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3D Desktops: The Next Frontier

Jennifer Bergen
 & Jennifer Bergen Features Writer

Our team tests, rates, and reviews more than 1,500 products each year to help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology.

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    Buying Guide: 3D Desktops: The Next Frontier

    Alienware X51

    Moviegoers have been watching film in 3D since as early as the 1950s, but it wasn't until recently that 3D technology moved from the silver screen to the computer screen. In addition to watching movies, 3D desktops are also popular for gaming.

    We've already given high marks to two desktop systems with built-in 3D graphics, but the trend to build 3D graphics into desktops is still nascent. But any desktop with 3D-capable graphics can be transformed into a 3D desktop. All you need to do is purchase a 3D monitor and a 3D glasses kit like the Nvidia 3D Vision 2. PCMag analysts rated these 3D-ready and 3D-capable PCs 3.5 and 4.5 out of a possible 5 stars, and two of the systems even received our Editors' Choice award.


    3D-READY PCs

    Lenovo IdeaCentre B520

    $1,799 list
    HD video enthusiasts will totally "get" the Lenovo IdeaCentre B520 all-in-one desktop. It can hook up to any video source from the past 30 years, from the latest 3D Blu-ray player to that old VCR you have in the closet. Read the full review ››


    HP TouchSmart 620-1080 3D

    $1,899.99 direct
    The HP TouchSmart 620-1080 3D all-in-one desktop is the PC for people who want both the excellent TouchSmart 610 design and 3D video and photo viewing in one package. For those few niche players, it's a win. However, you really have to be a 3D zealot to want this system. Read the full review ››



    3D-CAPABLE PCs

    Alienware X51

    $999.99 direct
    The Alienware X51 gaming desktop goes after the console gamer that wants a bit more out of their gaming experience. The compact system offers nice performance, and up to three monitors can be supported. Read the full review ››


    Falcon Northwest Mach V (Core i7-3960X)

    $6,899.99 direct
    Loaded with the latest Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition processor, the Falcon Northwest Mach V (Core i7-3960X) is yet again on the top of the heap. In addition to its excellent chassis design and internal components, the Falcon Northwest Mach V also delivers outstanding gaming and productivity performance. Read the full review ››


    Velocity Micro Raptor Z90 (Intel Core i7-3930K)

    $4,999 direct
    Money burning a hole in your pocket? The Velocity Micro Raptor Z90 (Intel Core i7-3930K) will fix that quickly and make sure your desktop gaming needs are covered for the next few years. Read the full review ››


    About Our Expert

    Jennifer Bergen

    Jennifer Bergen

    Features Writer

    Jennifer Bergen started as an intern in 2008, writing for PCMag's blog network, and joined the PCMag team full-time shortly after. She has written for Geek.com, Gearlog, AppScout, GoodCleanTech, TechSaver, ZDNet, and ConsumerSearch. She also specializes in finding great deals, both inside and outside the world of consumer tech products. Hailing from Boulder, Colorado, where she also got a degree in news editorial journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder, Jennifer traded in the mountains for the skyscrapers of New York City. Jennifer was a DJ for three years at her college radio station and continues spinning records in Brooklyn as part of her Monday Night Vinyl Club.

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