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The Best Desktop PC for Graphic Designers in 2022

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The Best Desktop PC for Graphic Designers in 2022

When you’re a graphic designer, investing in your computer is a must. This is because high-performing desktops have better features to help you handle even the most complex projects.

Desktop computers offer more processing power and can accommodate larger screens. They are better suited to handle the enormous file sizes that come with professional photo or video editing since they often have greater memory and storage space. What’s great is that it helps a lot when working on complicated projects as you can view many layouts at once thanks to the option to attach more than one monitor to a desktop computer.

But, with so many desktop computers out there, it can be quite hard to choose which one is best to invest in, so we narrowed it down to some of the best options that you can go for today. If you’re looking to replace your old computer or you want to start building your graphic design career, here are the best desktop computers for you.

01 iMac 27-inch, 2020

Currently, the greatest desktop machine for graphic design is the Apple iMac. The gadget combines a simple appearance with incredibly high performance. 

All 2020 variants of the 27-inch iMac include 10th-generation Intel Core CPUs. This allows the device to operate rapidly even when numerous “heavy” processes are launched concurrently, a feature that graphic artists greatly value. The new Radeon Pro 5000 graphics card boosts speed and gives designers the ability to take on genuinely challenging projects.

The Retina 5K display’s vivid hues are impressive. The monitor’s color temperature can be changed using the True Tone function to match the surroundings. With its FaceTime HD 1080p webcam and microphone, users can enjoy spectacular pictures and nearly studio-quality audio. Working with removable media is significantly easier for graphic designers because of the outstanding selection of connectors.

Up to 2021, the computer’s design stayed the same for around ten years. However, that does not imply that the 27-inch iMac looks dated. On the contrary, the PC stands out among a variety of desktop computers and blends in with any workspace.

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Offers variety of configurations

Cons

  • Price

Specification

  • Price $1,729.93
  • Processor Intel Core i5
  • Graphics AMD Radeon Pro 5300 graphics
  • Display 27-inch Retina 5K
  • RAM 8 GB
  • Storage 256 GB
iMac 27-inch, 2020

02 iMac 24 inch, 2021

One of the greatest machines for visual creation is this iMac’s Apple M1 chip, which integrates GPU, RAM, and a 16-core Neural Engine into one chip. The PC case comes in a selection of 7 colors for the customer.

This is a top-of-the-line desktop computer that can handle all of a graphic designer’s fundamental responsibilities. Even while observing the 4.5K Retina display from a few centimeters away, it is impossible to make out a single pixel thanks to the display’s maximum brightness of 530 nits. The display has 100% sRGB coverage and 90% AdobeRGB coverage.

The Apple M1 enhances webcam performance in low light (1080p resolution). Using three directional microphones, the device is capable of picking up even whispers. A stereo effect with excellent bass can be created using six speakers. The iMac 24-inch 2021 can be placed on any desk thanks to its 54.7 x 46.1 x 14.7 cm size, 4.5 kg weight, and 11.5 mm thinness.

Apple’s updated PC has a stunning design that isn’t over the top. The case’s color tones are delicate and aesthetically pleasing. The physical components’ design blends with the operating system’s user interface. The color scheme of the chosen iMac version matches that of the Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse.

Pros

  • Suited for all types of graphics
  • Multi-core CPU is 3% more powerful than MacBook Pro and Mac Mini

Cons

  • mouse doesn't work while charging

Specification

  • Price $1,449.99
  • Processor Apple M1 8-core CPU
  • Graphics 8-core GPU
  • Display 24-inch 4.5K Retina
  • RAM 8 GB
  • Storage 256 GB
iMac 24 inch, 2021

03 Microsoft Surface Studio 2

This desktop computer, an innovative tool for graphic designers, can be quickly transformed into a digital easel.

An excellent PC for graphic design, especially handling difficult creative work, is the Microsoft Surface Studio 2. It is meant for professional artists, architects, and engineers in addition to graphic designers. 

The display supports the Surface Pen with 4096-degree pressure sensitivity and the Surface Dial controller, and it can detect up to ten simultaneous touches. Multiple tests have demonstrated that the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 has one of the best visual qualities of any all-in-one PC.

What’s more, 167% of the sRGB color space is visible on the screen. SRGB, DCI-P3, and Vivid color profiles can all be modified by the user. You can also connect one or two external monitors with 4k support.

The operating system is capable of handling heavy loads. A clean video is guaranteed by the front 5MP 1080p HD webcam. The Stereo 2.1 sound system with Dolby Audio Premium provides fantastic sound for comfortable music or movie viewing. The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 also has a wireless mouse and keyboard in addition to the stylus.

