Desktop Computers For Graphic Design

Troy Kelly
14 min readJul 19, 2024

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Are you in search of the perfect desktop computer to support your graphic design endeavors? Look no further! In this roundup article, we’ve gathered some of the top choices for graphic designers seeking a powerful yet user-friendly system to bring their visions to life. Dive in and discover the best desktop computers for graphic design available on the market today.

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Reviews

HP 23.8" Full HD Touch-Screen All-in-One Computer — Graphic Design Optimized

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When I first set up the HP All-in-One, I was impressed by how easily it integrated into my daily life. The touch-screen display was a game-changer, allowing me to work more efficiently and enjoy my leisure time in style. The 23.8-inch Full HD screen made everything look crystal clear, from streaming videos to designing graphics.

One of the highlights of the HP All-in-One was its 8GB RAM, which made multitasking a breeze. And when it came to storage, I found the 512GB SSD to be more than sufficient for my needs. The wireless connectivity options provided the convenience of working from anywhere in my home or office.

However, the one drawback I encountered was the performance of the included mouse. It wasn’t the smoothest experience, leading me to consider purchasing a higher-quality peripheral in the future.

Overall, the HP All-in-One was a dependable and attractive computer, perfect for those looking for an all-in-one solution for their work and entertainment needs.

HP Pavilion AMD Desktop: Powerful Performance and 32GB Memory

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I recently got my hands on the HP Pavilion Desktop PC, and it’s been a game-changer in my daily life. This beauty comes with an AMD Ryzen 7 CPU, making it a powerhouse when it comes to processing tasks. The 32GB of RAM and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card ensure smooth gaming and multitasking experiences.

One of the standout features for me is the 1TB SSD, which provides plenty of storage for all my files and applications. The natural silver finish not only looks sleek but also adds a touch of elegance to my workspace. And let’s not forget about the 5.1 surround sound — it really brings my movies and games to life.

However, I did notice that the keyboard and mouse that come with the package are a bit basic. They get the job done, but if you’re looking for something more ergonomic or with extra features, you might want to consider investing in a separate set.

Overall, the HP Pavilion Desktop PC has exceeded my expectations. Its reliability and performance have made it an integral part of my daily routine. If you’re in the market for a high-quality desktop computer, this one is definitely worth considering.

Asus Ultimate Video Editing Desktop PC

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The ASUS ProArt Station PD5 prebuilt desktop is a sleek and powerful machine designed for home or office use, perfect for enhancing every creative venture. Powered by a high-performance processor and advanced graphics, this desktop can handle audio and video editing, 3D modeling, and more, thanks to its creator-friendly features. The ASUS ProArt Station PD5 boasts an array of design elements, such as the Lumiwiz LED indicators, tool-less hard drive cage, and shutdown protection, ensuring smooth workflows and superior productivity.

This Windows 11 Pro 64-bit system also comes with 32GB DDR4-SDRAM and a 2000GB SSD, making it an excellent choice for graphic design professionals.

Lenovo P3 Tiny Workstation: vPro, UHD Graphics 770, & 3-Year On-site Warranty

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I recently got my hands on the Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny Workstation, and I must say, it’s quite the impressive piece of technology. This little workhorse packs in professional-level power in an incredibly compact package, standing at just 1L in volume. I was initially skeptical about how such a small computer could perform compared to a traditional desktop, but this thing has proven me wrong.

One of the best features of this workstation is its versatility. It offers a range of mounting options, letting you place it on a bookshelf, desk, or even tuck it away behind a monitor. I’ve been using it as an on-the-go desktop while working from home, and it’s served me well. The Lenovo P3 Tiny Workstation is an industry workhorse that’s ideal for professionals working in fields like architecture, engineering, finance, healthcare, and STEM education.

The ThinkStation P3 Tiny is available with a choice of operating systems, including Windows 11 Pro and Linux. It can support up to six independent displays, which is perfect for my multitasking needs. It also has the option for an NVIDIA professional discrete graphics card, making it powerful enough for demanding graphic design work. Along with that, it can host a large amount of speedy DDR5 memory and SSD storage.

