6 Best Alternatives to the HP VR Ready Pavilion Gaming (2026)
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If you are looking for hp VR ready pavilion gaming alternatives, this list compares seven desktops with overlapping specifications. The original HP Pavilion GTX 1660 Ti Gaming Desktop uses an Intel Core i5-9400F processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti graphics. It includes 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. This setup handles VR gaming well but offers limited storage and memory for modern standards. You might want a different spec if you need more RAM, larger storage, or a newer operating system like Windows 11 Pro. Some buyers also prefer a smaller form factor or a different brand for business use.
The alternatives here share core components like Core i5 processors, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSDs. They vary in size, from compact SFF towers to standard desktops. Some models include Windows 11 Pro for business reliability, while others focus on entry-level gaming or office productivity. You can choose based on whether you prioritize graphics power, space savings, or system stability. Each option provides a practical path depending on your specific needs beyond the original HP model.
How alternatives differ from HP
Dell Optiplex Tower Core i5 PC
The Dell Optiplex Tower Core i5 PC replaces gaming hardware with business reliability. It keeps the same 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD capacity as the HP Pavilion, but swaps the GTX 1660Ti graphics for integrated solutions. You gain Windows 11 Pro and a larger physical footprint measuring 19 inches in length. This machine prioritizes standard office tasks over VR performance. If you need a stable environment for business applications rather than dedicated graphics power, this tower offers a solid upgrade path. It fits users who value reliability and Windows 11 Pro compatibility more than raw gaming speed or compact size.
Dell OptiPlex SFF Core i5 Desktop
The Dell OptiPlex SFF Core i5 Desktop focuses on space efficiency rather than graphical performance. It shares the 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD configuration found in the original HP model. However, it drops the dedicated GTX 1660Ti graphics card entirely, making it unsuitable for VR gaming. You receive Windows 11 Pro and a compact form factor designed for tight office spaces. This device suits students or professionals who need a reliable machine for everyday productivity tasks. It offers a smaller footprint than the original HP Pavilion, but you sacrifice all dedicated graphics capabilities for a cleaner, more professional setup.
HP ProDesk SFF Desktop with Core i5
The HP ProDesk SFF Desktop with Core i5 targets compact business computing instead of gaming. It maintains the 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage levels of the HP Pavilion GTX 1660 Ti. The key difference is the removal of dedicated graphics hardware, replacing it with integrated solutions suitable for office work. You get Windows 11 Pro and a small form factor that saves desk space. This desktop is ideal for professionals who prioritize business software compatibility and a reliable daily driver over graphical power. It gives up VR capability entirely in favor of a practical, space-saving design for standard productivity environments.
HP ProDesk Core i5 RGB Desktop
The HP ProDesk Core i5 RGB Desktop offers entry-level gaming aesthetics without high-end specs. It matches the original HP Pavilion with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage. However, it uses a different processor generation and lacks the dedicated GTX 1660Ti graphics card required for VR gaming. You receive Windows 11 Pro and RGB lighting features that appeal to casual users. This machine suits those who want basic gaming capability and a ready-to-use environment without complex builds. It provides a similar storage and memory profile but focuses on office tasks and visual appeal rather than the dedicated graphics performance needed for virtual reality applications.
HP ProDesk 6-Core Desktop PC
The HP ProDesk 6-Core Desktop PC emphasizes processing speed for office tasks. It keeps the 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD configuration seen in the original HP Pavilion. The trade-off is the absence of dedicated graphics hardware, making it unsuitable for VR gaming. You get a compact size measuring 11.4 inches in length and Windows 11 Pro for daily operations. This desktop is designed for users who prioritize web browsing and standard applications over graphical power. It offers a stable business environment with a smaller footprint, but you must give up the dedicated GPU performance that defines the original HP Pavilion GTX 1660 Ti Gaming Desktop.
HP Core i5 SFF Workstation Desktop
The HP Core i5 SFF Workstation Desktop provides a compact solution for professional workstations. It shares the 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage capacity of the original HP Pavilion. However, it removes the dedicated GTX 1660Ti graphics card, focusing instead on business reliability and space-saving design. You receive Windows 11 Pro and a small form factor ideal for tight office spaces. This machine suits users who prioritize a stable, professional environment over gaming performance. It offers the same storage and memory levels but sacrifices VR capability entirely, making it a practical choice for productivity-focused tasks rather than graphical-intensive applications.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
HP Pavilion GTX 1660 Ti Gaming Desktop
Best for: VR gaming and dedicated graphics performance
- Graphics Card
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti
- Processor Model
- Intel Core i5-9400F
- System Memory
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Operating System
- Windows 10
- Form Factor
- Desktop
View on Amazon: HP Pavilion GTX 1660 Ti Gaming Desktop Affiliate link
This HP Pavilion Gaming desktop pairs an Intel Core i5-9400F processor with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti graphics card. It includes 8GB of system memory and a 256GB SSD. The system runs Windows 10 and is designed for VR-ready performance. It suits users who need a capable gaming machine with modern graphics capabilities for 2026.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-9400F processor
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti graphics card
- 256GB SSD storage
- VR-ready design
Cons
- Only 8GB of system memory
- 256GB SSD has limited storage space
- No mention of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
Good fit if
- You need a VR-ready gaming PC
- You want a desktop with dedicated NVIDIA graphics
- You are upgrading from older 6th or 7th Gen Intel systems
Skip if
- You require more than 8GB of RAM
- You need large storage capacity beyond 256GB
- You prefer a compact small form factor
Verdict: HP Pavilion Gaming i5-9400F GTX 1660Ti Desktop offers a strong GPU for VR gaming. It fits users who prioritize graphics performance over storage or memory capacity.
