Best desktop computers under $210

Top pick: Dell OptiPlex 3050 SFF. A quad-core Intel machine in a compact case — the sweet spot here, since it's a complete, working desktop rather than a barebones box, and it's widely sold so parts and upgrades are easy to find. Add RAM or a bigger drive later and it'll keep up with browsing, email, documents and streaming.

Who the others suit:

• HP EliteDesk 800 G2 SFF — the budget choice if you just need a basic second machine for web and office work.
• Dell OptiPlex SFF i5-7500, 16GB / 512GB SSD — the one to pick if you want the most memory and fast storage out of the box and don't want to upgrade anything.
• HP ProDesk 600 G3 — a solid middle option with a newer-generation i5.
• HP ProDesk 6300 / ProDesk 600 G1 — fine for light tasks, but older internals and slower drives.

Two things to weigh before buying: most of these are refurbished business machines, so check the condition and warranty on the listing, and confirm whether Windows is included and activated. If you need something for gaming or video editing, none of these will do — that takes a bigger budget.