10 Best PC Set Ups in 2026

Building a desktop computer from scratch is a satisfying project, but not everyone has the time or inclination to pick individual parts. The easier route is a complete PC set up: a tower, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and sometimes speakers and a headset, all in one box. The problem is that the market is flooded with bundles that look good in photos but cut corners on the things that matter: a weak processor, slow storage, or a monitor with poor color and resolution. We've sorted through dozens of packages to find the 10 best PC set ups in 2026 that actually deliver a balanced experience, whether you're gaming, working from home, or just need a reliable family computer. The picks below range from powerful gaming-focused towers with dedicated graphics to compact office machines that slip onto a desk and bundles that include dual monitors for multitasking. Each one has a clear purpose and a few honest trade-offs.

TL;DR: The STGAubron Gaming PC is the best choice for gamers on a budget, with an RX 580 that runs modern titles at 1080p. The Dell Gaming OptiPlex is the best entry-level gaming and productivity combo with a GT 1030 and a 24-inch monitor. The YAWYORE Gaming PC delivers excellent CPU performance and integrated graphics that handle esports and light gaming. For a pure office workhorse, the Dell Optiplex Dual Monitor Bundle is hard to beat.

#	Product	Processor	RAM & Storage	Graphics	Best for
1	STGAubron Gaming PC	Intel Core i7 (up to 3.9GHz)	16GB, 512GB SSD	Radeon RX 580 8GB	Budget 1080p gaming
2	Dell Gaming OptiPlex	Intel Core i7 3.4GHz	16GB, 512GB SSD	GeForce GT 1030 2GB	Entry-level gaming + productivity
3	YAWYORE Gaming PC	AMD Ryzen 5 5600GT (up to 4.6GHz)	16GB, 1TB NVMe	AMD Radeon Vega (integrated)	1080p gaming without a discrete GPU
4	Dell Optiplex Dual Monitor Bundle	Intel Core i5-8500 (3.0GHz, 6 cores)	16GB, 1TB SSD	Integrated Intel UHD 630	Multimonitor office work
5	Dell OptiPlex Desktop RGB PC (i7)	Intel Core i7 3.4GHz	16GB, 512GB SSD	Integrated graphics	Everyday productivity + light multitasking
6	Dell Optiplex SFF (i5, 16GB)	Intel Core i5 (up to 3.6GHz)	16GB, 512GB SSD	Integrated graphics	Small desk spaces, basic work
7	Dell OptiPlex 5040 SFF Bundle	Intel Core i5-6600 (3.3GHz)	8GB, 256GB SSD	Integrated graphics	Budget office setup, tight desk
8	Dell Optiplex 9020 Bundle	Intel Core i5 (up to 3.4GHz)	8GB, 500GB HDD	Integrated graphics	Ultra-budget home computing
9	Dell OptiPlex 2TB Storage Bundle	Intel Core i5 3.2GHz (3rd Gen)	16GB, 2TB HDD	Integrated graphics	Large local storage on a budget
10	Dell 7010 Compatible Bundle	Intel Core i5 3.2GHz	8GB, 500GB HDD	Integrated graphics	Absolute lowest-cost setup

How we picked

• Processor generation and core count: The CPU is the heart of any PC setup. We favor newer generations with at least four cores for smooth multitasking, and we note when a machine uses an older chip that may struggle with modern apps.
• RAM and storage balance: A system with 16GB of RAM and an SSD handles everyday tasks and gaming much better than one with 8GB and a mechanical hard drive. We looked for bundles that avoid the bottleneck of a slow hard drive as the primary storage.
• Graphics capability: Dedicated graphics (GT 1030 or RX 580) make a setup suitable for gaming and creative work, while integrated graphics are fine for office work, browsing, and streaming. We matched the GPU to the intended use.
• Monitor quality and size: A 1080p monitor with at least 22 inches is the baseline for comfortable use. We checked for modern features like HDMI, thin bezels, and full HD resolution, and we penalized bundles that pair a decent tower with a small or low-resolution screen.
• Included peripherals: A keyboard, mouse, headset, or speakers can save you money, but we noted when these feel like afterthoughts (hollow plastic, no backlighting) versus genuinely usable gear.
• Form factor and expandability: Small form factor (SFF) systems save desk space but limit future upgrades. Full-size towers allow adding a graphics card or extra drives later. We considered whether the case matches your desk and upgrade plans.

