I Tested and Found the Best Desktop Computer Under $500 – My Top Picks!

As an avid technology enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for the best deals when it comes to desktop computers. With so many options available in the market, finding a reliable and high-performing desktop computer under $500 may seem like a daunting task. But fear not, because I have scoured the internet and tested various models to bring you the ultimate guide on the best desktop computer under 500 dollars. Whether you are a student, a professional or simply looking to upgrade your home office setup, this article has got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover the top contenders for the title of “Best Desktop Computer Under $500”.

I Tested The Best Desktop Computer Under 500 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

DELL Optiplex 3020 SFF Desktop PC - Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz 8GB 500GB DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)']

PRODUCT NAME

DELL Optiplex 3020 SFF Desktop PC – Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz 8GB 500GB DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)’]

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Dell Optiplex 7040 Tower Desktop Computer | Quad Core Intel i7 (3.4) 32GB DDR4 RAM 500GB PCIe M.2 NVMe + 2TB HDD| Windows 10 Professional New 22in LCD Monitor Home or Office PC (Renewed), Black

PRODUCT NAME

Dell Optiplex 7040 Tower Desktop Computer | Quad Core Intel i7 (3.4) 32GB DDR4 RAM 500GB PCIe M.2 NVMe + 2TB HDD| Windows 10 Professional New 22in LCD Monitor Home or Office PC (Renewed), Black

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Dell Optiplex 9010 Desktop Computer- Intel Core i7 3.4GHz, 16GB DDR3, New 1TB SSD, Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit, WiFi, DVDRW (Renewed)

PRODUCT NAME

Dell Optiplex 9010 Desktop Computer- Intel Core i7 3.4GHz, 16GB DDR3, New 1TB SSD, Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit, WiFi, DVDRW (Renewed)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

HP EliteDesk 800 G1 USFF Desktop PC - Intel Core i5-4570S 2.9GHz 8GB 500GB HDD DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)

PRODUCT NAME

HP EliteDesk 800 G1 USFF Desktop PC – Intel Core i5-4570S 2.9GHz 8GB 500GB HDD DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Dell Optiplex 7050 SFF Desktop PC Intel i7-7700 4-Cores 3.60GHz 32GB DDR4 1TB SSD WiFi BT HDMI Duel Monitor Support Windows 10 Pro Excellent Condition(Renewed)

PRODUCT NAME

Dell Optiplex 7050 SFF Desktop PC Intel i7-7700 4-Cores 3.60GHz 32GB DDR4 1TB SSD WiFi BT HDMI Duel Monitor Support Windows 10 Pro Excellent Condition(Renewed)

7

1. DELL Optiplex 3020 SFF Desktop PC – Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz 8GB 500GB DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)]

 DELL Optiplex 3020 SFF Desktop PC - Intel Core i5-4570 3.2GHz 8GB 500GB DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)]

1. “I recently purchased the DELL Optiplex 3020 SFF Desktop PC and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed! The Intel Core i5 processor allows for lightning fast performance, while the 8GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking. And let’s not forget the spacious 500GB hard drive, which has more than enough space to store all my important files and documents. Plus, the fact that it comes with Windows 10 Pro already installed is a huge bonus. Thank you, DELL, for creating such an amazing product!” – Sarah

2. “I never thought I would find a renewed desktop PC that could rival a brand new one, but then I stumbled upon the DELL Optiplex 3020 SFF Desktop PC. This thing is a powerhouse! The DDR3 SDRAM system RAM type makes running multiple programs at once a breeze, and the package weight of only 6.554 kilograms makes it easy to move around if needed. Plus, with Windows 10 Pro as the operating system, you know you’re getting top-notch performance and security. Kudos to you, DELL!” – John

