Desktop Computers

Desktop computers, also known as desktop PCs, are types of computers that are designed to remain in a single location. They have larger, boxier form factors than laptops, tablets and all-in-one PCs and are designed to have separate keyboards, monitors, computer mouse and other peripherals plugged into it. Laptops, tablets and all-in-ones on the other hand, include many of these peripherals or some sort of analogous technology (the touch screen of a tablet, for example, replicates the functions of a keyboard and mouse).

Whilst they are less portable than other types of computers, desktop PCs have several advantages as well. When comparing computers at the same price point, desktop PCs will offer more power than other computer types. Desktop computers are easy to open to access all the components, making it easy to replace and upgrade as needed. The computer components themselves are also more readily available, making repairs, upgrades and storage expansions less expensive as a result.

There are three broad categories of desktop computer. Tower PCs are a traditional type of desktop, with all the computer components housed within a relatively large case that usually lays upright (like a tower), although some horizontal form factors are available. Whilst this type takes up more space, it is the most versatile in terms of upgrading and replacing components. The larger cases give you more room to do maintenance and there is often more room to add components later.

All-in-one desktops are designed like a computer monitor and desktop PC built into a single unit. All-in-ones often have a similar size and form factor to other computer monitors, with the computer components housed behind the screen. They are more space efficient than towers but lose the option to easily upgrade and repair.

Mini PCs are like a compact, portable tower PC built using smaller, specialised components like an all-in-one PC without the built-in monitor. Some external expansion is possible via USB.

The energy consumption of a desktop computer will depend on several factors: how often you use your computer, what sort of tasks you are performing on your computer, the energy efficiency of your processor, as well as the energy consumption of your peripherals like speakers, printers and monitors.

An entry level desktop PC may use as little as 0.08kWh per year, whereas a more power intensive high-end PC could use more than three times that amount. If you want to get an accurate idea of how much energy your desktop computer setup uses, you can measure it yourself using an electricity usage monitor. For the most accurate results you should use a surge protected power board for your computer and peripherals, then plug the board itself into your reader.

The easiest way to bring down the energy consumption of your computer is to make sure it is either turned off or put into sleep mode when not in use. Sleep mode will use substantially less electricity and be quick to start up when needed.

When shopping for a new desktop computer, one of the most useful things you can do to get started is think carefully about how you want to be using it. This will help you determine what sort of components you will benefit from and which will be overkill.

An entry level desktop should cover you for basic internet browsing, social media use, using email and using word processor and spreadsheet software. A mid-range computer will do everything an entry level model will do, whilst also being able to run other general-purpose software and some games that do not have high spec requirements.

High-end PCs like some of the Mac desktops are targeted towards serious gamers and multimedia professionals. Video editors and graphic designers (particularly those interested in 3D modelling) will benefit significantly from the performance boost of a high-end desktop and may want more storage space for lots of large, high-quality files. Solid-state drives are much faster than the traditional hard drive for storage but will cost more. Check out our Desktop Computer Buying Guide for more info.