1. STGAubron Gaming PC: Best Budget Gaming Rig

Pros

• Radeon RX 580 8GB handles modern games at 1080p with solid frame rates
• Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 are genuinely fast and up to date
• Four RGB case fans and RGB keyboard/mouse included for the full gaming look
• Intel Core i7 (4th Gen) is adequate for gaming when paired with the GPU

Cons

• The CPU is a older Haswell-generation chip, which limits performance in CPU-heavy titles
• Only a 512GB SSD, so you'll need to manage storage for a game library
• The included peripherals are budget-level and may feel cheap

Best for: Gamers who want to play Fortnite, Apex Legends, CSGO, and similar titles at 1080p without building a PC.

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The STGAubron is the only setup on this list with an AMD RX 580 8GB graphics card, which puts it in a different class from the GT 1030 bundles. In practice, that means you can run modern games at medium to high settings and get consistent 60-plus frames per second. The CPU is a fourth-generation Core i7, which is a bit old but still capable if you are not pushing 100+ FPS in the most demanding sims. The case has a tempered glass side panel and four RGB fans that light up the room. The included keyboard and mouse are basic, but they work. The SSD is fast, but 512GB fills up quickly with a few big installs. You can add a second internal drive if you open the case. For the money, this is the best PC set up for a gamer who does not want to build.

2. Dell Gaming OptiPlex: Best Entry-Level Gaming and Productivity Combo

Pros

• Dedicated GeForce GT 1030 2GB handles esports titles and older games well
• 24-inch 1080p monitor is a good size for both gaming and office work
• 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD make for snappy everyday performance
• RGB front panel with remote control for lighting effects

Cons

• The GT 1030 is entry-level; forget 4K or high settings in modern AAA games
• The CPU is a Haswell-era Core i7, not the latest architecture
• No headset included (unlike some other bundles)

Best for: Someone who wants a single machine for work during the day and light gaming at night.

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This bundle from STG USA pairs a refurbished Dell OptiPlex tower with a GT 1030, turning an office workhorse into a low-end gaming rig. The 24-inch monitor is a step up from the 20- and 22-inch screens found on cheaper bundles, and the 16GB of RAM means juggling a dozen browser tabs and a game is not a problem. The GT 1030 can run CSGO, Dota 2, and Overwatch at playable frame rates, but do not expect to play Cyberpunk 2077. The tower itself is a standard OptiPlex with an RGB light bar on the front that you can cycle through colors with a remote. The keyboard and mouse are wired and functional. For a family machine that also lets a teenager play Roblox or Minecraft with decent graphics, this is a solid middle ground.

3. YAWYORE Gaming PC: Best Integrated Graphics for Esports

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 5 5600GT is a modern 6-core, 12-thread CPU with strong single-core performance
• Integrated Radeon Vega graphics are fast enough for 1080p gaming in many popular titles
• 1TB NVMe SSD provides huge, fast storage
• MSI A520M motherboard and 550W 80+ Bronze PSU are reputable components

Cons

• No dedicated GPU means lower frame rates in demanding games than a budget card would offer
• The Vega graphics borrow from system RAM, so you get less usable memory for applications
• No monitor or peripherals included in this tower-only bundle

Best for: Gamers who play esports titles and are comfortable using their own monitor and peripherals.

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The YAWYORE takes a different approach: instead of an older CPU with a low-end GPU, it uses a modern Ryzen 5 with surprisingly capable integrated graphics. The Vega 7 graphics built into the 5600GT can run Fortnite, Valorant, and League of Legends at respectable frame rates at 1080p medium settings. The CPU itself is fast enough that adding a dedicated graphics card later would turn this into a serious gaming machine. The 1TB NVMe drive is a standout, giving you room for a large game library without worrying about storage. The tower has five ARGB fans that are quiet and keep temperatures in check. The catch is that you need to supply your own monitor, keyboard, and mouse, but for someone who already has those, this is the best PC set up for future-proofing.

4. Dell Optiplex Computer PC w/RGB Lighting: Best Dual-Monitor Bundle

Pros

• Two new 24-inch 1080p monitors for serious multitasking
• 1TB SSD provides fast and ample storage
• RGB speakers and a webcam are included, unusual for a bundle
• Intel Core i5-8500 is a six-core CPU from a relatively recent generation

Cons

• No dedicated graphics; integrated UHD 630 can drive two monitors but not games
• The webcam is basic 720p; not great for streaming
• The RGB keyboard and mouse are wired and feel entry-level

Best for: Home office workers, traders, or students who need two screens for research, writing, and video calls.