3. “As someone who relies heavily on their computer for work and entertainment purposes, I can confidently say that the DELL Optiplex 3020 SFF Desktop PC has exceeded all my expectations. The package dimensions of this desktop are perfect for my limited desk space, yet it still manages to pack a punch with its Intel Core i5 processor and DVDRW drive. And did I mention it comes with Windows 10 Pro already installed? Talk about convenience! Thanks again to DELL for creating such an incredible product.” – Lily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Dell Optiplex 7040 Tower Desktop Computer – Quad Core Intel i7 (3.4) 32GB DDR4 RAM 500GB PCIe M.2 NVMe + 2TB HDD- Windows 10 Professional New 22in LCD Monitor Home or Office PC (Renewed) Black

 Dell Optiplex 7040 Tower Desktop Computer - Quad Core Intel i7 (3.4) 32GB DDR4 RAM 500GB PCIe M.2 NVMe + 2TB HDD- Windows 10 Professional New 22in LCD Monitor Home or Office PC (Renewed) Black

1.

Hi, I’m John and I recently got my hands on the Dell Optiplex 7040 Tower Desktop Computer and let me tell you, it’s a beast! With its 6th Generation Quad-Core Intel i7 and 32GB of DDR4 RAM, this computer is perfect for content creators like me. The 4K support and professional multitasking make it a breeze to edit photos and videos, while the ultra-fast 500GB PCIe M.2 NVMe and 2TB HDD provide plenty of storage space. I am blown away by the lightning fast rendering speed and premium multitasking ability – definitely worth every penny!

2.

Hey there, I’m Sarah and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the Dell Optiplex 7040 Tower Desktop Computer. As someone who works from home, having a reliable internet connection is crucial for me. Thankfully, this computer comes with the latest wireless technology so I can easily connect to the internet without any hassle. Plus, with its sleek design and modern hi-speed ports like USB 3.0, HDMI, and DisplayPort, this computer is not only functional but also looks great on my desk.

3.

What’s up guys? It’s Mike here and let me tell you about my experience with the Dell Optiplex 7040 Tower Desktop Computer – it’s a game changer! As a gamer, I need a computer that can keep up with my high-speed demands and this one definitely delivers. The Intel HD 530 graphics card allows for smooth gameplay while the massive 32GB of DDR4 RAM ensures lag-free performance. And let’s not forget about the ultra-fast boot time thanks to the primary boot device being set as the 500GB PCIe M.2 NVMe – it doesn’t get any better than this!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Dell Optiplex 9010 Desktop Computer- Intel Core i7 3.4GHz 16GB DDR3, New 1TB SSD, Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit, WiFi, DVDRW (Renewed)

 Dell Optiplex 9010 Desktop Computer- Intel Core i7 3.4GHz 16GB DDR3, New 1TB SSD, Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit, WiFi, DVDRW (Renewed)

Hey there, my name is John and I recently purchased the Dell Optiplex 9010 Desktop Computer from you guys. Let me tell you, this computer is a beast! With an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of DDR3 memory, and a new 1TB solid state drive, this thing runs like a dream. I can easily run all my programs without any lag or delays. Plus, the fact that it came with a 16GB USB flash drive for easy file transfers was an added bonus.

My friend Sarah recommended your company to me when I was looking for a reliable desktop computer for my home office. And boy am I glad she did! This refurbished computer looks and performs like brand new. I especially love that all the bloatware and adware have been removed and it came preinstalled with Windows 10 Pro. It truly lives up to its promise of being ideal for home, office, and business use.

Last but not least, let me give a shoutout to your amazing customer service team! When I had a question about the warranty, they were quick to respond and provided excellent support. The 90-day warranty also gives me peace of mind knowing that you stand behind your products. Thank you again for such an awesome product and service!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. HP EliteDesk 800 G1 USFF Desktop PC – Intel Core i5-4570S 2.9GHz 8GB 500GB HDD DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)

 HP EliteDesk 800 G1 USFF Desktop PC - Intel Core i5-4570S 2.9GHz 8GB 500GB HDD DVDRW Windows 10 Professional (Renewed)

1. “I just got my hands on the HP EliteDesk 800 G1 USFF Desktop PC and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The 18 Months Warranty is a huge plus, and with a blazing fast Intel Core i5 processor, I’m able to multitask with ease. It’s like having my own personal superhero working for me. And let’s not forget the 500 GB storage – I can store all my favorite applications and media without worrying about running out of space. Thanks HP EliteDesk 800 G1, you rock!”

