How to Draw a Computer

In this realistic yet simple lesson, we will show you how to draw a computer with a monitor, a tower, a keyboard, a mouse, and speakers.

Computers can have many different configurations, varying by production year, the companies that manufacture the individual components, and the specifics of a custom-built system.

In this lesson, we show how to draw an average desktop computer – the type most people picture when they hear the word “computer.” Each individual part can be adjusted so you can depict the exact setup you have in mind.

You can also change the design to fit older models. For example, you can draw a horizontal computer tower placed under the monitor, or give the monitor a larger back section and thicker borders if you want it to resemble a classic PC from the eighties or nineties.

How to draw a computer step by step

Step 1: Sketch the basic shape of the monitor

Start the desktop and draw the monitor, since it is the most noticeable part of the desktop and the one the user looks at for most of their work. Outline its basic shape using four straight lines, keeping in mind linear symmetry and perspective as you place the edges.

Step 2: Draw the keyboard beneath the monitor

Now, using the outline of a long, narrow rectangle, draw the keyboard beneath the monitor, again keeping linear perspective in mind. The far edge of the keyboard should appear slightly smaller than the near edge. Make sure the perspective of the keyboard matches the perspective of the monitor so both elements align correctly in the same space.

Step 3: Sketch the monitor stand and base

Now continue working on the monitor’s outline by drawing its stand, which begins at the lower edge of the monitor and is partially hidden behind the top edge of the keyboard. The stand consists of two parts: the vertical support and the base that rests on the desk. Keep in mind that both of these parts can have any shape, depending on the type of monitor you want to depict.

Step 4: Draw the computer system unit

Now move to the right side of the desktop setup and draw the system unit using a shape similar to a vertically stretched cube. In our cube drawing lesson, we explained in detail how to construct geometric forms like this, so here you simply need to apply the same principles while making the cube taller rather than equal on all sides.

Step 5: Add depth and frame to the monitor

Now return to the monitor to give it a more dimensional and realistic appearance. First, draw a smaller rectangle inside the existing outline to create the frame around the screen. Then add depth to the monitor by drawing a few straight lines along the side, forming the visible side edge.

Step 6: Draw the computer speakers and mouse

Now it’s time to add the components that make using a computer more engaging. Start by drawing the speakers on the left and right sides of the keyboard, using simple rectangular shapes at this stage. Then draw the computer mouse on the right side if you want to depict a setup for a right-handed user, or place the mouse on the left if you prefer a left-handed configuration.

Step 7: Add key rows and refine the keyboard

Now return to the keyboard to give it a more detailed and realistic appearance. Begin by drawing the long horizontal lines that define the rows of keys. Then add the vertical divisions, keeping in mind that they should not form a perfect grid. Keys like Space, Shift, and Tab should be drawn wider than the standard ones. Finally, add the side edges of the keyboard to give it more volume and a clearer three-dimensional look.

Step 8: Draw the computer system unit in detail

It’s time to add details to the system unit by drawing the essential components. System units vary widely, and their front panels change significantly over the years, so the exact layout depends on the model you want to depict. Using straight lines, draw the outlines of the disc drive, memory card slots, and USB ports, as well as the power and reset buttons. You can also adjust these details and include any other components typically found on the front of a computer tower.

Step 9: Finalize details and add shading to the PC

Actually, the computer drawing lesson is almost complete. All that remains is to finalize the details and add shadows. Draw the buttons on the PC mouse. After that, begin adding shadows. We recommend using hatching and cross-hatching for this step. Start by adding texture to the speakers with cross-hatching. Then place shadows on the monitor stand, the side panel of the monitor, the keyboard, and the system unit. Your computer drawing is now finished. If you’re not satisfied with the result, simply erase any incorrect lines and draw them again.

Drawing electronic devices can be surprisingly engaging, even if it may seem simple or, for some people, even a bit dull at first glance.

Earlier, we showed how to draw an iPhone using similar principles. This lesson also relied on straight lines, symmetry, and clean geometry.

A similar approach was used in our lesson on how to draw an iMac, although that device relies on more minimalist forms and fewer visible details. This clearly shows how different manufacturers take distinct approaches to computer design.

Working with objects like these is very useful for developing a wide range of artistic skills and is essentially the next step after practicing cubes and spheres.

In other words, the artist is still drawing basic geometric forms in perspective but giving them a more complex and recognizable appearance.

It serves as an excellent transitional stage between drawing simple foundational shapes and moving on to more complex compositions.