Even with the emerging preference for laptops and all-in-one PCs, conventional desktop computers are still notably supreme in most tasks, including basic computing and gaming. So if you want the most bang for your buck without caring for portability, a desktop computer is certainly the better choice.
Desktop computers generally offer higher performance potential, upgrade possibilities and price-to-performance ratio. To save you from countless Chrome tabs worth of online research over the specifications and features, we have listed down the best desktop computers for different uses and price ranges.
8 Best Desktop Computers in Malaysia
Table of Contents
Understandably, most students don’t have deep pockets to purchase a high-end desktop computer. Therefore, we recommend the Dell Inspiron Compact desktop as it offers the best price-to-performance ratio for a budget of under RM2500.
Features:
With a weight of 4.94kg, the Inspiron Compact desktop has an ultra-lightweight design and you can take it anywhere you go. Despite its affordable price, you get all the essential interface ports for video I/O, file transfer and peripheral connections. It also supports Intel WiFi 6 which means you can attend online classes without any sluggish experience.
Performance:
The Inspiron Compact desktop is powered by an Intel Core i5-11400 processor with 6 cores and a processor base frequency of 2.6GHz. You wouldn’t find any issue in writing your assignments, streaming educational videos and web browsing. Moreover, its 8GB RAM allows you to open multiple tabs on Chrome for research studies to increase your productivity.
Specs:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-11400
- GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 730
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 1TB SATA HDD
- Weight: 4.94kg (starting weight)
- Ports: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C , 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 4x USB 2.0, 1x global headset jack, 1x Line-out port, 1x HDMI 1.4b, 1x VGA port, 1x RJ-45 Ethernet port
- Dimensions: 154.3 (W) x 293.0 (D) x 324.4 (H) mm
When it comes to gaming, nothing beats the incredible Dell Alienware Aurora R13. It’s one of the first few rigs equipped with the latest and greatest 12th generation Intel processor with the cutting-edge NVIDIA RTX series graphics card.
Features:
Not just for playing with the best, but the Aurora R13 also has the most stylish aesthetics. For the clear side panel option, you get two internal AlienFX lightning zones that illuminate in a dark room. Engineered for serious gaming, it features honeycomb-shaped airways to increase intake efficiency for maximising airflow and keeping the key components cool.
Performance:
The Aurora R13 support NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 graphics to deliver impressive graphics. It has the most recent Intel Core i5-12600KF processor to ensure everything running on your system is fast and seamless. You’re also getting 16GB of the most advanced DDR5 memory which means you can play, stream and multitask with more ease than ever.
Specs:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-12600KF
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090
- RAM: 16GB DDR5
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Weight: 12.3kg (starting weight)
- Ports: 5x USB 3.2 Gen 1; 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 4x USB 2.0 Type-A; 1x RJ-45 Ethernet port, 1x headphone/line out
- Dimensions: 225.0 (W) x 529.0 (D) x 510.0 (H) mm
Why it’s Our Top Pick:
“Pairing the 11th generation Intel Core i5 processor with a discrete NVIDIA GTX graphic card; the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2001d PC is potentially the best desktop for all-rounder performance. Its huge memory and storage capacity ensure that everything on your PC runs quickly and smoothly.”
Features:
The Pavilion gaming desktop is designed in a sleek, space-saving tower with customizable LED lights. You get a wide range of interface and I/O ports such as USB Type-C, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4 and more.
There’s a Kensington MicroSaver lock slot available as anti-theft prevention. Furthermore, it features the advanced Wi-Fi 6 technology to ensure high-speed internet for streaming, communication and game traffic.
Performance:
Enjoy an outstanding performance from the Intel Core i5-11400F processor to blaze through system-intensive applications like video editing and HD streaming. The Pavilion Gaming PC allows effortless multitasking and instant app switching thanks to its large 8GB DDR4 memory and 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD. You can now enjoy endless gaming with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 graphics card.
Specs:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-11400F
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 1660
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Weight: 5.96kg
- Ports: 1x SuperSpeed USB Type-C, 4x SuperSpeed USB Type-A, 4x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x DVI-D, 1x memory card reader, 1x headphone/microphone combo
- Dimensions: 155.4 (W) x 303.0 (D) x 337.4 (H) mm
Considering a desktop home computer? Look no further; the MSI Pro DP20Z 5M is the best bang-for-buck under RM3000, best suited for general tasks and entertainment.