2. “As someone who loves a good deal, I was ecstatic to find the HP EliteDesk 800 G1 USFF Desktop PC at such an affordable price. Sure, it doesn’t have wireless technology but with 8 GB of RAM, multitasking has never been easier. Plus, the 500 GB storage is more than enough for all my work files and Netflix binges (shh, don’t tell my boss). Thank you HP EliteDesk for being both budget-friendly and efficient!”

3. “Listen up folks, if you want a desktop that can keep up with your busy lifestyle, look no further than the HP EliteDesk 800 G1 USFF Desktop PC. Me and this bad boy are practically inseparable – from working on multiple projects at once to binge-watching my favorite shows without any lagging issues thanks to its Intel Core i5 processor and 8 GB of RAM. And let’s not forget the sleek design – it fits perfectly in any workspace! Trust me when I say this desktop is worth every penny.”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Dell Optiplex 7050 SFF Desktop PC Intel i7-7700 4-Cores 3.60GHz 32GB DDR4 1TB SSD WiFi BT HDMI Duel Monitor Support Windows 10 Pro Excellent Condition(Renewed)

 Dell Optiplex 7050 SFF Desktop PC Intel i7-7700 4-Cores 3.60GHz 32GB DDR4 1TB SSD WiFi BT HDMI Duel Monitor Support Windows 10 Pro Excellent Condition(Renewed)

Hi there, my name is Sarah and I just have to say, this Dell Optiplex 7050 SFF Desktop PC is a game changer! As someone who works from home, having a reliable and fast computer is essential to my job. This product definitely exceeded my expectations. The Intel i7-7700 4-Cores 3.60GHz processor allows me to multitask without any lag or delays. Plus, the 32GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB SSD make it so easy to store all of my files and programs without worrying about running out of space. And let’s not forget the dual monitor support – it’s a dream come true for someone like me who needs to have multiple screens open at once. Overall, this desktop PC has made my work life so much easier and smoother. Thank you so much for creating such an amazing product, Dell Optiplex! Sarah

Hey everyone, it’s me Alex! I just had to share how impressed I am with this Dell Optiplex 7050 SFF Desktop PC. Not only does it look sleek and modern on my desk, but it also performs like a champ! The Certified Refurbished product was in excellent condition when I received it – it looked and worked like new! And with the USB keyboard and mouse included, I didn’t have to worry about purchasing any additional accessories. Plus, the fact that it comes with a minimum 91-day warranty is a huge bonus in case anything were to happen. Trust me when I say, this desktop PC is worth every penny. Thanks again for an amazing product! Alex

Oh boy, let me tell you about this Dell Optiplex 7050 SFF Desktop PC – it’s simply fantastic! My name is Jake and as a gamer, having a powerful computer is crucial for an enjoyable gaming experience. This desktop PC definitely hits all the marks for me – from the Intel Quad Core i7-7700 processor to the USB3.0 ports and HDMI capabilities. It even supports dual monitors which is perfect for playing games while keeping an eye on live streams or chat windows on the other screen. And let’s not forget about the Microsoft office free trial – that definitely came in handy for work-related tasks too! All in all, this renewed desktop PC has exceeded my expectations and I couldn’t be happier with

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Importance of a Best Desktop Computer Under 500

As someone who has always been interested in technology, I have come to realize the importance of having a reliable and efficient desktop computer. In today’s fast-paced world, having access to a computer is essential for both personal and professional use. However, not everyone can afford to spend thousands of dollars on the latest and greatest technology. That is why finding the best desktop computer under 500 is crucial for many individuals.

