#10 of the best gaming PCs: Why we love Corsair, Lenovo, Dell, and more

• HP Omen Obelisk 875-0127c Gaming Desktop Computer — $879

• CyberPowerPC Gamer Master Gaming Desktop — $749.99

• Shuttle X1 Series Gaming Desktop — $1,371.99

The popularity of gaming PCs has exploded in recent years. Sure, there are plenty of people who won’t abandon their beloved consoles, but a large number of gaming enthusiasts have been shifting their attention. And with good reason. 

For starters, the games are normally cheaper and the breadth of available titles is truly astounding. You can use your PC to play the latest strategy and simulation games, as well as the top offerings in eSports and first-person shooters. Additionally, thanks to the PC’s open platform, you also have access to a wide array of unique independent games. No matter your penchant and preferences, you’re always guaranteed to find something that matches your mood, skill, and desires.

Gaming PCs also deliver impressive graphics that easily rival those of next-gen Xbox and Playstation consoles. They’re even compatible with a variety of controller options; you can use anything from a keyboard and mouse to a steering wheel and joystick. Best of all, PCs can easily be modified. That’s right, you have the power to continually alter your computer to ensure the perfect gaming experience.

We assume that you’re now in desperate need of a new gaming PC. Well, as you shop around, you’ll definitely want to pay attention to these facets:

The Games

We beseech (yes, beseech!) you to consider the games you play when purchasing a PC. That’s because they’ll dictate the components you’ll need or want — be it super-fast processors, high-end graphics, etcetera. If possible, try to think about additional games you may play in the future. That way you’ll have a system that’s as future-proof as possible. 

CPU and Cooling 

You’ll find that a lot of higher-end gaming computers are equipped with multiple-core processors. This is great if you plan on using the machine for additional tasks such as photo and video editing. However, if you are strictly purchasing your PC for gaming, cores aren’t the only thing to prioritize. Many gamers suggest cutting back a little and putting your resources towards improved graphics or better solid-state drives to ensure a more balanced gaming PC. 

Storage 

When it comes to storage, you have two major options — solid-state or hard drive. Ever since their prices have dropped, solid-state drives have understandably grown in popularity. After all, they have a faster boot time, load games quickly, and typically run quietly. Solid-state drives also tend to require less power. However, if you’re using your PC for work or activities beyond gaming, you’ll likely want to opt for a hard drive. And it’s definitely the way to go if you need archival storage for video and photos. Ideally, a mixture of both is best.

Memory  

RAM is certainly another important component of your gaming PC. That’s because games can actually be taxing on memory. Therefore, 8GB of RAM is the absolute minimum you want in a gaming PC. Ideally, 16GB is the best option. This will help improve your computer’s overall performance and curb any potential bottleneck.

Graphics Card

There’s no denying that good graphics are essential to the gaming experience. More expensive computers typically come with higher-end cards. But don’t worry if you can’t afford a pricier model. Most PCs still provide mid-range graphic cards. And if you’re a person who never changes the default settings on your computer, it shouldn’t matter too much. Plus, you can always swap out your card for a better one in the future. 

Audio and Communications  

Many of today’s most popular games are designed with surround sound. Thankfully, the vast majority of PCs are made with on-board, multi-channel audio codecs that deliver a fully immersive experience. Of course, you may also want to consider purchasing a quality headset and microphone as well.

Accessories and External Components 

We understand that when it comes to purchasing gaming equipment, the computer is the star of the show. However, don’t underestimate the value of good accessories. These also have a big impact on your gaming experience. You’ll want a keyboard, mouse, headset, and other accessories that are comfortable and guaranteed to run well.

Ability to Upgrade

When buying a gaming PC, your ability to upgrade is key. After all, it’s common for gamers to swap out a component or two as new games and products emerge. And it’s a whole lot cheaper to do that than purchase an entirely new computer. Therefore, you’ll want to buy a PC that allows you to access parts like the motherboard, GPU, and RAM. 

Budget/Price 

Unless you have unlimited funds, the price tag will also play a role in your decision. If you’re looking for a decent computer with basic to mid-level specs, you can expect to pay around $699. If you are willing to spend $1,000 or so, you can certainly find a solid tower with mid-to-high level specs. And if you’re feeling flush and ready to drop $1,500 or more, you’ll be able to buy a relatively high-end system with top-notch specs like multiple GPUs and a minimum of two drives (either hard or solid-state).

