Gaming PC
HP Omen 35L Review: A Beautiful Gaming Monster
The HP Omen 35L is an elegant and robust mid-tower gaming computer that is highly upgradeable and offers an affordable initial price.
Over the past few generations, HP has been steadily transitioning its desktop PCs toward enthusiast-style builds, emphasizing fewer proprietary parts, easier replaceability, and improved performance. Now, with the HP Omen 35L, they’re embracing a look and feel similar to many popular mid-tower gaming PCs, making it more approachable and familiar for gamers.
It’s appealing enough (maybe with the word “Omen” repeated a bit too often), but during our testing, this gaming PC delivered what truly matters: solid gaming performance and quiet operation.
Our high-end setup, featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 8700G, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Super, and 64GB of RAM, costs $3,489.74; however, HP’s options start at $1,299.99. It also operates quietly with an AIO cooler, even during demanding games.
HP Omen 35L: Specs
| Price | $3,489 |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 8700G |
| GPU | OEM RTX 4080 Super (16GB GDDR6X, 2,550 MHz boost clock) |
| RAM | Kingston Fury 64GB DDR5-5200 (4x 16GB, set at 3600 MT/s out of the box) |
| Storage | 6TB (2x WD Black Gen4 SDCPNRZ-2T00-1106 SSDs, 2TB Toshiba DT02ACA200 7,200-rpm HDD) |
| Motherboard | HP “Wolant” 8CF4 micro ATX motherboard (AMD B650) |
| Front Ports | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| Rear Ports | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| Power Supply | 1,000W modular 80 Plus Gold Omen PSU |
| Cooling | 240mm ARGB liquid cooler, 2x 140mm case fans, 120mm exhaust fan |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
| Dimensions | 16.14 x 16.06 x 8.26 inches |
HP Omen 35L: Design
The HP Omen 35L is exactly as advertised: a 35-liter mid-tower case overflowing with high-performance parts, some bearing HP’s Omen branding. Its boxy shape appears plain unless you notice the prominent “Omen’ logo in multiple locations. We reviewed the system in a sleek black chassis, although a white version with black accents is also available.
The front of the system showcases two 140mm RGB fans behind a stylish screen that features the Omen wordmark. The real excitement, though, is on the left side, where you’ll find a clear glass window (although some versions come with a metal side panel) that offers a peek inside. This view reveals a vibrant display of rainbow lighting illuminating the ARGB AIO CPU cooler, case fans, Kingston Fury RAM, and the GeForce RTX 4080 Super GPU. Any cables visible through the window are neatly hidden by shrouds, keeping the look clean and sleek.
The right-side panel features a sleek, minimalist design with black metal and the Omen logo. On top of the system, you’ll find a few ports and square-holed grilles where the radiator from the AIO releases heat, adding to its functional yet stylish look.
HP is excited to share that it will be offering some of its Omen-branded components on its website! Come January 2025, you’ll be able to purchase the 850W and 1000W power supplies, Omen fans, and the Omen AIO liquid cooler separately. This means you might have the fun option to include them in your own custom PC projects, too.
HP Omen 35L: Ports
The Omen’s top features four ports: a headset jack, a 10Gbps USB 3.2 Type-C port, and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports. While these are more accessible when the PC is placed on the floor compared to the desk, I generally prefer their location on top.
The rear ports of the system are connected to HP’s “Wolant” micro ATX motherboard. They comprise four USB 2.0 Type-A ports, two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, a single USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, an RJ-45 Ethernet jack, and three audio ports. The USB Type-C port supports data transfer speeds of only 10 Gbps, whereas more recent motherboards are likely to provide significantly faster alternatives. While this specification is sufficient for most users, it does not characterize high-performance enthusiast features.
An unusual omission is the absence of HDMI on the motherboard. Many prebuilt manufacturers omit or cover these ports, encouraging users to connect monitors directly to the GPU for optimal performance. However, since this system features the AMD Ryzen 7 8700G with robust integrated graphics, not having HDMI on the motherboard means you can’t utilize the integrated graphics at all, even if the dedicated GPU fails.
HP Omen 35L: Upgradarbility
There is no requirement for tools to open the 35L. Each side panel is secured with two thumb screws; loosen them to remove the panels. The left side is relatively clean. Access to one of the two SSD slots is straightforward, whereas the other slot, as well as the wireless card, necessitates the removal of the RTX 4080 Super.
The right-side panel conceals the disorder of cables that are not visible from the front. I must concede that I am not claiming to have executed a superior arrangement, particularly considering the RGB hub affixed to the rear of the case. However, I do hope it could be somewhat tidier to align with boutique system builders and facilitate future upgrades.
I value HP’s ongoing use of standardized components. The motherboard complies with the micro ATX standard, and HP’s new Omen-branded power supply unit (PSU) is precisely that — a PSU. It does not employ a server-grade power supply that is simply available. (In both instances, I refer to you, Dell.)