Dell Optiplex Tower Core i5 PC
Best for: Standard office tasks and business use
- Processor Model
- Intel Core i5-6500
- System Memory
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro
- Form Factor
- Tower
- Use
- Business
View on Amazon: Dell Optiplex Tower Core i5 PC Affiliate link
This Dell OptiPlex Tower runs on a 6th Gen Intel Core i5-6500 processor. It includes 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD for quick boot times. The system comes with Windows 11 Pro and a keyboard and mouse. It is a business-oriented desktop that offers standard performance for everyday tasks. The tower form factor provides space for future upgrades.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-6500 6th Gen Processor
- 8GB DDR4 System Memory
- 256GB SSD for fast storage
- Windows 11 Pro included
Cons
- Only 8GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
- 256GB SSD has limited storage capacity
- 6th Gen processor is older than newer alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a reliable Windows 11 Pro desktop for office work
- You prefer a tower form factor for easy access
- You want a complete setup with keyboard and mouse
Skip if
- You require high-end gaming performance
- You need more than 8GB of RAM for professional apps
- You want the latest generation processor
Verdict: Dell OptiPlex Tower i5-6500 is a solid business desktop for users who need Windows 11 Pro and standard office performance. It fits those who prioritize reliability and upgradeability over raw speed.
Dell OptiPlex SFF Core i5 Desktop
Best for: compact office and business productivity setups
- Graphics Card
- Intel HD 530
- Processor Model
- Intel Core i5-6500T
- System Memory
- 8GB DDR3
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro
- Form Factor
- Small Form Factor (SFF)
View on Amazon: Dell OptiPlex SFF Core i5 Desktop Affiliate link
This Dell OptiPlex 5040 SFF desktop uses an Intel Core i5-6500T processor and 8GB DDR3 RAM. It includes a 256GB SSD for storage and Windows 11 Pro. The compact Small Form Factor design fits tight spaces. It features Intel HD 530 graphics and multiple connectivity ports. This system suits users needing reliable performance for office tasks or basic multitasking without requiring high-end gaming capabilities.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-6500T processor handles multitasking efficiently
- 256GB SSD provides rapid data access
- Windows 11 Pro operating system included
- Compact Small Form Factor fits tight workspaces
Cons
- Intel HD 530 graphics lack power for modern gaming
- 8GB RAM limits heavy multitasking or professional workloads
- 6th Gen processor is older than current alternatives
Good fit if
- You need a compact PC for office work
- You require Windows 11 Pro for business use
- You have limited desk space available
Skip if
- You want to play modern AAA games
- You need high-end graphics for video editing
- You prefer the latest generation processors
Verdict: Dell OptiPlex 5040 SFF Desktop is a solid choice for business users or students who need a reliable, space-saving machine for everyday tasks. It is not suitable for gamers or creative professionals requiring high performance.
HP ProDesk SFF Desktop with Core i5
Best for: Compact business computing and office work
- Graphics Card
- Intel HD Graphics 530
- Processor Model
- Intel Core i5-7500
- System Memory
- 8GB DDR4
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit
- Form Factor
- SFF
View on Amazon: HP ProDesk SFF Desktop with Core i5 Affiliate link
The HP ProDesk 600 G3 SFF is a compact desktop powered by a 7th Gen Intel Core i5-7500 processor. It includes 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD for responsive performance. The system runs Windows 11 Pro and supports dual 4K displays. This small form factor machine suits users who need reliable business-grade computing in a space-saving chassis without dedicated graphics hardware.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-7500 processor with up to 3.8 GHz turbo frequency
- 256GB SSD for fast system responsiveness
- Windows 11 Pro operating system
- Supports dual 4K displays
Cons
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 limits gaming performance
- 8GB RAM may restrict heavy multitasking
- Small form factor restricts future hardware upgrades
Good fit if
- You need a compact desktop for office tasks
- You require Windows 11 Pro for business features
- You want a system supporting dual 4K monitors
Skip if
- You plan to play modern 3D games
- You need dedicated graphics for video editing
- You require high-end multitasking capabilities
Verdict: HP ProDesk 600 G3 SFF i5-7500 is a practical choice for professionals needing a small footprint and reliable daily performance. It fits users who prioritize business software compatibility over graphical power.