Now that you know what to look out for, you’re ready to take a look our top picks. If you’re in the market for a great deal, these are the computers to look out for.

Best Quiet Performance

Image: amazon

The Good

Super fast at everything • Subtle case design

The Bad

Expensive

The Bottom Line

Classy looks and a whisper-quiet design means the Corsair One a100 is ideal for those dodging the overly “gamer aesthetic.”

Corsair One Pro

Exceptionally fast yet whisper-quiet, the Corsair One a100 will do everything you could want in a pre-built PC tower.

• Processor:
  AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
• RAM:
  32GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce RTX 2080

$2,700 from Amazon

While some gaming PCs look a little over the top, the Corsair One a100 is sleek, classy yet super powerful. It offers the latest AMD Ryzen 9 3900X processor, a GeForce RTX 2080 graphics card, and 32GB of RAM. While that might not be the latest graphics card anymore, it’s still super fast and, combined with the processor and RAM quantity, won’t have any issues running your favorite games for a number of years to come. It’ll easily play VR games too if you have a relevant VR headset. 
Thanks to Corsair’s well-designed system, it’s whisper-quiet too so you won’t be distracted by loud fans while you game. With support for up to four 4K displays, it’s the ideal centerpiece for a fantastic gaming setup. Pricey it may be but it’s a good investment that will last you a while to come, thanks in particular to its powerful processor. 

Best design

Image: HP

The Good

Very stylish • Powerful specifications

The Bad

Look won’t be for everyone

The Bottom Line

The HP Omen Obelisk gaming desktop is a powerful PC that also isn’t afraid to stand out. It’ll certainly stick out in your memory.

HP Omen Obelisk gaming desktop

With a cool tempered window for peering inside, the HP Omen Obelisk is as eye-catching as it is powerful.

• Processor:
  Intel Core i9-9900K
• RAM:
  32GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER

$2,130 from Amazon

Want a gaming desktop PC that looks super cool and noticeable? The HP Omen Obelisk is that system. It has a tempered glass side panel on the side so that you can see inside your system and gaze at all the components as they do their thing. That’s combined with RGB lighting effects so it looks cool and futuristic. 
None of that would matter if the system itself wasn’t powerful but it truly is. It has one of the latest Intel Core i9 processors, a powerful GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER graphics card, and 32GB of memory. This is a system that’s going to last you a long time, never missing a beat with the latest games. It’s VR-ready too and easy to upgrade items like the hard drive or RAM at a later date if you so wish. 
The HP Omen Obelisk also comes with a wired keyboard and mouse but we’d recommend upgrading immediately to something that more accurately reflects the classiness of this system.

Best value

Image: CYBERPOWERPC

The Good

VR-ready at a good price • Two hard drives

The Bad

Not the latest tech

The Bottom Line

If you can’t afford the latest tech, the CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR gaming PC offers exceptional value for your money.

CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC

When you want the balance between power and value, the CyberPower PC Gamer Xtreme VR gaming PC offers just what you need.

• Processor:
  Intel Core i5-9400F
• RAM:
  8GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce GTX 1660

$960 from Amazon

The CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR gaming PC doesn’t offer the latest technology but it does offer a lot for the money. That includes a very respectable processor and graphics card for the price, but a little less RAM than we’d like to see ideally in a gaming PC. On the plus side, it’s easy enough to upgrade yourself, plus there’s the addition of two hard drives including a SSD which will be great for keeping things speedy on a daily basis. 
The CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR gaming PC also has the look of a gaming PC with a window side case panel and custom ARGB case lighting so that it’s certainly very eye catching. Essentially, you’re getting a decent quality gaming PC for less. It’s not quite as cheap as a truly budget gaming PC and you should consider a RAM upgrade, but it has a good mix of gamer looks and mid-range specs to keep most people happy.

Best portability

Image: lenovo

The Good

Packs a lot into small space • Handle for portability

The Bad

Difficult to upgrade

The Bottom Line

If portability is everything to you, Lenovo has you covered with its fantastic portable Legion C730 Mini Gaming Cube.

Lenovo Legion C730 Mini Gaming Cube

Small and highly portable, the Lenovo Legion C730 Mini Gaming Cube is a great gaming system if you’re short on space.