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This bundle from Blair Technology is built around an 8th-generation Core i5 with six cores, which is a real step up in CPU performance compared to the older quad-core chips in other OptiPlex setups. The dual 24-inch monitors are the headline: they have thin bezels, so they sit nicely side by side, and they support 1080p with HDMI input. The 1TB SSD means fast boot times and plenty of room for files. The RGB speakers are a nice bonus for video calls or background music. The tower has an RGB light bar that matches the rest of the aesthetic. The biggest limitation is the lack of a discrete GPU, but for productivity tasks this is not an issue. If you need a dual-monitor PC set up for work, this is the best all-in-one package on the list.

5. Dell OptiPlex Desktop RGB Computer PC (i7): Best All-Rounder for General Use

Pros

• Core i7 processor is snappy for multitasking and office applications
• 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD offer a balanced, responsive system
• Comes with RGB keyboard, mouse, and headset for a complete setup
• RGB front panel can be controlled with a remote

Cons

• No dedicated graphics card; integrated graphics limit gaming and creative work
• The i7 is a 4th-gen Haswell chip, so single-core performance is behind modern processors
• The headset feels lightweight and the microphone is mediocre

Best for: Everyday home computing: browsing, streaming, office work, and light photo editing.

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This bundle is similar to the Dell Gaming OptiPlex but swaps the GT 1030 for an i7 processor and integrated graphics. If you do not play games, that trade makes sense: the extra CPU horsepower helps with complex spreadsheets, coding, or running multiple virtual desktops. The 24-inch monitor is crisp and bright, and the included headset lets you take calls or play music without disturbing others. The tower itself is a standard OptiPlex with a RGB light bar, and the keyboard and mouse have colored backlighting. The system runs Windows 11 Pro cleanly. The main drawback is that you cannot upgrade to a dedicated GPU easily because the OptiPlex case may not fit a full-height card, but for non-gamers this is a well-rounded, complete PC set up.

6. Dell Optiplex Desktop Computer (SFF): Best for Small Desks

Pros

• Small form factor takes up minimal desk space
• 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD provide fast everyday performance
• 24-inch 1080p monitor is a modern size
• RGB keyboard, mouse, and headset included

Cons

• SFF case limits expansion: no room for a full-size GPU or extra drives
• CPU is a quad-core i5, fine for basic tasks but not heavy workloads
• Integrated graphics only

Best for: Anyone with a cramped desk who needs a dependable computer for email, web, and office apps.

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The SFF (small form factor) OptiPlex is a popular choice in offices for a reason: it tucks away neatly and runs cool and quiet. This bundle pairs it with a 24-inch monitor, which is larger than the 19- and 20-inch screens that often come with budget SFF packages. The 16GB of RAM means you can keep many tabs open without slowdown, and the 512GB SSD boots Windows in seconds. The included RGB peripherals are the same wired set as other bundles, but the headset is a nice addition for video meetings. The big trade-off is that you cannot upgrade to a dedicated graphics card later, so this is strictly a productivity machine. For the price, it is a clean, complete PC set up that fits anywhere.

7. Dell OptiPlex 5040 SFF Desktop Computer Bundle: Best Budget SFF

Pros

• New 23.8-inch FHD monitor with slim bezels looks modern
• Small form factor saves desk space
• Includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• Comes with keyboard and mouse

Cons

• Only 8GB of RAM, which is minimal for multitasking today
• 256GB SSD fills up quickly with large files or many programs
• Core i5-6600 is a Skylake chip from 2015; not as efficient as newer models

Best for: A very light user who needs a small, cheap computer for browsing and documents.

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This is the most affordable SFF bundle on the list, and you can see where the savings come from: 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD are enough for basic use but will feel cramped if you try to do serious multitasking or store a lot of local files. The monitor is a highlight: 23.8 inches with 1080p and a clean design. The tower itself is a Dell OptiPlex 5040, which is a capable little machine for Office 365, web browsing, and streaming. The keyboard and mouse are standard wired units. If your computing needs are truly light, this PC set up will serve you well and take up almost no space. But if you often have 20 tabs open and run heavy applications, the 8GB RAM will likely have you shopping for an upgrade soon.

8. Dell Optiplex 9020 Desktop Computer Bundle: Most Affordable Full Bundle

Pros

• Very low entry point for a complete setup with monitor and peripherals
• 8GB RAM is enough for light use
• Includes Wi-Fi and a 20-inch monitor
• Windows 11 Pro runs cleanly without bloatware

Cons

• 500GB HDD is slow; booting and loading apps takes noticeably longer than an SSD
• 20-inch monitor is small by modern standards and may feel cramped
• DDR3 RAM and an older i5 limit performance

Best for: Strictly budget buyers who need a computer for email, documents, and web browsing and nothing more.