HP Omen 35L: Gaming and Graphics
Equipped with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Super, 64GB of RAM, and advanced storage solutions, I anticipated high-performance gaming capabilities from the Omen 35L. My expectations were not unmet.
A brief remark regarding the RAM: HP configures the memory speeds lower than the maximum potential of the modules to ensure “out-of-the-box stability and quality.” In this instance, the RAM was configured at 3,600 MT/s from the factory.
We evaluated the Omen with the factory default RAM configurations. HP’s restrictions are presumably designed to reduce returns and support inquiries from customers experiencing instability. The higher-speed RAM could potentially benefit the 8700G’s integrated graphics; however, as the motherboard does not support their use, the advantage is negligible.
I played Alan Wake II at a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, utilizing the high preset with DLSS upscaling and medium ray tracing settings. The game performance ranged from 30 to 45 frames per second for the majority of the time, with occasional dips to 29 fps.
Throughout our testing, the Omen 35L successfully ran Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Far Cry 6, and Borderlands 3 at 4K resolution with a frame rate of 60 frames per second or higher, demonstrating impressive performance. At medium settings in Red Dead Redemption 2, it maintained a frame rate of 55 fps at 4K. The only limitation observed was with Cyberpunk 2077 at the ultra preset with ray tracing enabled at 4K, which surpassed its capabilities.
The only area where the Omen was a bit weaker was in Far Cry 6 at 1080p. Since the game is CPU-bound, the Core i7 really shone thanks to its additional cores, outpacing the Ryzen 7 8700G.
HP Omen 35L: Productivity Performance
Our productivity station featuring the Omen 35L, equipped with the Ryzen 7 8700G and 64GB of RAM, showed itself to be quite capable for work tasks. However, it’s worth noting that it might not be as fast as some Intel chips that have a higher core count.
On Geekbench 6, the Omen achieved a single-core score of 2,673 and a multi-core score of 12,749. The AMD APU outperformed the Core i7 and a single Core i9 in single-core performance; however, all Intel processors, which have significantly more cores, outperformed it in multi-core evaluations.
HP’s WD_Black drives demonstrated superior performance in our file transfer evaluation. The NVMe SSD transferred 25GB of data at a rate of 2,417.98 MBps, surpassing all other competitors, with the Corsair One following closely. Although HP seems to utilize OEM drives, as indicated by the model names in the derived table, it is difficult to find fault given the exemplary performance of the drive.
The Omen faced some delays with Handbrake. It took 4 minutes and 8 seconds for the system to transcode a 4K video to 1080p, likely because of the limited cores on the AMD APU. In comparison, the slower Intel chip, a Core i7-14700F in the Acer, finished in just 2 minutes and 30 seconds, and the two Core i9 chips performed even more quickly.
HP Omen 35L: Software and Warranty
The Omen 35L is equipped with a considerable amount of pre-installed software, although only one application is truly essential. This is the Omen Gaming Hub, which enables users to monitor system temperatures and utilization, overclock RAM, customize RGB lighting, launch games, and perform various other functions. HP has augmented this software with extra features, including promotional materials, a partnership with GeForce Now, and camera and voice enhancement tools.
The final aspect might not be perceived as unnecessary if HP did not also incorporate its Enhanced Lighting software, although it must be acknowledged that this constitutes a substantial virtual light ring.
Google Essentials, Google Play Games Beta, McAfee, Dropbox Promotion, Adobe Offers, Booking.com, and Otter.ai are installed, along with bookmarks in Edge. It’s a lot of extras for a pricey PC!
Other HP applications encompass HP Smart (designed for printer setup, unsurprisingly), myHP (providing a variety of tips), and HP Support Assistant.
HP Omen 35L: Verdict
It remains encouraging to observe HP advancing its Omen desktop series into more enthusiast-oriented territory. I am pleased to see a system utilizing standardized components, although HP has progressively moved in that direction over several years. However, we must await the following year to witness HP offering some of its new components for upgrade purposes.
The Omen 35L, based on our testing, exhibited substantial power and operated quietly. The case possesses an appealing design, albeit somewhat understated. The high-end configuration demonstrated the capability to handle most modern games effectively with the RTX 4080 Super. However, the pairing of this GPU with AMD’s Ryzen 7 8700G raises some concerns, and the manufacturer did not provide clarification regarding the reasoning behind this specific selection.
The pricing is premium; however, most of the components offered are similarly high-priced. The Omen, as reviewed, is only marginally more expensive than a comparably configured Alienware Aurora R16, which incorporates some proprietary components, such as a motherboard and power supply unit, potentially complicating future upgrades. Among PCs available at large retail chains, this model is quite commendable, provided one is willing to invest in the additional expenditure for the AIO cooler and a robust graphics card.
Acer
Acer Predator Orion 5000 review: Affordable with Performance
The 2024 Acer Predator Orion 5000 delivers great value for the money thanks to its 14th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU.