Features:
In only a 2.6L chassis, the MSI Pro desktop is super-compact and lightweight, allowing you to carry it around effortlessly. Feel free to see and do more as you are able to extend its display capabilities at up to three monitors via the DP-out, HDMI-out and VGA port.
Moreover, users can easily swap the internal components by disassembling the side covers, reducing the hassle of upgrading.
Performance:
With Wi-Fi 6 technology and Bluetooth 5.2, the MSI Pro offers high-speed connectivity at lower latency. You get an AMD Ryzen 5600G processor that runs on 6 cores with a base clock speed of 3.9GHz.
Together with 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD, you are always getting amazing performance no matter if you’re crunching scientific data or unleashing your creativity. And when it comes to entertaining yourself, know that the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics is good enough in handling older titles with adequate graphics resolution.
Specs:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
- GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Weight: 1.42kg
- Ports: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x Audio Mic-in, 1x Mic-in/ Headphone-out combo, 3x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1x RJ-45, 2x Wi-Fi antenna, 1x VGA, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
- Dimensions: 160.55 (W) x 193.3 (D) x 65.0 (H) mm
Processing power, memory and storage space are the basic specs you should consider when choosing a computer for video editing. If you need a recommendation, the Dell New XPS desktop is our pick.
Features:
The Dell XPS Desktop comes in a two-tone resin front and aluminium on the sides with a minimalist, glossy XPS logo which gives an elegant design. Its large 27L chassis allows tool-less entry and an easily removable side panel. In other words, you gain quick access to the interior components for seamless expansion and upgrades.
What’s more, you get a total of 9 USB ports to connect all your devices in a snap. It features the advanced Wi-Fi 6 technology to ensure lightning-fast internet for a smooth, premium online experience.
Performance:
The XPS desktop delivers unprecedented performance with its industry-leading 12th generation Intel Core i7-12700K processor to blaze through system-intensive applications like video editing and HD streaming. It allows effortless multitasking thanks to its newest and fastest DDR5 memory. You can now enjoy endless gaming with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 3060 Ti graphics card.
Specs:
- CPU: Intel Core i7-12700K
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti
- RAM: 16GB DDR5
- Storage: 512GB SSD + 1TB HDD
- Weight: 7.42kg (starting weight)
- Ports: 1x SD card slot, 1x 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack, 5x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 2x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1x Gigabit Ethernet
- Dimensions: 173.0 (W) x 426.7 (D) x 372.9 (H) mm
If you wish for a little space-saving and portability in a desktop computer, the Dell OptiPlex 5090 desktop is the ideal system for you. It has a small form factor yet doesn’t compromise productivity.
Features:
Featuring a versatile and space-saving form factor, the OptiPlex 5090 is lightweight at a starting weight of around 5kg. Despite the compact size, it packs ample I/O ports including USB Type-C, USB Type-A, DisplayPort and more. You can easily access the interior to upgrade or replace parts without the need to remove the front bezel.
Performance:
The OptiPlex 5090 powers through your work with its 11th generation Intel Core i5-11500 hexa-core processor that boosts up to 4.6GHz maximum frequency. You are getting 8GB DDR4 memory and 256GB SSD for seamless multitasking and shorter app loading time. With various upgrade options available, you can top up for a discrete NVIDIA GTX 1660 graphics card if you’re into gaming.
Specs:
- CPU: Intel Core i5-11500
- GPU: Intel Integrated Graphics
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Weight: 5.03 – 7.24kg
- Ports: 1x SD 4.0 card slot, 1x universal audio jack, 3x USB 2.0, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x DisplayPort, 1x RJ-45
- Dimensions: 154.0 (W) x 324.0 (D) x 293.0 (H) mm (without stand)
Overview:
Powered by the latest and greatest 13th-generation Intel processor, the Acer Aspire XC desktop breezes through most basic office workloads. With extra PCIe I/O expansion slots, you can increase your storage size whenever the system is running out of space.
Both the front and rear of the Aspire are full with ample I/O ports including USB Type-C, LAN and card reader. Furthermore, you can enjoy blazing download and upload speed thanks to Wi-Fi 6 technology.
