Are there any alternatives

Though it isn’t billed as a gaming rig, the XPS Desktop is versatile enough to compete both against other creative workstations and gaming-forward PCs. Competitors include the capable Lenovo IdeaCentre 5i , which like the Dell, starts at an affordable $499. Unlike the XPS, however, the IdeaCentre isn’t as suited for gaming, as it lacks the option for a discrete GPU. As such, the Lenovo desktop is more aptly equipped for office tasks, web browsing, and light gaming. Creatives who need more graphics power will likely want to turn to the company’s Legion desktop lineup.

　　HP’s Omen 25L is another great competitor to the XPS Desktop. Sporting a more compact footprint than the larger Omen 30L, the Omen 25L boasts a more gaming-forward windowed design, RGB backlighting, and more diverse configuration options. The smaller Omen tops out at just an RTX 2000 GPU, so if you need more modern 3000 series graphics, You’ll have to upgrade to the Omen 30L. At $1,999, HP’s similarly configured system with a slightly better Core i9 processor in a larger size runs a bit cheaper than our review unit.

　　

How long will it last?

Given the power and performance of the XPS Desktop, this rig will deliver years of work productivity and gaming pleasure. The ability to upgrade major components, like the motherboard and GPU, is more limited due to Dell’s use of proprietary components, so be sure to select the build you want at the time of purchase. WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) applies in terms of ability to upgrade this system.

　　Dell includes a basic one-year standard warranty with the option to upgrade to longer coverage packages, the ability to add accidental damage, and at-home repairs with its Premium Support and Premium Support Plus package. Extended coverage starts at $179 for two years of service, though a four-year plan with accidental damage coverage and automated virus removal costs $679.

　　Though premium coverage may seem like a decadent addition for a desktop that is less prone to damage than a laptop, those working from home in the midst of the global health pandemic may find value in turning to Dell’s technicians for a bit of IT support.

　　

Should you buy it?

Yes. It’s not for die-hard PC enthusiasts, but it’s a fantastic desktop tower for the average shopper.