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Desktops:
Best desktops
(Updated January 1, 2013 11:10 PM PST)
Rich Brown
Senior editor
The PCs in this list represent what I consider the current best examples in computing design, and they're more than just the sum of their parts. Whether your aim is to show off your good taste; to upgrade, tweak, and tinker; to frag into the wee hours; or to master and expand your digital-media library (or create some media of your own), you will find something on this list that, if not totally to your liking, will serve as an excellent comparison point as you shop around.
Check out our complete list of desktop reviews.
Check out our complete list of desktop reviews.
Best Windows 8 all-in-one
Dell XPS One 27 (Windows 8)
Updated with a touch screen, a new stand, and up-to-date components, the Dell XPS One 27 leads the inaugural class of Windows 8 PCs.
MSRP: $2,099.00
4 stars
Read full review 
Best gaming desktop around $1,000
Origin Chronos (February 2012)
The Origin Chronos shows the strength of small boutique vendors with a fast, affordable, and compact little desktop that I can recommend to any PC gamer.
Price: $1,199.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review 
A Mac Mini I'd actually buy
Apple Mac Mini
With or without its new Fusion hybrid drive, Apple finally has a Mac Mini that competes well against mainstream Windows PCs in the same price range.
Price: $1,149.00 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Best budget all-in-one
HP Pavilion 23-1000z
HP makes an aggressive budget PC move with this big-screen all-in-one that serves as an affordable, generally capable home PC.
MSRP: $699.00
4 stars Read full review