If you have tried photo editing, then you know that a standard PC is not the best. Photo editing is a massive task that can be frustrating to do on an average power PC. Therefore, as a photographer looking to take your work to the next level, you need to have the right tools.

The right computer for your photo editing needs will be an indispensable tool as it ensures your digital photos appear best. The best computer for photo editing needs to have a high storage capacity with a specific tune to editing software. It should make the content creators dream a reality. The computer needs to be powerful artiste friendly, and handle a package of editing software.

When looking for the best photo editing PC, you don’t settle for the most powerful computer or laptop you come across. There are some factors you need to consider. These factors vary depending on your level of professionalism. For instance, the needs of a professional photographer aren’t similar to those of a hobbyist.

Therefore, a PC designed to handle photo editing will have some key features which aren’t included in a standard computer. Our guide consists of the two most critical elements to consider in your search.

If you are looking to buy the best computer for photo editing, we can help. Our list of the ten best computers for photo editing comprises powerful enough systems to run any photo editing software. This guide has carefully selected the best computers for photo editing. Take your time and weigh the pros and cons of each product against your preferences. Once you get to the end, you’ll be able to choose one of the best computers for photo editing!

Editors choice

1. Microsoft Surface Studio (1st Gen) (Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, 1TB)

9.30 / 10

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This all-in-one computer will meet the need of any professional photographer or artist. While it is not the first touchscreen desktop, its zero-gravity hinges make it easy to convert it to a drafting table.

Even with Surface Studio 2 in the market, Studio 1 still offers impeccable performance. It has a sleek, elegant design. With all components stored at the base, the touchscreen display is relatively thin and without a bulk rear.

With a 4500 x 3000 resolution, you will get sharp and vivid images. Therefore, making photo editing easy and enjoyable. Besides, all Microsoft PCs have a good mastery of color gamut and contrast, contributing to yielding high-quality images.

The screen has a 3:2 aspect ratio, meaning you can snap four different programs to every corner. You can run various programs while enjoying a legible view of each.

You can enjoy connectivity to other devices using the ports, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth option. Specifically, the Surface Dial is a winning feature and could be a game-changer for professionals.

The surface dial is quite intuitive, and after a few seconds of picking it up, it mimics a physical button. Also, the dial is compatible with other numerous apps such as Microsoft photos and Adobe Photoshop.

While it doesn’t sound like much, having a one-touch button for your connectivity ensures creative ideas flow.

Key Features

  • Intel Core i7
  • 1TB HDD
  • 16GB RAM
  • Flash Memory Size 128
  • Windows 10 operating system
  • 4 USB 3.0 ports
Specifications

  • Screen Size: 28 Inches
  • Operating System: Windows 10
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 1TB
  • Brand: Acer
Pros

  • Offers a big digital drawing board
  • Impressive build quality
  • Seamless transition from one mode to another
  • Surface dial button
  • Zero gravity hinges
Cons

  • All rearward ports
  • Lacks Thunderbolt port
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Premium pick

2. Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition Laptop 2020

9.60 / 10

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The Razer 15 2020 Edition is a super-powerful laptop. It can compete with powerful desktops in handling complex tasks like photo editing. The computer is the most recent workstation for photographers who are frequently on the move.

It features an aluminum design, which gives it an appealing look. Running on the Intel Core i7 processor, the Razer Blade 15 is quite powerful. It can handle several photo editing software without hanging or needing to restart.

The processor works alongside Quadro RYX 5000 Nvidia graphics card. This is among the best GPUs you can find on a laptop. Its graphic performance is thus unmatched and measures to that of high-end models like the Apple iMac 2020.

With a 32 GB RAM, you can be sure not to encounter any rebooting or computer hanging problems when running your editing software. The laptop has a 1TB SSD, which is a catch for creative professionals looking to do intense editing and rendering.

The large SSD adds to the computer’s power; the solid-state drive is more than adequate and helps the machine run its tasks fast and efficiently.