The Acer Predator Orion 5000 offers exceptional performance for its price, equipped with a Core i7 processor and a GeForce RTX 4070 Super graphics card, priced at approximately $1,500. However, its appearance and case design do not exhibit the same level of sophistication as some competing desktop computers.
While its case may not be the most luxurious we have encountered, it provides customizable lighting, numerous ports, connections, and upgrade options. Its primary advantage lies in its remarkable performance relative to its price, featuring a robust Intel Core i7-14700F processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super graphics card, available at a price of $1,499 as tested. This combination represents a highly competitive offering.
Acer Predator Orion 5000: Specs
| Price | Starts from $1,499 |
| CPU | Intel Core i7-14700F |
| Motherboard | Acer Predator PO5-655 (Intel H770) |
| Memory | 32GB DDR5-4800 (2x 16GB) |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD (HFS001TEJ9X110N) |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super (12GB GDDR6X, 2,475 MHz boost clock) |
| Networking | Killer E3100 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3 (Intel AX211) |
| Front Ports | USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 3.5 mm microphone, 3.5 mm universal |
| Rear Ports | USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 4x USB 2.0, 3x 3.5 mm audio jacks (line-in, line-out, microphone) |
| Power Supply | 800 watts |
| Cooling | 120 mm air cooling, 3x 120 mm case fans |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Dimensions | 19.09 x 18.98 x 8.62 inches |
Acer Predator Orion 5000: Design
Acer evidently does not adhere to the trend of manufacturing more sophisticated and professional-looking gaming desktops. The Predator Orion 5000’s transparent front panel, RGB-illuminated fans, and interior LEDs make it highly conspicuous and readily identifiable as a gaming device.
Fortunately, Acer did not incorporate any extravagant curves in the case design, largely adhering to traditional lines. However, the protrusion at the front for the 120 mm fans housed in turbine-like enclosures is unconventional, and it represents my least favored aspect of the desktop. The fan enclosures appear inexpensive, and the illuminated Predator logo does little to improve the overall aesthetic.
Acer could have improved the internal lighting design. The two 120 mm RGB fans appear fine, but the onboard LEDs are extremely bright at full settings and can be harsh to look at. I lowered their brightness to minimum using the PredatorSense software for regular use. Installing interior lightstrips that are hidden from view could have provided more even interior illumination.
The case itself is comparable in quality to an inexpensive case obtainable independently, predominantly constructed from rolled steel with plastic top and front panels. The left door features tempered glass, whereas the front panel is plastic, which does not convey an upscale impression. Additionally, a possible cost-saving measure is the use of CPU air cooling rather than liquid cooling; however, our observations indicate no adverse performance impacts, as discussed later in this review.
Regarding thermal management, the airflow perforations on the top panel and around the front protrusion do little to mitigate fan noise, which remains noticeable when the desktop operates at full capacity. Nevertheless, it is essentially silent during idle states.
Acer Predator Orion 5000: Ports and Upgradability
The Predator’s port selection is thoughtfully placed at the top of the front panel for easy access. It includes one USB Type-C port, three USB Type-A ports, and a 3.5 mm microphone and audio jack, all designed to make connecting your devices simple and convenient jacks. All these USB ports support USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps), which is great for fast data transfer. Having these ports on top makes them easy to access, especially if your desktop is on the floor. However, if your desktop sits on top of your desk, keep in mind that the cables may hang down more, which could be less tidy.
On the other hand, the rear ports include a USB 3.2, Type-C port (20 Gbps), a USB Type-A port (10 Gbps), 4x USB 2.0 ports for more compatibility, and three 3.5 mm audio jacks for line-in, line-out, and microphone, making it easy to connect your favourite devices.
A Phillips-head screwdriver is necessary to open the Predator, as the side panel is secured with screws rather than thumbscrews. The internal layout is designed for user convenience, comprising four DDR5 DIMM slots and two M.2 2280 SSD slots on the mATX motherboard.
You can add extra storage easily thanks to two 3.5-inch bays located next to the power supply, which features a convenient slide-out dust filter beneath the chassis. By taking off the other side panel, you’ll see two additional 2.5-inch drive slots at the back of the motherboard. Keep in mind, the cable management on this side is a bit untidy, but it’s nothing that can’t be organized.
Acer Predator Orion 5000: Gaming and Graphics
Our Acer Predator Orion 5000 features a powerful setup with an Intel Core i7-14700F processor (20 cores), a top-tier Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super graphics card (12GB GDDR6X, with a 2,475 MHz boost clock), and 32GB of RAM (made up of two 16GB DDR5-4800 modules working together in dual-channel mode). We’re excited to share this with you!
While playing Cyberpunk 2077 at a resolution of 3840 x 2160, using the Ray Tracing Ultra preset combined with DLSS frame generation, I observed frame rates ranging from 75 to 85 frames per second (fps). The gameplay was notably smooth, and I did not experience any lag or performance fluctuations.
We’re taking a look at the Predator alongside three other fantastic gaming desktops: the Alienware Aurora R16, the iBuyPower Y60 Gaming Desktop, and the MSI Codex R2. It’s exciting to see how they compare!
