best mini pc In 2024, the demand for compact and powerful computing solutions is higher than ever. Mini PC have become a popular choice for both professionals and home users due to their small form factor, versatility, and performance capabilities. Whether you need a mini PC for office work, entertainment, or specialized tasks, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 best mini PCs in 2024, providing detailed reviews, configurations, advantages and disadvantages, and buying advice to help you make an informed decision.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Mini PC in 2024
When selecting a mini PC, several factors should be considered to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you navigate the options available in 2024:
- Processor and Performance
- The processor is the heart of any computer. For mini PCs, common processors include Intel’s Celeron, Core i3, i5, i7, and AMD Ryzen series. The latest Intel Alder Lake and AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors offer excellent performance.
- Ensure the processor is powerful enough for your intended use. For general office work and media consumption, a mid-range processor like the Intel N100 or AMD Ryzen 5 is sufficient. For more demanding tasks, consider higher-end processors like the Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7.
- Memory (RAM)
- RAM is crucial for multitasking and smooth operation. Most mini PCs come with 8GB or 16GB of DDR4 RAM, which is adequate for general use. If you plan on running more intensive applications or multitasking heavily, look for models with expandable RAM options up to 32GB or more.
- Storage
- Storage capacity and type are vital for performance and storage needs. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster and more reliable than traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). Look for mini PCs with at least 256GB SSD storage, with the option to expand via additional SSD or HDD slots.
- Graphics
- Integrated graphics are sufficient for most tasks, including 4K video playback and casual gaming. However, if you need a mini PC for graphic-intensive applications or gaming, look for models with dedicated graphics cards or powerful integrated GPUs like Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon.
- Connectivity and Ports
- Ensure the mini PC has adequate connectivity options, including USB ports (USB 3.0 or higher), HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and audio jacks. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 or higher provide faster and more reliable wireless connections.
- Dual monitor support is beneficial for increased productivity, so check for multiple HDMI or DisplayPort outputs.
- Operating System
- Most mini PCs come with Windows 11, but some also offer Linux compatibility. Choose the operating system that best fits your needs and ensure it supports your preferred applications.
- Form Factor and Design
- Mini PCs are designed to be compact and space-saving. Consider the dimensions and weight if you need a portable solution. Some models offer VESA mount compatibility, allowing you to attach the mini PC to the back of a monitor.
- Cooling and Noise
- Efficient cooling is essential to maintain performance and longevity. Look for mini PCs with good thermal management systems, including built-in fans or passive cooling solutions.
- Price and Warranty
- Prices for mini PCs can vary widely based on specifications. Set a budget and look for models that offer the best balance of performance and features within your price range. Check for warranty and customer support options as well.
LIST OF PRODUCTS IN THE ARTICLE
Product Reviews
KAMRUI Mini PC
The KAMRUI AK1 PRO Mini PC is a compact and powerful device, perfect for users seeking a versatile computing solution. With a sleek design and robust configuration, it is well-suited for both office work and entertainment.
Detailed Review of Product Configuration The KAMRUI AK1 PRO is powered by the Celeron Jasper Lake N5105 processor, boasting a 4MB cache and speeds up to 2.9GHz. This processor offers superior performance compared to its predecessors, providing smooth and responsive operation. The mini PC is equipped with 12GB DDR4 memory, ensuring efficient multitasking and quick application switching. It also features a 256GB M.2 2280 SSD, delivering fast read and write speeds.
Advantages
- Compact Design: Measuring just 5.04 x 5.04 x 2.05 inches, the AK1 PRO is easy to fit into any workspace.
- Dual Monitor Support: Two HDMI ports allow for dual monitor setups, enhancing productivity.
- Expandability: An empty expansion bay allows users to add a 2.5-inch SSD or HDD up to 2TB.
- Connectivity: Multiple USB ports, HDMI ports, and a Gigabit Ethernet port ensure versatile connectivity options.
- Performance: The combination of 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD provides excellent performance for various tasks.
Disadvantages
- Limited Graphics Performance: While it supports 4K UHD at 60Hz, the integrated UHD Graphics 800 MHz may not be sufficient for high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications.
- Noise Levels: Although equipped with a cooling fan, some users might find it slightly noisy during intensive tasks.
Advice When Buying the Product The KAMRUI AK1 PRO is ideal for users who need a compact, powerful, and versatile mini PC for everyday tasks, media consumption, and light office work. If you require high-end graphics performance, consider other options with dedicated GPUs.
Beelink S12 Pro Mini PC
The Beelink S12 Pro Mini PC is a high-performance, compact device designed for users who need powerful computing in a small package. It is equipped with the latest Intel Alder Lake-N100 processor and offers impressive storage and memory options.
Detailed Review of Product Configuration Powered by the 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake-N100 processor, the Beelink S12 Pro delivers exceptional performance, with speeds up to 3.4GHz. It features 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 500GB SATA3 SSD, providing ample memory and storage for multitasking and storing large files. The mini PC also supports additional storage expansion with a 2.5-inch HDD or M.2 SSD up to 2TB.
