10+ Best Computers for Digital Art in 2024 (June)

The best computer is an essential tool for every digital artist. If you’ve ever wanted to create digital art, but have been intimidated by the technical aspect of it, don’t worry! There are some great computers out there that are perfect for every type of digital artist.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at 10 of the best computers for digital art and how they compare to each other.

If you’re looking for a laptop instead, head to our feature on the best laptops for digital art.

Plus, see our feature on the best digital art software.

What is the Best Computer for Digital Art in 2024?

Compared to even 10 years ago, the tasks that you can complete with a computer are astounding. Creating incredible digital art requires a computer that can handle many different tasks and all of them extremely well.

In our opinion, no other computer epitomizes this better than the Apple iMac. If you’re interested in some of our other top choices, check out our comparison table below.

 

10+ Best Computers for Digital Art in 2024

1. Apple iMac (Editor’s Choice)

The best computer for digital art in 2024 overall 

Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina display | Processor: Apple M1 | Graphics: 7-core or 8-core Apple GPU | RAM: 8GB/16GB | Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB SSD

The Apple iMac is the best computer for digital art, whether you’re a seasoned artist or a newcomer to the world of digital art. It is the newest member of the Apple iMac line, bringing a beautiful display, an excellent webcam, a powerful M1 chip, and an array of bright new color schemes to a much-loved favorite among artists. 

The display on the iMac is a step ahead of all those other displays. It’s one of the only displays that offers a wide P3 color gamut with support for over a billion colors and the best brightness, contrast, and black levels in the industry. 

Add to that 10-bit colour support, True Tone technology that automatically adjusts the colour temperature of your display to the ambient light of your environment, and a Retina display with 4.5K resolution for 4x more pixels than an HD, and everything looks perfect on the iMac from editing photos to watching films and creating art.

As you would expect, the iMac is no slouch, with up to 85% faster CPU performance from the Apple M1 chip and up to two times faster graphics performance from Apple GPU than older iMac models. It runs cool and quiet even while taking on the most graphic-intensive creative tasks, offering lightning-fast performance with a powerful combination of hardware and software.

The latest iMac is not only the best, but it’s also the most comprehensive machine on the market. And that’s saying something when you consider the competition. Add to it the 1080p FaceTime camera, studio-quality three-mic array, six-speaker sound system, and matching Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse with the same color as your Mac. It has everything you need as an artist on one computer.

Pros	Cons
➕Stunning Retina display with 4.5K resolution	➖Lacks a wide selection of ports
➕M1 chip offers snappy performance	➖The parts are not upgradeable
➕Crisp audio from the six-speaker sound system
➕Incredible Full HD webcam
➕Studio quality mics
➕Available in lots of fun colors with matching Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse
➕Comfortable to use keyboard and mouse

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

2. Apple Mac Mini

The best budget computer for digital art

Processor: Apple M1 | Graphics: 8-core Apple GPU | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 512GB SSD

The Mac Mini is Apple’s cheapest Mac ever, but don’t be fooled by its looks. This little pocket-sized device has more power than many of the full-fledged desktops on the market today. 

For a massive discount over the latest Apple iMac, you get the same lightning-fast performance powered by the same Apple M1 chip, 8-core GPU, 8GB of RAM, and up to 512GB of SSD storage. So you can rest assured that it can run all your favorite art and illustration apps without any lag.

While its CPU-only design means you will have to attach a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the Mac Mini, it gives you the flexibility to choose the components you like to build your dream setup and the portability you need to take your mini-computer and work with you on the go. If you love Apple and want to experience the power of the macOS ecosystem on a budget, the Mac Mini is the way to go.

Pros	Cons
➕Solid performance	➖Can’t use external GPUs
➕More affordable than an iMac or MacBook	➖Average speaker
➕Compact and portable
➕Compatible with most software

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

3. Apple iMac 2020

The best value computer for digital art

Display: 21.5-inch Retina 4K display | Processor: 8th generation Intel Core i5 | Graphics: 8th generation Intel Core i5 | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB SSD

The iMac 2020 is the best value computer for digital artists and illustrators. It packs everything you need to create and edit your projects in an amazingly thin, light design that sits on your desk comfortably, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

The iMac is powered by a compelling 6-core 8th-generation Intel Core i5 paired with 8GB of memory and AMD Radeon Pro 560X graphics, making it feel like you’re never handling a heavy workload. This desktop computer comes with an extra sharp 21.5-inch Retina 4K display that delivers stunning clarity in every detail, including thin bezels, so your artwork always looks at its very best.