In Shadow of the Tomb Raider (highest detail preset), the Predator consistently achieved superior performance, recording 179 fps at 1080p and 63 fps at 4K. The iBuyPower and MSI desktops did not come close to these performance levels; however, this was anticipated, given that they again utilize a GeForce RTX 4060 Ti graphics card.
Cyberpunk 2077 runs at 71 fps on 1080p but falls to an unplayable 20 fps at 4K resolution. While we lack results for the Alienware, the next-best MSI Codex R2 scored only 47 fps at 1080p, and neither the MSI nor the iBuyPower managed more than single-digit fps at 4K.
Subsequently, Far Cry 6 (Ultra) was constrained by the CPU at 1080p, with all desktop systems operating within approximately 10 fps of one another. At 4K resolution, the Predator distinctly demonstrated superior performance with 73 fps, outperforming the Alienware’s 63 fps and the iBuyPower’s 47 fps.
Ultimately, the Predator achieved another decisive victory in Borderlands 3 (at the game’s “Badass” detail preset), with performance metrics of 174 fps at 1080p and 64 fps at 4K. The Alienware system did not approach these results, recording 144 fps and 52 fps, respectively. Both the iBuyPower and MSI systems exhibited identical performance figures, with 115 fps and 36 fps, respectively.
Overall, the Predator exhibited markedly superior performance compared to the Alienware, primarily attributable to its utilization of an RTX 4070 Super rather than an older RTX 4070. Additionally, it is equipped with a theoretically faster processor (Core i7-14700F versus Core i7-13700F) with supplementary cores.
Acer Predator Orion 5000: Productivity Performance
We tried out the Predator Orion 5000, which is powered by an Intel Core i7-14700F processor, along with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. It’s a well-rounded system that can handle nearly any kind of activity, including content creation. Just keep in mind, if you love gaming or working with lots of videos, the storage might fill up faster than you’d like.
The Predator achieved a median position in the Geekbench 6 synthetic CPU benchmark, registering 16,534 points in the multi-core category, nearly equaling the Alienware’s score of 16,687 points and surpassing the iBuyPower’s score of 15,261 points. However, it was unable to fully surpass MSI, which scored 17,818 points. Additionally, it ranked second to last in the single-core results with 2,643 points, where the iBuyPower secured the highest rating with 2,991 points.
We also conduct our 25GB file transfer test on the primary storage drives of the system. The Predator outperformed the other units, achieving an average of 1,585 MBps compared to 1,328 MBps for the next-fastest iBuyPower. The MSI was the only device that did not surpass the 1,000 MBps threshold, recording an average of just 978 MBps.
Acer Predator Orion 5000: Software and Warranty
Acer’s well-known PredatorSense application is the most essential included software. The controls offered within include fan profiles and lighting adjustments. I found the lighting controls particularly important for disabling the excessively bright motherboard LEDs I previously mentioned.
Acer has improved this application since my last review; it now allows users to consolidate multiple settings—such as fans and lighting—into a single profile for effortless switching. PredatorSense further includes an application center that enables the launching of any software on the personal computer, alongside the creation of shortcuts.
The primary advantage lies in the capability to associate an application with a profile, ensuring that the corresponding settings are automatically implemented upon the application’s launch. For example, a particular lighting profile could activate when a designated game is launched.
Acer gives a full-year warranty for this desktop.
Acer Predator Orion 5000: Verdict
The prebuilt gaming desktop market presents significant competition; however, Acer’s Predator Orion 5000 distinguishes itself as one of the superior value propositions. Priced at $1,499 as reviewed, it features a Core i7-14700F processor and a GeForce RTX 4070 Super graphics card, offering considerable savings compared to an Alienware Aurora R16.
While this desktop has some drawbacks, such as its average case quality with excessive plastic and lighting that could be more elegant, it still offers good performance thanks to its CPU air cooling. If you’re looking for a better case quality, the iBuyPower Y60 Gaming Desktop is a great option, although it might not offer as much value for the price. Overall, the Predator Orion 5000 is a fantastic choice for a mid-range gaming desktop, providing excellent value that we highly recommend.
Gaming PC
The best gaming PCs in 2025 for your needs
Our pick for the best gaming pcs is the Alienware Aurora R16, thanks to its solid performance up through 4K, without costing as much as you’d usually …
The best gaming PCs are those within your budget that have sufficient power to run your preferred games. We evaluate and review dozens annually, and while high-end models can become costly, there are excellent gaming PCs available in various sizes and price ranges.
We currently recommend the Alienware Aurora R16 for most users, as it offers excellent performance in a compact and stylish tower. For those seeking a more discreet gaming PC under $1,000, we suggest the Dell XPS 8960. If budget is no issue, the Alienware Area-51 powered by RTX 5090 is also worth considering.
