Mini PCs are a great alternative to buying a bulky tower. They provide more power and take up less space.
Most users are looking for an alternative to large computers (opens new tab), and they quickly jump to laptops(opens new tab) or all-in-one PCs. However, they might be disappointed with the screen that is attached to their machine. What can you do if you don’t want a full-sized PC or feel restricted by an all-in-one? A Mini PC or Mac Mini is a great choice.
Mini PCs, also known as thin clients, can be integrated with your choice monitors (usually one at each end but sometimes up to four in certain devices), and peripherals like a webcam. Mini PCs can also be hidden behind a monitor or under a desk. Mini PCs can be as functional and compatible as other PCs despite their small size.
It can be a good thing to have no standards
One rule of electronics is that everything shrinks. This is true even for PCs. A Mini-ITX standard PC case is half the size of the old beige boxes and can accomplish the same tasks that required a large tower. Even though Mini-ITX is becoming obsolete, you can still find ready-made Mini-PCs that will fit into your pocket or your palm.
Mini PCs come in many sizes and are suitable for different uses. Some Mini PCs can be laid flat under a desk, while others are vertically designed and can be placed on top of your monitor. If they have VESA mounting holes, you can conceal them behind your monitor.
Mini PCs today are an excellent alternative to full-size desktops. They can also be used as all-in-one systems and all-in-one computers for many purposes, including data entry by administrative staff, customer service representatives, call center agents, creative professionals, and students who study at home.
We’ve done all the research for you so that you don’t have to. Here, we present you with the top Mini PCs available in every size and shape and for every use scenario. There will be entries from major PC brands such as Dell, Intel and Lenovo. Zotac is also included, which is one of the leaders in this market segment. You will also find emerging stars such as MinisForum or Beelink in this highly contested market segment.
1. MinisForum UM700
Overall, it is the best: It can be used as a workstation or a small server.
Specifications
AMD Ryzen 7 3750H CPU (Quad Core)RAM: 16GBBStorage: 512GB PCIe SSD (2.5′ Slot Available)Ports and connectivity – 1x USB-C, 1x USB 3.0 Gen-1 (front), 1x USB 3.0 Gen-2 (front), 1x DisplayPort (front), 1x USB.3.1 Gen-2 (front), 1x USB.3.1 Gen-2 (front), 1x DisplayPort)Weight: 1.18kg/2.6lb Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Fast CPU, quiet fans+Mounting plates+Internal bay to a 2.5″ HDD/SSD+Can drive up three displays at 4K+Unbranded Windows install+Version of Manjaro Linux
Avoidable reasons
Not for high-end gaming.
This mini-computer is smaller than a mouse pad and square, making it ideal for students, office workers, and creative professionals working from home. The mini PC looks great on your desk. However, the mounting plate allows you to conceal it from others if needed. Its small size makes it easy for you to transport. Simply unplug the cables, and place the workhorse along with its power adaptor in a backpack to carry it anywhere.
Windows 10 boots in under 10 seconds thanks to AMD’s quad-core Ryzen 7 CPU with its PCI bus SSD. It comes with 16GB RAM, which is sufficient for 2022 and beyond. It is easy to remove the top plate if you need to increase your storage or memory. It works with standard SO-DIMMs, just like laptops. There is a 2.5-inch slot for an internal SSD/HDD.
One USB-C port is located on the front, along with two USB 3.2 Type-A ports. There’s also a 3.5mm headset jack and a power button. It also has more USB ports, including HDMI and DisplayPort to hook up a monitor. This tiny machine can easily drive three 4K displays. However, you’ll need to use three different cables for each display: USB-C and HDMI.
The company announced in January that the Manjaro Linux version would be $70 cheaper than the Windows version. Excellent connectivity is provided by the basic configuration’s dual-band Wi-Fi and Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Minisforum has a variety of RAM and storage configurations for this model. Some have two Gigabit Ethernet ports while the Linux preloaded version only has a 2.5Gbps Ethernet Port. If you are interested in wired networking, make sure to check this information when you order.