It uses a Windows 10 operating system, which helps the laptop handle strenuous tasks with ease. The performance of this unit justifies its high price. Thus, it is the ideal pick for a professional photographer looking to invest in the best laptop for photo editing heavily.

Key Features

  • Intel Core i7 processor
  • 4K OLED display
  • 32 GB RAM
  • Innovative cooling
  • Nvidia RTX 1080
Specifications

  • Screen Size: 15.6 Inch
  • Operating System: Windows 10
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 1TB SSD
  • Brand: Razer
Pros

  • Extremely powerful
  • Long battery life
  • Impressive design
  • Stunning display
Cons

  • It is an overkill for most people
  • Quite expensive
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Best value

3. HP Elite Desktop Computer

7.60 / 10

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The HP Elite is more than your average performance laptop. Running on Intel Core i3, you can expect lightning-speed processing. Working hand in hand with the 16 GB RAM, the computer can run even the most massive software without overheating or lagging.

As for design, the case interior is properly thought out; thus, it is easy to upgrade and maintain. The storage devices and other hardware are under the power supply port and the optical drive. The optimal location makes it easy to add or remove a drive.

For storage, you not only get a 256 GB solid-state drive. This is ample to store your photos, videos, music, and even games. The monitor also comes with a 1 TB hard drive for your storage needs.

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If you like multiple screens, you will take joy knowing that these HP elites come with two monitors. Each monitor has a 19-inch display system. Thus, your editing needs will be fun to handle. The multiple screens also offer flexibility to handle various tasks at a go.

For a business computer, the HP Elite has quite a number of connectivity ports. There are USB 2.0 ports that are fast to reach since they are located on the front side. Towards the back, there are six more USB ports to connect to your peripherals.

Key Features

  • Intel Core i3
  • 256 GB solid-state drive
  • Comes with two 19-inch monitors
  • 8GB RAM
  • 1TB SATA HDD
Specifications

  • Screen Size: 19 Inches
  • Operating System: Windows 10
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 1TB SATA HDD
  • Brand: HP
Pros

  • Comes with two matching monitors
  • Fast processor
  • Appealing design
  • High quality, clear images
  • Easy to install and set up
Cons

  • Loud graphics
  • Some encounter difficulties setting up the computer
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4. New Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Magic Keyboard) – Silver

9.75 / 10

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The new MacBook 2020 is now the new pride of Apple. It comes with new upgraded hardware, including a new keyboard. Thus, it features drastic improvements at a reasonably decent price.

Both its RAM and storage double those of its predecessor. It is a suitable solution for content creators, artists, and creative people. The MacBook is an ideal option for anyone who travels a lot and wants a high-end travel partner.

The only downside is that it operates using the 8th generation CPU. It is quite outdated, and there is room for improvement. The model is a little bit thicker in terms of design but features the same look on the outside.

In terms of hardware, the new MacBook has a new keyboard, which is more comfortable to type on. It has decent key travel, which offers an entirely satisfying experience.

Its storage is now 256GB, which is twice that of the previous MacBook (128 GB). You now have enough space to store your photos, videos, or even games.

This version comes with a faster RAM at a 3.733 MHz speed compared to the other models that come with a RAM of 2,133MHz. It has a touch ID button, which also serves as a power button. The touch button makes it easy to log into the MacBook using your fingerprint.

Key Features

  • 256GB SSD Storage
  • 8GB RAM
  • Magic Keyboard
  • 8th generation Intel Core i5
  • Brilliant Retina display
  • 10 hours of battery life
  • Two Thunderbolt ports
Specifications

  • Screen Size: 13 Inches
  • Operating System: MacOS
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 256GB SSD Storage
  • Brand: Apple
Pros

  • Impressive new back lit keyboard
  • Better specifications
  • Large SSD capacity
  • Powerful computer
  • Quieter keyboard
Cons

  • Fan noise
  • Short battery life
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5. Microsoft Surface Studio 2 (Intel Core i7, 32GB RAM, 1TB) – Newest Version (Renewed)

8.80 / 10

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The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 now has more components compared to Studio 1. It is a suitable digital creation for engineering, architecture, and photo enthusiasts.

