11 Best Computers for Graphic Design in 2023

The system requirements of programs for working with graphics, especially with three-dimensional images, concern not only the types of processor and video card. To buy a computer that is suitable for design work, it is important to pay attention to all the characteristics of the device. Adobe Systems programs can be used by almost any device, so beginners can choose budget but productive PC models. For complex projects carried out using Affinity Designer, GIMP, Corel, a larger amount of RAM (from 16 GB) and video card cores (from 6 cores) are important. Based on user reviews and expert opinion, we have selected the best PC models for graphic designers from the budget and high-end segments.

Editor’s Choice

Dell’s Alienware series desktop computer is powered by an 8-core Intel Core i9 11900F processor at 5.2 Hz and is suitable for any graphic designer’s needs. The RAM capacity is 32 GB, so the user will not experience any lag when working in several programs at the same time. The model is equipped with a discrete graphics card NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 with a memory capacity of 24 GB. In addition, a 2 TB SSD is installed.

Users consider the advantage of this computer not only to be its productive hardware, but also to its laconic design with bright RGB backlighting. The liquid cooling system, according to the manufacturer, does not allow heating above 74 ° C, but, according to customer reviews, the airflow of the case is weak, and the noise level at maximum load reaches 85 dB.

Main characteristics

CPU	Intel Core i9 11900F
Number of Cores	8
Video card	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090
RAM capacity	32 GB in maximum configuration
Memory	2TB SSD
operating system	Windows 10
Dimensions	223x482x432 mm
Weight	17.8 kg

Rating of the top 5 best budget computers for graphic design

If you are just learning the profession of a graphic designer and are not going to spend a fortune on a computer for work, take a look at more budget models. In the rating you will find devices that meet the requirements of applications for working with graphics and do not exceed the budget of 100 thousand rubles.

Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO

The model with a 4-core Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor and a discrete NVIDIA GeForce MX450 graphics card will run basic graphics programs. The monoblock is a 24-inch diagonal screen with Full HD resolution.

ASUS TUF GAMING

ASUS TUF GAMING. Photo: market.yandex.ru

The model is available in several modifications: with AMD Ryzen processors (3 and 5 series) and Intel Core (i5-i7 generations). The amount of RAM in the maximum configuration is 32 GB, and the solid-state drive is 1 TB. The top-end configuration includes a discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 video card with 10 GB of memory. The simplest version has an AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT installed. The Windows 10 operating system is preinstalled.

It is worth considering that the model will take up quite a lot of space on the table. However, users praise the design of the computer: the steel front part and the bright backlight, which, unfortunately, is not adjustable.

Main characteristics

Mac Mini

Apple has released a compact computer with a powerful M1 chip with 8 cores and a frequency of 3200 MHz. Paired with an Apple Graphics 8-core graphics card, the device can easily handle the most demanding graphics applications.

The amount of RAM is not the largest – only 8 GB, and the SSD solid-state drive is designed for 256 GB. The case of this computer does not heat up, according to reviews, even during continuous video editing. Among the disadvantages, the model has only two Thunderbolt ports, and Windows installation is not available.

Main characteristics

HP Pavilion 590

A computer based on a 6-core Intel Core i5-11400 processor is suitable for a novice designer. The built-in Intel UHD Graphics 730 graphics card is good enough to run most graphics applications smoothly. The amount of RAM is small – 8 GB, and there is also a 512 GB SSD drive.

Many users are pleased with the pre-installed operating system (Windows 11). The computer supports the simultaneous connection of three monitors. Among the existing disadvantages, the model has a weak processor cooler, so significant temperature rises under load are possible.

Main characteristics

Acer Aspire

Acer Aspire. Photo: market.yandex.ru

The monoblock includes a 4-core Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor and a discrete NVIDIA GeForce MX450 graphics card with 20 GB of memory. This model has a RAM capacity of no more than 8 GB, but there is a more expensive configuration with 16 GB of RAM. SSD storage capacity – 256 GB.

You don’t have to buy a separate monitor, since this all-in-one PC has an IPS screen with Full HD support and a 23.8-inch diagonal. There are versions on sale with pre-installed Windows 10 Home, and without the OS. Users praise the silent operation and compact size of the candy bar, but also note weak speakers.