2. Dell Optiplex 3090 Micro
Ideal for small offices: This slim package features a fast six-core Intel i5 CPU, and Dell’s trademark support and warranty.
Specifications
Processor: Intel Core i5-10500T (Six cores).RAM: 8GB DDR4(several configurations). Maximum Memory: 64GB. Storage: 256GB M.2PCIe SSD (Configurations with 1TB SSD or 2TB HDD available). Ports and connectivity: DisplayPort, x2, USB 3.1×4 (rear), USB 3.0 (front), Microphone jack, Headphone Jack, Microphone JackWeight: 1.28kg/ 2.82lb Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Suitable for vertical and flat placement+Quiet fans+Three-year warranty
Avoidable reasons
No HDMI or USB-C outputs. Internal Wi-Fi is available at an additional cost. Only one USB port on the front.
Since its inception, Dell has been a leader in Mini-PCs. The company launched the Optiplex series many years ago. It has since developed it into full-size PCs, small form factor (SFF), and micro-PCs. The Optiplex 3090 Micro was released in late 2021. It replaces the 3080 of the previous year. It can support 64GB memory on its two memory slots and all its USB ports are 3.2Gen 1.
The unit can be placed vertically next to a screen, so the power button and front USB port are easily accessible. It makes for a great video conferencing device, as it has a microphone and headphones ports. Windows 10 is preloaded. However, Windows 11 Pro can be installed (opens in a new tab).
It includes a 10th-generation Intel Core i5-10500T processor with six cores at speeds of 2.30 GHz. This makes it ideal for office applications. The Intel UHD Graphics 630 shared graphic is great for editing graphics, watching HD videos and working in office applications. The back has two DisplayPort video ports that allow you to connect up to two monitors at 4K resolution (60Hz). Despite the power of your CPU, the cooler produces very little sound.
2.5-inch storage space is available for a SATA HDD or SSD. There are also two M.2-based slots inside: one holds the bundled PCI SSD and the other holds the Wi-Fi card and Bluetooth card.
One USB 3.2 port is on the front, while four USB 3.2 ports are located on the back. All of these ports can reach speeds up to 5Gbps and include two video outputs as well as an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet connection. The Kensington Lock slot can be used to secure the device to a desk. If you order direct from Dell, there is also an option to add a second video port. This could be either DisplayPort 1.4 or VGA.
You can fine-tune the system by ordering directly from Dell. There are options that include more RAM, a quad-core Intel i3 or an eight-core Intel i7 processor, additional RAM, and replacing the SSD with a FIPS-certified, self-encrypting drive. When ordering direct from Dell, a wired keyboard is included in the base price. The firm’s three-year warranty is an excellent value.
3. Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny – M720q
This Mini PC is ideal for corporate offices. It features dual-band Wi Fi and security features such as USB port whitelisting.
Specifications
CPU: Intel Core i5 8400T (6 cores).RAM: 8GBStorage: 256 GB MPIe SSDPorts: USB-C, USB 3.1 Type A (front), USB 3.1 Type A(x2, back), USB 3.1 Type A Type A, USB 3.1 Type A Type A, USB 3.1 Type A Type A (x2, behind), USB 3.1 Type A Type A Type A (x2,back), USB 3.1 Type A Type A Type A, x2, back), DisplayPort, Microphone Jack, and Headphone JackWeight : 1.32kg / 2.91lb Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Easy upgrade+Sturdy housing+Frontside USB-C port+Supports 3 monitors+Good security features+Dual Band Wi-Fi with an external antenna+Three year warranty
Avoidable reasons
-Little expansion possibilities -No discrete GPU
Lenovo’s M720q is professional-looking from all angles. The unit is small in footprint and can be used vertically or horizontally. It measures 7 inches by 1.35 inches. The unit has rubber pads that prevent it from sliding on the desk. A stand can also be used to place it vertically. If you buy the optional, but very affordable, VESA mounting bracket, it can be mounted behind a monitor.