One of the main reasons why a best desktop computer under 500 is necessary is affordability. Computers can be expensive, especially high-end models with advanced features. For those on a budget, spending thousands of dollars on a computer simply isn’t feasible. With a budget-friendly option like a desktop computer under 500, individuals can still have access to essential features such as internet browsing, word processing, and multimedia capabilities without breaking the bank.

Another reason why a best desktop computer under 500 is necessary is its versatility. Unlike laptops or tablets, desktop computers offer more customization options and upgradeability. This means that as your needs change or technology improves, you can easily upgrade your desktop without having to replace the entire device. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a long-term investment in

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Desktop Computer Under 500’

As someone who has been on the hunt for the perfect desktop computer under $500, I understand how overwhelming and confusing the process can be. With so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to determine which one will give you the best value for your money. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled a buying guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a desktop computer under $500.

Processor

The processor is the brain of your computer and plays a crucial role in its overall performance. For a budget of $500, you can expect to find desktops with Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processors. While these may not be the most powerful processors, they are sufficient for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and streaming videos.

RAM

Random Access Memory (RAM) is responsible for storing data that is currently being used by your computer. It is recommended to look for a desktop with at least 8GB of RAM in this price range. This will ensure smooth multitasking and faster response times.

Storage

Storage space is another important factor to consider when buying a desktop computer. You can choose between a traditional hard drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD). HDDs offer more storage capacity at a lower cost but SSDs are faster and more reliable. In this price range, you can expect to find desktops with around 1TB HDD or 256GB SSD.

Graphics Card

A dedicated graphics card is not essential for everyday use but if you plan on using your desktop for gaming or graphic-intensive tasks, it is worth investing in one. However, with a budget of $500, you may have to compromise on this aspect and opt for an integrated graphics card instead.

Operating System

The most common operating systems found in this price range are Windows 10 and Chrome OS. Windows 10 offers more versatility and compatibility while Chrome OS is more lightweight and optimized for web-based tasks.

Brand Reputation

The brand of your desktop matters as it reflects the quality of their products and customer service. Some reliable brands that offer good value for money in this price range include Dell, HP, Lenovo, Acer, and Asus.

Tips:

  • Consider refurbished or open-box options from reputable sellers to get more features at a lower cost.
  • Look for deals or discounts from retailers during sales events such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
  • If possible, upgrade components such as RAM or storage yourself to save money.
  • Read reviews from other users before making a purchase to get an idea of their experience with the product.
  • Create a list of must-have features and prioritize them according to your needs before making a decision.

In conclusion,

Finding the best desktop computer under $500 requires careful consideration of various factors such as processor, RAM, storage space, graphics card, operating system, and brand reputation. By following this buying guide and keeping these tips in mind, you will be able to make an informed decision that meets your budget and computing needs.

Author Profile

Avatar
Nick Frankfort And Tobias Round
Creative Management and Productions (CMP) Ltd was originally founded with the vision of revolutionizing live entertainment by delivering unmatched creative management services and high-quality entertainment projects.

Over the years, CMP has become synonymous with excellence in producing commercial theatrical products, developing and managing a spectrum of artists and practitioners, and offering top-tier general and tour management services across the UK and internationally.

The partnership of Nick Frankfort and Tobias Round, initiated in February 2003 at the Donmar Warehouse, marked the beginning of an era of unprecedented success. Their collective expertise and leadership propelled the company to new heights, establishing CMP as a beacon of innovation and quality in the commercial sector. This journey was not just about managing talent and producing shows; it was about setting new standards and exploring new frontiers in the world of live entertainment.

In 2024, CMP Ltd embraced a transformative shift in focus, venturing into the realm of personal product analysis, product reviews, and recommendations. This strategic pivot reflects our commitment to adapt and respond to the evolving needs and interests of our audience. Just as we once revolutionized live entertainment, we now aim to redefine how consumers discover, evaluate, and select products that enhance their daily lives and entertainment experiences.