• Processor:
  Intel Core i7-9700K
• RAM:
  16GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce RTX 2070

$1,450 from Lenovo

It turns out you don’t need a bulky desktop case to get the most out of PC gaming. The Lenovo Legion C730 Mini Gaming Cube is super small and cube-like with a handle on top so you can easily take it with you to LANs or your friend’s house. It’s also great if you simply don’t have much room at home or don’t want a bulky setup. Despite its small size, it packs a ton in. There’s a 9th generation Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card. Combine that with a hefty sized 512GB SSD and 1TB regular hard drive and you’ve got everything you need to enjoy high-end gaming for a while to come. 
That’s convenient given this isn’t going to be an easy system to upgrade yourself but that’s not generally the point of such compact PCs. The key thing here is that it’ll easily slot into your lifestyle without too much hassle or an overly garish exterior. 

Best high-end system

Image: asus

The Good

Incredibly powerful • Great cooling system

The Bad

Not quite the latest graphics card

The Bottom Line

The Asus ROG Strix GA35 Gaming Desktop PC is a great high-end gaming system that will last owners many years to come.

Asus ROG Strix GA35 Gaming Desktop PC

Money no object? Indulge in the Asus ROG Strix GA35 Gaming Desktop PC and enjoy the best of the best.

• Processor:
  AMD Ryzen 9 3950X
• RAM:
  32GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce RTX 2080 Ti

$4,000 from Amazon

If your budget is vast then the Asus ROG Strix GA35 Gaming Desktop PC is the system for you. It has an incredibly powerful and fast AMD Ryzen 9 3950X processor, 32GB of memory, and extensive storage in the form of a 1TB SSD and 2TB of regular hard drive space. It also has one of the most powerful graphics cards out there – the GeForce RTX 2080 Ti. That’s not the latest card anymore but while the GeForce RTX 30-series isn’t yet widely available in gaming PCs, it’s still a fantastic alternative and will serve you well for many years.
Thanks to the power involved within the Asus ROG Strix GA35 Gaming Desktop PC, it requires extensive cooling and it has it in the form of liquid cooling and a complex ventilation system. Throw in plenty of RGB lighting, a carry handle for LAN play, and hot swappable SSD bays, and this is a system that’s ideal for the hardcore gamer with a hefty budget. 

Best budget pick

Image: alarco

The Good

Plenty of storage • Looks stylish

The Bad

No SSD drive

The Bottom Line

You don’t have to spend a fortune on a gaming PC if you’re willing to make a few concessions.

Alarco Gaming PC

If money is tight but you still want a gaming PC, you’ll be happy with what the Alarco Gaming PC offers for the money.

• Processor:
  Intel Core i5-2400
• RAM:
  8GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce GTX 650

$498.99 from Amazon

Ideally, you’ll want a budget of more than $500 for a gaming PC but if that’s your limit then the Alarco Gaming PC will still keep you happy. It has an Intel Core i5-2400 processor, 8GB of memory, a GeForce GTX 650 graphics card, along with a 1TB hard drive. The hard drive is a regular hard drive rather than a SSD so it’s not quite as speedy as we’d like but other than that, it’s a reasonable spec for the price. 
Crucially, it should be fairly straight forward to upgrade as and when you can spend a little cash on improving things. Thanks to that, the Alarco Gaming PC is a great deal for a starter pack for someone looking to own their first gaming PC. It even has stylish RGB lighting and a remote control. 

Best graphics

Image: Skytech Gaming

The Good

Powerful spec • Great graphics card

The Bad

Looks are a little divisive

The Bottom Line

The SkyTech Omega Gaming Computer is a great way to enjoy one of the best graphics cards you can get right now in a pre-built gaming PC.

SkyTech Omega Gaming Computer

Keen to have the best graphics card in a prebuilt system? This PC should have you covered.

• Processor:
  Intel Core i9-9900K
• RAM:
  16GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce RTX 2080 Ti

$2,500 from Amazon

Other PCs here may utilize a GeForce RTX 2080 Ti graphics card but the SkyTech Omega Gaming Computer has the best of the bunch with 11GB of RAM attached to the graphics card. Combined with a high-end processor, plenty of RAM and a whopping 1TB SSD, it’s a highly competent machine able to cope with mostly everything you throw at it.
The finer details continue to be worked out nicely with high-end memory designed for gaming, liquid cooling that will keep your system cool no matter how long you’ve been gaming, plus some very smart looking RGB fans and lights. The styling of the case is a little divisive and bulkier looking than some, but you can’t deny the SkyTech Omega Gaming Computer has plenty of reasons for you to love it. It’ll easily be able to play all your favorites at high resolutions.

