If you’re looking for the very best desktop running below $1200, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a gamer, video editor, you work from home, or just a casual websurfer; At least one of the desktop computers below will be precisely what you’re looking for.
Each one of these computers provides exceptional speed, high-performance, reliability, robust build quality, and lasts a very long time. After extensive research, testing, and reviews, we narrowed it down to the 7 best and highest-rated desktops under $1200.
In Short, Here Are The Best Affordable Desktops Below $1200
- HP 2019 Pavilion (All-In-One)
- iBUYPOWER Pro Gaming PC
- HP 460
- Dell XPS 8950
- HP Envy Desktop
- Dell OptiPlex 5260 (All-In-One)
- CyberpowerPC
1. HP 2019 Pavilion (All-In-One)
First up, the HP 4NN56AA#ABA Pavilion is an excellent all-in-one desktop under $1200. This is one of the two all-in-one desktops on this list whereas the rest don’t come with the monitor. With a reliable Intel Core i5-9400T processor and a 12GB RAM, it provides fantastic performances. This computer is very fast and able to multitask efficiently.
One of its most unique but very useful features is its pop-up integrated webcam with a microphone. Not only is it more convenient than the standard webcam, but it also saves you money on purchasing a separate one. Another convenient attribute is the dual built-in speakers on the monitor. With a 24-inch standard screen size providing full HD 1080p resolution, you’ll be pleased with the image quality.
On the back of the monitor at the bottom-left, it offers all the inputs you need such as an HDMI-in, HDMI-out, USB 3.1, USB 3.1 type-C, a media card reader, and a microphone/headphone combo. Overall, it’s an impeccable desktop for a budget-friendly price. It’s very dependable and we highly recommend it!
Users Say: “I bought this computer to replace my 2011 MacBook Pro as my primary home computer and have no regrets. I’ve only used the touchscreen twice, but it seems accurate and responsive to light touch so if that’s your thing it’s definitely a plus. My favorite feature is the SSD, though, as that’s a new experience for me. It’s always silent, boot time is nearly non-existent, and it’s stupid fast. All in all a good value for your money and with proper care and protection I don’t see why this shouldn’t last at least 5 years (if not more).”
Tech Specs & Details
- Intel Core i5-9400T
- Built-in Dual speakers
- 512 GB Solid State Drive
- All-in-One Desktop
- Monitor size: 24-Inch
- 12 GB RAM
- Pop-up webcam with microphone
- Built-in dual speakers
2. iBUYPOWER Pro Gaming PC
If you’re looking for the best desktop computer for gaming at the lowest price, the iBUYPOWER might be the one for you. It has an Intel i5-12400F2.5 GHz, GeForce RTX 3060 12GB, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 500 GB NVMe SSD for outstanding performance.
You’ll also appreciate the integrated Windows 10 Home operating system. Overall, we highly recommend it for gamers looking for an affordable desktop!
Users Say: “For everything included, this purchase is incredible and works perfectly. The RBG lights work amazingly and look awesome in my room. I was recommended this purchase to anyone looking for a new PC to start off with. I have pleased with the purchase from IBUYPOWER.”
Tech Specs & Details
- Desktop
- Windows 10 Home
- Intel i5-12400F2.5 GHz
- GeForce RTX 3060 12GB
- 16 GB DDR4 RAM
- 500 GB NVMe SSD
- 1 TB HDD
3. HP 460
For good reasons, the HP 460 is one of the more popular and highest-rated desktops on this list. There are a plethora of reasons why we love it. For one, it’s extremely fast and provides multitasking abilities with ease.
It’s very quick to start up, shut down, and surf the internet. Using an Intel Quad-Core i7-7700T 2.9GHz Upto 3.8GHz processor, it’s a very powerful computer. Another beneficial attribute is its outstanding build quality.
With a modernized sleek design, this desktop is very attractive. You’ll also appreciate Windows 10 Home 64 software, Bluetooth capabilities, and Wi-Fi. Overall, this desktop is a dependable choice. It’s very fast, reliable, provides excellent build quality, and nicely designed. We highly recommend it and be sure to check out the reviews below!
Users Say: “Quiet, Smooth, Fast. I had a windows 7 Machine going on 10 years old and Microsoft quit supporting windows 7. I have a Small business with a great Website and it is very important to have security and peace of mind that each day your computer is ready to go. I spent a little extra to get the top-of-the-line model and I am sure this one will be a state of the Art for 10 years! I had it set up and Running in minutes and it is the greatest computer I have ever owned or used!”