HP ProDesk Core i5 RGB Desktop
Best for: entry-level gaming and office tasks
- Processor Model
- Intel Core i5-6500
- System Memory
- 8GB DDR4
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro
- Form Factor
- Desktop
- Dimensions
- 19 × 16 × 7 inches
View on Amazon: HP ProDesk Core i5 RGB Desktop Affiliate link
This HP ProDesk desktop pairs an Intel Core i5-6500 processor with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD. It includes a gaming keyboard and mouse combo. The unit features customizable RGB lighting on the front panel, controlled via a remote. It runs Windows 11 Pro. This setup offers reliable performance for entry-level gaming and general computing tasks.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-6500 6th Gen processor at 3.2 GHz
- 8GB DDR4 system memory for multitasking
- 256GB SSD for fast boot times
- Customizable RGB lighting with remote control
- Includes gaming keyboard and mouse combo
Cons
- 6th Gen Intel processor is older than modern alternatives
- 8GB RAM limits heavy multitasking capabilities
- 256GB storage fills up quickly with modern games
Good fit if
- You want a budget-friendly PC with RGB lighting
- You need a system for light gaming and office work
- You prefer a pre-configured setup with peripherals included
Skip if
- You require high-end gaming performance
- You need more than 8GB of RAM for professional apps
- You want the latest generation processor technology
Verdict: HP ProDesk i5-6500 RGB Gaming PC is a practical entry-level option for users who want basic gaming capability and aesthetic lighting without a complex build. It suits those who prioritize included peripherals and a ready-to-use Windows 11 Pro environment.
HP ProDesk 6-Core Desktop PC
Best for: everyday office tasks and web browsing
- Processor Model
- Intel i5
- System Memory
- 8 GB
- Storage Capacity
- 250 GB SSD
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Professional
- Use
- Business
- Dimensions
- 11.4 × 3.7 × 11.5 inches
View on Amazon: HP ProDesk 6-Core Desktop PC Affiliate link
This HP ProDesk 600G4 desktop features an 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes a 250GB SSD for fast boot times and runs Windows 11 Professional. The compact SFF design fits easily on a desk. It is suitable for everyday office tasks, web browsing, and media streaming. The system includes USB-C and DisplayPort connectivity.
Pros
- 8th Gen Intel Core i5 hexa-core processor
- 250GB SSD for quick system response
- 8GB DDR4 RAM for multitasking
- Windows 11 Professional pre-installed
- Includes USB Type-C and DisplayPort outputs
Cons
- 250GB SSD storage is limited for large media libraries
- 8GB RAM may struggle with heavy professional workloads
- No dedicated graphics card for gaming or 3D rendering
Good fit if
- You need a reliable PC for office work and web browsing
- You want a compact desktop that fits in tight spaces
- You require Windows 11 Professional for business features
Skip if
- You plan to play modern 3D games
- You need high-end video editing capabilities
- You require more than 250GB of storage
Verdict: HP ProDesk 600G4 i5 8GB SSD Desktop is a practical business machine for users who prioritize processing speed and compact size over graphical power. It suits office workers who need a stable Windows 11 environment for daily tasks.
