Best Gaming Desktops of 2024: Top Picks for Every Budget

Best gaming desktops 2024

Building your gaming PC can be a fulfilling experience, but for many gamers, the convenience, reliability, and warranty support of a prebuilt desktop make it the go-to choice. At PCMag, we’ve spent over 40 years testing desktops and benchmarking gaming models since their rise in the 1990s. Our team of experts combines decades of experience to evaluate gaming desktops rigorously. From standardized benchmark tests to playing the latest titles, we analyze raw performance, design, usability, connectivity, and upgradability to recommend the best options for your budget. Get the best gaming desktops of 2024 to boost your gaming experience. 

If you’re hunting for the best gaming desktop for mainstream 1440p gaming, the HP Omen 35L is our top pick. The MSI Codex R2 offers incredible value for gamers on a tighter budget. Let’s dive into detailed reviews of our top choices across various budgets and gaming needs, along with helpful advice to guide your buying decision. Explore the best gaming desktops of 2024 for smooth, high-quality gaming.

Top Gaming Desktops of 2024

MSI Codex R2 Gaming Desktop

Best for Budget-Friendly Gaming

  • Price: $999.99 (Amazon)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • The MSI Codex R2 delivers solid 1080p gaming performance without breaking the bank. Its updated chassis ensures plenty of airflow to keep the system cool, while dual-channel RAM and integrated Wi-Fi 7 add convenience. However, it does fall slightly short with slower storage and louder fan noise under heavy load.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Entry-level gamers or those looking for an affordable upgrade to play modern titles at medium to high settings.

NZXT Player: One

Best for Entry-Level 1080p Play

  • Price: $749.00 (NZXT)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • This custom-built PC balances quality and price, delivering excellent 1080p gaming performance. It includes Wi-Fi 6E and a standard two-year warranty, but it lacks front ports and offers limited storage.
  • Who It’s For:
  • First-time PC gamers or anyone seeking a prebuilt system for casual gaming at 1080p resolution.

HP Omen 35L

Best for Midrange 1440p Gaming

  • Price: $1,574.99 (Amazon)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • This elegant mid-tower desktop is designed for gamers who crave performance and aesthetics. The reliance on industry-standard parts makes upgrades and repairs straightforward, while the quiet cooling fans enhance usability.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Gamers aiming for smooth 1440p performance without venturing into ultra-high-end prices.

MSI Vision Elite RS

Best for 4K Gaming

  • Price: $3,747.13 (Amazon)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • The MSI Vision Elite RS is built for enthusiasts and combines top-tier hardware with a premium panoramic chassis. While the fans can get noisy during intensive gaming sessions, it’s an excellent choice for 4K gaming.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Hardcore gamers and streamers who want breathtaking visuals at 4K resolution.

Corsair One i500

Best Compact Gaming Desktop

  • Price: $3,049.99 (Amazon)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • The Corsair One i500 blends exceptional performance with a sleek, compact design. Its liquid-cooled components ensure quiet operation, and the chassis is surprisingly upgradable despite its unique form factor.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Gamers who are short on space still want high performance for 4K or VR gaming.

Asus ROG NUC 970

Best Mini Gaming PC

  • Price: $1,296.00 (Amazon)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • With a super-compact design, this gaming mini PC delivers strong performance for its size. While its laptop-class CPU and GPU limit power and upgradability, it’s a versatile choice for gamers on the go.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Mobile gamers or those who prioritize portability without sacrificing too much power.

Lenovo Legion Tower 7i Gen 8 (2024)

Best for CPU Power

  • Price: $2,569.99 (Lenovo)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • The Legion Tower 7i Gen 8 excels in CPU-heavy tasks and offers stellar 4 K gaming performance. Its customizable RGB lighting and modular power supply make it a standout for enthusiasts, though the lack of front USB-C ports is a minor drawback.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Gamers and content creators need a gaming, streaming, and productivity powerhouse.

Alienware Aurora R16

Best for Quiet Operation

  • Price: $1,199.99 (Dell)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • The Alienware Aurora R16 impresses with whisper-quiet operation and effective performance at a reasonable price. However, its proprietary mainboard and power supply limit upgrade options.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Those who value quiet performance for gaming and everyday use.

Falcon Northwest Talon (2024, Core Ultra)

Best for Creative Professionals

  • Price: Starting at $3,723 (Falcon Northwest)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • This system’s Rolls-Royce-like build quality and customization options make it ideal for gaming and creative workloads. It’s an ultra-expensive choice but offers unmatched performance and a stellar three-year warranty.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Gamers and professionals who demand top-tier performance and durability.

Origin Genesis (2024)

Best for Flashy Design

  • Price: $4,100.00 (ORIGIN PC)
  • Why We Picked It:
  • This PC turns heads with its Corsair 6500X case and exceptional hardware. While the cube-shaped chassis may be challenging to place, it offers fierce gaming performance and liquid cooling for both CPU and GPU.
  • Who It’s For:
  • Gamers who love bold designs and cutting-edge performance.

How to Choose the Right Gaming Desktop

  1. Set Your Budget: Determine how much you will spend and prioritize features accordingly.
  2. Resolution Matters: Choose a system that aligns with your preferred resolution—1080p, 1440p, or 4K.
  3. Upgrade Potential: Look for systems with industry-standard parts if future upgradability is essential.
  4. Form Factor: Consider your space constraints and whether you need a compact or mini desktop.
  5. Warranty and Support: Ensure the system has a good warranty and customer support.

With these tips and our curated list, you’re on your way to finding the gaming desktop that perfectly suits your needs!

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