Best for overclocking

Image: alienware

The Good

Possible to overclock • Subtle design

The Bad

Expensive for what it offers

The Bottom Line

The Alienware Aurora R10 Gaming Desktop is a smart and sleek gaming PC for those that want to tinker but not have to build from scratch.

Alienware Aurora R10 Gaming Desktop

Alienware is a reliable brand for high-end gaming setups and this one is ideal for tinkering.

• Processor:
  AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
• RAM:
  16GB
• Graphics card:
  AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT

$1,400 from Amazon

Alienware is a well-known name within gaming PC circles and for good reason. It designs and builds reliable systems that provide refined experiences for its players. That means the PCs are a little more expensive than lesser-known brands but you’ll be sure of a foolproof experience that will last for a long time to come. The Alienware Aurora R10 Gaming Desktop has an AMD Ryzen 7 3700X processor, AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT graphics card, and 16GB of memory. That’s all pretty good anyhow but adding on 512GB of SSD storage plus a 1TB storage drive means your PC will fly.
Best of all, thanks to Alienware’s Command Center software, you can tweak various settings, overclocking your graphics and memory, as well as working on optimizing your temperatures to what works for you. It’s all highly configurable and ideal if you want to tweak a lot of things but not build a PC from scratch. The case looks pretty sweet too.

Best for upgrading

Image: dell

The Good

Cool design • Very easy to upgrade

The Bad

Little expensive for the specs

The Bottom Line

If you’re keen on buying a gaming PC that you can easily upgrade over time, the Dell G5 Gaming Desktop is a great option.

Dell G5 Gaming Desktop

Dell doesn’t just offer great business desktops, but also some high-end gaming setups.

• Processor:
  Intel Core i7-10700F
• RAM:
  16GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce RTX 2060 Super

$1,450 from Amazon

Dell is pretty good at developing robust desktop PCs and that’s reflected in the Dell G5 Gaming Desktop. It’s a smart looking gaming PC that’s classy but also subtle enough that you won’t feel awkward placing it in your den. With an Intel Core i7-10700F processor, 16GB of memory, a GeForce GTX 2060 Super graphics card, and 1TB of SSD storage, it covers all the bases for a solidly dependable gaming PC. 
Best of all, it’s super easy to open up and upgrade. All you need to do is loosen a couple of thumbscrews and you can access the internals in no time. That gives you the perfect opportunity to upgrade the CPU, graphics card, memory or hard drives any time you need to. While other manufacturers may make that tricky for the consumer, Dell has kept it super user-friendly. Simply put, the specs mean you won’t have to think about upgrading any time soon but when you do, it’s no hassle to do so.

Best stylish budget-friendly PC

Image: skytech gaming

The Good

Gamer PC look for less • Good graphics card for the price

The Bad

Not the fastest processor

The Bottom Line

The Skytech Chronos Mini Gaming PC Desktop offers a surprising amount for the price.

Skytech Chronos Mini Gaming PC Desktop

Good looks don’t have to cost a fortune if you go for the Skytech Chronos Mini Gaming PC Desktop.

• Processor:
  AMD Ryzen 3 3100
• RAM:
  8GB
• Graphics card:
  GeForce GTX 1650 Super

$750 from Amazon

A traditional looking gaming PC doesn’t have to cost a lot as demonstrated by the Skytech Chronos Mini Gaming PC Desktop. It has plenty of RGB lightings and impressive looking fans, along with a side panel so you get the full gaming PC experience for less. Specifications wise, it has an AMD Ryzen 3 3100 processor, 8GB of memory, 500GB of SSD storage, and a GeForce GTX 1650 Super graphics card. The latter is a big help at this price point but the processor could be a little faster in an ideal world.
Still, at this price point, concessions need to be made and it’s a small price to pay for an otherwise great deal. The fact it’s pretty simple to upgrade the RAM and other components means you can easily upgrade as you have more money to spare over time. Whatever you decide to do, you know you’ve got a typical gaming PC experience for less.

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