The best gaming PCs for 2022

Our research found the best gaming computers for every budget.

The best gaming PCs need to have enough power to run the most resource-intensive and graphically intensive video games in the largest and most elegant form factor possible. These gaming PCs are excellent, but they are also the most expensive.

Despite its high price tag, a powerful gaming PC has many benefits. Graphic design, animation, streaming 4K movies to your TV, or just getting work done are all possible on these high-end computers, and experiencing games at lightning-fast frame rates and ultra-high resolution. If you have one of our top gaming mouse picks, this is even more true.

While the PS5 and Xbox Series X delivers plenty of power, they are still no match for a top-of-the-line gaming desktop computer. The best gaming desktops are available now, so you don’t have to wait for consoles.

All-new gaming PCs are tested to see if they meet the criteria for inclusion on this page, and the page is updated as new systems become available. We’re here to help you find the best gaming computer for your needs.

Consider our guide to the best wireless gaming mouse for your new PC.

It’s time to find out which PCs are the best for gaming.

The best gaming PC you can buy is whatever you can find for a reasonable price due to a severe shortage of computer processors.

The Alienware Aurora R13 is our top pick for the best all-around gaming PC. When it comes to configurations, it has a wide range of options that can accommodate any budget, and the components you select are housed in a new Legend 2.0 chassis that is stylish, roomy, and reasonably quiet.

We recommend the Acer Predator Orion 3000 if you’re buying a PC for someone new to gaming PCs. For less than $2,000, you can get a gaming rig that can handle the latest games at 1080p or even 1440p. The case is small and easy to open for future upgrades, making it ideal. Just be aware that 4K gaming will be a challenge on this machine.

When it comes to pre-built gaming PCs, Dell’s XPS 8940 is a great option for those who prefer a more refined look (i.e., no flashing lights or other bells and whistles) but still have the power to play the latest games. This PC is perfect for the office environment with its dull, non-RGB case and current game compatibility.

Which gaming PC should you buy?

Most decent gaming PCs start around $700 to $1,000 in price if that’s a concern for you. Specifications like Intel Core i3 and Core i5 processors, Nvidia 1660 and 1660 Ti GPUs, and 8GB to 16GB of RAM, are within reach for that price range.

Consider your performance needs for an immersive gaming experience. For 1080p/60fps gaming, you need a Core i5 processor and the GeForce 2060 or AMD Radeon RX 5600 GPU. Radeon RX 5700 and GeForce 2080 are great 1440p GPUs. 4K TVs are popular. Invest in an RTX 3080 or AMD RX 6800.

As technology advances, so should your gaming PC, and the best ones can be easily upgraded with new components as needed. Alienware Aurora and Dell G5 are easy to open and manipulate, even for non-techies. Like the Corsair One, Compact devices can be more difficult to open. When upgrading your investment in the future, remember this.

Want to play games in virtual reality? An Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 470 GPU, a Core i3 or Ryzen 3 processor, and 8GB of RAM are required for headsets such as the Oculus Rift S and HTC Vive. Check this before buying a machine.