Finding the right gaming or business computer

Gaming desktops come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all have a few things in common. These high-powered computers are made to satisfy the needs of hardcore 3D gamers, but they're also suitable for video editing, number crunching or intensive multimedia applications. Discrete graphics, which have dedicated memory so you don't have to borrow from the main RAM, ensure fast performance and smooth on-screen action. Large hard drives are also common, with some recent desktops boasting 1.5 TB of storage. Given their raw power, gaming desktops are more expensive than traditional desktops, and they are often easier to upgrade down the road.

Although you used to have to pay thousands for a good gaming desktop, you can find capable computers at much lower prices these days. In fact, there are a number of desktops under $2,000 -- and some even under $1,500 -- that provide ample performance for gaming and exemplary performance for other tasks. Keep in mind that your desktop computer system should meet certain minimum requirements. Here's what experts recommend for a gaming computer or a desktop computer for multimedia or multitasking:

  • Get a quad-core processor. Though dual-core and lesser CPUs are cheaper, a quad-core processor's ability to handle more tasks simultaneously is a must for serious gaming. These processors also make multitasking -- especially multimedia multitasking, such as recording a TV show in the background while surfing the web -- a much more pleasant experience.
  • For gaming computers, get the fastest discrete graphics card or cards you can afford. Some systems allow you to install two or more graphics cards for faster performance. Integrated graphics is a nonstarter for all but the most casual of gaming.
  • Get at least 4 GB of RAM. Games and multitasking are significantly smoother with more RAM. Get as much as you can afford. Keep in mind that you can usually add more RAM later, but make sure the computer system you buy has empty slots for upgrades; otherwise you'll need to throw away what originally came with the computer and start from scratch.
  • Get a fast hard drive. In gaming computers, 7,200 rpm drives have become standard. Some systems include an additional solid-state hard drive, which can speed boot up and reduce access times.
  • Check out the warranty and support policies. Some manufacturers have quietly downgraded warranties to provide a market for retail warranties and maximize their profits with upgrades. Limited warranties range from one to three years. Upgrades are optional. Gamers interested in overclocked processors should make sure that option is covered.
  • Budget for a monitor, sound card and speakers if you need them. These are included in all-in-one desktops but not in the base price of many high-end desktop computers. All motherboards now have integrated sound, which is fine for everyday use. For bangs and booms in games and movies, you may want a gaming sound card. However, gaming sound cards are terrible for music. For that, you'll need a specialty sound card. Some have midi interfaces.
  • Determine your upgrade options. Many gamers like to upgrade their desktops with additional hard drives, dual graphic cards or more memory. Make sure the computer has empty bays for these components and check out the power supply. In most cases, you'll need at least a 500-watt power supply to support dual graphic cards.

Laptop computers offer more power than ever, and capabilities that can approach those of desktop computers. Check our reports on laptops if you're interested in a portable system. Gaming laptops are also available, though they are neither lightweight nor inexpensive.

Should you worry about Windows 8?

Microsoft's Windows 8 operating system is expected to hit the streets sometime in 2012. If you're looking for a gaming desktop, there's no reason to worry if it will be compatible with the new operating system. Microsoft promises that any PC that can run Windows 7 can run Windows 8, and gaming desktops won't have any problem with the upgrade -- even Apple computers that normally run OS X. You can get more information on the next generation of Windows from this page at Microsoft.

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