Corsair One i300: A Compact Powerhouse with a Premium Price Tag

The Corsair One series has consistently pushed the boundaries of pre-built gaming PCs, packing top-tier performance into surprisingly compact chassis. The i300 iteration promises to continue this trend, offering the latest generation Intel processor and NVIDIA graphics in a sleek, liquid-cooled package. But does it deliver on its promises, and more importantly, is it worth the investment? Let’s dive in.

Performance is where the i300 truly shines. Our review unit, equipped with an Intel Core i9-13900K and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090, chewed through every game we threw at it, delivering consistently high frame rates even at 4K resolution with maxed-out settings. AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring ran flawlessly, showcasing the raw power under the hood. The liquid cooling system effectively managed the heat generated by these components, ensuring stable performance even during extended gaming sessions. This prebuilt offers similar performance levels to custom-built rigs, while offering a smaller footprint.

Corsair’s signature minimalist design aesthetic is on full display. The sleek, aluminum chassis is both visually appealing and functional, promoting airflow and dissipating heat. The compact size is a major selling point, allowing it to fit comfortably on a desk without dominating the space. Build quality is exceptional, with every component meticulously assembled. The internal layout is surprisingly clean and organized, considering the amount of hardware packed inside. The accessible side panels allow for easier future upgrades.

Beyond raw power, the i300 boasts a range of features that enhance the gaming experience. The included Corsair iCUE software allows for extensive customization of RGB lighting, fan speeds, and system monitoring. Connectivity is plentiful, with a wide array of USB ports, including Thunderbolt 4, providing ample options for peripherals and external storage. The integrated Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet offer blazing-fast network speeds for online gaming and streaming.

However, the i300 is not without its drawbacks. The price is a significant barrier to entry, placing it firmly in the premium segment of the gaming PC market. While the components themselves are top-of-the-line, building a similar system yourself would likely be more cost-effective. Furthermore, the compact design does impose some limitations on upgradeability. While the RAM and storage are relatively easy to upgrade, replacing the GPU or CPU could prove more challenging. The reliance on proprietary components further restricts customization options. Finally, despite the effective cooling, the system can still generate noticeable fan noise under heavy load.

Ultimately, the Corsair One i300 is a fantastic gaming PC for those who prioritize performance, aesthetics, and convenience. It’s a plug-and-play solution that delivers a premium gaming experience without the hassle of building your own rig. However, the high price tag and limited upgradeability make it a less compelling option for budget-conscious gamers or those who prefer the flexibility of a custom-built system. This PC best suits users who value space-saving design, demand high performance, and are willing to pay a premium for a hassle-free experience.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon