the buyer wants to store a wide collection of music and other digital media. Memory can sometimes be upgraded in a PC, although an easier option is to purchase an external hard drive.
Installing additional RAM may help increase computer speed.
A home desktop computer should have enough RAM to support the applications and programs the user has. A higher amount of RAM is necessary in order to edit videos, run sophisticated video games and carry out other tasks. Computers often come with 2 GB, 4 GB, 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM, and users have the option to upgrade this if they want to.
A home desktop computer needs enough memory (RAM) to support the user's programs.
The graphics card is an often overlooked component in a home desktop computer. A more sophisticated graphics card can allow the user to run a larger and more powerful monitor, stream movies, play games and run multiple applications at once. A computer can be upgraded to run a more powerful graphics card after it’s purchased, but a new internal power supply is often required for the computer to be able to run the new card.
A good home desktop computer should have a keyboard that is comfortable to use.
Since a home desktop computer is often used for entertainment purposes, it should come equipped with the ability to play the latest types of digital media. Buyers often look for a computer that can run CDs, DVDs and Blu-Ray discs, and the ability to write CDs and DVDs for media storage is often important as well. The best home desktop computer should also come with sufficient USB ports for attaching cameras, video cameras and other peripherals for uploading personal pictures to it.
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When you’re shopping for a business-focused desktop machine, it’s imperative that you pick carefully. The desktop you select should glide into your workspace with minimal disruption to both space and your workflow, But be careful!
eaning too heavily into minimalism might leave your super-compact PC gasping for breath during particularly heavy workloads. Alternatively, if you lean the other way, you might find yourself saddled with a powerful machine that idles away with nothing to do while taking up a sizeable chunk of your workspace.
Striking a balance between power, performance, and form factor is vital when picking out a desktop for a specific workspace.
It all begins with knowing what you need. First, identify what applications you’ll be running and research what hardware they need. Do they mostly rely on fast CPUs? Or do they also need discrete graphics cards?
This guide will cover a few minimal-yet-powerful business and personal computer setups that you can borrow for your workspace!
Why a Desktop? Isn’t a Laptop Better?
Well, as with many things in life, the answer to this question is – it depends.
Laptops offer unparalleled mobility; no doubt about it. But this mobility comes at a price.
No, It’s Not About Performance
Don’t get me wrong. Modern laptop hardware is downright impressive. In fact, many laptops can now nearly match desktop-class performance!
But there’s more to work than just performance, isn’t there? Efficiency matters.
Even today, laptops are plagued by unavoidable issues like (relatively) tiny displays, small keyboards, lack of a mouse, and so much more. Although these compromises are understandable when you want to work on the move, those with access to a permanent workspace shouldn’t settle for less. A desktop PC is the way to go.
Okay, Desktop PC it is! Which One?
When someone says ‘Desktop PC,’ you can’t help but imagine a massive tower that’ll eat up your limited workspace. Fortunately, this imagery isn’t entirely accurate.
A colossal tower is only one type of Desktop PC. But it’s nowhere close to the only kind of Desktop PC you can buy for a home office setup. They come in several form factors and sizes to accommodate various use cases. Let’s go over a few common types, shall we?
Tower Desktop PC
When you think about a large, upright desktop computer, this is the one you mean. Tower desktops are relatively bulkier than other types of desktop PCs. But this size allows them to easily accommodate higher-end CPUs/GPUs (both physically and thermally).
You can find several flavors of towers – Full, Mid, Mini, and SFF (Small Form Factor) on the market.
Full and Mid Towers are the most common types of Desktop PCs, and thus most components on the market cater to these form factors. You’ll also find more compact/slim tower options that attempt to combine the best of both worlds. But building the latter kind of machines yourself presents a couple of challenges.
First, it’s tough to build within a limited case volume and requires a fair bit of expertise. Second, it’s relatively harder to find parts that will be compatible with more compact form factor cases.
Pros:
Extremely Flexible: It’s easy to add more GPUs or additional I/O capabilities if needed.
Top-Tier Performance: With a tower desktop, you can get the most out of the very best hardware on the shelves with 0 compromises to performance.
Straightforward Upgrades: Most tower PCs use only standard parts, which allows for easy swap-out upgrades in the future.
Troubleshooting and Repairs Can be a Cinch: If you run into any issues, it’s easy to do a quick swap to get your PC up and running again. All components are standard and are easy to find on the open market in all regions.
Extensibility: You can connect additional external/internal devices as needed. Plays well with multi-monitor setups and other peripherals that need I/O.
Cons:
Size: Takes up a significant amount of desk space compared to more compact options.
Portability: You’re realistically tethered to a single location once you set it up.
Wires Everywhere: Yes, wireless peripherals are an option. But at the very least, you’ll need separate power to the monitor(s) and the PC itself, along with a display cable connecting the two.
Relatively Higher Power Consumption: Standard desktop components generally don’t focus on power consumption or efficiency because there’s ample airflow to manage thermals. However, this does mean that Tower Desktops, though they offer better performance, also draw more power than more compact options.
Ideal Setup with a Compact Tower PC: MSI PRO DP130 + Modern MD271P Business Monitor
If you want a middle ground between accommodating a gigantic case and getting as close to top-tier performance as possible, the MSI PRO DP130 Business Desktop and an MSI Modern MD271P Business Monitor would be the perfect choice.
This way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds!
- Performance won’t ever be a concern again with the PRO DP130 Desktop PC offering up to an Intel Core i7 11700 CPU and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card.
- The use of standard parts wherever possible allows you to swap-out upgrade parts like your RAM, M.2 SSD, and 3.5” storage drives with ease.
- It takes up only a fraction of the space that a regular Tower Desktop PC would need – sitting at a mere 13L.
- Extensive high-speed I/O on both the front and rear – ensuring full-featured extensibility.
- Pair it with a top-notch business monitor(s) with Eye Care features like the MSI Modern MD271P and enjoy unparalleled viewing comfort even during long work hours.
Mini (Compact?) Desktop PC
As the name says, Mini PCs are, well, tiny desktop PCs. Some of them can bring case sizes down to as low as 2.3L.
For reference, a typical Tower Desktop PC has a case volume of around 35L!
If you don’t have the space for a full tower but still need the ability to pick your own monitor or easily set up multiple monitors, Mini PCs offer an ideal middle ground. However, there are a few trade-offs when going this route. Due to their diminutive size, they have no choice but to use non-standard internal parts – making hardware replacements or repairs a bit more complicated.
Pros:
Space: Their tiny footprint allows them to fit in almost anywhere. You can find some options so small that you could easily slide one in the area between the table and the bottom of your monitor. In fact, an MSI DP20ZA 5M Mini PC boasts a total volume of just 2.6L!
Lower Power Consumption: Compared to traditional towers, Mini PCs focus on efficiency to ensure that they don’t generate too much heat. As a result, they also feature much lower power consumption compared to larger desktop options.
Decent Performance: Even though top-tier performance isn’t possible, carefully engineered Mini PCs can pack quite a punch. Some offer desktop-class performance and the ports needed to connect to multiple monitors.
Cons
Relatively Weak Graphics Performance: Although Mini PCs boast nearly desktop-class CPU performance, GPU prowess is another story. Absolute top-tier graphics performance is out of reach for Mini PCs. However, the good news is that most business workloads don’t need too much graphics power and will do well with a competitive integrated graphics solution.
Thermal Limits: Their small size generally doesn’t leave too much thermal headroom on tap. What’s more, many Mini PCs opt-out of case fans entirely to offer a silent experience, which makes cooling the internals a bit more challenging.
Limited Peripheral Support: Although some Mini PCs offer decent I/O capabilities (you know, number of USB ports, SD Card readers, etc.), they still can’t match the extensibility of Tower Desktop PCs.
Ideal Setup with a Mini PC: MSI PRO DP20ZA 5M + Modern MD241PW / Modern MD271CPW Business Monitor
Pairing a Mini PC with a business-focused monitor offering Eye Care features is an excellent option for both a personal desktop and a business desktop setup. This way, you can ensure a minimal footprint on your table without compromising on your overall work setup and efficiency.
The Modern 271CPW is perfect if you prefer a 27” screen (or multiple) in your work area; else, opt for the 24” Modern 241CP Business Monitor.
As you can see, your workspace remains clutter-free because you can tuck the Mini desktop PC away under the monitor! Don’t be fooled by its size, though. The MSI PRO DP20ZA 5M Business Mini PC packs a punch:
- Offers desktop-class CPU performance in a tiny 2.6L package. It’s configurable with up to an 8-core/16-thread AMD Ryzen 7 5700G processor.
- Brings unmatched efficiency to the table with unmatched performance per watt.
- You can connect up to three 4K monitors for a full-fledged productivity setup with zero compromises.
- Pair it with TUV-Certified Eye Care Business monitors to maximize viewing comfort during those long work hours.
All-in-One Desktop PC
What happens when you fuse the power of a Desktop PC with a gorgeous display into a single device? Well, you get an All-in-One (AIO) Desktop! As the name suggests, it bundles a screen and a desktop computer into one powerful package. Think of it like the desktop version of a laptop.
If you’re looking for a PC with a large screen but you also want to keep all that precious desk space to yourself – an AIO PC is the best choice! Your office space will gain a stylish centerpiece that can’t help but draw attention (provided you pick products designed with a business aesthetic in mind).
Here’s the MSI AM242TP AIO Desktop PC in all its glory –
Gorgeous, right? It fits into any space that can accommodate a screen, and et voila – you have a fully-functioning desktop computer without giving up even an inch extra!
Pros:
Goodbye Wires: One of the biggest perks of an AIO PC is the fact that you don’t need several cables to deliver power or display signals. A single cable to power it is ALL you need, and you’re good to go. Take it a step further and pair it with wireless peripherals to get a work area that’s as clean as a whistle with no single wire (okay, maybe except for that one power cable) in sight!
Recover Valuable Desk Space: If your workspace is already a bit cramped, an AIO PC could be the savior you need. Options like the MSI AM242TP offer built-in webcams and speakers so you can work at max efficiency without giving up even an inch more of your desk than needed.
Move Around: Although you can pick up any Desktop PC and move it to another space, it is a hassle. With an AIO PC, you can unplug the single cable powering it and carry it to another table along with your peripherals. Plop it down near a power outlet, and you’re ready to start in no time!
Maximize Energy Efficiency: While Tower Desktops have the airflow to handle high-end components and cool them, AIO PCs don’t have the luxury of space and volume. Hence, they’re engineered to deliver unmatched performance per watt. Not only does this mean a near-silent computing experience, but it also ensures that your PC isn’t acting as a space heater and warming up your workspace.
Touchscreens are an Option: Unlike regular Desktop PCs, AIO PCs can support touchscreen technology. It’s great to have another input option because sometimes it’s just faster to swipe or pinch than work at it with a keyboard or mouse.
Cons
- This Display is All You Get: On other types of desktop PCs, you can always switch out your monitor to something else if you want to. But with an AIO, the attached monitor is the one you’ll be stuck using throughout your PC’s lifespan. Pick wisely! Focus on viewing comfort and look for features like Eye Care and TUV Certifications.
- Performance: The fact that so many components are packed tightly together into the back of a flat monitor means that there’s very limited volume to work with. This tight fit limits AIO PCs to only high-efficiency parts that don’t draw too much power. However, they still pack enough processing power to tackle most business and productivity workloads easily.
- Non-Existent Upgradeability: The tight fit reason again contributes to the lack of upgrades. That said, some AIO PCs (like the MSI AM242TP) give you the option to upgrade or replace your 2.5” storage device or RAM.
Ideal Setup with an AIO PC: MSI AM242TP Business and Productivity AIO PC
An AIO PC with style adds flair to your work setup. The MSI Modern AM242TP’s sleek design, clean lines, brushed aluminum, and all-white look will class up your workspace in no time!
Pair it with wireless peripherals, and you can enjoy a sublime, wire-free computing experience. Even though the AM242TP is an All-in-One PC, it’s no slouch when it comes to business efficiency and performance:
- Comes equipped with a 23.8” FHD IPS-Grade LED Backlit Panel.
- Boasts Intel Tiger Lake Processors up to a Core i7.
- Built-in Webcam and Speakers available.
- Height and Tilt Adjustable ergonomic stand for complete control over your work setup.
- VESA-Compatible, so you can easily mount it to any VESA monitor arm.
- Excellent selection of I/O ports.
- Instant display technology allows you to use it as a regular monitor without booting up your PC.
- Opt for an In-Cell 10-Point Touch technology for an intuitive user experience.
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Computer Buying Guide: How to Choose a Desktop PC
It can be tempting to buy a computer based on the lowest price you see online, a fun and appealing design, or new features that everyone is talking about. However, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions before snagging that deal. This ensures you buy the computer best suited to your needs so that you won’t experience buyer’s remorse.
Questions to ask before you buy a PC:
What am I going to use this computer for?
If you plan to use it for gaming, video editing, or adobe creative cloud, you need to look at gaming PCs or PCs with lots of memory, processing power, and dedicated graphics cards. For most other uses, you can choose almost any style of desktop.
What operating system do I want to use?
Windows is the most popular operating system and gives you tons of hardware options. Learning Computer has a range of Windows tutorial you can access here. Mac is the choice of those who value aesthetics over affordability. Linux runs on a limited number of machines.
What’s more important, form or function?
Do you want a sleek, unobtrusive unit to use while working from home? Do you want the most high-powered components, even if they take up more space?
Does it need to be new?
If you’re willing to buy used, buy it directly from the manufacturer or from
Do I plan on installing upgrades?
If so, an all-in-one desktop is not for you.
What’s my budget?
The answers to these questions will point you in the direction of the machines that are right for you.
Types of Desktop Computer
Full-size desktop computers take up the most space but are also simple to repair and upgrade. Compact desktop computers save space because they are about half the size of a full-size desktop. They have less features and power. All-in-one desktop computers put the computing power into the monitor. This hybridization means that they’re difficult to repair and upgrade, but they take up little space. Lastly, gaming desktop computers tend to be the most expensive, feature-packed option. Gaming computers have tons of RAM, top tier processing speed, and amazing graphics, with lots of opportunities for upgrades.
Choosing a Processor
Multiple cores process more data simultaneously. Clock speed and core number are the main determinants of how fast the processor works. If you want a faster computer, choose a processor with multiple cores and a high clock speed. You can compare Intel’s desktop processors here.
How Much Memory Do I Need?
Memory also plays into speed. When memory is taken up, the computer slows down, so you want to make sure to purchase a computer that has enough memory for your needs. 8 GB of RAM is enough for most people, unless you plan on doing a lot of gaming or video editing. If you do, aim for 16 GB. For those unsure about their RAM needs, purchase a desktop that can be upgraded.
Integrated Graphics VS Graphics Cards
The GPU (graphics processing unit) handles the graphics and visuals that run on your desktop computer. It is more affordable to purchase a computer with integrated graphics. What this means is that a dedicated graphics card is not installed. This limits the quality of the visuals and the games and applications you can run, but isn’t a problem unless you plan to use the computer primarily for gaming or video editing. We recommend saving money and going without a graphics card if you’re not a gamer. Another use for graphics cards is cryptocurrency mining using blockchain. Learn more about blockchain by reading this blog.
Once you’ve defined how you plan to use your desktop computer, you can combine that with your budget to narrow down your options. If the amount of space it takes up isn’t a deciding factor for you, we recommend purchasing a PC that can be upgraded. The ability to add more memory, processing power, graphics cards, etc. saves you the money and trouble of buying another new computer earlier than necessary.
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About Sheri Holshouser
Sheri Holshouser is a marketing manager based in Dallas, Texas. In her free time, she likes to read science fiction novels and play with her pug Chloe. Learn more about her professional qualifications on LinkedIn.
