Velocity Micro Raptor Z55

This is a new era where custom PC makers are ready to prove to the world that smaller form factors don’t necessarily have to mean smaller performance. With careful planning and optimal usage of all the available nooks and crannies, as long as you’ve...

Fast processor ; Excellent gaming performance ; Lightning-fast SSD

Awkward internals ; Not a great price

Despite a few flaws, the Velocity Micro Raptor M60 is a solid gaming desktop. Aside from its problematic internal layout, it stands up to its nearest competitors and performs well for the price — but does it perform well enough?

Superlative build quality and customer support ; Phenomenal gaming performance ; Subtle rather than garish design ; Ample component options at checkout

Very expensive ; Almost too plain-looking for hardcore gamers

While its mighty price puts it out of reach of most gamers, Velocity Micro's latest Raptor desktop tower offers admirable quality and performance.

Blistering performance ; Available "Alder Lake" Intel Core i9, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti options ; Pristine custom build ; Professional aesthetic ; Robust US-based support

Pricey, particularly for base model ; Conservative, professional design may turn gamers off

Velocity Micro delivers on its reputation for performance-first builds in the new "Alder Lake"-based Raptor Z55 boutique desktop PC, which beats all comers in our Core i9/GeForce RTX 3080 Ti configuration.

Strong all-around performance. ; No-fuss case design that fits professional settings. ; Clean installation and cable management. ; A ton of storage in our configuration.

Some competitors offer comparable performance at lower prices. ; Minimalist aesthetic may not please all shoppers.

The Velocity Micro Raptor Z55a is a clean, straightforward gaming desktop with excellent performance. It's a bit pricey, though, and doesn't do a lot to differentiate itself from its rivals.

Breakneck performance. Capable of 60fps 4K gaming. Case is easy to work with. Test model uses unique factory-overclocked, limited-edition Core i7 chip.

Plain design and interior layout for such a pricey system.

Bottom Line: It isn't a major head-turner, but Velocity Micro's Raptor Z55 gaming desktop is highly configurable, well built, and low-fuss. As tested, with a limited-edition Intel CPU and top graphics, it's blazing-fast for 4K gaming—and all other tasks.

Extraordinary all-around performance. Overclocked Intel Core X processor and dual graphics. Slim, attractive case with easy access for maintenance and upgrades.

Expensive as configured.

At its exorbitant price, this PC as configured is obviously not meant (or necessary) for the average user, or even most gamers. Its targets are media professionals, artists, hardcore hobbyists, and enthusiast gamers, all of whom will need to have some...

Fast gaming performance. Attractive, understated chassis. Easy-to-access interior is upgrade and maintenance friendly.

Lacks the power needed for dependable 4K gaming.

Conclusion The Velocity Micro Raptor Z95 is a powerful, sleek gaming desktop loaded with cutting-edge components. Between the new Core i7 Extreme Edition processor and the GTX 1080, this system is well equipped to run the latest games at high settings,...

Clean, minimalist design ; Smallish form factor takes little room

Limited to a single graphics card

Starting at a little over a grand in a minimal configuration, this smallish and modestly adorned gaming PC caters to the bling-averse user. Our $1899 test unit was impressively fast, quiet, and well-assembled.