10 Best desktop PC for photo editing 2025 in the United States

The Apple 2024 iMac All-in-One Desktop Computer is a strong contender for anyone engaged in photo editing. Its M4 chip, with a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU, ensures high-speed performance, which is essential for handling demanding editing software. The 16GB of unified memory allows for smooth multitasking, which is beneficial when running multiple applications simultaneously or working with large files.

The 512GB SSD storage provides fast access to your files and ample space for storing high-resolution images, though users with extensive photo libraries may eventually need external storage solutions. The 24-inch Retina display is a standout feature, offering 4.5K resolution, 500 nits of brightness, and support for up to 1 billion colors, making it ideal for detailed and color-accurate photo work.

The integrated graphics may not be as powerful as dedicated GPUs found in some other desktop PCs, but the M4 chip still delivers solid performance for most photo editing tasks. Connectivity options are robust, with up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports facilitating fast data transfers and the ability to connect to external 6K displays, expanding your workspace. Additionally, the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 ensures modern and fast wireless connectivity.

A potential drawback could be the cooling system, as all-in-one designs sometimes struggle with heat management under heavy loads, though Apple typically designs their systems to handle high performance efficiently. The all-in-one design is aesthetically pleasing and saves space, making it a good fit for both personal and professional environments. This iMac is especially suited for users who value integration with other Apple devices and a seamless macOS experience.

The CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR combines solid hardware that can handle photo editing tasks comfortably, although it is designed primarily as a gaming PC. Its Intel Core i5-13400F processor with 10 cores offers good speed and multiple cores, which helps run photo editing software efficiently. The 16GB of DDR5 RAM is a strong point, providing smooth multitasking and enough memory for handling large image files. Storage-wise, the 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD is fast and spacious, meaning quick file access and enough room for your photo libraries.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 graphics card is more powerful than usually needed for photo editing, which mainly relies on the CPU and RAM. However, this GPU can aid with certain software that supports GPU acceleration, speeding up some editing functions. The system includes a variety of ports, including USB-C and several USB-A ports, which is useful for connecting cameras, external storage, and other peripherals. Built-in WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 also improve connectivity options.

One downside is that the package does not include a monitor, and the max screen resolution listed is Full HD (1920x1080), which might not meet the color accuracy or resolution preferences of professional photo editors. You would likely need to invest in a high-quality monitor separately for best color representation and detail. The cooling system isn’t detailed but the tempered side panel and gaming-focused design suggest decent airflow, which helps during long editing sessions. This PC offers a powerful and fast setup suitable for enthusiastic or semi-professional photo editors who want reliable performance and the option to also enjoy gaming. However, if your main focus is color accuracy and display quality, consider adding a dedicated professional monitor. The extra gaming features and RGB lighting are nice but not essential for photo editing.

The Apple 2024 Mac mini with the M4 chip is a compact yet powerful desktop that fits well for photo editing tasks. Its 10-core CPU combined with a 10-core GPU and 16GB of unified memory offers fast, smooth performance when editing high-resolution photos or multitasking with apps like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. The integrated Apple graphics include hardware-accelerated ray tracing and a 16-core Neural Engine, which can speed up image processing and effects. With 512GB of SSD storage, it provides quick file access, though users working with large photo libraries may want to upgrade to 1TB or 2TB for more space.

The Mac mini supports up to three external displays with high resolutions, which is great for having your editing workspace spread out. Its variety of ports—including Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, HDMI, and Gigabit Ethernet—ensures easy connection to monitors, external drives, and fast networks. The small size and quiet cooling system make it convenient for desktop setups without generating much noise or heat. However, its integrated graphics, while strong for integrated solutions, may not match dedicated GPUs found in some PCs designed specifically for heavy graphics work. Also, while 16GB of memory is solid for most photo editing tasks, professionals handling massive files or complex projects might benefit from the optional 24GB or 32GB upgrades.

The Mac mini’s tight integration with other Apple devices and software will appeal to users already invested in the Apple ecosystem. This Mac mini is well suited for photographers seeking a sleek, efficient, and capable desktop with excellent software support, but those needing very large storage or extreme graphics power may want to consider upgraded configurations or alternative systems.