Running on Intel Core i7, the PC is powerful enough to run your photo editing software. Combined with the Nvidia GeForce graphics, you can rely on the PC to yield high-quality images, making it easier for photo editing.

Studio 2 has very minimal changes from its predecessor in terms of design. Like Studio 1, this Microsoft PC has all its components stored at the base rather than behind the display.

With a 3:2 screen ratio, the Studio 2 offers a better onscreen image. It mirrors working physically in digital space. Therefore, offering a great working experience for a photographer or content creator.

It offers a stunning display with a bold and crisp picture when on the default color profile. The computer has extreme brightness and offers 10-point multi-touch.

You can tweak the display from the vivid default profile to either the s RBG or the DCI P-3. This versatility is essential mostly for artists or designers who might need to work on other projects.

This Microsoft computer has USB 3.0 ports, which are quite fast for charging. There is a USB type C port that comes in handy for data transfer and charges modern peripherals.

Key Features

  • Intel Core i7
  • 1TB memory size
  • Operates on Windows 10 Professional
  • 32GB RAM
  • GeForce graphics card
Specifications

  • Screen Size: 28 Inches
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Professional
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 1TB
  • Brand: Microsoft
Pros

  • Elegant design
  • Has USB C ports
  • Spectacular display with reclining ability
  • Impeccable snappy performance
  • Bundled surface pen
Cons

  • The CPU can be improved
  • A bit expensive
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6. Acer Aspire TC-865-UR15 Desktop

9.00 / 10

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As a photographer, your crucial need is a powerful computer that can handle your photo editing software pack. The Acer Aspire UR 15 has a robust processor to meet your editing needs.

It ensures your computer handles your editing needs at a fast speed. Running on the Intel Core i5-9400, the TC-865 can run as fast as 2.9 GHz. Thus, it is powerful enough to run mainstream tasks.

Its graphics card is a supermodel part that any photographer will find useful. With the Intel UHD 630 graphics card, the PC ensures your pictures appear appealing, professional, and top-notch. A powerful graphics card translates to smooth frame rates and high resolution.

You don’t have to get additional photo storage space with the RAM that comes with the TC-865. The 512 GB SSD is enough for your storage needs and ensures fast data transfer. It also prevents the desktop from lagging, especially when starting up.

This mainstream desktop is designed to offer you high performance in your photo editing and everyday office tasks. It comes at an affordable price and has an appealing design, which makes it aesthetically pleasing too.

The connectivity has an excellent port selection with numerous USB ports, both 3.1 and 2.0. Its unique selling point in regards to connectivity is the optical drive, which ensures you enjoy more cloud services.

Key Features

  • Intel Core i-5 (9400) processor
  • 512 GB SSD
  • 8GB RAM
  • Operating system- Windows 10 Home
  • 2 HDMI ports and 1 VGA port
Specifications

  • Screen Size: Desktop
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 512GB SSD
  • Brand: Acer
Pros

  • Solid performance
  • Impressive memory
  • Fast processing speed
  • Has an optical drive
  • Small size ideal for compact spaces
Cons

  • Lacks SSD storage
  • Low memory space
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7. Acer Aspire C24-865-ACi5NT AIO Desktop

8.90 / 10

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As a photographer, your crucial need is a powerful computer that can handle your photo editing software pack. The Acer Aspire UR 15 has a robust processor to meet your editing needs.

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It ensures your computer handles your editing needs at a fast speed. Running on the Intel Core i5-9400, the TC-865 can run as fast as 2.9 GHz. Thus, it is powerful enough to run mainstream tasks.