Advantages
- High Performance: The Intel Alder Lake-N100 processor offers significant performance improvements, making it suitable for various tasks.
- Storage Options: The 500GB SSD can be expanded up to 2TB, providing flexibility for storage needs.
- Graphics and Display: Intel UHD Graphics supports 4K video playback, and dual HDMI ports enable dual monitor setups.
- Connectivity: Includes USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, HDMI ports, a 1000M LAN port, and Bluetooth 5.2 for versatile connectivity.
- Compact Size: Measuring just 4.52×4.01×1.54 inches, it is highly portable and space-saving.
Disadvantages
- Limited Graphics Performance: While suitable for 4K video playback, the integrated graphics may not meet the needs of heavy gamers or graphic designers.
- Price: Slightly higher price point compared to other mini PCs with similar specs.
Advice When Buying the Product The Beelink S12 Pro is perfect for users who need a high-performance mini PC for office work, media consumption, and general computing tasks. If you require a more affordable option, consider other mini PCs with slightly lower specifications.
DreamQuest Mini PC
The DreamQuest Mini PC is a powerful and compact device designed for users seeking robust performance and versatile connectivity options. It is preloaded with Windows 11 Pro and supports various operating systems.
Detailed Evaluation of Product Configuration The DreamQuest Mini PC features the latest 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 processor, offering speeds up to 3.4GHz. It comes with 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB M.2 SSD, which can be expanded up to 2TB. The mini PC supports 4K video playback and offers triple monitor support with three HDMI ports.
Advantages
- High Performance: The Intel Alder Lake N95 processor ensures smooth operation and efficient multitasking.
- Storage and Memory: 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD provide ample space for applications and files, with options for expansion.
- Graphics and Display: Intel UHD Graphics supports 4K video playback and triple monitor setups.
- Connectivity: Multiple USB ports, dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, and HDMI ports offer versatile connectivity.
- Compact and Portable: Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to transport and fit into any workspace.
Disadvantages
- Cooling Fan Noise: The cooling fan may produce noise under heavy load.
- Limited High-End Graphics Capability: The integrated graphics may not suffice for high-end gaming or intensive graphic work.
Advice When Buying the Product The DreamQuest Mini PC is ideal for users who need a powerful and versatile computing solution for office work, media consumption, and light multitasking. For heavy gaming or graphic-intensive tasks, consider other options with dedicated graphics.
GMKtec Mini PC
The GMKtec Nucbox G3 Mini PC is a compact and powerful device, featuring the latest 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N100 processor. It is designed for efficient multitasking and high-speed performance.
Detailed Product Configuration Review The GMKtec Nucbox G3 is powered by the Intel Alder Lake N100 processor, offering speeds up to 3.4GHz. It comes with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and a 512GB SSD, providing ample memory and storage for various tasks. The mini PC supports dual monitor setups with two HDMI ports and includes multiple connectivity options.
Advantages
- Performance: The Intel Alder Lake N100 processor ensures efficient performance for multitasking and general computing tasks.
- Memory and Storage: 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD provide ample space and speed for applications and files.
- Graphics and Display: Supports 4K video playback and dual monitor setups with HDMI ports.
- Connectivity: Multiple USB ports, HDMI ports, and Gigabit Ethernet port offer versatile connectivity.
- Compact Design: The small form factor makes it easy to fit into any workspace.
Disadvantages
- Noise Levels: The cooling fan may produce noise during intensive tasks.
- Graphics Performance: Integrated graphics may not be suitable for high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications.
Advice When Buying the Product The GMKtec Nucbox G3 is perfect for users who need a compact and powerful mini PC for office work, media consumption, and light multitasking. For more demanding graphics tasks, consider other options with dedicated GPUs.
Apple 2023 Mac mini pc
The 2023 Apple Mac Mini, supercharged by the M2 chip, brings a new level of performance and versatility to the compact desktop market. With its powerful specifications and comprehensive connectivity options, the Mac Mini is designed to cater to both professionals and everyday users. Whether you’re creating rich presentations, editing photos, or enjoying immersive gaming, the M2-powered Mac Mini promises exceptional speed and efficiency.
Detailed Review of Product Configuration
Performance:
- Processor: The M2 chip, featuring 8 CPU cores and 10 GPU cores, significantly enhances the Mac Mini’s processing power. This ensures smooth multitasking, efficient handling of demanding applications, and an overall responsive experience.
- Memory: The unified memory system can be configured up to 24GB, offering high bandwidth and low latency. This setup allows for quick data movement, making everything you do on the Mac Mini fluid and seamless.
- Storage: Equipped with all-flash SSD storage, the Mac Mini offers configurations up to 2TB. This ensures fast access to your files, apps, and media libraries, reducing load times and enhancing overall productivity.
Connectivity:
- Ports: The Mac Mini includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, a headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and Gigabit Ethernet. For users needing even faster network speeds, a 10Gb Ethernet option is available.