We evaluate all new best gaming PCs, both in our testing laboratory and in our residences, to determine their suitability, and we regularly update this page as new systems become available. With the introduction of new gaming PCs from manufacturers such as Alienware, HP, Acer, and others, we are committed to adding a wide range of excellent machines to meet your gaming requirements.
Quick List
Here’s a quick overview of the best gaming PCs you can buy right now based on our testing and reviews.
Best Overall
Best Budget
Best Value
1. Alienware Aurora R16
2. Dell XPS 8960
3. Acer Predator Orion 5000
The Alienware Aurora R16 is our top choice for the best overall gaming PC. It combines powerful components with ease of access for upgrades. Plus, its reasonable price makes it a strong recommendation for those seeking 4K gaming performance.
The Dell XPS 8960 appears to be a standard office PC, but it has enough power to handle graphically demanding games at 1080p. Its minimalist design is functional, making the system easy to open and upgrade. Its compact size also allows for flexible placement anywhere you need it.
The Acer Predator Orion 5000 offers excellent value for its price, equipped with a 14th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU. These features enable Acer’s mid-range gaming PC to perform well for gaming at resolutions ranging from 1080p to 4K. Please be advised, however, of its noisy fans.
Best Compact PC
Best Upgradeable
Best Premium
Corsair One i500
HP Omen 35L
Alienware Area-51
The Corsair One i500 is more compact than the typical gaming PC, but its small size hides a powerful gaming machine with impressive internals. Its exterior also looks striking, featuring elegant wood paneling and fabric panels. Although costly, it provides a superior gaming experience.
The HP Omen 35L is an attractive and powerful mid-tower gaming PC that offers high upgradeability and an affordable starting price. Despite including some bloatware and having a somewhat unusual CPU/GPU combo, this system’s excellent gaming performance, stunning design, and compact size make it a compelling choice.
The Alienware Area-51 is a formidable gaming computer, distinguished by its high-performance Intel Core Ultra processor, Nvidia RTX 50-series graphics, and substantial memory capacity. Although it is costly and requires considerable space, the Area-51 delivers an extraordinarily exceptional gaming experience.
Best Mini Gaming PC
ASUS ROG NUC 970
The Asus ROG NUC 970 really impresses with its powerful Intel Core Ultra CPU, along with a choice of dedicated Nvidia 4060 or 4070 GPU, and a good selection of rear ports. It’s also quite flexible, featuring two available M.2 SSD slots and options to upgrade its RAM. While it offers great performance, its high price tag might make it tough to choose over a gaming PC or other similarly equipped gaming laptops.
Best gaming PC Overall
1. Alienware Aurora R16
| Specifications | VR Ready: yes |
| Processor: Up to Intel Gen 9 | |
| RAM: 32GB | |
| Graphics Card: Up to NVIDIA RTX 4090 | |
| Storage: Up to SSD 2TB x2 | |
| Accessories: Optional Dell/Alienware keyboard, mice, etc. | |
| Reasons To Buy | Elegant, discreet design |
| Small Desk | |
| Excellent Performance | |
| Run Cool and Quiet | |
| Reasons to Avoid | Proprietary design limits upgradability |
The Alienware Aurora R16 offers reliable gaming performance within a modest chassis.
This model is designed to run cooler and quieter than previous versions, as confirmed by our internal testing. It’s also more compact, making it easier to set up on your workspace. However, some internal design decisions complicate upgrading components. Nevertheless, this keeps everything well-organized.
Starting at just $1,599, this impressive gaming machine offers great value, especially for those just beginning their journey into PC gaming. Remember, adding upgrades can increase the cost, so plan accordingly!
Read our full review Alienware Aurora R16 Review
Best Budget Gaming PC
2. Dell XPS 8960
| Specifications | VR Ready: yes |
| Processor: Up to 13th gen Intel Core i9-12900K | |
| RAM: Up to 64GB | |
| Graphics Card: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 | |
| Storage: Up to SSD 2TB + 2TB HDD | |
| Accessories: Wired keyboard + mouse. | |
| Reasons To Buy | Subtle, understated design |
| Quiet and cool under pressure | |
| Plenty of ports | |
| Reasons to Avoid | Unassuming design |
| Cramped case, hard to work in |
If you’re looking for a high-performance gaming PC that remains budget-friendly, the Dell XPS 8960 is an excellent choice. Similar to earlier models, it has a design that fits well in an office setting rather than a flashy gaming setup. However, despite its modest look, this unassuming PC delivers impressive gaming capabilities.
There are numerous configuration options available should you be dissatisfied with the initial model. For instance, you may upgrade to Intel Raptor Lake 13th Generation processors and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4000 series graphics cards. Such enhancements will, of course, increase the overall cost; however, the baseline configuration, featuring its RTX 4070 graphics card, Intel Core i7-13700 processor, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB SSD, can easily handle most of the graphically demanding games with ease.
