When purchasing a reliable PC tower for your child, it’s important to choose from well-known brands like Acer, Asus, Dell, or HP. In 2024, you can find solid options in the price range of $500 to $600 that will serve well for general use, including schoolwork, online browsing, and casual entertainment. Here’s what you should look for in a basic Windows 11 computer:
If your child is into PC gaming, video editing, or other graphics-intensive activities, consider upgrading to more powerful components. Expect the price to be between $800 and $1,200 or more, especially if you opt for the latest GPUs.
The choice between Apple’s macOS and Microsoft Windows ultimately comes down to personal taste and particular demands for applications. Windows continues to be the preferred choice for desktop computers due to its wide range of hardware and software compatibility. Apple’s desktop computers, which include the newest iMacs, Mac Mini, and Mac Studio, are powered by M3 CPUs and run macOS, providing consumers with a smooth experience within the Apple ecosystem. Though they are unable to run conventional Windows or Mac software, Chromeboxes running Google’s ChromeOS are a good choice for individuals looking for an affordable and user-friendly substitute.
As of 2024, AMD and Intel continue to take over the Windows desktop CPU market. The Ryzen 8000 series from AMD and the 14th-generation Core CPUs from Intel both offer notable speed and efficiency gains, making them excellent choices for a variety of applications. Since more cores typically translate into higher performance, Apple consumers should expect a simplified and powerful experience with the switch to M2 and M3 CPUs across their desktop portfolio.
For most users, integrated graphics (iGPU) will suffice, handling everyday tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and light productivity work. However, for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, or design work, a dedicated GPU (dGPU) is essential. Nvidia’s RTX 4000/5000 series and AMD’s Radeon RX 7000/8000 series dominate the market, offering exceptional performance for graphics-intensive applications. Apple’s M2 and M3 chips integrate powerful GPUs, making their desktops capable of handling creative tasks with ease.
In 2024, 16GB of RAM is the standard for most desktops, ensuring smooth multitasking and performance. Some budget models might still offer 8GB, but this is generally insufficient for a lag-free experience, especially when paired with a slower SSD. Tower PCs often allow for easy RAM upgrades, while all-in-one and small form factor PCs may have limited or inaccessible slots.
These days, solid-state drives (SSDs) are commonplace, and NVMe SSDs run noticeably quicker than conventional hard drives. For most people, 512GB is plenty; for those who have sizable media libraries or game collections, 1TB or more is advised. While all-in-ones and small desktops may need external drives or cloud storage for additional space, tower PCs provide the option to install more internal drives.
All-in-one PCs combine the monitor and internal components into a sleek, compact design. For the best visual experience, consider the following display options in 2024:
The Apple iMac with M1 is a premium choice, perfect for kids who are diving into creative activities or digital learning. Its M1 processor, combined with 8GB of RAM, delivers exceptional performance for tasks ranging from schoolwork to multimedia projects. The 24-inch Retina display is stunning, offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals, which enhances the experience for creative software, educational tools, or simply watching videos. The iMac’s macOS is also known for its user-friendly interface and robust ecosystem of educational apps, making it a strong choice for kids starting their tech journey.
The Acer Aspire TC-895-UA91 is a powerful all-rounder that strikes a great balance between gaming and productivity. Equipped with an Intel Core i7-8700 processor and 16GB of RAM, this desktop can handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card makes it an excellent choice for kids interested in gaming, as it can run popular games like Fortnite or Minecraft at high settings. The 1TB HDD provides ample storage for games, school projects, and multimedia files, ensuring that your child has the space they need for both learning and entertainment.
The Dell OptiPlex 3020 Small Form PC is an affordable option that still delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks. With its Intel Core i5-8500T processor and 8GB of RAM, this desktop is ideal for kids who need a computer for schoolwork, online research, and light gaming. The Intel UHD Graphics 620 supports basic visual tasks, making it a good fit for educational software and casual games. Its small form factor makes it easy to fit into tight spaces, which is great for compact study areas.
The Intel i7-10750H Mini PC is a versatile and compact desktop that’s ideal for kids with limited space. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with an Intel i7-10750H processor and 8GB of RAM, which are sufficient for running multiple applications simultaneously. The 128GB SSD ensures quick boot times and faster application loading, while the Intel UHD Graphics 630 can handle basic gaming and multimedia tasks. This mini PC is a great choice for kids who need a space-saving yet powerful device for both school and leisure activities.
The DELL Optiplex 9020 Ultra Small Tiny Desktop is designed for kids who need a compact, efficient computer that doesn’t skimp on performance. Featuring an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM, this desktop can handle everyday tasks like word processing, web browsing, and light gaming. The Intel UHD Graphics 630 offers decent graphical capabilities for basic games and video streaming. Its ultra-small size makes it ideal for small desks or tight spaces, making it a convenient option for kids’ bedrooms or study areas.
The Dell Business Desktop Optiplex 3060 is a robust option for kids who need a more powerful machine for advanced tasks. With an Intel Core i7-8700 processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory, this desktop is well-suited for coding, digital art, video editing, and even some gaming. The 256GB SSD ensures fast boot times and quick access to files, while the Intel UHD Graphics 630 supports a wide range of visual tasks. This desktop is a solid investment for kids who are serious about learning and need a reliable machine that can grow with them.
The Mini PC Windows 10 Pro is a great choice for kids who need a compact desktop with enough power for educational and creative tasks. Powered by an Intel i7-10750H processor and 8GB of DDR4 memory, this mini PC can handle multitasking, basic gaming, and multimedia projects efficiently. The 256GB SSD offers quick storage solutions, while the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card enhances gaming and video performance. Its small footprint makes it easy to integrate into any workspace, providing a balance of performance and convenience.
The BMAX Mini PC is an affordable and basic desktop that’s perfect for younger kids or those with light computing needs. It comes with an Intel Celeron N3350 CPU, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of eMMC storage, making it ideal for tasks like web browsing, online learning, and word processing. Its compact size and low power consumption make it a great choice for younger learners who are just starting to use a computer. While it’s not suitable for gaming or heavy multitasking, it provides a solid foundation for educational activities and basic digital tasks.
The HP Elite Desktop PC Computer is a high-performance option for kids interested in more demanding activities like gaming, video editing, and coding. With an Intel Core i7-8700T processor, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 1TB HDD, this desktop is powerful enough to handle intensive tasks without slowing down. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050Ti graphics card makes it suitable for running modern games and creative software, providing a platform for kids to explore their interests in technology and media. This desktop is a reliable choice for kids who need a powerful machine for both learning and entertainment.
It is more important than ever to choose the best desktop computer for kids ages 10 and above in today’s quickly evolving digital environment. Desktops now play an increasingly important role in education, creativity, and entertainment as technology advances. This change is reflected in our 2024 edition of the “Best Desktop Computers for Kids” guide, which provides a selection of models catered to the various requirements and goals of young students. Every desktop computer on our list has been carefully selected to assist and improve their digital journey, whether it’s an affordable model ideal for school assignments or an intensely competitive gaming system meant to stoke their competitive spirit. These computers are not just tools but gateways to a world of possibilities—encouraging exploration, creativity, and growth in a safe and enriching environment.
Giving our children access to the appropriate technology now is not simply a financial commitment, but also a commitment to their growth in an increasingly interconnected world. By giving them access to the greatest tools, we enable them to reach their greatest potential, discover new opportunities, and direct their own destiny. Let us strive to motivate the upcoming generation of artists, thinkers, and innovators. Cheers to 2024 and beyond in computers!