While it is a generation older, you can still update it to the newest version of macOS and use all the latest tools and tricks by Apple that come with the software to boost your productivity. The best part, however, and what makes it the best value-for-money computer for us, is that you can find a great deal on the iMac 2020 right now if you are looking to get the most bang for your buck.

Pros	Cons
➕Gorgeous 4K retina display	➖Older generation Intel i5 processor
➕Great value	➖Thick bezels
➕Decent selection of ports
➕Can be updated to the latest version of macOS

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

4. Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i

The best Windows computer for digital art

Display: 27-inch QHD touchscreen | Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB SSD

If you prefer the versatility and ease of use of Windows over macOS, the Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i will be the perfect sidekick for all your creative needs. The IdeaCentre 5i is more than just a desktop—it’s an entire creative workstation that covers all your digital art needs.

The stunning 27-inch QHD IPS display with anti-glare and a massive 93% screen-to-body ratio delivers beautiful colors and sharp images that will make your artwork look magical. Plus, it has powerful Dolby Audio and Harman-certified JBL speakers for an amazing all-around multimedia experience.

When it comes to performance, the high-end 11th Generation Intel Core i7 processor powers through tasks with lightning speed, and you’ll be able to multitask with ease. Add to that 16GB RAM and 512GB of NVMe SSD; there’s enough power and storage to do almost anything.

The slim and elegant IdeaCentre 5i also has all the connectivity options you could ask for to connect your accessories, including Qi wireless charging that allows you to recharge your phone just by placing it on the stand’s base, all-in-one-package that would complement the look of any home or office.

Pros	Cons
➕Immersive QHD display with excellent brightness	➖Pricey
➕Powerful performance	➖Can get a bit loud
➕Built-in Qi wireless charging
➕Dolby Audio and Harman-certified JBL speakers
➕ Pop-up webcam with facial recognition for security
➕Slim and elegant design

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

5. HP Envy 34

The best computer for digital art with a large display

Display: 34-inch WUHD 5K IPS | Processor: 11th-generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 | RAM: 32GB | Storage: 1TB SSD

The benefits of having a large display are many, especially if you are a creative professional. It allows you to be more productive and creative by enabling you to work in detail and multi-task easily without having to strain your eyes. And the HP Envy 34 is our top choice if you want a computer with a large display because it is designed with creatives in mind.

With the HP Envy 34 desktop, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of form and function. The 34-inch anti-reflection monitor comes with a 5K 21:9 screen that provides plenty of room for creating art. Built with a high brightness rating and DCI-P3 color gamut for life-like color accuracy, this display is ideal for any artist, whether beginner or pro, who wants a large, bright, and vivid canvas to work with.

That isn’t all. The monitor is fully adjustable, so you can tweak the height, swivel, pivot, and tilt to stay comfortable. With an 11th Generation Intel Core i7 combined with a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card with 6 GB memory and 32GB of RAM, it packs plenty of power to get things done.

You will also find 1TB of SSD storage onboard, which should be more than sufficient for your needs, a highly detailed 16MP binning IR privacy webcam, and wireless charging built right into the base. With a display this good, you will want to add another one to your setup, and the generous selection of ports makes it easy to do so.

Pros	Cons
➕Ultrawide 34-inch display with 5K resolution	➖Underpowered GPU
➕Value for money	➖No HDR support
➕Strong performance
➕Sharp 16MP detachable webcam
➕Built-in wireless charging
➕Great selection of ports
➕SD card reader

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

6. Alienware Aurora R14

The best desktop for creative professionals

Processor: 5th-generation AMD Ryzen 9 | Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 | RAM: 32GB | Storage: 1TB SDD+2TB HDD

The Aurora R14 is perfect for creatives looking to run the most demanding software. This powerhouse takes advantage of the latest innovations in both hardware and software to ensure that you get the most out of your work.

It is equipped with AMD’s top-of-the-line Ryzen 9 processor paired with 10GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GDDR6X graphics and 32GB of RAM. It offers fast performance, whether creating art, rendering 3D animation, or playing AAA titles. The chassis has been redesigned to enhance performance with liquid cooling and efficient airflow to reduce CPU temperatures while keeping things noise-free. 

And since it features the latest and most powerful hardware available in the market right now, it is future-proof, and it might take more than a few years for you even to consider upgrading your desktop.

