Best Desktop PCs for Adobe Lightroom (2025)

What are the best desktop computers for Adobe Lightroom?

When Adobe Lightroom is at the core of your creative process, your desktop computer becomes an important part of the process. In this guide, we help photographers, content creators, designers, and professional editors find the best desktop computers optimized for Lightroom performance. If you’re editing RAW files, applying complex presets, managing extensive catalogs, or batch exporting high-resolution shots, you’ve already experienced how crucial hardware becomes.

Slow previews, stuttering sliders, delayed exports bring about inconvenience. Lightroom can become unresponsive if your hardware can’t handle its intensive operations. We’ve seen too many creators stuck with systems that bottleneck their ideas. It’s frustrating, inefficient, and avoidable.

These issues stem from common challenges. Lightroom is CPU-intensive during editing and exporting, RAM-hungry when working with large libraries, and it leans heavily on fast storage for real-time access. Integrated graphics often fall short.

We’ve tested, compiled a selection of desktop systems that meet the technical demands of Adobe Lightroom while supporting your creative flexibility. We focus on machines built for high-resolution editing, quick catalog handling, and multi-layer workflows.

To help you choose confidently, we evaluate based on five key factors: processor (CPU) power, graphics capability, memory (RAM), storage speed/type, and upgrade potential. Each of these matters for specific Lightroom tasks.

We also enforce baseline specs that each recommended desktop meets or exceeds. Every system comes with:
• A modern multi-core processor (at least Intel i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series)
• At least 32 GB of RAM, DDR4 or DDR5
• A dedicated GPU with 6GB VRAM or more, such as NVIDIA RTX 3060 or AMD RX 6700 XT
• A fast SSD (NVMe, minimum 1TB)
• Expandable motherboard with space for future RAM and storage upgrades

Let’s now look at the criteria.

CPU (Central Processing Unit): Lightroom relies heavily on the processor during photo import, rendering previews, applying adjustments, and exporting. A high-core-count CPU like the AMD Ryzen 9 or Intel Core i9 improves export times and enables simultaneous multitasking. A strong CPU reduces wait times, keeping your workflow efficient. If you’re editing thousands of RAW files, the processor becomes your primary bottleneck and the right CPU eliminates it.

GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): While Lightroom Classic doesn’t rely entirely on the GPU, it accelerates display rendering, smooths brush performance, and speeds up image navigation. This is especially noticeable when zooming, scrolling, or using AI masking tools. A discrete GPU with ample VRAM ensures your preview experience stays fluid even with 4K or dual-monitor setups. Skimping here often leads to a sluggish interface.

RAM (Random Access Memory): Think of RAM as Lightroom’s temporary workspace. 32 GB allows you to manage large catalogs, open multiple applications, and work across high-res images without freezing or crashing. Less RAM forces the system to swap data to slower storage, crippling performance. For catalog-heavy users or professionals handling large batches, RAM should never be minimal.

Storage (SSD Type & Capacity): Speed here affects how fast images load, how swiftly you can switch between edits, and how Lightroom reads/write preview data. NVMe SSDs outperform SATA drives by a wide margin. We recommend 1TB or more so you’re not juggling space. An additional secondary SSD or HDD for archiving helps, too. Catalog performance improves significantly when stored on a fast internal SSD.

Expandability: As your projects grow, your system should adapt. Having access to extra RAM slots, PCIe lanes, and SATA/NVMe connectors allows future-proofing. Desktop towers with standard ATX boards are preferable. Compact or all-in-one machines often restrict upgrades—and that limits longevity.

We focus on machines that strike the balance between raw performance, quiet cooling, and upgrade potential. You should expect smooth editing, quick exports, fast previews, and the flexibility to evolve with your projects.

You can also have a look at the best desktop pc for adobe cc.

List of the Best Desktop Computers for Adobe Lightroom (2025):

Lenovo Legion T5 Gen 8 Gaming Tower Desktop, AMD Ryzen 7 7700, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, 64GB DDR5 RAM, 2TB
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CPU	AMD Ryzen 7 7700
Processor Speed	‎5.3 GHz
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
Graphics Card Memory	12GB
RAM	64GB DDR5
Storage Space	2TB WD_Black SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎16.77 x 15.62 x 8.07 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Very good performance, Great price
Disadvantages	None

Alienware Aurora R10 Gaming Desktop - AMD Ryzen 7 5800, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB SSD, AMD Radeon RX 6600XT 8GB GDDR6
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CPU	AMD Ryzen 7 5800
Processor Speed	‎4.6 GHz
GPU	AMD Radeon RX 6600XT
Graphics Card Memory	8GB GDDR6
RAM	16GB DDR4
Storage Space	1TB SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎17 x 8.77 x 18.9 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Design, Build Quality, Performance
Disadvantages	Na

CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC, Intel Core i7-13700F 2.1GHz, GeForce RTX 4060 Ti 16GB, 16GB DDR5, 1TB NVMe SSD
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CPU	Intel Core i7-13700F
Processor Speed	2.1GHz
GPU	GeForce RTX 4060 Ti
Graphics Card Memory	16GB
RAM	16GB DDR5
Storage Space	1TB NVMe SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	23.43 x 22.44 x 13.58 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Included
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performance
Disadvantages	Storage

iBUYPOWER Y40 Black Gaming PC Computer Desktop Y40BI7N48S01 (Intel Core i7 14700KF, RTX 4080 Super 16GB, 32GB
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CPU	Intel Core i7 14700KF
Processor Speed	‎3.4 GHz
GPU	RTX 4080 Super
Graphics Card Memory	16GB
RAM	32GB DDR5
Storage Space	2TB NVMe SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	17.28 x 9.44 x 18.58 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Included
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performance, Design, Build
Disadvantages