Pros

  • Offers the best configuration
  • Entry level kit comes with a stylus

Cons

  • You can't customize features

Specification

  • Price $3,998.26
  • Processor Intel Core i7
  • Graphics NVIDIA GeForce 1060
  • Display PixelSense Touchscreen
  • RAM 16 GB
  • Storage 1 TB
Microsoft Surface Studio 2

04 Mac Mini M1, 2020

What you’ll love about this Mini PC (SFF) is that it can be linked to any monitor or TV. It has an SSD drive and an exclusive Apple M1 chip.

Many graphic designers are drawn to the Mac mini M1 2020’s portability and performance. For individuals who want to utilize macOS with their own monitors, it is the ideal option. Signal processing and visual tasks are merged into a single SoC on the M1 device, which has 16 billion transistors.

The processor features 8 cores, 4 of which are responsible for performance while the remaining cores execute tasks that are just moderately taxing on the processor’s resources. Compared to its previous Intel-based iteration, the Mac mini 2020 performs considerably better while rendering and editing videos.

For working with all types of documents, the configuration with 16 GB of RAM is the best (photo, video, or raster and vector graphics). The majority of Adobe Creative Suite can be installed on a low-end 256 GB SSD storage, but for additional storage, 1 TB SSD space is a sure bet. There are Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 options for wireless connectivity. 

On the back of the case, there is a fan attached. However, the Mac mini M1 2020 is extremely quiet even when in use. The computer chassis hardly heats up even under heavy loads, thanks to the device’s active cooling mechanism, which is comparable to that of the MacBook Pro.

Pros

  • Compact
  • Minimalist design

Cons

  • Monitor, keyboard, and mouse are sold separately

Specification

  • Price $695.00
  • Processor Apple M1 8-core
  • Graphics 8-core GPU
  • Display N/A
  • RAM 8 GB
  • Storage 256 GB
Mac Mini M1, 2020

05 Dell XPS 8940 Desktop

Due to its powerful components, this workstation is perfect for graphic design. It is a fantastic option for experienced designers because it is dependable and high-performing. The 8-core Intel processor is excellent at rendering and editing videos, and it delivers the speed and power expected from one of the top computer brands.

The SSD storage is incredibly quick and dependable too. The extra HDD is perfect for original file storage and backup. While this feature is becoming less common in contemporary desktop computers, the Dell XPS 8490 Desktop contains an optical drive that can write Blu-ray files. There are numerous connectors for various peripherals on the rear panel.

Another thing that you’ll like about this desktop is that its cooling system is almost completely silent, and all of the computer’s technical components are easily accessible by removing the left side panel.

Pros

  • Renders video files fast
  • Ideal for large projects

Cons

  • Built-in file storage capacity may not be enough

Specification

  • Price $1,399.00
  • Processor 11th Gen Intel Core i7-11700
  • Graphics Intel UHD Graphics
  • Display N/A
  • RAM 512 GB
  • Storage 32 GB
Dell XPS 8940 Desktop

06 Mac Pro 2019

High performance and cutting-edge design are combined in this graphic design computer. There are numerous variants, and the final technical specifications and cost greatly depend on them. The Mac Pro 2019 is a desktop computer with a strong technical and visual personality. There are two different form factors for the PC: vertical and horizontal. It will become the centerpiece of any room and blend in beautifully.

The technical settings are chosen by the user depending on their requirements, although even the most basic configuration is adequate for productive graphic design work. With the top-of-the-line package, the computer is capable of processing huge video files in high definition and 3D modeling with ease, thanks to its 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB SSD.

Even when under a lot of stress, the Mac Pro 2019 operates practically inaudibly and generates hardly any heat. At the back of the case are three fans. The device includes a network cable, the second-generation Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, and a Lightning to USB-C connector for peripheral charging. Thanks to PCI Express expansion slots, your computer’s technical setup can be enhanced to handle a variety of graphic design tasks.

Pros

  • Configurable
  • Expandable

Cons

  • High cost of configurations

Specification

  • Price $1,999.99
  • Processor Intel Core i7
  • Graphics AMD Radeon Pro 5300M
  • Display 16-inch LED-backlit Retina display
  • RAM 16 GB
  • Storage 512 GB
Mac Pro 2019

07 MSI Trident AS

You might be wondering what the MSI Trident AS is doing on this list since it’s often classified as a gaming computer. Well, it is a gaming computer, but it has features that can also fit the needs of graphic artists like you. The MSI Trident AS is one of the most compact gaming desktops on this list. You can transport it early anywhere, thanks to its size, promoting mobility.