Read our full review Dell XPS 8960 Review
Best Value Gaming PC
3. Acer Predator Orion 5000
| Specifications | VR Ready: yes |
| Processor: Intel Core i7-14700F | |
| RAM: 32GB | |
| Graphics Card: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Super | |
| Storage: Up to 1TB SSD | |
| Accessories: MSI wired keyboard and gaming mouse, both with customizable RGB lighting | |
| Reasons To Buy | Good gaming performance from 1080p – 4K |
| Very affordable for what you get | |
| Attractive, easy-to-open case | |
| Reasons to Avoid | Fan noise can get annoyingly loud under intense load |
If you are seeking a gaming PC that provides reliable performance at an excellent value, the Acer Predator 5000 is an excellent option because, with minimal effort, you can acquire a device capable of running most games effectively at 1080p and up to 4K at a reasonable cost.
The precise amount payable will depend on your configuration choices; however, there are suitable power supply options available for this mid-sized tower PC. Our review unit was equipped with an Intel Core i7-14700F CPU, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU, and 32GB of RAM, providing sufficient performance to effectively run PC games such as Baldur’s Gate 3 and Total War: Warhammer 3 at 1080p or higher resolutions.
Our review unit of the Acer Predator Orion 5000 emits an audible whirring sound when operating under substantial load. This noise is likely beneficial for heat dissipation and performance, given that the system is not equipped with water cooling and instead depends on fans distributed throughout the case. Nevertheless, during extended gaming sessions involving demanding titles such as Alan Wake 2 and Star Wars Outlaws, the hum of the fans was noticeably perceptible during gameplay.
Read our full review Acer Predator Orion 5000 review.
Best Compact Gaming PC
4. Corsair One i500
| Specifications | VR Ready: yes |
| Processor: Intel Core i9-14900K | |
| RAM: 32GB | |
| Graphics Card: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Super | |
| Storage: Up to 2TB SSD x2 | |
| Accessories: Nill | |
| Reasons To Buy | Classical Design |
| Powerful Performance | |
| Runs silently | |
| Reasons to Avoid | Difficult to upgrade components |
| Steep price |
The Corsair One i500 may be more compact than a standard desktop, but it is far from a mini PC — in size and performance. Its wood front panel and fabric sides give it a unique appearance, unlike typical gaming systems, but internally, it packs serious power. Despite its small size, this compact PC provides impressive gaming performance.
With an Intel Core i9-14900K CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Super GPU, and 32GB of RAM, this compact powerhouse can handle your favorite games at maximum graphics settings effortlessly. Remarkably, the Corsair One i500 stays cool and quiet even during demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077.
This machine, while impressive, has limitations. Only two configurations are available, and despite a price drop since our review, it’s still costly. Component swapping is difficult due to the compact i500, and GPU upgrades require shipping to Corsair.
The Corsair One i500 is costly and difficult to configure, but it is among the best gaming PCs I’ve tested. If you want a powerful, space-saving gaming rig that looks good, I highly recommend it.
The best upgradeable gaming PC
5. HP Omen 35L
| Specifications | VR Ready: yes |
| Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 8700G | |
| RAM: 32GB | |
| Graphics Card: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Super | |
| Storage: Up to 2TB SSD x2 | |
| Accessories: Nill | |
| Reasons To Buy | Strong RTX 40-series performance |
| Tasteful mid-tower design | |
| Robust and helpful Gaming Hub app | |
| Reasons to Avoid | Strange CPU/GPU combo |
| Loads of extraneous apps |
The HP Omen 35L combines style with excellent upgradeability, thanks to industry-standard parts that allow easy component swaps. Additionally, this mid-tower design is visually appealing and equipped with powerful components capable of smoothly running games at mid-to-high settings on 1440p at 60 fps or above.
Despite its size, there’s significant power inside the case. Our review unit has an AMD Ryzen 7 8700G APU, Nvidia RTX 4080 Super GPU, and 32GB RAM. It can handle graphically demanding games easily, staying cool and quiet.
The Omen 35L features a straightforward boxy design, unlike more flamboyant gaming PCs, which makes it blend seamlessly into most gaming setups. Its transparent side panel offers a clear view of the internal components and the vibrant RGB lighting that enhances its appearance.
Despite its unusual CPU/GPU pairing and pre-installed bloatware, the HP Omen 35L stands out due to its low initial price, many configuration choices, attractive design, and simple-to-replace industry-standard components.
Best Premium Gaming PC
6. Alienware Area-51
| Specifications | VR Ready: yes |
| Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 285K | |
| RAM: 64GB | |
| Graphics Card: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 | |
| Storage: Up to 2TB SSD | |
| Accessories: Nill | |
| Reasons To Buy | Futuristic design |
| Powerful RTX 5090 performance | |
| Run cool and silently | |
| Reasons to Avoid | Extremely big and heavy |
| Very Costly |
The Alienware Area-51 represents one of the most substantial gaming personal computers I have ever examined and is undoubtedly the largest featured in this compilation. Its considerable dimensions are not merely for aesthetic or space considerations; they house equally formidable internal components, all enclosed within a futuristic chassis. This gaming PC offers uncompromising performance… for those capable of affording it.