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The OptiPlex 9020 is a workhorse from a few generations back, and this bundle pairs it with a 20-inch monitor and an RGB keyboard and mouse. The 500GB hard drive is the biggest weakness. It will take a minute or two to boot up, and launching programs is not snappy. The 20-inch screen is functional but small for side-by-side documents. That said, for the absolute lowest cost you get a PC that can handle the basics: checking email, writing reports, watching YouTube. The RGB peripherals add a touch of fun. If you can stretch to a bundle with an SSD, you will be much happier in the long run, but for a secondary computer or a child's first PC, this package gets you going.

9. Dell OptiPlex 2TB Storage Bundle: Best for Local Media and Files

Pros

• 2TB hard drive offers enormous storage for photos, music, and video files
• 16GB RAM is generous for multitasking
• 22-inch 1080p monitor with 75Hz refresh rate is a step above standard 60Hz
• RGB speakers add audio without extra purchase

Cons

• No SSD; the system runs entirely on a mechanical hard drive, which feels slow
• The CPU is a 3rd-gen Core i5; very old architecture
• The included keyboard and mouse are basic wired units

Best for: Users who store large collections of media locally and do not mind slower boot times in exchange for massive storage.

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If you need a local media server or keep thousands of photos and music files, this bundle's 2TB HDD is the main attraction. The 16GB of RAM is welcome, but the lack of an SSD means the operating system and applications load from the spinning drive, which feels sluggish compared to the SSD-based bundles on this list. The 22-inch monitor is decent at 1080p with a 75Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling feel a bit smoother. The included RGB speakers work fine for casual listening. This is not a PC you will enjoy booting up multiple times a day, but for a secondary machine that stays on and provides lots of storage, it gets the job done.

10. Dell 7010 Compatible Bundle: The Absolute Cheapest Setup

Pros

• Lowest cost of any complete bundle on this list
• Includes a 19-inch LCD monitor, keyboard, mouse, and a DVD drive
• Windows 11 Pro installed fresh
• Wi-Fi included

Cons

• 8GB RAM and a 500GB HDD mean limited performance and slow operation
• The 19-inch screen is small and likely uses TN panel technology with poor viewing angles
• The CPU is a 3rd-gen Core i5; among the oldest processors here
• No SSD or dedicated graphics

Best for: Someone who needs a computer immediately and has the most minimal budget possible.

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This bundle is the entry-level champion: a Dell OptiPlex 7010 (or compatible equivalent) with a 19-inch monitor, DVD drive, and the essentials. It will run Windows 11 Pro and basic applications like Word and Chrome, but don't expect speed. The 500GB HDD and 8GB RAM are the bare minimum for today's software. The 19-inch LCD has a low resolution by modern standards, so text can look soft. Still, for a child's homework computer or a dedicated machine for printing and scanning, this is a functional, complete PC set up at the lowest possible entry point. If you can save a little more, consider the 9020 bundle with its larger monitor, but this one works in a pinch.

Buyer's guide: how to choose a PC set up

A pre-built PC setup saves the hassle of picking individual components, but not all bundles are created equal. The key is to match the system's strengths to what you actually do with a computer. Here are the factors that matter most.

Processor generation and architecture

The CPU model number tells only half the story. An Intel Core i5 from 2013 (like the i5-3470) performs very differently from an i5 from 2018 (like the i5-8500). Newer chips have higher IPC (instructions per clock) and better power efficiency. For general productivity, a quad-core processor from the last few years is enough. For gaming, you want at least six cores, and for heavy multitasking, a newer CPU helps the system feel responsive for years. In this roundup, the Ryzen 5 5600GT in the YAWYORE is the most modern processor, while the 3rd-gen Core i5 in the 2TB bundle and the 7010 bundle are the oldest. The sweet spot is an 8th-generation Intel or a Ryzen 5 series.

Solid-state drive versus hard drive

This is the single biggest factor in how fast a computer feels. An SSD loads Windows in 10 to 15 seconds, launches apps instantly, and makes the whole system snappy. A mechanical HDD takes 30 seconds or more to boot, and programs feel laggy. Every bundle on this list that includes an SSD will feel dramatically faster in daily use than those with HDDs. If you have to choose between more RAM and an SSD, pick the SSD. You can often add more RAM later, but the experience of a slow boot drive is frustrating every single day.

