It truly is amazing how far computers have come along the past few years – not to mention decades. A couple years ago, computers with comparable processing power and specs as those on this list would have been top of the line models and cost several thousand dollars. Prices have dropped quickly, however, and now fast computers are common and inexpensive. You can have a great desktop system capable of everything from photo editing to decent gaming for less than $1000. Unless you're a hardcore gamer or someone who heavily uses other processor-intensive applications such as video editing, these desktops are sure to provide enough speed and functionality to last 2 to 5 years.
We've ranked the best PCs overall by considering their value, performance, and extra features.
Why it's best: Maingear is a small boutique desktop company that is best known for its high-end performance and gaming desktops. However, Maingear also offers the Vybe, a small desktop that is great for anyone who wants a diminutive, stylish and powerful computer.
The base Vibe is powered by an AMD Tri-Core processor running at an impressive 3.1 GHz. While upgrades to AMD quad-core or even six-core processors are available, the tri-core model should be more than adequate for most buyers. The Vybe also offers 4GB of RAM, a 640GB hard drive and Radeon integrated graphics. Again, customization allows for more powerful components to be chosen, but the base configuration is fine for everything except gaming.
At only 15 inches tall and 8 inches wide, the Vybe will easily fit into most desks. The base price of the Vybe is $775, making it slightly more than some options from some more mainstream desktops. However, the Vybe's fast tri-core processor and small, stylish case gives it an edge. The Vybe upgraded to the six-core processor can also serve very well as a budget workstation. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: The Apple iMac is an all-in-one desktop computer combines immaculate style with top notch hardware. Everything works smoothly right out of the box with the Mac OS X operating system. You can set up and start exploring this computer just 5 minutes after unpacking it.
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Packed into this sleek computer is an Intel Core i3 dual-core running at 3.06GHz, 4GB of DDR3 RAM, and a 500GB hard drive. With these specs and Apple's streamlined operating system, you're sure to be able to run any application you throw at this computer – whether it be just surfing the web or editing photos.
This computer is suitable for users of all ages, whether it be younger kids, college students, or the elderly. The iMac's 21.5" screen offers full 1080p resolution and provides crisp graphics thanks to the included Radeon 4670 video card. The base iMac retails for $1200. A 27" model is also available for $1700. These prices are high, of course, but the iMac is a good choice if you don't mind spending over a grand on a PC. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: The Gateway SX2800 Series desktops pack lots of value into its small chassis. Although specifications vary between models, most offer Core 2 Duo or Core i3 processors and also 6GB of RAM, so you can rest assure this computer can handle most any activity you aim to use it for.
SX 2800 desktops come with Windows 7 Home Premium, Microsoft's newest iteration of the Windows OS. A multi-in-one memory card reader makes reading media cards a snap and the 1TB hard drive provides plenty of storage. The only weakness is the inclusion of Intel integrated graphics, but even this is not a serious blow because modern Intel integrated graphics can handle HD video easily, particularly when combined with the optional Core i3 processors.
These desktops usually retail for between $500 and $700, so they offer great bang for the buck and are recommended for those that want a great workhorse computer but don't want to spend too much. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: The Dell Studio XPS 8100 is an attractive PC that, even in its most basic form, ships with a powerful Intel Core i5 650 processor. It also comes equipped with Nvidia G310 graphics, which means that basic 3D games and HD video won't be a challenge.
The 8100's other specs are impressive, as well – the standard 3GB of RAM is more than enough for most users and the 500GB hard drive is quick and provides plenty of storage for applications, files, photos, and videos.
As with all Dell products, however, the true strength of the 8100 comes from customization. Dell offers a vast array of affordable CPU, video card and RAM upgrades, as well as more obscure components like TV tuner cards and professional sound cards. The base price of the 8100 is $700, but upgraded Core i7 models start at just over $1000. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
Why it's a best pick: Those looking for a PC that is a bit different from the norm may want to check out the HP TouchSmart 600. This all-in-one-PC offers 23.5" touch-screen display with 1080p resolution which offers a great interactive experience. At least part of the 600's excellence is due to the included touch-friendly software that includes custom interfaces for popular applications and services such as Twitter and Netflix.
The hardware inside the TouchSmart 600 isn't bad, either. The least expensive model still offers Core i5 processors, 4GB of RAM and a 1TB of hard drive. However, even the least expensive TouchSmart 600 isn't that inexpensive, as it retails at $1400. That's Mac money, so you'll have to decide if you'd rather buy an iMac and skip the touch interface or if having a touchscreen is worth the price. See more reviews, photos, prices, and specs