With an initial price approaching $4,000, this gaming computer is not inexpensive. In addition to the cost, the substantial size and weight of the Alienware Area-51 may pose challenges in maintaining it within a workspace comfortably. Due to its dimensions and weight, it is recommended to keep it on the floor for safety purposes.
Although the Alienware Area-51 is associated with a significant cost and considerable physical dimensions, it offers an outstanding gaming performance. Its robust hardware and effective cooling system synergize to facilitate seamless, high-quality gaming across a rigorous range of titles. Owing to its superior performance and innovative architecture, the Alienware Area-51 has rightfully secured a position within this guide.
Read our full review Alienware Area-51 Review
Best Mini Gaming PC
7. ASUS ROG NUC 970
| Specifications | VR Ready: yes |
| Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor 185H | |
| RAM: 32GB | |
| Graphics Card: Nvidia RTX 4070 laptop GPU (8GB VRAM) | |
| Storage: Up to 1TB SSD | |
| Accessories: Nill | |
| Reasons To Buy | Ultra Small |
| Supports up to four 4k displays | |
| Can be used in a vertical or horizontal orientation | |
| Excellent 1080p, good 1440p gaming performance | |
| Reasons to Avoid | You’re paying a premium for its size and design |
The Asus ROG NUC 970 is a potent gaming mini PC that can be positioned vertically or horizontally. It features a good range of rear ports supporting up to four 4K monitors, and additional storage can be quickly added via the two available M.2 slots or by upgrading the RAM.
Following the acquisition of the rights to Intel’s Next Unit of Compute (NUC) line of mini PCs last year, Asus is now manufacturing its own NUC devices. Despite its compact 2.5-liter chassis, it delivers substantial performance while maintaining effective cooling and quiet operation.
Similar to other compact PCs, the ROG NUC 970 may not cater to all users. However, if you are seeking a gaming-oriented mini PC capable of operating in both vertical and horizontal orientations and have limited space, it could potentially serve your needs.
Read our full review ASUS ROG NUC 970 Review
How to Choose the Best Gaming PCs
Price: Finding budget-friendly best gaming PCs can be challenging because top-performing systems often have higher prices. Typically, decent PCs begin at over $1,000, usually during a sale. To save money, choose a rig with at least a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU, and 16GB of RAM.
Performance: considerations should include the desired gaming experience. However, for gaming at 4K and higher resolutions, a more powerful system is required, featuring hardware such as a 13th or 14th Generation Intel Core i7 or i9 CPU, an RTX 3080 Ti (or 3090), or an RTX 40-series GPU starting with the RTX 4070. Additionally, 32GB of RAM is recommended to optimize performance.
Upgradability: Gaming PC components continually evolve, making it straightforward to upgrade your gaming PC with new parts over time. Machines like the Alienware Aurora are designed for easy access and tinkering, even for those with less technical experience. In contrast, compact systems like the Corsair One can be more challenging to open. Therefore, if you intend to upgrade your system gradually, consider this aspect.
Gaming PC
Alienware Aurora R16 Review: The Ultimate Gaming Power
The Alienware Aurora R16 is considered to be on one of the best Aurora desktop from the Alienware. I like this PC because of many reason, first of all…
The Alienware Aurora R16 is considered one of the premier Aurora PCs offered by the company. Unlike the Alienware Aurora R15, which boasts an ultra-futuristic design that marks it as a gaming PC, the Aurora R16 showcases a more understated Legend 3.0 design. With a few minor exceptions, this Alienware desktop fits well within an office setting.
The Aurora R16’s price can vary depending on your chosen configuration. That said, the entry-level model is reasonably priced, making it a fantastic choice for newcomers to PC gaming. Regardless of which configuration you select, you will receive one of the best gaming PCs, capable of running the latest PC games.
Aurora R16: Price
The Alienware Aurora R16 is available officially from Dell’s website at a starting price of $2,349.
This base variant includes Intel Core Ultra 7 265F, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage.
Our reviewed unit features several significant modifications, which have increased its price to $3,999. It features Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and 2TB of SSD Storage.