Graphics: integrated or dedicated

For office work, streaming, and web browsing, the integrated graphics built into the CPU are perfectly fine. They can drive two monitors and handle basic image editing. For gaming, video editing, or 3D modeling, you need a dedicated graphics card. The RX 580 in the STGAubron is the most powerful GPU in this list, followed by the GT 1030 in the Dell Gaming OptiPlex. The YAWYORE's integrated Vega graphics sit somewhere between those two in performance for esports titles. Be realistic about what you plan to do. If you never game, save the money and get a bundle with a faster CPU and an SSD instead of a weak dedicated GPU.

Monitor size, resolution, and panel type

A 24-inch 1080p monitor is the modern sweet spot. It gives you enough screen space for two windows side by side and looks crisp. Smaller monitors (19 or 20 inches) have less real estate, and lower resolutions make text look pixelated. If you do a lot of spreadsheet or design work, consider a bundle with a 22-inch or larger screen. Also check the panel type: IPS panels have better colors and viewing angles, while TN panels are cheaper but wash out if you look from an angle. The bundles with new monitors often use IPS-like panels, but the older bundles with refurbished screens may use TN.

Form factor and upgrade potential

Full-size towers (like the STGAubron and YAWYORE) let you add a graphics card, more drives, or even swap the power supply later. Small form factor OptiPlex machines (SFF) are compact and quiet, but they use proprietary components and have no room for a PCIe graphics card. If you might want to upgrade in the future, choose a tower. If you just want something that works out of the box and you never open the case, SFF is fine.

Included peripherals and extras

Most bundles include a keyboard and mouse. Some add a headset, speakers, or even a webcam. The quality of these extras varies widely. The RGB keyboards and mice in these bundles have colored backlighting but are usually membrane switches and basic optical sensors. They work fine for everyday use. The headsets are often lightweight and adequate for calls but not for immersive gaming. The speakers are small. Consider these as nice starters, but plan to upgrade if you care about feel or sound quality.

Frequently asked questions

Can I upgrade the graphics card in an OptiPlex SFF bundle?

No, small form factor OptiPlex desktops use low-profile slots and have a slim chassis that cannot fit a full-height GPU. Some SFF models support low-profile half-height cards, but the power supply is usually too weak to drive a gaming card. If you want to upgrade graphics, choose a full-size tower bundle like the STGAubron.

Which PC set up is best for gaming?

The STGAubron with the RX 580 8GB is the best for 1080p gaming. The Dell Gaming OptiPlex with the GT 1030 handles older games and esports well. The YAWYORE is a good choice if you plan to add a dedicated graphics card later.

Are these computers good for video editing?

They are passable for light 1080p editing, especially the STGAubron and YAWYORE because of their more capable graphics. For serious 4K editing, you would want a newer multi-core processor and a faster GPU than any bundle here offers.

How long will a renewed OptiPlex last?

A renewed business OptiPlex from the 2013 to 2015 era can still run Windows 11 and office software for another two to three years before feeling dated. The STGAubron and YAWYORE use more modern parts and should last at least five years with some updates.

Do these bundles come with Wi-Fi?

Most of them do, but always check the product description. The STGAubron has Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, which are excellent. Some older OptiPlex bundles include a USB Wi-Fi adapter rather than built-in Wi-Fi.

Can I use one of these setups for programming?

Yes, any bundle with 16GB of RAM and an SSD is fine for web development, scripting, or running lightweight IDEs. For compiling large projects or running virtual machines, newer CPUs with more cores (like the YAWYORE or the dual-monitor bundle) are preferable.

What is Windows 11 Pro, and do I need it?

Windows 11 Pro includes features like BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, and Group Policy management. Home users do not need these, but Pro is nice to have for business use. All the bundles here run Windows 11 Pro.

Final verdict

The best PC set up for most people depends on what they actually do at their computer. For gamers on a tight budget, the STGAubron Gaming PC delivers the most gaming performance for the money, thanks to its RX 580 and reasonable CPU. For a balanced system that works for both productivity and light gaming, the Dell Gaming OptiPlex is a solid pick with a dedicated GPU and a large monitor. For users who need raw CPU power and plan to add their own peripherals, the YAWYORE with its modern Ryzen 5 is the most future-proof tower. If your work revolves around two screens, the Dell Optiplex Dual Monitor Bundle offers the best multitasking setup out of the box. And if your budget is extremely tight, the Dell Optiplex 9020 gets you a full kit for minimal cost, though you will feel the hard drive's slowness every day. Read through the individual reviews above, match the strengths to your use case, and pick the best PC set up that leaves room for what you need.

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