Its graphics card is a supermodel part that any photographer will find useful. With the Intel UHD 630 graphics card, the PC ensures your pictures appear appealing, professional, and top-notch. A powerful graphics card translates to smooth frame rates and high resolution.

You don’t have to get additional photo storage space with the RAM that comes with the TC-865. The 512 GB SSD is enough for your storage needs and ensures fast data transfer. It also prevents the desktop from lagging, especially when starting up.

This mainstream desktop is designed to offer you high performance in your photo editing and everyday office tasks. It comes at an affordable price and has an appealing design, which makes it aesthetically pleasing too.

The connectivity has an excellent port selection with numerous USB ports, both 3.1 and 2.0. Its unique selling point in regards to connectivity is the optical drive, which ensures you enjoy more cloud services.

Key Features

  • Intel Core i5
  • Intel Graphics’
  • 1920 x 1080p
  • 12 GB memory
  • 1TB hard disk drive
Specifications

  • Screen Size: 23.8″ Full HD
  • Operating System: MacOS
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 1TB HDD
  • Brand: Acer
Pros

  • Good display
  • Fast performance
  • Useful connectivity
  • Affordable
  • High processor speed
Cons

  • No VESA mount
  • Lacks solid-state drive
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8. Intel BOXNUC8i7HNK1 Hades Canyon Content Creation NUC

8.75 / 10

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This affordable photo editing computer comes with an Intel Core i7 (quad-core processor). At first glance, the Intel Hades has an appealing design, making it appear more of an entertainment than a working computer.

The design features improvements from other Intel designs. For starters, the plastic panels are now slicker silicon cases. The computer also has case lighting, which is entirely customizable.

Intel Hades Canyon meets its promise of discrete class graphics. Each bit of the graphics is impressive, which is precisely what every photographer demands of their computer.

Outside editing and gaming, this computer will run your tasks like a champ. If you are a multi-monitor fan, the Intel BOXNUC allows you to connect up to six screens while enjoying high resolution on each screen.

The PC has adequate ports to connect to other devices and charge peripheral devices irrespective of the small size. The backside has three Thunderbolt ports, two Gigabit Ethernet ports, and four USB 3.0 ports. Thus, it meets all your connection needs.

Getting to the hardware section of this Intel Hades is relatively easy. The hardware has a 16 GB memory, which works well with the Intel i7 to ensure the computer’s optimal performance.

You can never run out of storage with the 118 GB storage. With the solid-state drive, you can enjoy faster data copying speeds and more than enough storage space.

Key Features

  • Intel Core i7, with a processing speed of 3.1 GHz
  • Radeon M GH graphics
  • 8GB RAM
  • Radeon RX Vega Graphics
  • No OS
  • Intel Core i7-8705G 3.10
Specifications

  • Screen Size: Desktop
  • Operating System: None
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 256GB SSD
  • Brand: MITXPC
Pros

  • Fine Tuned for Content Creation
  • High-end performance
  • Easy to upgrade
  • Different ports available
  • Adequate storage
  • Fast data transfer
Cons

  • Has a 4GB maximum video memory
  • Quite pricey
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9. [Ryzen & GTX 1050 Ti Edition] SkyTech Archangel Gaming Computer

8.60 / 10

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If you are looking for a photo editing computer that doubles up as a gaming computer, this is one of the best options. You enjoy as much as a 50 FOS speed for most games. The GTX 1050 Ti graphics card also ensures you of quality image and display.

For optimal performance, a GPU combines with the processor to yield high task results. The GTX 1050 works alongside AMD Ryzen 3 processor. Thus, performance-wise, the computer stacks high compared to a computer running on Intel Core. Besides, its processor can boost to as high as 3.4 GHz.

The Archangel has an 8GB memory space, which comes as one package or two- 4GB packages. When it comes to storage, the PC has a 1TB hard drive, which is somewhat standard. Although the HDD has a 7,200 RPM, an SSD would have been better.