Aurora R16: Specs
| Basic Configuration | Reviewed Configuration | |
| Price | £2,048/$2,349 | £3,499/$3,999 |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 265F | Intel Core Ultra 9 285K |
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 12GB GDDR7 | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 16GB GDDR7 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5 5200 MT/s | 64GB DDR5 5200 MT/s |
| Storage | 1TB NVMe M.2 PCIe SSD | 2TB NVMe M.2 PCIe SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Front Port | 1x Global headset2x USB-A (5 Gbps) ports1x USB-A (5 Gbps) port with PowerShare technology1x USB-C Gen 2 (10 Gbps) | 1x Global headset2x USB-A (5 Gbps) ports1x USB-A (5 Gbps) port with PowerShare technology1x USB-C Gen 2 (10 Gbps) |
| Rear Port | 1x PDIF port1x Line-out1x Line-in1x USB4 (20 Gbps) Type-C port1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) Type-C port2x 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) ports2x USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) ports with SmartPower1x RJ45 Ethernet port | 1x PDIF port1x Line-out1x Line-in1x USB4 (20 Gbps) Type-C port1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) Type-C port2x 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) ports2x USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) ports with SmartPower1x RJ45 Ethernet port |
| Keyboard | Dell Wired Keyboard – KB216 | Dell Wired Keyboard – KB216 |
| Mouse | Dell Optical Mouse-MS116 | Dell Optical Mouse-MS116 |
| Size | 16.46 x 7.75 x 18.5 inch | 16.46 x 7.75 x 18.5 inch |
| Weight | 15.37 kg (33.89 lb) | 15.37 kg (33.89 lb) |
Aurora R16: Design
In adopting the new Legend 3.0 design, the Alienware Aurora R16 transitions from the ostentatious aesthetics of its predecessors to showcase a significantly more subdued appearance. Absent the RGB light strip located on the left panel, the hexagonal side vents, and the subtle Alienware logo-shaped power button, one might easily misidentify the Aurora R16 as a conventional desktop rather than a dedicated gaming machine.
Our unit features an all-black case with dimensions of 18 x 16.5 x 7.7 inches, allowing it to take up minimal desk space, significantly less than some of its bulkier predecessors. Although it weighs 33.8 pounds, I found it easy to reposition on the desk as needed. I prefer a compact and understated workspace, which makes the Aurora R16 especially attractive to me.
Aurora R16: Upgradibility
Accessing the rig’s interior is straightforward once the Kensington lock on the back has been removed. The interior closely resembles that of the Aurora R15, for better or worse. Although cable clutter is minimal since most cables are routed behind the motherboard, keeping the space looking tidy, it complicates modifications to suit your preferences.
Although I found it easy to navigate the rig’s interior with my large hands, specific components are challenging to shift due to the layout. While removing RAM is straightforward, changing the GPU proves cumbersome as it necessitates removing brackets and relocating components. These challenges stem from Alienware’s use of a proprietary motherboard, which limits upgrade possibilities. However, as I mentioned, this design results in a very organised interior.
Aurora R16: Gaming Performance
Our unit, equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, as well as 64GB of RAM, delivers an impressive level of power that one would expect from a £3,999 PC. We tested this PC by playing a variety of games, including Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5), Red Dead Redemption 2, Cyberpunk 2077, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, and Far Cry 6. Additionally, we compared the FPS achieved in 1080p and 4K settings with those of other gaming PCs.
In Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5), our unit demonstrates its power, achieving an average FPS of 200 at 1080p resolution. At 4K resolution, it attains an average of 135 FPS. We are competing against our predecessor, the Alienware Aurora R15, which falls short against our Aurora R16 in every match. While the Vengeance i7500 and Omen 35L provide each other with tough competition, both equipped with the same graphics card (RTX 4090), the Omen 35L finds it difficult to outpace the Vengeance. They both outperform our reviewed unit (Alienware Aurora 16) by a small margin.
In the video game Cyberpunk 2077, the Alienware Aurora attains a performance of 115 FPS at a resolution of 1080p and 80 FPS at a 4K resolution. Cyberpunk is regarded as one of the most poorly optimized games for PCs, consistently posing a tough challenge to computers. The rankings of PCs remain unchanged; both the Omen 35L and the Vengeance i7500 are achieving similar FPS in both 4K and 1080p. They both surpass our reviewed unit (Alienware Aurora 16) by a slight margin.
In Shadow of the Tomb Raider, our Aurora R16 averages 125 FPS 125 in 4k resolution and 185 FPS at 1080p. The rankings of PCs remain the same; both the Omen 35L and the Vengeance i7500 achieve similar FPS in both 4K and 1080p. They both slightly outperform our reviewed unit (Alienware Aurora R16). While the Alienware Aurora R15 ranks last, it has nearly 60 fewer frames per second than the Aurora R16.
Aurora R16: Verdict
The Alienware Aurora R16 represents a significant enhancement to the Aurora series of gaming PCs. Its stylish and compact chassis stands out as the most prominent difference from earlier models, ensuring it complements any workspace beautifully. Moreover, it offers configurations with high-performance components, providing ample power under the hood.
A key feature is Alienware’s innovative cooling technology, which enables the system to run quietly and stay cool, even during long and intense gaming sessions.
Though the Aurora R16 can come equipped with high-end parts, its base model, priced at $1,749, provides excellent value as a mid-range system, significantly cheaper than many other PCs that share similar specs.
As I previously mentioned, if you’re new to PC gaming, the Aurora R16 is an excellent entry point. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable choice, the $1,399 Dell XPS 8960 is another impressive gaming desktop that moves away from the standard gaming look.
If you’re looking for a dependable gaming desktop that boasts an appealing design, strong performance, and quiet operation, consider the Alienware Aurora R16.
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