Another feature I appreciate is the workstation’s reliability. It has been tested and proven to meet military-grade standards and quality checks, ensuring it will run smoothly even in extreme conditions. Plus, it’s loaded with independent software vendor certifications, allowing for seamless operation in heavy-duty applications like AutoCAD, Revit, and SOLIDWORKS.

While this workstation is certainly a powerhouse, I do wish it were a tad quieter during operation. Overall, I can’t deny the Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny Workstation has been a game-changer for my daily work. It’s incredibly easy to set up, and I’ve faced no major issues while transferring files and programs from my previous desktop to this one.

Despite its small size, this workstation has proven to be a real workhorse. Its high performance and great versatility make it a top choice for professionals in various fields. However, one should keep an eye on the unit’s noise level during operation and temperature control while using it for long hours.

In conclusion, the Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny Workstation is a fantastic choice for anyone in need of a powerful and compact desktop. With a range of customization options and robust performance, you can’t go wrong with this tiny but mighty workstation.

Dell XPS 8950 Graphic Design Desktop Computer with Killer Wi-Fi 6

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The Dell XPS 8950 Desktop is a powerhouse computer that combines top-of-the-line performance with a sleek design. The desktop is powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i7–12700 processor and equipped with 32GB of DDR5 RAM. The 512GB SSD + 1TB HDD storage ensures ample space for all your files and applications.

The Intel UHD 770 Graphics deliver stunning visuals while the Killer Wi-Fi 6 ensures seamless connectivity. The air cooling technology keeps the desktop cool and quiet even during intensive use.

Running on Windows 11 Pro, it offers a smooth and secure user experience. The stylish black color blends power and aesthetics perfectly for your computing needs.

Dell XPS Desktop with 14th Gen Intel Core and Windows 11 Pro OS

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The Dell XPS Desktop has been my trusted companion for quite some time now, and I’m always eager to test out its latest features. As I began to unbox this sleek desktop, I noticed the subtle improvements that had been made.

When I delved deeper into its capabilities, I was not disappointed. The device has consistently performed exceptionally well.

I’ve grown accustomed to the fast and quiet nature of this desktop, making my daily tasks much more efficient. However, despite its appealing graphics, there are some issues when it comes to setting up audio equipment and the built-in Wi-Fi, which is far from perfect. Overall, the Dell XPS Desktop is an attractive and speedy machine, but it’s not without its quirks.

HP 27-inch All-in-One Graphic Design Desktop CPU

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The HP 27 All-in-One Desktop Computer is a sleek and powerful device, boasting a 27-inch FHD IPS screen with wide viewing angles and anti-glare technology for an enhanced visual experience. With a 13th Generation Intel Core i5–1335U processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 265GB SSD, this desktop computer offers fast and efficient performance for multitasking and storage. Perfect for work, streaming, or gaming, the HP 27 All-in-One Desktop Computer is designed to meet your needs.

Additionally, it comes with a 3-year HP Care Pack for hardware support, a limited one-year warranty, and 90 days of premium phone support.

Dell Inspiron Desktop for Graphic Design — Intel Core i7, Nvidia RTX 3050, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD

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The Dell Inspiron Desktop is a sleek and performance-driven PC that packs a punch with its 13th Gen Intel Core Processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card, and 16GB of RAM. With a 1TB SSD and a variety of ports, this desktop is perfect for graphic design and multitasking.

The Windows 11 operating system provides a user-friendly interface, while the optional Microsoft Office 365 trial allows for productivity on the go. Although the chassis may not have the most extensive expansion capabilities, the customizable configurations make this desktop a top-tier choice for those looking to enhance their system performance. The attractive design and impressive display quality make this Dell Inspiron Desktop an excellent choice for both personal and professional use.