The six-core Intel i5-9400T processor is housed in this sturdy metal case that can reach 3.4GHz. Mini PCs use a desktop-grade processor rather than a mobile-powered one. The integrated graphics card Intel UHD 630 handles the graphics. The system and CPU are kept cool by large air vents located at the back.
This model is available in a variety of RAM, storage, and CPU configurations. The highest-end version currently offered by Intel is the Intel i7-8700T, which has a 1 Terabyte SSD and 32GB RAM, for 2.5x the cost of the mid-level configuration.
You can remove the screw at the back and slide the top off the front to access the interior. Once that is done, you will see the 2.5-inch storage area. This is where you can add a SATA SSD/HDD. On the bottom panel, you will see two RAM slots with SODIMM memory and an SSD connected via M.2 PCI express.
It is a business device and comes with many benefits IT managers will appreciate, such as the Lenovo Vantage software, which allows them to perform everything from hardware scans to updating software and checking warranty status. It is also suitable for business environments because of its “Smart USB Protection”, which allows network administrators to manage what USB devices can be connected to the USB ports.
4. Beelink GTR-7
Ideal for multiple screens and security: Supports up to 4K resolution screens, comes with a fingerprint reader that allows for quick log-in
Specifications
AMD Ryzen 7 3750H (Quad Core).RAM: 16 GB DDR4 (2x8GB SODIMM).Storage: 512 GB SSD (two M.2 slots).Ports and connectivity – DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 3.0 (x2), USB 3.0(x6). Fingerprint reader, Combo Headphone & Mic Jack.Weight: 1.37kg / 3.01lb Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Supports four monitors+Fingerprint reader+Dual Gigabit Ethernet+Two M.2 slots+Good looking metal enclosure
Avoidable reasons
Gamers have no other options
Beelink’s GTR7 Mini PC is a desktop that Beelink has created in a compact, shiny package. It competes with the Mac Mini but offers some additional perks and functionality.
The fingerprint reader on the top of this Mini PC is one of its greatest advantages. It’s a great choice for security-conscious users and can be used in both business and home settings. The two Gigabit Ethernet ports make it an excellent firewall (opens a new tab), which can be used to run an Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) such as Suricata or other edge-of-network functions.
The connectivity of the device is its strength, with six USB Type C ports and one USB Type C port that supports videos. If you require a large work area, four monitors can be used simultaneously with the USB-C. This device supports the latest WiFi 6 (opens new tab) standards, as well as Gigabit Ethernet or Bluetooth 5.0.
The AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor inside is at 4GHz. It also has 16GB DDR4 memory (16 gigabytes per slot), which can be extended to 64GB by adding two 32GB modules. The Radeon Vega 10 is included so you don’t get the same graphics performance as a discrete GPU. However, it can drive multiple monitors at full resolution.
It supports up to four displays, making it ideal for image editing, video monitoring and digital signage. This flexibility is not available on the 2020 Mac Mini which can only support 2 displays.
It can be a great entertainment system that connects to a living-room TV, even if you don’t consider the additional perks such as dual gigabit Ethernet and a fingerprint scanner. It can also be expanded thanks to the 2.5-inch internal storage bay for SATA HDDs or SSDs. This makes it an excellent long-term machine. It is definitely worth the investment.
5. Mac Mini M1 (2021)
The best Mac Mini continues to be the choice of Mac users.
Specifications
CPU: Apple M1 (8 Cores).RAM: 16 GB Unified memory (non-upgradeable). 8GB version is also available.Storage: 512 GB SSD(mSATA).Ports and connectivity are Thunderbolt USB 3.1 Generation 2 USB-C, USB 3.1 Type A Gen1 (x2); HDMI, and Headphone Jack. Weight: 1.2Kg / 2.6lb Today’s Top Deals
+Fast CPU+Can run the most recent Mac OS
Avoidable reasons
-RAM can not be upgraded-Updated version this year
The 2020 Mac mini with the M1 CPU is impressive. It offers a portable solution that allows you to carry your computing wherever you go without having to sacrifice your Apple OS or software ecosystem.