Main characteristics

Rating of the top 5 best professional computers for graphic design

Those who work on 3D graphics every day should not skimp on hardware, because a powerful model significantly simplifies and speeds up work processes. We have selected models from those offered on the professional equipment market that are worth buying.

HYPERPC LUMEN PRO MAX

The HYPERPC gaming computer is great for 3D modeling and other graphics tasks. The eight-core AMD Ryzen 7 7700X processor and powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics card make this model very productive.

The amount of RAM is 32 GB, and the SSD drive is 2 TB. The pre-installed OS is Windows 11 Home. Some users note that the case heats up, despite the three installed fans and the easily soiled front panel of the computer.

Main characteristics

Mac Studio

The model is equipped with a 10-core Apple M1 Max processor and an integrated Apple M1 8-Core GPU graphics card. The RAM capacity is 32 GB, in addition, a 512 GB SSD is installed.

DELL Precision T3640 MT

DELL Precision T3640 MT. Photo: market.yandex.ru

A gaming PC model that is suitable for even the most demanding graphics applications. Inside there is an 8-core Intel Core i7-10700 processor with a frequency of 4800 MHz and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 video card. In addition to 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD drive is installed. The PC also has many connectors on the front and rear panels (USB, DisplayPort, USB-C).

The operating system is Windows 10 Pro version pre-installed. The disadvantages include significant heating of the processor (over 85 ° C) and the inability to install additional fans.

Main characteristics

HP OMEN GT13 Midi-Tower

HP OMEN GT13 Midi-Tower. Photo: market.yandex.ru

A reliable desktop computer from HP in the maximum configuration comes with an 8-core Intel Core i9-11900K processor and a top-end NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 video card (video memory – 24 GB, frequency – 3200 MHz). The maximum amount of RAM for this model is 32 GB. The SSD solid state drive is available in 2 capacities: 512 GB and 1 TB.

Users praise the build quality, but are unhappy with the cooling system. Under light loads, the heating reaches 80 °C, which negatively affects the operation of the entire device (it begins to freeze).

Main characteristics

Microsoft Surface Studio 2

Microsoft Surface Studio 2. Photo: market.yandex.ru

The model is equipped with a 4-core Intel Core i7-7820HQ processor – not new, but quite powerful for working with graphics applications. The buyer is offered two discrete video cards – Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 and 1070 versions. One of the obvious advantages of this PC is the touch display (28 inches with a resolution of 4500×3000) – it can be used as a graphics tablet, draw with your hands or a Surface Pen stylus (included), and thanks to the flexible stand you can change the angle of the screen.

Users have no complaints about the amount of memory, because a 2 TB SSD drive and 32 GB RAM are installed. Not all buyers like the location of the ports on the rear panel.

Main characteristics

How to choose a computer for graphic design

To ensure that the purchased model does not disappoint you when working with graphics, pay attention to the characteristics of the device.

CPU

It is preferable for a graphic designer to have a PC with a six or more core processor. Choose models of the latest generations, because in this case any program will satisfy you.

Video card

The latest NVIDIA models with CUDA cores effectively speed up the process of working with 3D graphics, which is why designers, as well as gamers, prefer this manufacturer. In addition, the larger the video card memory and the higher the GPU frequency, the faster task processing occurs.

RAM capacity

To get the fastest response time and the ability to work in multiple applications simultaneously, take devices with at least 16 GB of RAM.

Cooling system

Working with graphics is an extremely energy-intensive process, so the device may overheat in the process. Pay attention to the numbers indicated by the manufacturer: it’s good if the PC does not allow overheating above 75 ° C during a stress test. A high-quality cooling system will allow all parts of the device to last longer.

Expert review of computers for graphic design

Grigory Tsyganov , a specialist at an electronics repair service center, shares tips on choosing computers for graphic design :

“You shouldn’t chase an expensive discrete video card, because it is far from the main thing when working with graphics. In my opinion, it is much better to purchase a configuration with the latest generation processor and more memory. Then any program, even the most demanding one regarding system parameters, will “fly”. In addition, I note that those who work with 2D graphics don’t have to spend much money – almost any office PC will run the programs a designer needs. It’s more difficult for those who have mastered 3D rendering and other expensive tasks. In this case, the iron will have to be given due attention.”

Popular questions and answers

Service center specialist Grigory Tsyganov answered popular questions from readers about computers suitable for graphic designers .