Pros	Cons
➕Best-in-class performance	➖High price tag
➕Top-of-the-line AMD Ryzen 9 processor
➕NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 with 10GB GDDR6X graphics
➕Eye-catching design with liquid cooling
➕Silent operation

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

7. HP Pavilion 32

The computer with the best display for digital art

Display: 31.5-inch 4K QHD IPS |  Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i7 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 770 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 1TB SSD

Having a great display is essential to any artist’s workstation and for the HP Pavilion 32, it is its greatest feature. The large three-sided micro-edge 32-inch panel with QHD resolution lets you see every detail in brilliant clarity with rich color. The flicker-free technology and low blue light filter reduce eye fatigue and create a comfortable viewing environment during everyday use, work, or gaming sessions.

It is also a great performer whether it is productivity or entertainment, thanks to the latest 12th gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, 1TB of SSD storage, a 5MP webcam, lots of connectivity options, and powerful audio by Bang & Olufsen with HP Audio Boost.

This HP Pavilion 32 is easy to set up and use and has a sleek design that looks great in any room. It also comes bundled with a wireless mouse and keyboard, so you don’t have to purchase any accessories. Just plug the monitor in, and you can start using your new computer right away!

Pros	Cons
➕Spacious 31.5-inch QHD display	➖No touchscreen or stylus support
➕Extremely powerful
➕Easy to setup
➕Booming audio by B&O
➕Robust build quality
➕Pop up webcam
➕Bundled with a wireless keyboard and mouse

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

8. ROG Strix G10

The best gaming desktop for digital art

Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core i5 | Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 | RAM: 16GB/32GB | Storage: 512GB/1TB SSD, 512GB SSD+2TB HDD, 1TB SSD+2TB HDD

The ROG Strix G10 is ideal for artists who seek a compact, robust and versatile tower that is good for gaming and creating art.

This compact tower is wonderfully versatile, ready to launch ultra-fast games, dabble in digital artistry or tackle the day’s workload with its 11th generation Intel Core i5 processor and dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 12GB graphics that offers lag-free performance.

When it comes time to get serious about work while tackling a deadline—you can rely on up to 32GB of RAM for multitasking perfection. You can even choose from multiple storage configurations, from SSD and HDD to a combination of both.

This slim and futuristic gaming tower also comes with Windows 11 Home pre-installed, and as an added bonus, it comes bundled with a free mouse pad bundle!

Pros	Cons
➕Futuristic design with RGB lighting	➖No gaming keyboard and mouse in-the-box
➕Fantastic performance
➕Comes with Windows 11 pre-installed
➕Easy to upgrade
➕Plenty of ports
➕Includes a mouse pad bundle

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

9. Dell Inspiron 24

The best Windows computer on a budget for digital art

Display: 23.8-inch Full HD touchscreen | Processor: 11th-generation Intel Core i5 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | RAM: 12GB | Storage: 256GB SSD+1TB HDD

The Inspiron 24 is a great choice for digital artists on a budget who want a Windows system. The Dell Inspiron 24 is the ultimate multi-tasking machine at its price. Its 11th-generation Intel Core i5 processor and 12GB RAM will handle the most demanding work. With its 256GB SSD, you can quickly access your favorite apps and files, and for added convenience, this device has 1TB of HDD storage space.

Dell’s Inspiron 24 also comes with a stunning 24-inch Full HD InfinityEdge display that looks amazing from every angle. What is unique about this display is that it is a touchscreen, so it is a great option for those artists who love a more hands-on experience while drawing or prefer using a stylus to make more detailed art.

It also comes with a forward-firing sound bar equipped with speakers professionally tuned with Waves MaxxAudio Pro, a Full HD pop-up webcam for privacy, and plenty of storage for accessories and cables to keep your workspace tidy. When it comes to the price-to-feature ratio, the Dell Inspiron 24 is hard to beat.

Pros	Cons
➕Beautiful design	➖Integrated graphics
➕Vivid 23.8-inch Full HD touchscreen display	➖A bit bulky
➕Supports WiFi 6
➕Decent performance
➕Vibrant audio
➕Value for money

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

10. Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i

The best computer for digital art for beginners

Display: 22-inch Full HD | Processor: 12th gen Intel Core i3 | Graphics: Intel UHD graphics | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB SSD

The Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i is the best desktop for the budding artist as it is for the power user. This small but powerful desktop has everything you need to get started as a digital in a compact chassis.

It features the latest 12th gen Intel Core i3 processor with 8GB of RAM and Intel UHD graphics, so it is more than capable of multitasking. The 22-inch IPS display has a Full HD resolution, perfect for creating professional-quality artwork. The Harman Kardon-certified audio system, featuring two 3W stereo speakers, offers loud and crisp audio that will fill up the whole room.