It is compact and attractive and can run both the latest OS and legacy Intel apps, as well as iOS apps. Many Apple fans hoped that the new Mac mini would be presented at Unleashed in October last year. However, it did not materialize twice last season.
It doesn’t support memory above 16GB and it can’t be upgraded to the 8GB model. People who have Mac Minis with Intel processors will be disappointed to learn that they cannot use external graphics cards ( eGPUs) It’s also a great alternative to getting into the Apple world with minimal desk space.
6. Zotac ZBOX Ci329
Ideal for DIY projects on a budget: If you are looking to build your own Mini PC, Zotac’s quality motherboard and the case will work.
Specifications
CPU: Intel Celeron N4100 Quad Core (1.1 GHzRAM) Storage: Any DDR4-2400 SODIMM (2 slot) up to 32GBStorage and connectivity: HDMI 2.0a DisplayPort 1.2, VGA, DisplayPort 1.2, DisplayPort 1.2, VGA. Weight: 1.70kg/ 3.75lb Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Passive cooling+Excellent flow+Comes standard with the CPU. Just add memory or SSD
Avoidable reasons
-Gets warm – You may need to go into BIOS settings
You can either reuse parts from an older laptop or buy SODIMM memory online at a great price depending on your budget.
It is difficult to match motherboards and cases of this size, so some companies only offer cases without motherboards. This model is available from Zotac with the processor already installed. You will only need to add storage and RAM.
The company has been a leader in mini-PC markets, with its first Mini PC in 2008 and Zbox series one year later. This is why it’s no surprise that they now offer a ready-to-assemble kit. The kit is small and square in shape with enough ports to satisfy even the most demanding users. It can also be connected to both old and new monitors.
The system is powered by an Intel Celeron N4100 quad-core CPU with passive cooling. It is perfect for media playback and web browsing. It is ideal for creating a media center at home or as a workstation with its 4K output and H.264 video decoding.
This case has two RJ45 Ethernet ports that allow for wired networking. The case includes three standard-compatible monitor ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, and VGA. If you wish to mount the unit to the back, a VESA mount can be purchased.
Once you have purchased the memory and storage you can open the tool-less design to install the DDR4 memory, 2.5 inch SATA HDD/SSD. Some users had to go into the BIOS screen in order to enable “legacy booting” and enable the sound. This was to avoid configuration and setup headaches.
It has dual-band 802.11ac WiFi and a high-quality external antenna. Additionally, it has dual Gigabit Ethernet ports. This makes it well-suited for use as a router (opens a new tab), or edge firewall if you have the necessary knowledge and skills. This product is recommended for technical people only.
7. Intel NUC 11 Extreme Kit
Ideal for DIY: Ultimate expandability in a DIY Kit that is a little pricey
Specifications
CPU: Intel Core i9 11900KB (8 Core).RAM: DDR4-3200 (2 Slots).Storage: NonePorts: HDMI 2.0, USB 3.1 Gen-2 (x8) and USB 2.0 Type-A (x2) Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, USB 2.0 Type-A (x2), USB 2.0 Type-A (x2), USB 2.0 Type-A (x2), USB 2.0 Type-A (x2), USB 3.1 Type A (x8), USB 2.0 Type-A (x2), USB-C / Thunderbolt4 (x2), 2.5 Gigabit EthernetWeight /11.13lb Today’s Top Deals
Visit Site (opens in new tab)
There are many reasons to buy
+Supports discrete GPU +Great expansion capabilities+Thunderbolt 4 ports+Latest Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet+Three Year warranty
Avoidable reasons
-Expensive -You could build a similar-sized PC- Gaming vibes are not for everyone
Although it is more of a Small Form Factor than a Mini PC (SFF), we include it in this lineup because it is still small at about the same size as a toaster but slightly larger. It is also one of the few “mini” computers that can have full-blown graphics. This makes it ideal for creative professionals who do CAD or edit videos.