Tech Specs & Details
- Intel Turbo Boost Technology
- 512GB SSD
- Intel Quad-Core i7-7700T 2.9GHz Up to 3.8GHz
- 16GB RAM
- Desktop
- Windows 10 Home 64
- 16GB RAM
4. Dell XPS 8950
The Dell XPS 8950 is a superb desktop computer running under $1200. It has phenomenal technical aspects such as its high-quality 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700, Intel UHD 770 Graphics, 512GB SSD, and 32GB DDR5 RAM. You’ll also appreciate its integrated Windows 10 Pro.
This computer provides one of the highest amounts of memory and internal storage under $1200. You’ll also appreciate its built-in Bluetooth and WiFi. We highly recommend it and be sure to check out the reviews below!
Users Say: I needed a computer with lots of storage and fast speed. I got that with my Vostro 3670. I probably won’t take advantage of the great graphic card, but I am pleased with the increased speed. It was super easy to set up. I just followed the instructions – no problems.
Tech Specs & Details
- 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700
- Intel UHD 770 Graphics
- 512GB SSD
- 32GB DDR5 RAM
- Desktop
- 1-Year Manufacturer warranty
5. HP Envy Desktop
Here is yet another amazing desktop below $1200. The HP Envy Desktop is very fast, doesn’t have issues with multitasking, highly-rated amongst customers, and has great build quality. This desktop is able to handle intense gaming, as well!
Users Say: “Doesn’t run hot like my 2012 HP Win 7 pc used to. Had a hard time locating the on button as it needs to protrude out more. When I tried to depress it at first nothing happened. Couldn’t find the DVD player for days as everything is so concealed. Very sleek design. This is not a gaming pc as that’s not what I was looking for. Bought an extra powerful pc so won’t have to upgrade later, hopefully. Very happy with it.”
Tech Specs & Details
- 1 Terabyte Hard Drive
- 512 GB SSD
- 16GB RAM
- Intel Core i7-9700
- Desktop
- Windows 10
6. Dell OptiPlex 5260 (All-In-One)
Next up, the Dell OptiPlex 5260 is an excellent all-in-one desktop. Running far below $1200, it’s a terrific bang for the buck. It has a 21.5-inch standard screen size. Along with its Bluetooth 5.0, you’ll also enjoy its Integrated Intel graphics.
The performance of this desktop dramatically outperforms its price range. Some of the reasons are its Intel Core i5-8500 processor and 8GB RAM. You’ll appreciate its adjustable stand, as well. Offering full HD 1920x1080p resolution, it provides fantastic picture quality.
Not only does it provide high-quality performance and graphics for the price, but it also has an amazing build quality. The stylish compact design is another pleasant feature. Along with that, it has a convenient built-in webcam with a mic and audio speakers, as well. Overall, we believe this affordable all-in-one computer is an incredible value and we highly recommend it!
Tech Specs & Details
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Intel Core i5-8500
- 8GB RAM
- Monitor size: 21.5-inch
- All-in-one Desktop
- 256GB SSD
7. CyberpowerPC
Last but not least, the CyberpowerPC is another great choice. This desktop is currently running below $1200 and is relatively popular on the market. It has a reliable Intel Core i7-12700F 2.1GHz for its optimal performance.
You’ll also appreciate its GeForce RTX 3060 12GB, 16GB DDR4, 1TB NVMe SSD, WiFi & Win 11. Coming with the purchase, you get a mouse and keyboard. Be sure to check out the reviews below!
Users Say: “These newer H.P.s are lighter & more compact than the reliable 9-year-old H.P. it replaced. Also in this more compact package are many improvements and updates. Great buy”
Tech Specs & Details
- Intel Core i7-12700F 2.1GHz
- GeForce RTX 3060 12GB
- 16GB DDR4
- 1TB NVMe SSD
- WiFi & Win 11
Quick Recap
Here Are The Best Desktops Under $1200
- HP 2019 Pavilion (All-In-One)
- iBUYPOWER Pro Gaming PC
- HP 460
- Dell XPS 8950
- HP Envy Desktop
- Dell OptiPlex 5260 (All-In-One)
- CyberpowerPC
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