Best desktops

(Updated January 23, 2012 11:10 PM PST)
Rich Brown
Rich Brown
Senior editor
The five systems 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.

Apple iMac 27-inch (3.1GHz, spring 2011) Editors' Choice - Apple iMac 27-inch (3.1GHz, spring 2011)

We recommend Apple's new 27-inch iMac to digital media editors and others with serious performance needs on the strength of its impressive speed, its connected device potential, and its market-leading 27-inch display.

Price: $1,870.57 - $1,999.00 (check prices)

4 stars

Excellent

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Apple iMac 27-inch (3.1GHz, spring 2011)

Gateway SX 2850-33 - Core i3 550 3.2 GHz Editors' Choice - Gateway SX 2850-33 - Core i3 550 3.2 GHz

The latest in Gateway's line of versatile slim towers, the SX2850-33 stays current with a fast Intel Core i3 CPU, and more importantly adds Wi-Fi to improve its suitability as a living-room desktop. It might cost more than a Nettop or a dedicated video-streaming device, but for its overall speed and flexibility, we'd pick this system as a budget PC or an online living-room content center.

As shown: $549.99
See manufacturer site for availability

4 stars

Very good

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Gateway SX 2850-33 - Core i3 550 3.2 GHz

Velocity Micro Edge Z40 Editors' Choice - Velocity Micro Edge Z40

Like previous Velocity Micro PCs, the Edge Z40 is an outstanding gaming PC and all-around performer for its price. We recommend it to anyone looking for a mainstream gaming desktop.

Configurations start at $949

4 stars

Excellent

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Velocity Micro Edge Z40

Digital Storm Ode Level 3 Editors' Choice - Digital Storm Ode Level 3

The fixed-configuration Digital Storm Ode Level 3 earns top marks in an increasingly competitive gaming PC market thanks to a smartly chosen set of components and an enticingly low price tag.

AS REVIEWED: $2,339.00

4 stars

Excellent

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Digital Storm Ode Level 3

HP TouchSmart 610q 1065qd Editors' Choice - HP TouchSmart 610q 1065qd

We recommend the HP TouchSmart 610q with few reservations thanks to its speed, its competitive pricing, and an innovative tilting case design that makes this a best-in-breed touch-based all-in-one.

As Reviewed: $1,789.99

Similar Model Starting at: $1349.99

4 stars

Excellent

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HP TouchSmart 610q 1065qd