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 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.

The Apple 2024 iMac is a striking all-in-one desktop that excels in photo editing and multimedia tasks. It features the powerful M4 chip with an 8-core CPU and GPU, which ensures smooth performance for demanding applications like Adobe Creative Cloud. Its 16GB of unified memory is ample for multitasking, allowing users to run several programs simultaneously without slowdowns. The standout feature is the 24-inch 4.5K Retina display, which offers vibrant colors and excellent brightness, making it a joy to edit photos and enjoy multimedia content.

However, there are some limitations to consider. The storage capacity of 256GB may be insufficient for serious photo editors who need to store large image files, but the option to connect external drives can help mitigate this. The integrated graphics card is capable but might not satisfy professional users who rely on dedicated GPUs for intensive graphic tasks. Additionally, as an all-in-one device, it's less customizable compared to traditional desktop setups, potentially limiting upgrades in the future.

The iMac is designed to integrate seamlessly with other Apple products, which is beneficial for users already invested in the Apple ecosystem. The multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports enhance connectivity, allowing for quick data transfer and the option to connect external displays, which can significantly improve workflow. Its sleek and colorful design makes it an attractive addition to any workspace, but keep in mind that it comes at a premium price point, which may not fit every budget. This iMac is ideal for creative professionals looking for a stylish, high-performance desktop that excels in photo editing, but additional storage solutions and considerations regarding graphics capabilities may be necessary.