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Participant
September 28, 2026
Question

Dell Desktop Computer and Monitor for use with Creative Cloud for Photographers?

  • September 28, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 24 views

I am looking to purchase a Dell desktop computer for use with Creative Cloud for Photographers (both Photoshop and Lightroom). Can you give me some guidance as to system requirements for the desktop and the monitor for decent performance? Any caveats to avoid? Do I need to go with a Dell Tower? I am not a professional photographer but am serious about my photography. Thanks.

    2 replies

    J E L
    Community Expert
    Community Expert
    September 28, 2026

    Hi ​@Margie Muniak, it’s a great question, and I hope you get a lot of different opinions so you can weigh your options. I've used Dell laptops for at least 20 years. I use an external Dell 27” monitor in my office, but there are times I need to bring my computer with me so a tower doesn't work. I'd say you want to focus first on memory (32GB minimum; 64GB is better) and storage (1TB Solid State Drive is a minimum; you can add external drives if needed, but Photoshop likes a lot of free scratch space). After that, your graphics card should be one of the latest NVIDIA models (RTX Pro Series or equivalent is fine), and configure it with the studio (not the gamer) driver. External ports are important to consider. I use a Dell dock since their laptops come with limited ports. Of course, this type of configuration can cost you around $4,000.00 today, so if that’s a stretch, you'll need to dial back something. They do have financing available. You probably don't need the Intel Ultra 9 processor and can use the 7. And you can dial back memory. My strategy has always been to get more than I think I need so I can get five to seven years out of my Dell. Call up Dell sales, and they will help you configure something that works for your situation, so don’t feel limited to buying one of their standard preconfigured models or buying a Dell from an office supply or electronics store. You don’t need a super fancy monitor for hobby photography. Something like their Ultra Sharp 27” would be great. Enjoy the process and your new system!

    Participant
    September 28, 2026

    Thanks for your quick reply, that is very helpful. I also have had Dell laptops for quite a while but decided to go with the desktop this time around. I didn’t know about the studio vs gamer configuration of the graphics card device driver so I’ll be sure to look further into that. I will also want to get at least 5 or more years out of this configuration so I’ll get as much as I can within reason.