You get the DIY kit that includes the enclosure, which is gamers-inspired, with RGB lighting and a skull at the front, as well as the Intel i9 CPU compute module. However, there is no RAM or hard drive, SSD, or SSD and no OS. There are no restrictions on the components that you can choose.
We have to admit that the enclosure’s gaming vibes and glowing skull may not be for everyone. Intel seems to think the same since it is on a removable plate. The NUC 11 Extreme kit has a lot to offer in terms of expandability and raw horsepower. It is, however, a costly option.
The front of the device has a card reader as well as two USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports. On the back, you will find six USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports as well as two Thunderbolt 4 Type C ports. A 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port is the cherry on top. This device supports Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6E wireless technologies.
Although it is a costly kit, it only comes with an 11th Generation Core i9-11900KB processor with eight cores. It also has a large power supply that can support a full-size graphics card (opens new tab). There are versions with RAM or SSD available at varying retail prices. It all depends on how DIY-intensive you are.
A Windows 10 PC for your living room that is affordable and ideal for streaming videos or streaming on your TV. (Image credit: Chuwi)
8. Chuwi Hero box
This small Windows 10 PC is best for TV. Anything that loads on a laptop or desktop can be viewed on your big-screen TV. It also has expandable internal storage and expandability.
Specifications
Intel N4500 (Dual Core) CPU: 8 GB LPDDR4RAM: 256 GB SSDPorts: USB Type C, USB 3.0 (x2) and USB 2.0 (x2)VGA: Gigabit Ethernet & 802.11ac Dual Band WiFiWeight: 1.12kg / 2.46lb Today’s Top Deals
Visit the site (opens in a new tab).
There are many reasons to buy
+Very affordable +Aluminum alloy chassis+Internal Bay for 2.5″ SSD/HDD+M.2 SSD can also be upgraded+HDMI/VGA outputs+64bit Windows 10 preloaded
Avoidable reasons
-Low-spec Celeron CPU
This tiny box might look like one of the Android TV boxes, but it is actually a dual-core Intel Celeron processor running Windows 10 inside. The N4500 chip is very efficient and produces very little heat. This makes it perfect for streaming videos, downloading videos, casual browsing, and other uses. The integrated Intel UHD 600 graphics can also play 4K video.
Separate boxes are a great way for children to play Minecraft (opens a new tab) on a big screen TV at 60FPS or watch movies on older televisions that are not as smart or have outdated capabilities. This Mini PC runs Windows 10 (opens a new tab). There are no restrictions on what you watch on this Mini PC: Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. A TV that loads on a laptop or desktop can display almost any content, even Microsoft Store apps.
Would you like to use a different browser? (opens in a new tab) Firefox, Opera, and Vivaldi are all available. Are you looking for a VPN? You can stream restricted content from other countries by installing any VPN software on your PC. You will also receive security updates for as long as Microsoft Windows 10 is supported, which is currently October 2025.
This box can be upgraded at any time, unlike other Android TV boxes which cannot be upgraded. Anyone can access the internals of the box by simply removing the six screws at the back with a screwdriver. There is a 2.5-inch slot that you can use to plug in any SATA drive. The unit comes with four screws to attach an SSD or HDD. The standard M.2 SSD SSD can be upgraded. It is nice to have a USB-C port on the front of this unit, which allows you to connect with flash drives for mobile devices.
The RAM cannot be upgraded on this device. It is LPDDR4 soldered directly to the motherboard. However, the 8 GB included in the package are comparable with the ones you get with laptops today, so it should be sufficient for browsing and media playback. This product does not include a remote. Although you can use a standard wired keyboard or mouse, Bluetooth versions are better than those that use a 2.4GHz radio frequency.
An Android smartphone owner should not be surprised to find the “Serverless Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse For PC/Phone” App on the Play Store. This app turns your smartphone into a virtual Bluetooth keyboard, trackpad, and trackpad for your computer or, in this case, your Chuwi Hero Box. Find it.