Most manufacturers overlook the computer’s power supply, but not on this one. The Archangel has an 80+ power supply unit that is certified. The power supply is essential since a low-quality power supply can fail and damage the computer components.

This computer comes with an optical drive (24XDVD), which is an added advantage. Ryzen GTX 1080 runs on Windows 10 operating system (64-bit). The Windows 10 doesn’t have any bloatware, which is an added advantage. Its motherboard-VR-ready; that is, it has sufficient USB ports to support other devices such as controllers and headsets.

Key Features

  • Ryzen 3 1200 processor
  • Windows 10 operating system
  • GTX 1050 Ti from Nvidia
  • 1TB HDD
  • 8GB RAM
Specifications

  • Screen Size: Desktop
  • Operating System: Windows 10
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 1TB HDD
  • Brand: Skytech Gaming
Pros

  • Has room for upgrades
  • VR ready motherboard
  • Recent model
  • Ideal for gaming too
  • Aesthetically pleasing
Cons

  • Lacks USB type C ports
  • No SSD
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10. Acer GX-281-R5cb1050 Ryzen 5-1400 16GB 1TB GeForce GTX 1050 2GB Gaming PC (Renewed)

7.95 / 10

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If you are on the lookout for a reliable photo editing PC, this Acer GX-281 is an ideal option. It has advanced features that will make editing easy and fast.

Featuring a striking design, the Acer GX-281 is quite the catch. Its design adds to its functionality as the PC can support as many as three monitors while offering a 4k resolution for a better editing experience.

GX-281 also boasts features that enable it to deliver optimal results at an incredible speed. To start with, it runs on the AMD Ryzen 6 quad-core processor, which is very powerful and fast. The processor can get to as high as a 3.4 GHz processing speed. Thus, you get lightning speed when editing and gaming.

It also uses GTX 1050 graphics, which enables it to deliver high-quality, crystal clear images for a real editing experience. Operating using the Windows 10 Home also adds to the high performance of the Acer GX-281 records.

A photo editing computer that doubles up as a gaming PC must have high RAM and storage. The GX-281 has an 8GB RAM, which is on the lower side than competing brands in the market.

The connectivity of a computer is also essential. This Acer has enough connectivity ports to service you when using the computer. It can also connect to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices. There is also a type C USB port, which ensures you can charge your modern devices.

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Key Features

  • 8GB memory
  • GeForce GTX 1050 GPU
  • AMD Ryzen 5 quad-core processor
  • 1TB SATA storage
  • 3.4 GHz processor speed
Specifications

  • Screen Size: Desktop
  • Operating System: Windows 10
  • Hard Drive/Memory: 1TB
  • Brand: Acer
Pros

  • Impressive performance
  • Upgradeable
  • USB Type C ports available
  • Impressive port options
Cons

  • Some encounter reboot issues when gaming
  • Can get a little warm when running massive programs
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When looking to upgrade your photography, you will need to buy high-quality lenses and other necessary equipment. As such, you are left with little to buy your photo editing computer. So, how do you manage to get the best computer on a budget? The best computer varies, depending on your needs. However, there are necessary aspects which you must consider irrespective of your photo editing needs;

Desktop Or Laptop

Though often overlooked, this is an essential factor to consider. Do you travel a lot, or do you work at your studio or home? Are you looking for a computer with upgrade potential?  If you travel a lot, needless to say, you need a laptop that you can move around with but offer limited ability to upgrade. A desktop can upgrade but is quite a hassle to move around with. While debating whether to buy a laptop or desktop, you should also consider the screen size. Depending on your editing needs, it is more comfortable to edit on a large screen that is more pleasant.

Hardware Requirements

Photo editing uses two main software Photoshop and Lightroom. The success of these two software operating at their best depends on these three hardware components; the processor, storage drives, and memory.As for the storage drives, the hard disk has been around for long, until the launching of SSD- solid-state drive. The SSD is better than an HDD since it access data fast, unlike the HDD. A solid-state drive also reduces the computer startup time and makes it easy to access your files.