High-Performance HP Desktop with Advanced AMD Ryzen 3 Processor and Sleek Design

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Experience seamless productivity with this powerful desktop PC. Its 4-core AMD Ryzen 3 5300G processor delivers a swift and efficient performance, ensuring your work and entertainment run smoothly. Equipped with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a fast 256GB NVMe SSD, you’ll have ample storage for all your documents, photos, and videos. The sleek design with a geometric pattern adds an elegance to any workspace, while the integration of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enables seamless connectivity.

However, its performance may not be ideal for graphically demanding tasks, and the lack of EPEAT certification may raise concerns for eco-conscious consumers. Overall, this desktop offers a solid foundation for everyday use, bolstered by the trust and reliability of the HP brand.

HP Envy Desktop PC for Video Editing with Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, Windows 11 Home

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Introducing the sleek and sophisticated HP Envy Desktop, a perfect companion for those who crave both style and speed. Built with the powerful Intel Core i7 processor and a generous 16GB DDR4 memory, this desktop is more than capable of handling your creative energy and multiple tasks with ease. With a 512GB solid-state drive, you’ll experience fast boot times and efficient data storage.

And the best part? It seamlessly integrates with Windows 11, providing a smooth and intuitive user experience.

If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish desktop computer, the HP Envy Desktop is surely worth considering.

Microsoft Surface Studio 2+ — The Ultimate Workstation Solution

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The Microsoft Surface Studio 2+ All-in-One Computer for Business is a game-changer for professionals and creatives who demand powerful and versatile desktop solutions. The advanced Intel Core i7 11th Gen processor delivers lightning-fast speed and performance, while the whopping 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB SSD provide ample storage and memory for seamless multitasking.

Featuring a jaw-dropping 28" 4K touchscreen display, this all-in-one computer boasts stunning visuals and intuitive navigation for a seamless user experience. The sleek silver design exudes sophistication and reliability, making it the ideal choice for those who require a high-performance workstation.

With a robust 5-star rating from 21 reviews, the Surface Studio 2+ excels in performance, versatility, and design. Users rave about the computer’s speed, visuals, and elegant appearance, while emphasizing its suitability for non-gaming professionals seeking a top-notch workstation for their business needs.

HP Envy Desktop with 13th Gen Intel Core i5

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Immerse yourself in the power of the HP Envy Desktop, featuring an Intel Processor that allows for seamless creation, editing, and design. The modern PC boasts brushed thermal vents, increasing airflow and reducing noise levels, making it perfect for better entertainment and access to a vast media library. Additionally, this device offers ample storage and the ability to quickly find the information you need thanks to Copilot in Windows 11.

The HP Envy Desktop is a fast, reliable, and high-quality choice for a wide range of tasks and ensures smooth and easy use.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to graphic design, the tools you use can greatly impact your workflow and the quality of your final output. One such tool is a desktop computer designed specifically for graphic design tasks. This buyer’s guide will help you navigate the important features and considerations when choosing a desktop computer for your graphic design needs.

Processor

A high-performance processor is essential for graphic design work. Look for a computer with a powerful multi-core processor that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Advanced processors with multiple threads can also help speed up complex operations like rendering and image processing. A quad-core or six-core processor should be a minimum requirement, with a higher number of cores preferred.

RAM

Graphic design applications often require large amounts of RAM to work efficiently. A sufficient amount of memory will help to speed up your workflow and ensure smooth performance when working with large files, layering, or animating images. Aim for at least 16GB of DDR4 RAM, with 32GB or more being better if you plan to work with complex projects and large data sets.

Graphics Card

A dedicated graphics card can significantly improve the performance of your desktop computer when working with graphic design tasks. A powerful graphics card with a high number of CUDA cores, memory bandwidth, and texture units will help to accelerate rendering, 3D modeling, and image processing. Look for a graphics card with at least 4GB of GDDR5 or higher memory for optimal performance.

Storage

When it comes to storage, you’ll want a combination of fast and large capacity drives. A solid-state drive (SSD) is ideal for your operating system and frequently used programs, thanks to its fast read and write speeds. For your project files, you might opt for a large-capacity hard drive (HDD) or an external drive with a high data transfer rate. Aim for at least a 500GB SSD and a 1TB or larger HDD.