On the inside, the processing power is maximized by the Intel Core i7 processor. To produce objects with physically accurate shadows, reflections, refractions, and lighting, the Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 Super graphics card uses real-time ray tracing.

Your files are safe on a solid-state drive (SSD), which keeps working while staying cool. The computer supports 2.5 Gbps Ethernet LAN connections and data transmission at high bandwidth and low latency. Processes for Internet access are automatically given priority by MSI’s unique LAN Manager. These features, though they are designed for gaming purposes, make a powerful computer that is perfect to support your graphic design career.

Pros

  • Compact yet powerful
  • Mystic Light RGB LED backlight is customizable

Cons

  • Gaming exterior may feel weird for graphic designers

Specification

  • Price $1,747.99
  • Processor Intel Core i7
  • Graphics NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
  • Display N/A
  • RAM 16 GB
  • Storage 1 TB
MSI Trident AS

08 Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10

The Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10 is another strong computer for you to consider. This computer uses the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X CPU with a 32 MB cache. Its capacity is more than enough for resource-intensive applications. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X now surpasses Intel processors thanks to its larger L2 and L3 cache and lower latency.

When using 4K resolution and high graphics settings, it has outstanding graphic performance. It also features 16 GB of RAM to ensure you have the memory you need for those heavy tasks.

There are numerous ports and connectors on the Aurora Ryzen Edition R10 for attaching extra accessories and media. The motherboard alone has 10 USB-A connectors. A Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 6 wireless adaptor are available from Killer. Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro are pre-installed on the machine.

Pros

  • Has high computing power
  • Stylish exterior

Cons

  • Noisy cooling system

Specification

  • Price $1,699.99
  • Processor AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
  • Graphics AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT
  • Display N/A
  • RAM 16 GB
  • Storage 512 GB
Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10

09 Apple iMac Pro

Apple’s iMac Pro is the tech giant’s first computer that’s truly designed for professionals like graphic designers. It performs brilliantly thanks to its processor and video card, and it greatly reduces the amount of time that heavy, resource-intensive tasks require. For file conversion, effect addition, and color correction in high-definition videos, the iMac Pro is the best choice. Real-time viewing is available for every change made. The Twinmotion software for architects quickly manipulates 3D objects. Although you might require external drives for 4K or 8K videos, a 1 TB SSD is sufficient for basic video editing and project storage and still has room to spare. In addition to that, the Retina 5K display has 500 nits of brightness. The wideband RGB color space is supported by the display entirely.

Pros

  • Slim and sleek design
  • Can handle high workload

Cons

  • Price

Specification

  • Price $1,598.98
  • Processor Intel Xeon W processor
  • Graphics Radeon Pro Vega 56
  • Display Retina 5K
  • RAM 32 GB
  • Storage 1 TB
Apple iMac Pro

10 Lenovo Legion Tower 5

The Lenovo Legion Tower 5 is both for gamers and graphic designers. The performance of the Intel Core i5 processor is respectable, and Turbo 2.0 technology allows for a clock speed of 4.3 GHz, which is the maximum achievable. The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 Super graphics card features 4 GB of GDDR6 SDRAM, supports HDMI 2.0b and DisplayPort 1.4a connections, and offers fluid graphics in the majority of contemporary games in Full HD, though at lower settings. It also has 32 GB of RAM, so you will be able to handle any task that comes your way.

Lenovo Vantage and Windows 10 are preinstalled on the machine. The device’s case is simple to open, making hassle-free hardware upgrades possible. Legion Tower 5 is appropriate for use in both the home and the workplace because the fashionable illumination doesn’t appear obtrusive. Whether you’re a gamer, a graphic designer, or both, this is a great choice for you. It has all the computational power you could need.

Pros

  • Reasonably priced
  • Good gaming performance at 1080p

Cons

  • Not suited for working with 8K video

Specification

  • Price $1,199.99
  • Processor Intel Core i5
  • Graphics Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650
  • Display N/A
  • RAM 32 GB
  • Storage 2 TB
Lenovo Legion Tower 5

Carla Mesina

Sep 15, 2022

As a tech writer with over 5 years of experience and a background in broadcasting, Carla brings a unique take to the world of technology. She uses her skills, which she has developed through a passion for both communication and technology, to write educational how-tos and guides related to smartphones and PCs that are easily understandable by people of all backgrounds. Carla's work has been featured in many popular publications including GameNGuide and SportsAdrenaline.

91 Articles Published

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We're not just tech junkies, but we're also tech experts. Each and every "Best of.." list on TechJunkie is curated by our content-area subject matter experts to provide a well-rounded, unbiased perspective to help and inform you, our reader. Our lists are constantly reviewed and updated, so you can be sure you're reading relevant and up to date information.

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