ASUS 2023 ROG G22CH Gaming Desktop PC, Small Form Factor, Intel® Core™ i9-14900KF, NVIDIA® GeForce® RTX 4070
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CPU	Intel® Core™ i9-14900KF
Processor Speed	‎5.6 GHz
GPU	NVIDIA® GeForce® RTX 4070 Dual
Graphics Card Memory	12 GB
RAM	32GB DDR5
Storage Space	1TB SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎12.72 x 11.3 x 4.53 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Top performance
Disadvantages	Price

Corsair Vengeance i7400 Series Gaming PC - Liquid Cooled Intel® Core™ i7 13700K CPU - NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 Graphics - 32GB
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CPU	Intel® Core™ i7 13700K
Processor Speed	‎3.6 GHz
GPU	NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070
Graphics Card Memory	12 GB
RAM	32GB
Storage Space	1TB M.2 NVMe SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎17.8 x 9.1 x 18.3 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performance,
Disadvantages	Storage

Lenovo Legion Tower T5 Gaming Desktop, Intel Core i7-11700F Processor, GeForce RTX 3060, 32GB RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD + 2TB HDD
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CPU	Intel Core i7-11700F Processor
Processor Speed	2.5 GHz
GPU	‎Nvidia Ge Force Rtx 3060
Graphics Card Memory	‎12 GB
RAM	32GB
Storage Space	1TB PCIe SSD + 2TB HDD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎21.65 x 19.09 x 14.57 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Value for Money, Very good performance, Large storage
Disadvantages	N/A

Skytech Gaming Azure PC Desktop – AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 4.2 GHz, NVIDIA RTX 4090, 1TB NVME Gen4 SSD, 32GB DDR5
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CPU	AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Processor Speed	4.2 GHz
GPU	NVIDIA RTX 4090
Graphics Card Memory	24 GB
RAM	32GB DDR5
Storage Space	1TB NVME Gen4 SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	26 x 24.7 x 14.55 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performance
Disadvantages	Price

HP Victus Gaming Desktop, AMD Ryzen 7-5700G Processor, Radeon RX 6600XT 8GB Graphics(Outperforms RTX 3060), 32GB RAM, 2TB PCIe SSD
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CPU	AMD Ryzen 7-5700G
Processor Speed	up to 4.6 GHz max boost clock, 16 MB L3 cache, 8 cores, 16 threads
GPU	Radeon RX 6600XT 8GB Graphics
Graphics Card Memory	8GB
RAM	32GB RAM
Storage Space	2TB PCIe SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎19 x 15.5 x 12 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Included
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Good performance, Value for money
Disadvantages	None

HP OMEN 45L Gaming Desktop, 13th Generation Intel Core i9-13900KF, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB Solid State Drive, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
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CPU	Intel Core i9-13900KF
Processor Speed	up to 5.80 GHz
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
Graphics Card Memory	12GB
RAM	32 GB DDR5
Storage Space	‎1 TB 1 TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	8.03 x 18.5 x 21.85 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Low power use, Looks good, powerful
Disadvantages	Quite expensive

CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC, Intel Core i9-14900KF 3.2GHz, GeForce RTX 4090 24GB, 64GB DDR5, 2TB NVMe SSD
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CPU	Intel Core i9-14900KF
Processor Speed	3.2GHz
GPU	GeForce RTX 4090
Graphics Card Memory	24GB
RAM	64GB DDR5
Storage Space	2TB NVMe SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎21.6 x 20.7 x 12.1 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Included
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performance
Disadvantages	n/a

ROG Strix GA15DK Gaming Desktop PC, AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, GeForce RTX 3070, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD + 1TB HDD
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CPU	AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
Processor Speed	up to 4.7 GHz
GPU	GeForce RTX 3070
Graphics Card Memory	8GB GDDR6
RAM	16GB DDR4
Storage Space	512GB SSD + 1TB HDD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎19.6 x 7.3 x 16.6 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performance, Design and Build
Disadvantages	N/a

Skytech Gaming Prism Gaming PC, Ryzen 7 7800X3D 4.2 GHz, RTX 4070 Ti, 1TB NVME, 32GB DDR5
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CPU	Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Processor Speed	4.2 GHz
GPU	RTX 4070 Ti
Graphics Card Memory	12 GB
RAM	32GB DDR5
Storage Space	1TB NVME
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	‎23.4 x 22.9 x 15.9 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performnce
Disadvantages	n/a

Alienware Aurora R15 Gaming Desktop - AMD Ryzen 7-7700X, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070Ti
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CPU	AMD Ryzen 7-7700X
Processor Speed	‎5.4 GHz
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070Ti
Graphics Card Memory	‎12 GB
RAM	16GB DDR5
Storage Space	1TB SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	20.83 x 8.86 x 20.08 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Value, Design, Performance
Disadvantages	n/a

Corsair Vengeance i7500 Series Gaming PC - Liquid Cooled Intel Core i5 14600KF CPU - NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Super GPU - 32GB
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CPU	Intel Core i5 14600KF
Processor Speed	3.5 GHz
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Super
Graphics Card Memory	12 GB
RAM	32 GB
Storage Space	1TB M.2 SSD
Operating System	Windows 11
Dimensions	17.8 x 9.1 x 18.3 inches
Keyboard & Mouse	Sold Separately
Computer Monitor	Sold Separately
Advantages	Performance, design
Disadvantages	Storage

See: Best Desktop PC for Adobe Illustrator