If you want to set your self up for success in data science, you are going to need the right technology. Most data science software programs run on Windows, Linux and MacOS operating systems (or are web-based), yet they can also utilize a lot of processor and RAM resources to run quickly and efficiently without crashing.
A high-performance desktop computer is a perfect tool to run all data science packages and is a great addition to a laptop to keep all of your code files, software programs and data sets in a centralized, convenient and secure location.
On this page, you will find our recommended desktop computers for data science. If you prefer to work on-the-go, check out this page for our curated listing of laptops for data science and don’t miss our guide to data science accessories.
HP Pavilion Desktop Computer, Intel Core i7-9700, 16GB RAM, 1TB Hard Drive, 256 GB SSD, Windows 10 64 (TP01-0070, Silver): This is an awesome choice for someone who needs to do high-level, memory-intensive data science work but also has a reasonable budget. The SSD and 16 GB of RAM will ensure that multiple programs run at the same time without creating any lag or untimely crashes.
Beyond the speed and performance, this desktop has a really nice looking silver finish and has two USB 3.1 Type-C ports, which have become the new standard in consumer electronics for power and high-speed data transfer.
One potential downside is its large width and considerably heavier weight compared to smaller 15.6 inch screens, yet this feature is almost fully made up for by the thinness of the laptop body while closed.
Overall, you can’t go wrong with this HP desktop whether you are just starting out or are already an experienced data scientist.
Dell OptiPlex 5070 Desktop Computer – Intel Core i7-9700 – 8GB RAM – 500GB HDD – Small Form Factor Desktop: Similar to the HP reviewed above, this Dell desktop is a reasonably priced and powerful option for anyone looking to conduct memory-intensive analyses in R, Python, Stata or SPSS.
It has considerably smaller HDD capacity when compared with the HP reviewed above and does not utilize the newer SSD technology, but it makes up for these shortcomings with much more reasonable price tag. Even better, the small form factor can make this perfect for people who are limited on space but still want a desktop computer that doesn’t take up half of a room.
This small form factor also brings a minor drawback of this particular machine, namely that it has fewer PCI slots and expansion bays for adding custom equipment such as a new network or Wi-Fi card, hard drive or graphics card.
Despite this minor limitation, this Dell is a speedy and conveniently-sized machine that can help you excel in data science programming and data visualization.
Apple iMac Pro 27-inch Desktop: The undisputed standard in design and performance, the new iMac Pro Desktop is an exceptional piece of modern technology with hardware and software that functions rapidly, seamlessly and efficiently.
The 27 in. model is particularly enticing, and its i7 Processor and 1 TB HDD both provide speed and reliability. To provide full disclosure, this machine has a hefty price tag (~$4,500 as of publishing this page), so it is truly a substantial investment.
However, if you are fully committed to success in data science and want to future-proof your desktop setup with an aesthetically pleasing piece of technology, this machine can be the perfect addition to anyone’s home office.
Even though many programmers still prefer Windows (or Linux), the IMac Pro is an excellent choice for its speed, intuitive interface and beautiful design that combines form and function.
Alienware AUR5-12571SLV Desktop (6th Generation Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD + 2TB HDD), Epic Silver: The Alienware line is typically thought of as a gaming computer but recently the company has released ultra high performance business and productivity-focused desktops.
The AUR5 has the latest Intel i7 processor and a SSD, so you can be sure you will have extreme speed to complete all of your data science tasks and run multiple programs simultaneously. It can be added to multiple monitor setups with HDMI or DisplayPort cables, ensuring that you can run your data science statistical packages in RStudio on one screen and have a second screen to read package help documentation (or watch Netflix).
Due to its larger size and upgraded hardware, Alienware has packed extra fans in this computer’s case, which might be slightly louder than your typical desktop computer tower. However, this auditory consideration is more than outweighed by the reliability, speed and performance of this excellent machine.
OEM Lenovo ThinkCentre V530s SFF Intel Octa-Core (8 Cores) i7-9700, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD PCIe NVMe, WiFi Intel-AC 3165, W10P Business Desktop: Lenovo has been working hard recently to expand into the business and educational sectors in North America, and their new ThinkCentre Desktops are a stand out entry into this new market. The 8 cores in the i7 processor ensure that you can easily multitask, including running multiple different statistical analysis programs without having to deal with disruptive crashes and freezing at key moments.
While originally designed for business, this machine can be a smart addition to a home office, co-working space or for anyone looking to enhance their home computer’s speed and reliability. It is built to commercial specifications, so it should have added durability and performance when compared to machines solely designed for personal use.
Its SSD drive is designed to maximize read and write speeds, yet at 256 GB, it is slightly smaller than other desktops reviewed here. Even so, with most data available in public archives and secured cloud storage, this size is not a considerable limitation and this computer is a great choice for anyone looking to get a balanced mix of affordability and performance.