Unfortunately, most SSDs have lesser space than hard disks. As such, it is essential to let the solid-state drive run your software, operating system, cache drives, and Lightroom catalog. The memory, RAM, is essential as it increases the computer’s ability to handle tasks simultaneously. Photoshop needs around 1 GB RAM. Together with Lightroom, you will need a minimum of 16 GB RAM. Lower RAM than that will lead to your computer handling tasks slowly, and at the worst, fail to respond. A computer’s processor is the main station of the computer. Therefore, it determines how well the computer handles the software or tasks you undertake. We recommend using the Intel “Core” processor.

Now that you’ve reached the end of this guide, you can revisit our list of the best computers for photo editing and find the perfect one for you!

FAQ

Q: Which is best for photo editing, Windows or Mac?

What operating system is ideal for photo editing? There are two main options: Mac and Windows. iMac and MacBook machines run on Apple’s OSX. The software syncs with iPads and iPhones  meaning if you have Apple  gadgets they will work together. Windows also has  a variety of options that sync with most phones.  The best option is to go for what you are comfortable with. Someone who grew up with Windows will find it hard using Mac and vice versa.

However, Apple has one definite advantage: it comes with built-in creative applications for designing and photo editing. Also, storage is easy with iCloud, plus its Time Machine allows you to go back and locate deleted documents, which could be essential for photo editing.

Q: What about RAM?

Random Access memory (RAM) is another important factor to consider when shopping for the best computer for photo editing as it determines the number of functions the computer can tackle simultaneously. For starters, opening Photoshop or Lightroom requires 1GB of RAM. After you start scrolling through photos, each begins using up to 4GB RAM. That, combined with the OS taking around 2GB to run the latest Photoshop and Lighthouse together, the best option would be to go for at least 16GB RAM.  Anything less will cause your machine to run slow or take a long time to respond when handling strenuous jobs like creating Panorama or an HDR.

Q: What should I consider when it comes to graphics?

Built-in or integrated graphics are good for average computing.  However, for creative work like photo editing, dedicated graphic cards are great. 

The card will also make a huge difference in your computer’s processing power.  Adobe uses such cards to enhance the speed of their programs, which can be heaven sent when running powerful tasks like stitching panoramas or combining HDR photographs.

Q: Is a desktop or laptop better for photo editing?

A desktop is the ideal long-term option in some cases. However, laptops are also the preferred choice for some people.  Laptops are a bit more flexible and powerful enough for most photo editing processes. They are also portable; you can take it from your desk and lounge on the couch in seconds. Then when you finish editing, take the same machine with you as you relax and watch Netflix. If you are in the studio, you can take photos straight from your laptop. This will allow you to check sharpness and photo quality in Lightroom.

On the other hand, desktops are less expensive in the long run and provide more ergonomic support.  There also are some that have very powerful features that support photo editing. So it will depend on what you prefer or you are comfortable with. If you are an on the go person, a laptop will be the best bet, however  if you don’t move around a lot a desktop will still do the job.

Q: What is the best screen size?

This is another essential factor you should consider. Photo editing on a sizable monitor is more comfortable than struggling with a small screen on a laptop. If you buy a laptop, consider going for an additional large monitor for editing.

What most editors do, is purchase a laptop for on-the-go tasks and then have a bigger and better machine at the office or home for editing tasks that require a lot of processing power and disk space. 

Avoid computers where the hard drive is in the screen (all in one PCs) because they lack upgradeability. They are also not good for people who need several drives for storage.  The only exceptions are the iMac and Microsoft Surface as they have great specs and have great monitors.

We hope you like the items we recommend! Screen Rant has affiliate partnerships, so we receive a share of the revenue from your purchase. This won’t affect the price you pay and helps us offer the best product recommendations.

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