4 Best Gaming PCs from HP
Whether you want to dominate Hitman 3 missions or play rounds of Call of Duty: Warzone with your squad, owning the best gaming PC for your budget and needs is crucial. But which specs are necessary to keep you at the top of your game?
Sometimes you want to go all out, and at other times you need the most raging gear for the least coin. Don’t go to pieces, because we’ve done the digging to find the best gaming desktops from HP with the most eye-blistering graphics, colorful displays, lowest latency, and zippiest memory and storage, even while keeping an eye on your budget.
Elements of a top gaming PC: What you should look for
Gaming PCs require different superpowers than those for business pros, students, or general household use. They must have lightning-fast, low-latency displays so you’re the fastest on the draw. They need Ethernet connections and blistering WiFi connectivity to avoid stuttering and lag.
Let’s do a quick overview of what serious gamers should look for in the best gaming computers.
- Processor (CPU): To play today’s best triple-A (AAA) games, look for gaming PCs with at least 10th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 or 3rd Generation AMD Ryzen™ processors.
- Graphics (GPU): Dedicated graphics cards are a must for gamers, with cards like the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 2060 and AMD Radeon™ RX500.
- Display: High 60 frames per second (fps) frame rates from monitors in the 120 Hz or better range will keep you on top of the action instead of lagging in the swamps.
- Memory: Most modern gaming machines have at least 8GB of super-fast, efficient DDR4 RAM, but 16GB is even better.
- Storage: A zippy 1TB SSD drive based on flash drive technology will hold your OS and plenty of titles, while giving you rapid boot times.
- Keyboard: Gaming keyboards are crucial. Look for durable, mechanical keys with LED backlighting for instant feedback when you press a key to keep you on point.
- Accessibility: Tool-free entry and plenty of upgrade capability will keep your gaming PC ready for new titles and new tech as they hit the market.
A note about HP gaming laptops
Looking for the best gaming laptops by HP? PC tech has come a long way, and a dominating gaming laptop is no longer the stuff of dreams. See the best HP gaming laptops here so you can take Valheim on the road. Looking for HP’s best gaming desktops? Keep reading.
1. HP OMEN 45L gaming desktop computer
The OMEN 45L Gaming Desktop GT22-1470se is a powerhouse gaming machine designed to deliver extreme performance and immersive gaming experiences. It's powered by an Intel® Core™ i7-13700K processor, which can turbo boost up to 5.4 GHz, providing exceptional speed and responsiveness. This processor is coupled with 16GB of Kingston FURY DDR5-5200 MHz XMP RGB Heatsink RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming performance.
Graphics are handled by the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4060 Ti with 8GB GDDR6 dedicated memory. This high-performance graphics card is capable of running the latest games at high settings with ease, providing stunning visuals and a seamless gaming experience.
The OMEN 45L comes with a 1TB WD Black PCIe® 4x4 NVMe™ TLC M.2 SSD, offering ample storage space and ultra-fast data access speeds. This is particularly beneficial for gamers who need quick loading times and want to store a large library of games.
One of the unique features of this gaming desktop is the OMEN Cryo Chamber™, which enhances cooling efficiency by pulling in cold air from the environment to cool down the CPU. This innovative cooling solution helps maintain optimal performance even during intense gaming sessions.
The desktop also boasts a range of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports on both the front and rear, a DisplayPort™, and an integrated 10/100/1000 GbE LAN for high-speed internet connectivity. It also includes Realtek RTL8852BE Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 combo for wireless connectivity options.
Designed with gamers in mind, the OMEN 45L features a microATX form factor with a front bezel black glass and RGB liquid cooler. The chassis supports easy tool-less upgradeability, allowing users to easily upgrade and expand memory, storage, and other components.
With a 5.1 surround sound capability and OMEN Audio Control Support for DTS:X® Ultra, this gaming desktop ensures an immersive audio experience. It also comes with a range of software options, including a 30-day trial of McAfee LiveSafe™ for security.
In summary, the OMEN 45L Gaming Desktop GT22-1470se is built for gamers who demand high performance, advanced cooling, and the ability to upgrade. Its top-tier components, innovative cooling technology, and customizable features make it an excellent choice for serious gamers looking for a powerful and reliable gaming rig.
2. HP OMEN 25L desktop gaming PC
The OMEN by HP 25L Gaming Desktop GT15-1075t Bundle PC is a high-performance gaming machine that combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek, modern design. It's powered by a 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i7-13700 processor, which can boost up to 5.2 GHz with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology. This powerful processor is paired with 16GB of Kingston FURY DDR5-5200 MHz XMP RGB Heatsink RAM, ensuring smooth gameplay and efficient multitasking.
The graphics are handled by the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3060 with 12 GB GDDR6 dedicated memory, offering exceptional performance for the latest games. This graphics card is capable of delivering stunning visuals, with advanced ray tracing capabilities and high frame rates.
Storage is not an issue with a 1TB WD Black PCIe® Gen4 NVMe™ TLC M.2 SSD, providing ample space for games, applications, and media, along with fast data access speeds. This is particularly beneficial for reducing game load times and ensuring quick system boot-ups.