Acer Aspire XC-1780-13400W11A Specifications
- CPU: Intel® Core™ i5-13400
- GPU: Intel® UHD Graphics
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Ports: 1x Card reader, 5x Audio jack(s), 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type A port(s), 1x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type C port(s), 2x HDMI port : 2 (out), 1x LAN port, 4x USB 2.0 Type A port(s)
- Dimensions: 100 (W) x 330 (D) x 295 (H) mm
Who is this for?
An office desktop must be smooth, reliable and packed with a full collection of essential interface ports. The Acer Aspire XC desktop fulfils all these requirements and most importantly, it is budget-friendly for most. Depending on your usage and requirement, there are also various RAM and storage configurations to choose from.
Overview:
The Lenovo IdeaCentre 3 is sleek and stylish, built in a premium Cloud Grey chassis. Under the hood, you get an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and 512GB SSD storage. Featuring a compact 7.4L form factor, this desktop is space-saving and relatively lightweight at just 4.4kg.
Onto graphic cards, the IdeaCentre 3 is equipped with integrated Intel UHD Graphics. You will have no issue enjoying binge-watching, streaming and light gaming as long as you are not running intensive AAA titles.
Lenovo IdeaCentre 3 Specifications
- CPU: Intel® Core™ i5-13400
- GPU: Intel® UHD Graphics 730
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Ports: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-C® 3.2 Gen 1 (support data transfer and 5V@3A charging), 1x headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm), 1x microphone (3.5mm), 1x HDMI® 2.1 TMDS, 1x VGA, 2x USB 2.0, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x Ethernet (RJ-45), 1x audio-out (3.5mm)
- Dimensions: 100 (W) x 303.5 (D) x 274.8 (H) mm
Who is this for?
With a powerful processor and large storage, you can effortlessly check and manage your business on the Lenovo IdeaCentre 3. Multitasking is seamless as it packs 8GB DDR4 RAM which can be further upgraded to a maximum of 32GB. The desktop also allows wide connectivity with different peripherals and devices with its complete sets of I/O ports.
How to choose a desktop computer CPU?
We all know that a central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of the whole computer system, executing instructions and moving data around. Therefore, our advice is to not skimp on your CPU or you might regret it later. At the same time, do not waste your hard-earned money on the best CPU when it isn’t necessary.
AMD vs. Intel:
AMD and Intel are the two main manufacturers you should already know when it comes to computer CPUs. Though, we don’t suggest choosing your CPU based on which brands you prefer but rather which CPU gives you the best performance with the lowest cost based on your usage.
- Both AMD and Intel have their strengths and weaknesses. Choosing either of them will surely give you a fantastic experience.
- Intel is a reputable company creating top-tier or often regarded as “premium” CPUs over the years.
- Meanwhile, those on a tight budget would turn to AMD as their Ryzen series is cheaper than Intel’s closest offerings with on-par performance.
Cores & Threads:
When a processor is running on a single core, the only core handles all the data sent to the CPU each at a time. In other words, as more cores are integrated into the CPU, they can split up and handle different tasks. Do note that the number of cores running depends on the system requirements or software.
Meanwhile, the number of tasks that a CPU can handle at an instant is called threads. Supporting simultaneous multithreading processors can leverage some spare core performance for additional tasks.
- You can find modern CPUs that come with 4 cores/ 8 threads or 6 cores/ 12 threads, etc.
- Although the additional threads are slower, they still contribute to the overall performance by a noticeable margin.
- We recommend getting at least a quad-core CPU for smoother and more reliable computing performance.
- For your reference, most modern works and software will benefit from the 4 cores/ 8 threads configuration.
- Budget six-core CPUs are worth considering if you are often working with large databases or multitasking.
Integrated Graphics:
Integrated graphics cards are becoming more common and popular as the latest technology has made them more graphic-powerful for reasonable gaming.
- You can expect 30-60 fps in older titles such as the CS: GO on an entry-level graphics card like the UHD 620. For more recent games, you have to keep the graphics settings low for smoother gameplay.
- For general tasks and casual gaming, integrated graphics cards are fine. However, if you are a hardcore gamer, you might want to avoid them.
- Even with the most advanced Intel’s 12th generation Iris Xe Graphics, AAA titles such as Fortnite will suffer stuttering frame rates.
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