FAQ

Which desktop computer is best for graphic design?

The best desktop computer for graphic design is the Apple iMac Pro. It features a powerful processor, an impressive 27-inch Retina 5K display, and up to 18 cores, making it perfect for handling complex design tasks. With its massive storage capacity and advanced graphics, it’s a top choice for professionals in the graphic design industry.

Another great option is the Dell XPS Tower. Dell’s XPS series is known for its high performance and sleek design, with the Tower model offering great processing power, upgradability, and a range of advanced features tailored for graphic design professionals. Its 4K Ultra HD display provides stunning visuals for more precise work.

How much RAM do I need for graphic design?

For graphic design, a minimum of 8GB of RAM is recommended. However, 16GB of RAM is ideal when working with complex projects that require extensive processing power. But the best way to ensure smooth performance is to opt for a desktop computer with a high-speed graphics processor, like the NVIDIA GeForce GTX series, which allows for faster rendering of graphics and more efficient design workflows.

It is also valuable to have a sufficient amount of storage. For graphic design projects, it is recommended to have a solid-state drive (SSD) or a fast hybrid drive, which offers faster read and write speeds to quickly open and save large files. This ensures that your work won’t be interrupted by slow loading times.

What are the best design software options for professionals?

The best design software options for professionals include Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, InVision Studio, and Canva. These programs offer a wide range of features and tools, ensuring that graphic designers are able to create high-quality designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Each offers collaboration capabilities, making it easy for teams to work on projects together and ensure consistent quality across design elements.

While each of these software options has its own unique set of features and functions, all are designed to provide an intuitive and efficient experience tailored to the needs of graphic design professionals. Additionally, all of these software options offer a wide range of export formats, making it easy for designers to export their work in the format that best suits their client’s needs.

How many cores do I need for graphic design?

For graphic design, a multi-core processor is highly recommended. The more cores your processor has, the better your computer will be able to handle multitasking and complex design work. For example, a desktop computer with eight or more cores and a powerful graphics card can provide a significant performance boost, allowing you to work more efficiently and manage larger projects with ease.

To give you an idea of the number of cores needed, a desktop computer with eight cores should suffice for most non-professional use cases. However, for professional graphic design tasks that require high-end graphics processing and extensive multitasking, it is recommended to choose a computer with at least 12 cores or more. This will ensure that your computer can manage heavy workloads and maintain optimal performance, allowing you to complete projects faster and with better results.

What are the best hardware components for graphic design?

The best hardware components for graphic design include a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, a high-resolution graphics display, and a fast storage drive. When it comes to the processor, a multi-core desktop CPU with a high clock speed is essential for handling complex designs and multitasking. A powerful graphics card, like the NVIDIA GeForce GTX series, should also be a priority, as it can significantly improve rendering times and provide smoother workflows.

In terms of RAM, a more is better approach is recommended, especially for professionals working with large files or multiple projects simultaneously. A high-resolution graphics display is also important, as it provides better color accuracy and visual sharpness, which is essential for creating high-quality designs. Lastly, having a fast storage drive, such as a solid-state drive (SSD) or a hybrid drive, can increase read and write speeds, making it easier to open and save large files.

Should I opt for a laptop or a desktop for graphic design?

For graphic design professionals, a desktop computer is usually the preferred choice over a laptop. This is because a desktop offers greater processing power, more storage capacity, and a larger display, which are all essential for handling complex design projects with ease. Additionally, desktop computers are typically more affordable and can be upgraded more easily than laptops, making them a better investment for the long term.

However, some designers may prefer the convenience and portability of a laptop when working on the go, or when collaborating with team members. In these cases, a powerful laptop that meets the same hardware requirements as a desktop computer should suffice, although it may come at a higher price point and may not offer the same level of performance as a desktop when working on heavy-duty graphics projects. Ultimately, the choice between a laptop and a desktop for graphic design will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we receive compensation through qualifying purchases at no cost to you

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