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The 10 best computers to buy in the UK

Picture of a computer

With such a huge range of devices to choose from, finding the best computer for your needs can feel like a daunting prospect, especially for those unsure of what to look for. Given the complexity of computers, struggling to understand what constitutes a worthwhile investment is commonplace, so a little research can be a massive help.

Looking to buy the best computer you can but are unsure of where to start? Check out this guide for everything you need to know:

What are computers?

A computer is an electronic device that sends, receives, processes, and stores data to perform a variety of functions. Most people own or at have used a computer for web browsing, emailing, playing video games, listening to music, watching videos or typing documents.

Why should you buy a good computer?

Owning a computer is almost a necessity in our modern age. They make it possible for instant communication and interaction with people from all over the world, not to mention providing the opportunity to shop, play games, write documents and spreadsheets, send email, and browse the web – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Whether it’s for work, school, or for personal entertainment (or all three) owning the best computer for your needs will make life much easier.

How to choose the right computer in 2024?

Another picture of a computer

With such a staggering choice of devices, hardware and software, finding the best computer for your needs certainly takes a lot of thought and consideration. Knowing what you need and how you intend to use it is one of the best places to start, so here are some things to consider:

  • Operating system: This is one of the most important aspects of a computer, as it will determine how it looks and operates, not to mention what type of software and hardware can be used. Windows, is the most common OS and probably the best for everyday computers, while Apple’s OS X operating system is often viewed as the best choice for professionals with specific requirements (such as design software).
  • Form: Most common computers have the standard desktop form of a big box that sits beneath a desk, but there are plenty of other options out there that may suit you better. Towers are the most widespread and affordable choice, and come in a selection of shapes and sizes to help save space if needed. All-in-one combine the monitor, computer, and speakers into a single piece of hardware, which are great for saving space. The iMac from Apple is an example of a popular all-in-one system.
  • Processor: The very brain of a computer, you will want a processor that can meet your needs, although not all computers require the best processor out there (which is rather expensive). For instance, a good computer with a dual processer should be fine for casual everyday use, while a quadcore processor is better suited for more demanding use such as using editing programs.
  • Memory: Known as RAM, the memory of a computer is important for a smooth performance when using multiple programs at once. The more RAM, the more powerful a computer and the more functions it can perform, which is especially important for using demanding software. Anywhere above 6GB will be good for anything beyond web browsing, with 8GB and 16GB best for playing games and using more powerful software.
  • Storage: This determines how much data a computer can hold, including software, apps, music, video etc. A hard disk drive (HDD)is the more affordable choice and can come with large capacity, while solid state drives (SSD) perform at a much faster rate, although they come with similar capacities. Anything above 500GB is recommended, but those sharing a computer between several users may benefit from having more storage.
  • Graphics card: Most computers will feature an integrated graphics card, which is fine for web browsing and watching videos, but a dedicated graphics card will be needed for anyone looking to play games or editing photos and videos.

What is the best kind of computer in the UK?

There are many different types of computers available today, some of which are may be best suited to your home or office, while others are designed for certain types of users.

  • Desktop: The standard computer setup, features a tower that contains all the hardware, while components like the monitor and speakers are also connected. Available in many sizes, they are the best computer for most general users, although they can be made into specialist devices with the appropriate hardware and software.
  • Laptop: A portable computer, laptops are compact and lightweight, making them fantastic computers for taking to college, school, work etc. Can lack the power of a desktop due to limited space for hardware, although there are more powerful models out there for specialist use.
  • Tablets: Another portable device, but one that is much smaller than a laptop. Tablets offer a great computer for anyone that isn’t too familiar with technology, offering a user-friendly experience and affordable price. However, they tend to lack in certain functions, carrying nowhere near the same power of hardware as a desktop, and to a lesser extent a laptop.

Top 10 list of computers in the UK (2024)

The bestseller list compares brands and their computers. Which computer is the best?
Best choice TOP 1
Image of XUM in for quality XUMGPC048 computer
XUM Titan Gaming PC: Intel Core i7-3770, GTX 1050Ti 4GB, 16GB RAM,…
  • WARRANTY: XUM 1 Year Parts & Labour, Life-Time Technical Support / Included components:…
  • Connectivity: 3x USB 3.1, 5x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI, 1x VGA, 1x DVI(video ports is not…
  • Super Fast 512GB NVME M.2 / 1TB Harddrive 7200RPM / XUM 16GB DDR3 RAM
BUY NOW
Offer TOP 2
Image of Amazon Renewed  computer
OptiPlex 7020 SFF Desktop PC Computer i7 4770 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Windows…
BUY NOW
TOP 3
Image of jumper 5305U computer
jumper Laptop, 16 inch Full HD Display, 1920x1200 Pixel IPS screen,…
  • Multi-functional Ports: The laptop comes with Type-C port x 1, 3.5mm headphone jack…
  • Ultra-thin and Portable: The ultra-thin laptop weighs only 3.6 lbs, so you can take…
  • Extra Expandable Storage: The S7-Max laptop comes with 4GB of high-speed RAM, 128GB…
BUY NOW
TOP 4
Image of DreamQuest DreamQuest Office computer
DreamQuest Mini Desktop PC,Desktop Computer Windows 11 12th Gen Intel…
  • Satisfy All Your Visual Imaginations This Mirco Home-Business Pc is Equipped with…
  • Enhance Your WorkspaceThis Mini Computer Has Multiple Connectivity Options, Including…
  • Excellent UHD 4K Triple-Screen DisplayMini Desktop Computer is Equipped with Intel…
BUY NOW
TOP 5
Image of HP A2WB2EA#ABU computer
HP 14" Laptop, Intel Core i5-1235U Processor, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB…
BUY NOW
TOP 6
Image of Amazon Renewed 2400 computer
Complete set of 21.5in Monitor OptiPlex Quad Core i5-2400 8GB 1000GB…
  • Product Type: Personal Computer
  • Color: Black
  • Brand: Amazon Renewed
BUY NOW
TOP 7
Image of Veno Scorp  computer
Veno Scorp Gaming PC Desktop Computer: i7-3770 3.90Ghz - 16GB RAM…
BUY NOW
TOP 8
Image of Veno Scorp  computer
Veno Scorp Optiplex Intel i7 4770 16GB RAM 256GB M.2 SSD WiFi Windows…
  • Warranty: Peace of Mind with 1 Year Return to Base Warranty - This full bundle comes…
  • Item Condition: This computer comes with brand-new components, ensuring top-notch…
  • Bundle - This comprehensive package includes a 21.5-inch refurbished Grade A monitor,…
BUY NOW
TOP 9
Image of Veno Scorp  computer
Veno Scorp Optiplex Intel i7-2600 Quad Core 16GB RAM 512GB M.2 SSD…
  • Warranty: Peace of Mind with 1 Year Return to Base Warranty - This full bundle comes…
  • Item Condition: This computer comes with brand-new components, ensuring top-notch…
  • Bundle - This comprehensive package includes a 21.5-inch refurbished Grade A monitor,…
BUY NOW
TOP 10
Image of Lenovo 82XJ001AUK computer
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook | 14 Inch FHD Laptop | MediaTek Kompanio…
  • Connections for all your needs: USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 (support data transfer,…
  • Take care of your privacy with camera privacy shutter, mute mic key and Google Security…
  • WiFi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity as well as 13.5-hour battery life mean you can…
BUY NOW
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We participate in the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We consider only products that are available on Amazon while the ranking is based on factors such as customer reviews, number of sales and keyword. Last Update: 2024/12/02.