Desktop PC Comparison

Tested: HP i7 vs Celeron Desktops for Streaming & Gaming Power

When it comes to balancing performance and value in the realm of desktop computing, the showdown between high-end Intel i7 systems and budget-friendly Celeron models is as fierce as it is enlightening. In this comparison, the HP Pavilion Tower Desktop-boasting an 8-core Intel i7-11700F (up to 4.9GHz), 64GB DDR4 RAM, and a GeForce GT 610 GPU-stands as a powerhouse for gamers and streamers. Meanwhile, the Celeron N5105 Small Desktop offers a sleek, compact alternative with dual HDMI outputs, 4K support, and Gigabit Ethernet, but its weaker CPU struggles to keep up with resource-heavy tasks. Between these two, the Dell Optiplex 5060 (i5) and KAMRUI Mini PC (12GB DDR4, 256GB SSD) provide mid-tier options, while the AK1PRO Mini Computer and 2025 Laptop (N4000 processor) highlight how even budget laptops can blur the lines between utility and capability.

The HP Pavilion Tower's i7 processor ensures smooth multitasking, making it ideal for handling 4K streaming alongside demanding games. Its 2TB PCIe SSD and 64GB RAM create a vast, responsive workspace, while the dedicated GPU adds a layer of visual fidelity that pixel-perfect streaming setups or complex game worlds demand. Conversely, the Celeron N5105's dual HDMI ports and 4K support make it a contender for content creators, but its quad-core CPU is more suited for lightweight tasks, leaving gaming and high-speed streaming feeling stuttery under pressure.

The KAMRUI Mini PC fills a unique niche with its compact form and 12GB RAM, offering a respectable balance for basic streaming but falling short when multiple applications or high-resolution gaming kick in. Meanwhile, the Dell Optiplex 5060 bridges the gap with its i5 processor and 32GB RAM, delivering a solid upgrade over Celeron models without the premium price tag. Even the 2025 Laptop (with N4000) and HP Stream 14-inch (Celeron N4000) show that portability can sometimes outshine desktops in specific scenarios, though their limited cooling and smaller displays may not satisfy power users.

The verdict? For seamless gaming and 4K streaming, the HP Pavilion Tower reigns supreme, but its hefty price point might deter casual users. The Celeron N5105, while less powerful, proves itself as a cost-effective solution for simpler workflows or as a secondary machine. Mini PCs and laptops round out the comparison, reminding us that the right choice depends less on the processor alone-and more on your specific needs, budget, and how you're willing to compromise.