HP Core i5 SFF Workstation Desktop
Best for: compact office workstations
- Processor Model
- Intel Core i5-6500
- System Memory
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro
- Form Factor
- SFF
- Use
- Workstation
View on Amazon: HP Core i5 SFF Workstation Desktop Affiliate link
The HP Z240 SFF is a compact workstation built for professional tasks. It features an Intel Core i5-6500 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. This system runs Windows 11 Pro and includes WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Its small form factor fits well in tight office spaces. It is designed for CAD and engineering applications rather than high-end gaming.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-6500 processor for professional workloads
- Compact 3.95-inch wide SFF chassis saves desk space
- Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro for business readiness
- Includes WiFi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity
Cons
- Only 8GB of RAM limits heavy multitasking
- 256GB SSD offers limited storage capacity
- Lacks dedicated graphics card for gaming
Good fit if
- You need a small PC for office CAD work
- You require a workstation with Windows 11 Pro
- You want a compact desktop with WiFi
Skip if
- You need a PC for modern gaming
- You require more than 8GB of RAM
- You need large storage for media files
Verdict: HP Z240 SFF Workstation PC is a practical choice for professionals needing a compact, business-ready machine. It suits users who prioritize space-saving design and Windows 11 Pro over gaming performance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HP Pavilion GTX 1660 Ti Gaming Desktop | Dell Optiplex Tower Core i5 PC | Dell OptiPlex SFF Core i5 Desktop | HP ProDesk SFF Desktop with Core i5 | HP ProDesk Core i5 RGB Desktop | HP ProDesk 6-Core Desktop PC | HP Core i5 SFF Workstation Desktop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti | not stated | Intel HD 530 | Intel HD Graphics 530 | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Processor Model | Intel Core i5-9400F | Intel Core i5-6500 | Intel Core i5-6500T | Intel Core i5-7500 | Intel Core i5-6500 | Intel i5 | Intel Core i5-6500 |
| System Memory | 8GB | 8GB | 8GB DDR3 | 8GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 | 8 GB | 8GB |
| Storage Capacity | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 250 GB SSD | 256GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Professional | Windows 11 Pro |
| Form Factor | Desktop | Tower | Small Form Factor (SFF) | SFF | Desktop | not stated | SFF |
| Processor | Core i5 | Core i5 | Core i5 | Core i5 | Core i5 | Core i5 | Core i5 |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 256GB SSD |
| Use | VR | Business | not stated | Business | not stated | Business | Workstation |
| Dimensions | 10.9 × 6.7 × 13.3 inches | 19 × 16 × 7 inches | not stated | not stated | 19 × 16 × 7 inches | 11.4 × 3.7 × 11.5 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 11.4 pounds | not stated | not stated | not stated | 15.7 pounds | 11.6 pounds | not stated |
| Size | DESKTOP | 8GB RAM + 256GB SSD | Compact | not stated | not stated | 8GB RAM | Everyday Use | not stated |
| Color | black | not stated | Black | not stated | RGB | Black | not stated |
| Model | 690-0073w | Optiplex | Dell OptiPlex 5040 SFF | HP ProDesk 600 G3 SFF | ProDesk | 600G4 | HP Z240 SFF |
For a related comparison, read hp pavilion gaming desktop alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Can these HP ProDesk models handle VR gaming like the Pavilion?
No, these models are not suitable for VR gaming. The HP ProDesk i5-6500 and 600G4 variants prioritize business software compatibility and processing speed over graphical power. They lack the dedicated NVIDIA GTX 1660Ti graphics card found in the Pavilion, which is essential for running virtual reality applications smoothly and at acceptable frame rates.
Which alternative offers the best graphics performance for VR?
The HP Pavilion GTX 1660 Ti Gaming Desktop is the best choice for VR gaming among these options. It features a dedicated GTX 1660 Ti graphics card, providing the necessary visual horsepower for virtual reality titles. Other listed desktops rely on integrated graphics or business-focused components that do not support demanding VR environments effectively.
Do these business desktops come with Windows 11 Pro?
Yes, most of the listed business desktops include Windows 11 Pro. The Dell OptiPlex Tower, Dell OptiPlex SFF, HP ProDesk 600 G3, HP ProDesk RGB, and HP Z240 Workstation all ship with this operating system. This provides enhanced security features and management tools suitable for professional environments or users who prefer the Pro edition interface.
Are these alternatives compact enough for small desks?
Several options are designed for space-saving setups. The Dell OptiPlex SFF and HP ProDesk 600 G3 SFF are explicitly described as compact or small footprint machines. The HP Z240 SFF Workstation also prioritizes a space-saving design. These form factors fit well in tight office spaces or on smaller desks where a standard tower would be too large.
What is the standard memory and storage configuration?
Most listed desktops share a standard configuration of 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. This setup is consistent across the HP Pavilion GTX, both Dell OptiPlex models, the HP ProDesk 600 G3, the HP ProDesk RGB, and the HP ProDesk 600G4. This combination provides adequate speed for everyday tasks, though it may require upgrades for heavy multitasking or large file storage.
Can I use these for standard office work?
Yes, several models are ideal for standard office tasks. The Dell OptiPlex Tower and SFF, along with the HP ProDesk 600 G3, 600G4, and Z240, are marketed for business productivity and everyday tasks. They offer reliable performance for web browsing, document editing, and business software, making them practical choices for professionals who do not need high-end graphical capabilities.
Does any option include aesthetic lighting for a gaming look?
The HP ProDesk Core i5 RGB Desktop includes RGB lighting. This model offers a practical entry-level option for users who want basic gaming capability and aesthetic lighting without a complex build. It suits those who prioritize included peripherals and a ready-to-use environment while still maintaining the business-oriented specifications of the ProDesk line.
Which model is best for a dedicated workstation setup?
The HP Z240 SFF Workstation is the best option for a dedicated workstation. It is designed for professionals needing a compact, business-ready machine. It prioritizes space-saving design and Windows 11 Pro over gaming performance, making it suitable for specialized professional tasks that require reliability and a small footprint rather than high-end graphical processing power.