Best Desktops for College Students

The summer days are long, but the new school year is just around the corner. That means shopping for new school gear. And for new or returning students a computer is as essential as your textbooks and school ID.
Before you do anything else, however, you should first check with your college or university for specific system requirements. Some schools require their students to have a Windows-based desktop, to avoid software incompatibility issues as much as possible. Many schools will have on-site repair centers that only service university-bought desktops, where the turn-around time is much quicker than if you sent it back to the desktop manufacturer. And keep in mind that most schools offer price breaks for particular manufactures and include extensive software bundles, which can shave off a good amount from your desktop purchase.  

ASUS Essentio CM6870

$999 direct
In all but the most demanding of game settings, the Asus Essentio CM6870 is a great entry-level gaming desktop that offers plenty of bang for the buck, with an abundance of features, a sturdy CPU/GPU combination, and lots of room for expansion. Read the full review ››

---

ASUS ET2701 ET2701INKI

$1,399 direct
If you can forgive the Asus ET2701INKI a few quirks in its audio setup, you'll find an all-in-one desktop that can compete with systems costing $600 more. Read the full review ››

---

Gateway DX4870-UR11P

$849 list
Thanks to its powerful third-generation Core i7 processor, the Gateway DX4870-UR11P leads the mainstream consumer desktop pack by a wide margin and nips at the heels of beefier entry-level desktops. Read the full review ››

---

HP Omni 27

$1,144.99 direct
The HP Omni 27 is an attractive all-in-one desktop with a huge 27-inch screen. It's perfect for watching both online and Blu-ray movies, and has the power to create those movies, if you have cinematic hobbies. Read the full review ››

---

Polywell Poly i1000A-3770T

$899 direct
By packing a robust CPU and GPU and remedying its earlier systems' dual-drive issues, Polywell delivers agile performance with the small-form-factor Poly i1000A-3770T. Read the full review ››

---

Velocity Micro Campus Edition (2012)

$999 direct
Whether it's for home or school, the Velocity Micro Vector Campus Edition (2012) is a fine general-purpose desktop at an attractive price. Read the full review ››