The design of the OMEN 25L is eye-catching, with a snow white color scheme, a glass side panel, and a dark chrome logo. The case features a 92 mm 2-heatpipe RGB air cooler and 5.1 surround sound support with OMEN Audio Control and DTS:X® Ultra, enhancing the gaming experience with immersive audio.
Connectivity options include a range of USB Type-A and Type-C ports, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort™, providing versatile options for connecting peripherals and external displays. The system also features integrated 10/100/1000 GbE LAN and Intel® Wi-Fi 6 AX201 (2x2) with Bluetooth 5.2 for high-speed internet and wireless connectivity.
Security and software include a 30-day trial of McAfee Online Protection and a one-month free trial of Xbox Game Pass, adding extra value to the package. The OMEN Gaming Hub allows for personalization and performance optimization.
In summary, the OMEN by HP 25L Gaming Desktop GT15-1075t is built for gamers who seek a powerful, stylish, and upgradable gaming PC. Its combination of top-tier components, sleek design, and customization options make it a great choice for gaming enthusiasts.
3. HP Victus gaming desktop PC
The Victus by HP 15L Gaming Desktop TG02-0325m is a formidable choice for gamers seeking a blend of power, versatility, and style. This compact yet robust machine is powered by an AMD Ryzen™ 5 5600G processor, boasting a speed of 3.9 GHz that can turbo boost up to 4.4 GHz. With its 6 cores and 12 threads, it's capable of handling demanding games and multitasking with ease.
Graphics are handled by the AMD Radeon™ RX 6400 Graphics card, which comes with 4GB of GDDR6 dedicated memory, ensuring smooth and visually stunning gaming experiences. The desktop is equipped with 8GB DDR4-3200 MHz RAM, which is efficient for most modern games and can be upgraded for even more power.
Storage is no issue, as it includes a 256GB PCIe® NVMe™ M.2 SSD, providing ample space for games and quick loading times. The absence of an HDD in the selected configuration means a quieter and more efficient operation, though options for up to 2TB SATA HDD are available for those needing extra space.
Connectivity is a strong suit of this desktop, offering Bluetooth® and Wi-Fi capabilities, alongside an array of USB ports - including both Type-A and Type-C - to accommodate all your peripherals. The front panel features a stylish mirrored RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic touch to your gaming setup.
The Victus by HP also comes with Windows 11 Home, delivering the latest in operating system innovation, and is further enhanced by the OMEN Gaming Hub. This software suite allows for customization and optimization of performance features, including system vitals monitoring, network booster, and RGB lighting control.
Designed for gamers who value both performance and design, the Victus by HP 15L Desktop is a versatile machine that's as suited for intense gaming sessions as it is for everyday tasks. With its customizable options, gamers can tailor the system to their specific needs, making it a top recommendation for those seeking a new gaming rig.
4. HP Victus gaming desktop PC
The Victus by HP 15L Gaming Desktop TG02-1000 stands out as an exceptional choice for gaming enthusiasts who desire a powerful, versatile machine without compromising on style. This desktop is equipped with the Intel® Core™ i5-13400 processor, which provides a turbo boost up to 4.6 GHz and includes 10 cores and 16 threads, offering impressive speed and multitasking capabilities essential for modern gaming and productivity.
Graphically, it's powered by the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050 with 8GB of GDDR6 dedicated memory. This high-performance graphics card ensures a seamless and visually rich gaming experience, capable of handling the latest games with ease. The 8GB DDR4-3200 MHz RAM further complements the setup, providing enough memory for most gaming and multitasking needs, with options to upgrade for enhanced performance.
Storage is taken care of with a 256GB PCIe® NVMe™ M.2 SSD, ensuring quick boot times and ample space for games and applications. While there's no HDD included in the base configuration, the desktop does offer expansion options for those who need more storage space.
The Victus by HP 15L also boasts a modern design with a front bezel in Ceramic White Metal, making it a stylish addition to any gaming setup. It includes a range of connectivity options with 9 USB ports, including both USB Type-A and Type-C, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, ensuring easy connection to a variety of peripherals and devices.
Running on Windows 11 Home, this desktop offers the latest in operating system innovation. The OMEN Gaming Hub is an added bonus, providing users with control over system vitals, hardware controls, and RGB lighting, enhancing the gaming experience.
In summary, the Victus by HP 15L Gaming Desktop TG02-1000 is an excellent choice for gamers who need a powerful, efficient, and stylish machine. It's well-suited for both gaming and everyday tasks, offering a blend of performance and aesthetics that make it a top pick in its category.
Add a little extra to your gaming setup
To outfit your new desktop with the latest and best gaming accoutrements, check out HP OMEN gaming accessories, including keyboards, mice, headsets, and more to help elevate your game to the next level – whether you’re a competitive or casual gamer.
HP gaming desktops: why specs matter
While there are a number of features that go into the best gaming PCs, here’s a deeper dive into the most crucial elements to keep in mind.
