Desktop buying guide

Six decisions decide whether you love your desktop. Here is how to make each one.

01Processor

Six cores is comfortable for everyday work and most games. Go to twelve or more only if you render video, compile code or run heavy simulations.

02Memory

16 GB is the sensible floor in 2026. 32 GB helps with big photo libraries, virtual machines and dozens of browser tabs. Beyond that is a niche.

03Storage

Buy a fast 1 TB solid-state drive rather than a slow 2 TB one. Add a second drive later if you outgrow it — desktops make that easy.

04Graphics

Built-in graphics handle office work and video. A separate card matters for gaming, 3D and some creative apps — match it to your monitor, not to the box art.

05Noise and cooling

A roomy case with large, slow fans beats a cramped one with small, fast fans. Quiet machines get used more.

06Upgrades

Check that memory slots and drive bays are free, and that the power supply has headroom. That is what keeps a desktop useful for five years.

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