- Compatibility: The Mac Mini runs all your favorite apps, from Microsoft 365 to Adobe Creative Cloud to Zoom, lightning fast. Over 15,000 apps and plug-ins are optimized for the M2 chip, ensuring broad compatibility and excellent performance.
Security and Ease of Use:
- Security: With macOS Ventura and the M2 chip, the Mac Mini includes advanced privacy and security features, such as built-in protections against malware and viruses. The next-generation Secure Enclave helps keep your system and data protected.
- Setup: Setting up the Mac Mini is straightforward, and with Apple ID, transitioning to a Mac environment is seamless. You can start using your Mac Mini right out of the box.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Exceptional Performance: The M2 chip delivers impressive speed and power, making it ideal for a wide range of tasks.
- Versatile Connectivity: With multiple ports and connectivity options, the Mac Mini easily integrates into any setup.
- Efficient Memory Management: The unified memory architecture provides fast, fluid performance, especially for multitasking.
- Robust Security: Industry-leading security features ensure your data remains safe and protected.
- Compact Design: Despite its small size, the Mac Mini packs powerful features, making it a great space-saving solution.
Disadvantages:
- Price: The Mac Mini can be relatively expensive, especially when configured with higher memory and storage options.
- Limited Upgradeability: While the Mac Mini offers configurable options, it lacks the upgrade flexibility found in some other desktop models.
- Peripherals Needed: You’ll need to purchase a monitor, keyboard, and mouse separately, which adds to the overall cost.
Advice When Buying the Product
When considering the Apple 2023 Mac Mini with the M2 chip, keep the following in mind:
- Identify Your Needs: Assess what you primarily use your computer for. If you need high performance for professional tasks, the Mac Mini with higher memory and storage configurations is a great choice.
- Budget Considerations: Be aware of the total cost, including necessary peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
- Future Proofing: Opt for higher memory and storage configurations if you anticipate needing more capacity in the future.
- Connectivity Requirements: Ensure the Mac Mini’s connectivity options align with your existing devices and network setup.
LIST OF PRODUCTS IN THE ARTICLE
How We Test Mini PC
To ensure accurate and objective evaluations of Mini PCs, we conduct a series of tests and assessments based on the following criteria:
1. Processing Performance
- Benchmark Tests: We use popular benchmark software such as Geekbench, Cinebench, and PassMark to evaluate CPU and GPU performance.
- Real-World Usage: Running office applications, basic video editing, and light gaming to test multitasking capabilities and overall performance.
2. Memory and Storage
- Read/Write Speed: Using CrystalDiskMark to measure the read and write speeds of SSDs.
- Expandability: Checking the ability to upgrade RAM and storage of each device.
3. Graphics and Display
- Graphics Performance: Running light games and graphic software to evaluate image processing capabilities.
- Display Connectivity: Testing support for multiple monitors and the maximum resolution of HDMI or DisplayPort outputs.
4. Connectivity and Compatibility
- Ports: Checking the number and types of ports (USB, HDMI, Ethernet, etc.) to ensure flexibility.
- Wireless Connectivity: Measuring the speed and stability of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections.
5. Stability and Temperature
- Temperature Monitoring: Using software like HWMonitor to track CPU and GPU temperatures during usage.
- Stability: Running stress tests to evaluate system stability and cooling efficiency.
6. Usability and Additional Features
- User Interface: Evaluating the interface and user experience of Windows or other operating systems.
- Additional Features: Considering special features such as security, power management, and expandability.
LIST OF PRODUCTS IN THE ARTICLE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) best mini pc
1. Can a Mini PC replace a traditional desktop computer?
Answer: Yes, in many cases, a Mini PC can replace a traditional desktop computer, especially if you need a compact and space-saving device. However, for tasks requiring high performance, such as heavy gaming or professional video editing, a traditional desktop with more powerful hardware may be a better choice.
2. Can a Mini PC play games?
Answer: Mini PCs can play light or older games with lower graphics requirements. For modern games requiring high graphics performance, you should look for Mini PCs with powerful GPUs or consider a dedicated gaming PC.
3. How can I upgrade the memory and storage on a Mini PC?
Answer: Many Mini PCs allow for RAM and storage upgrades. You can check the user manual or search for information on the manufacturer’s website for details on how to upgrade.
4. Is a Mini PC suitable for use as a media server?
Answer: Yes, Mini PCs are a great choice for use as media servers due to their compact size, adequate performance, and ability to connect to various devices over a local network.
5. Are Mini PCs durable?
Answer: The durability of a Mini PC depends on the quality of its components and how you use it. Maintaining the cooling system and regular cleaning will help extend the device’s lifespan.
6. Can I install a different operating system on a Mini PC?
Answer: Most Mini PCs support installing different operating systems such as Windows, Linux, or even macOS Hackintosh (with compatible hardware). You should check compatibility before installing a new operating system.
7. Do Mini PCs consume a lot of power?
Answer: Mini PCs typically consume less power than traditional desktop computers, making them an energy-efficient choice for those needing a continuously operating computer.
With this information and guidance, you will be able to choose a Mini PC that suits your needs and make the most of its capabilities.