The design of the Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 3i is space-saving and smart. It has a cable management system to keep your desk clutter-free and also has a dedicated phone holder dock to keep your smartphone in place while you work.

The 3i is also quite easy to set up, even if you have never installed a computer. What’s more, it comes with a mouse and keyboard included!

Pros	Cons
➕Afford	➖Sub-par webcam
➕Sleek space-saving design	➖No USB-C ports
➕Dedicated phone holder	➖Not as fast as the other systems on this list
➕Cable management system
➕Harman Kardon-certified audio system
➕Includes a mouse and keyboard
➕Wide 23-inch display

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

How to Choose the Best Computers for Digital Art

When it comes to digital art, you will need a computer that can handle the workload. You want your computer to be fast enough so that you can create professional-quality artwork but also have enough memory and storage space for all of your projects on board. The following are the technical aspects to consider before buying a computer:

Display

You can find a lot of great displays on the market, but there are some things to consider. First, the display size will determine how big your images look and how much detail is visible. You can find sizes ranging from flat 21-inch displays to ultrawide 50-inch monitors for a more immersive experience, but it all comes down to personal preference. A larger monitor means you have a larger canvas to work with.

Next up is resolution. A higher resolution means more distinct lines appear on the screen, creating better visual clarity and allowing for finer details. Look for a monitor with at least Full HD resolution, but you can work with even more detail if it is 2K or 4K.

Another factor is the refresh rate. It refers to the times the screen refreshes every second to display a new image. Most monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate by default, but some monitors have refresh rates as high as 365Hz. The benefit of having a higher refresh rate is that it makes the experience much smoother, whether you are playing games, browsing, watching movies, or creating art.

Processor

The CPU is the brain of the computer, and it’s what makes your machine run. A more powerful CPU means that you can do more things at once. A good example of this is Adobe Illustrator. If you want to work on artwork with lots of layers and effects applied simultaneously, your computer will need a lot of processing power to run smoothly.

For creative purposes, you will need the latest mid-range processor, such as Intel’s i5 and AMD’s Ryzen 5, or high-end ones, such as Intel i7 or i9 and AMD Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9. Apple’s M1 and M2 chips are some of the fastest on the market and are worth considering.

RAM

RAM is the short-term memory of your computer. It’s required for multitasking, so the more RAM you have, the more you can do at once. RAM is important if you want to play games, edit photos, or make art on your computer because it lets programs access data in their cache faster than usual. 

For creating digital art, you will need at least 8GB of RAM to run most apps required, but 16GB or higher RAM means you won’t have to upgrade your computer and increase the RAM anytime soon.

GPU

A graphics card is one of a PC’s main components responsible for rendering graphics. The number one thing to look at when buying a new computer or a graphics card is how much power it’ll need to run all of your favorite games and apps smoothly. 

An integrated chip should suffice for basic creative work such as drawing and photo editing. Still, you will need a dedicated graphics card for complex creative tasks such as 3D artwork and animations.

Storage

Storage is another key part of your computer, and choosing the right one is important. You’ll want to ensure enough space for your digital art projects and plenty of room for other files. That means choosing between an SSD, HDD, or a hybrid option that combines both. Regardless of your choice, look for at least 256GB of storage on the computer.

SSD (Solid-State Drive): These are fast, small drives that allow you to load programs quickly by storing them on flash memory instead of spinning platters inside the hard drive itself—which means using less power to read or write data than hard drives. The upside here is that SSDs require less room and are more durable but expensive.

HDD (Hard Disk Drive): These are slower and bulkier than their SSD counterparts which is why they aren’t so popular now, but the advantage of having an HDD over an SSD is that it is much cheaper.

Operating System

While both Windows and macOS are compatible with most creative apps such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint Pro, and Corel Paint; it is still important to choose which operating system suits your needs the best.

Windows: This is the most popular operating system for digital art. It’s easy to use, and many programs are available to help you get started. You will also find a greater variety of Windows computers than Macs.

Mac OS: If you already have a Mac and love using it, this is probably the best choice for your digital art needs. Most professionals prefer using Macs because of the all-around experience that few Windows computers can match.

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10+ Best Computers for Digital Art in 2024

If you’re looking to get into digital art, but don’t know where to start, these are the best computers for digital art. They’re all great options that can help you get into the world of digital art, 3D modeling, and animation!

Which computer from this list is on your wishlist? Let us know in the comments below!