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Quick summary:
For smooth office work, a modern 4-core CPU, 16 GB RAM, and a 256–512 GB SSD
are usually the right balance. Integrated graphics can handle most tasks. Two
1080p monitors are fine. For longer life, choose hardware that supports
Windows 11. Avoid spinning hard drives, 4 GB RAM machines, and very old CPUs
that cannot run Windows 11.
CPU: what is good enough
- A recent 4-core CPU can handle email, Word, Excel, browser tabs, video calls, and small tools without trouble. Intel Core i3/i5 8th gen or newer, or AMD Ryzen 3/5 3000-series or newer, are reliable choices for day-to-day use.
- If you use heavy spreadsheets, keep many browser tabs, or share screen while on calls, a mid-range i5 or Ryzen 5 will feel faster and smoother.
- Avoid very old chips like pre-8th gen Intel if you want Windows 11 support and a longer useful life. Windows 11 needs a supported CPU and TPM 2.0. Check the official lists for your exact model.
RAM: 8 GB works, 16 GB is better
- 8 GB can be fine for light use. 16 GB prevents slowdowns when you keep many tabs open or run Teams or Zoom in the background.
- If you work with large Excel files, developer tools, or many apps at once, 16 GB is the safer default.
Storage: SSD is a must
- Use an SSD. Even a basic SATA SSD makes startup, launching Office, and opening files much faster than a hard drive.
- 256 GB is a practical minimum. 512 GB gives more breathing room as Teams, browsers, and synced folders grow over time.
Graphics and displays: integrated is fine
- Modern integrated graphics can run two 1080p monitors for office apps, web, and video calls. Check the PC has the right ports like HDMI or DisplayPort.
- If you choose 4K monitors, recent CPUs can usually handle them for office tasks, but very low-end chips may show slower animations.
Windows, updates, and lifespan
- Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025. After that, Microsoft offers paid Extended Security Updates for some time. Prices may rise each year.
- For longer useful life, pick Windows 11 compatible hardware. That often means Intel 8th gen or newer, or AMD Zen 2 or newer, with TPM 2.0 enabled. Always verify your exact CPU on Microsoft’s supported list.
Networking and small quality-of-life picks
- Wired Ethernet is the most stable for calls and large downloads. If you use Wi-Fi, aim for Wi-Fi 5 or newer and a clean signal.
- A good webcam, comfortable keyboard and mouse, and a non-glare screen often help more with daily comfort than a faster CPU.
What to avoid
- A hard drive as the main drive. Even a cheap SSD will feel faster for everyday work.
- 4 GB RAM on Windows 10 or 11. It can boot, but it will feel cramped once you open Teams and a few browser tabs.
- Very old CPUs like pre-8th gen Intel or pre-Zen 2 AMD if you care about Windows 11 support and future updates.
- Buying a gaming graphics card for spreadsheets and email. It adds cost and heat but does not help normal office tasks.
Simple specs that work
1. Basic office PC
- CPU: Intel i3 8th gen or Ryzen 3 3000-series
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 256 GB SSD
- OS: Windows 11 compatible, or Windows 10 with a plan for Extended Security Updates if needed
2. Better for multitasking
- CPU: Intel i5 or Ryzen 5 (10th gen / Ryzen 4000 or newer)
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Two 1080p monitors via DisplayPort or HDMI
3. Refurb value pick
- A recent business desktop from Dell, HP, or Lenovo with an SSD and 16 GB RAM can give good value. Check Windows 11 compatibility before you buy.
Final notes
- Official software minimum requirements are usually low, but in real use you often need more RAM and a mid-range CPU for smooth performance.
- Some older CPUs appear on Microsoft’s Windows 11 list, but they are rare. Always check the exact model before assuming support.
- If you keep to the trio of a modern 4-core CPU, 16 GB RAM, and an SSD, you should have a fast and quiet office machine that lasts for years.
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