1. Processor
The central processing unit (CPU), also called the “processor” or “core,” is an essential part of your computer. It carries out the computer program’s instructions, processes the data, and performs input/output (I/O) operations and logic functions. Considered to be the “brain” or “heart” of the computer, it’s an especially important component of the best gaming desktops.
CPUs have between 2 and 64 cores, and each one performs a specific task. Multi-core processors are single chips that contain at least 2 CPU cores. These multi-core processors are much more powerful and efficient than those with fewer cores. While 2-core (or dual-core) processors are common, gaming applications run best with 6-core processors and higher.
2. Graphics
The graphics processing unit (GPU) is also called the graphics card or video card. Like the CPU, it’s an important component of a gaming system. The GPU runs math calculations so that the CPU is free to work on its equally important other jobs.
The GPU speeds the creation and rendering of images, video, and animation. While the CPU utilizes multiple cores for sequential processing, the GPU is a single-chip processor with 100s to 1,000s of cores that operate thousands of instructions simultaneously.
To run a top-performing gaming PC, the GPU should offer at least 8GB of video memory (vRAM) for gaming at 1080p or Full High Definition (FHD) resolution. However, for gaming at 4K, or Ultra High Definition (UHD) with more than 8 million pixels, you’ll need at least 12GB to ensure that your gaming computer is playing at its best.
Another thing to keep in mind is that your GPU should complement your monitor’s resolutions and requirements. For example, if your display has a resolution of Quad HD (1440 pixels) or above, then you’ll need at least a mid-range to high-end card (with a minimum of 8GB) to match that power.
3. Display
Your gaming system’s monitor, or display, is right up there with the CPU and GPU in terms of its importance to your gaming experience. You need to clearly see the action and graphics that are going on in your game – many of which, nowadays, are beautifully rendered in staggering detail. Your monitor should be able to display those images and videos as smoothly as possible for optimal gameplay.
If you’re gaming at UHD (or 4K) resolutions, then you’ll need a monitor that is at least 27 inches wide. Why? Anything less than 27 inches will not be able to fit those 8-million-plus pixels on the screen without crowding, which would negatively affect the sharpness of the stunningly rendered graphics we mentioned earlier.
With a gaming desktop PC, you are free to choose your ideal display with resolutions that will let you play your games the way they were meant to be played. A gaming laptop, on the other hand, doesn’t leave you much room for later upgrades so it’s important to get the specs right up front.
For laptops, ideally, you’ll want a minimum of either 15-inch or 17-inch diagonals and an FHD display with refresh rates of at least 60 Hz and preferably 120 Hz, which is also the sweet spot for 1080p gaming. Aim to go no wider than 24 inches for crisp graphics.
4. Memory
Like the processor and graphics card, memory (RAM) is an important component of the best gaming computers. Having enough of it is essential for stable, high performance. It will also ensure that your system doesn’t experience lag during gameplay.
A minimum of 8GB of RAM is usually enough for most games, although you can’t go wrong bumping it up to 16GB if you’re able to do so within your budget. That amount is enough to let you play at 4K resolutions.
And you can aim even higher at, say, 32GB if you’re looking to do more than gaming with your gaming PC. For instance, if you want to use video editing applications or 3D modeling software, more RAM is vital. The beauty of going with a gaming desktop is that you can always upgrade the memory later, making these PCs future-proof.
5. Storage
Storage, too, is a critical element of a top-notch gaming PC that can potentially make or break your gaming experience, especially for some of the latest resource-intensive AAA games that consume it quickly. Although you may need even more if you’re doing more than gaming on your computer, look for a hard disk drive (HDD) with at least 1TB of storage capacity or a solid-state drive (SSD) with at least 500GB.
Gaming desktop PCs come with the advantage of having room for larger HDDs as well as the ability to add more storage capacity (both HDD and SSD), when and if you need it, using Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) ports.
6. Keyboard
The keyboard is an oft-overlooked but nonetheless significant piece of the gaming puzzle. You may be using the one that shipped with your desktop without really giving it any further thought. Since you’ll be spending a significant amount of time using it while gaming, however, it’s definitely something to consider.
Gaming desktops, for instance, offer the chance to choose from among high-performing mechanical keyboards that are ideal for gaming. They’re built to last, standing up to continuous pressure and long hours of gaming. Depending on the type of switch they’re using, mechanical keyboards last from 20 to 75 million keystrokes. Membrane keyboards, on the other hand, average about 5 million keystrokes.
7. Accessibility
If you’re planning to customize or upgrade your gaming PC at some point to allow for future games with more advanced performance requirements, then you’ll need to ensure that your gaming desktop is accessible for upgrades.
Be sure that your gaming computer’s chassis meets industry standards as well. Look for a gaming PC that makes it easy to access internal components without having to contend with annoying, bulky cables and wires.
Summary
HP offers an exciting lineup of powerful gaming PCs primed to dominate the most demanding games on the market. In our list, we’ve chosen just a few that will more than meet your most demanding gaming requirements.
About the Author: Tom Gerencer is a contributing writer for HP Tech Takes. Tom is an ASJA journalist, career expert at Zety.com, and a regular contributor to Boys' Life and Scouting magazines. His work is featured in Costco Connection, FastCompany, and many more.
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