In this innovation and modernization technology era, the need to have a full-sized desktop has minimized considerably, especially due to the large area it consumes on the desk spaces. Technology has advanced tremendously, packing the power for streaming and web browsing into small mini pcs that have taken the world by storm. Small enough to carry in a bag or pocket or even hide behind a monitor, mini PCs provide desktop-grade power in ultra-small designs. Purchasing the best mini desktop PC is great, as you can use it for gaming and media servers’ sessions.
There is a wide variety of mini desktop PCs available in the market today. With several features and variables that must be considered before making a purchase, narrowing down your scope to a single mini PC can be tiring. To save you the hassle, this article goes through an exclusive review of the top 10 best mini Desktop PCs.
10. Dell OptiPlex 7020 MFF 7000 Mini PC (Intel Core i7-14700T, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
The Dell OptiPlex 7020 MFF 7000 is a high-performance, compact business desktop featuring a 14th Gen Intel Core i7-14700T processor with 20 cores (8 performance + 12 efficiency) and 28 threads. It offers a maximum turbo speed of 5.2GHz, making it ideal for multitasking, office work, and demanding workloads. The 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD ensure fast data access, smooth system performance, and ample storage capacity.
This mini PC includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth, and multiple connectivity options, including 2 DisplayPort 1.4a, 1 HDMI 1.4b, USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2×2 ports, and Gigabit Ethernet. It runs Windows 11 Pro and comes with a keyboard and mouse, making it a ready-to-use business solution.
Users appreciate its strong performance, compact form factor, and quiet operation, making it suitable for small workspaces and mobile professionals. Some feedback highlights potential overheating issues under heavy loads, and a few users reported difficulties with factory resets. Despite this, it remains a solid option for professionals looking for a powerful, space-saving desktop.
9. ASUS Chromebox 5 (Intel Core i3-1220P, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD)
The ASUS Chromebox 5 is a compact mini PC powered by Intel Core i3-1220P with 8GB DDR4 RAM and 128GB NVMe SSD, running Chrome OS. Designed for professional, personal, and multimedia use, this device supports dual HDMI, a DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt 4, allowing up to four 4K displays.
The connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6E, Gigabit Ethernet, and Thunderbolt 4, ensuring high-speed and stable connections. Its mountable VESA design makes it easy to place in any workspace. Additionally, Chrome OS provides automatic security updates, making it a secure option for users looking to avoid Windows or macOS complexities.
User reviews highlight its fast boot times, smooth performance, and secure browsing experience, with many praising it as a great alternative to Windows PCs. However, some reported hardware reliability issues, including network port failures and freezing after updates. Despite this, it remains a solid choice for those seeking a lightweight, efficient computing solution for web browsing, office work, and streaming.
8. HP Elite Mini 800 G9 (Intel Core i7-14700, 64GB RAM, 2TB SSD)
The HP Elite Mini 800 G9 is a compact and powerful business desktop featuring the 14th Gen Intel Core i7-14700 processor with 20 cores (8 performance + 12 efficiency) and 28 threads, making it an excellent choice for multitasking and demanding workloads. It includes 64GB DDR5 RAM and a 2TB PCIe SSD, ensuring fast performance and ample storage.
Equipped with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and multiple connectivity options, this mini PC supports 2 DisplayPort 1.4 and 1 HDMI 2.1 output, making it suitable for multi-monitor setups. The included keyboard and mouse provide a ready-to-use solution for professionals.
User feedback highlights its strong performance, compact size, and minimal bloatware, making it a great choice for productivity. However, some buyers noted confusion during initial Wi-Fi setup and discrepancies in processor versions delivered. Despite minor concerns, this system is well-received for its high-speed computing power and small footprint, making it ideal for both home offices and enterprise environments.
7. KINGDEL Fanless Mini PC (Intel Core i7, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
The KINGDEL Fanless Mini PC is a compact, industrial-grade desktop computer powered by an Intel Core i7 dual-core processor with 8GB DDR3L RAM and a 256GB mSATA SSD. Designed for office work, multimedia, industrial applications, and business use, this mini PC provides two HDMI ports for 4K resolution (3840×2160), dual LAN ports, and six COM RS232 ports, making it suitable for specialized connectivity needs.
The fanless metal chassis design ensures silent operation while keeping the system cool, making it a great option for noise-sensitive environments. Windows 11 Pro is pre-installed, offering a ready-to-use experience. The device includes multiple USB ports (4x USB 3.0, 4x USB 2.0), Wi-Fi, and audio input/output, enhancing its versatility.
Users appreciate its compact size, durable build, and reliability in industrial and office settings. Many have highlighted its dust-resistant nature, making it ideal for warehouses and harsh environments. However, some reported concerns about Windows licensing validation and occasional hardware failures requiring manufacturer support. Overall, this budget-friendly, industrial-grade PC is well-suited for specific applications that demand silent operation and multiple connectivity options.
6. HP ProDesk 400 G9 Mini Business Desktop (Intel i5-13500T, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
The HP ProDesk 400 G9 Mini is a compact and business-oriented desktop featuring a 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13500T processor with 14 cores and 20 threads. This power-efficient CPU delivers speeds up to 4.6 GHz, making it a strong performer for office tasks, multitasking, and light content creation. It comes with 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe SSD, ensuring fast performance and quick data access.
This mini PC supports three 4K monitors simultaneously via HDMI 2.1 and dual DisplayPort outputs, making it an excellent choice for multi-display workstations. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, multiple USB ports (including Type-C), and an Ethernet port. Windows 11 Pro is pre-installed, offering enhanced security and business features.
Users appreciate its fast performance, small footprint, and easy setup. Many find it ideal for home offices and business environments, but some noted that the included keyboard and mouse feel basic. Overall, it is a reliable and efficient choice for professionals seeking a compact yet powerful desktop solution.
5. Apple Mac Mini (2024, M4 Chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
The Apple Mac Mini (2024) is a compact and powerful desktop computer powered by the Apple M4 chip with a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU. Designed for high efficiency and performance, this Mac Mini is well-suited for professional, educational, and everyday use. The 16GB unified memory and 256GB SSD storage ensure fast multitasking and quick system responsiveness.
It features multiple connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, and USB-C. With support for up to three displays (6K, 5K, or 4K resolution), it’s an excellent choice for creative professionals and multitaskers. Additionally, macOS seamlessly integrates with other Apple devices, offering features like iPhone Mirroring and Universal Clipboard.
Users appreciate its small size, quiet operation, and excellent speed, making it ideal for work, media editing, and web browsing. Some noted that 256GB storage may feel limited, but this can be expanded with external SSDs. Overall, this M4 Mac Mini delivers strong performance in a compact form factor, making it a great value for Apple users seeking a desktop solution.
4. GMKtec Mini PC N150 (Intel Twin Lake N150, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
The GMKtec Mini PC N150 is a compact and affordable desktop computer powered by the Intel Twin Lake N150 processor (4 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.6GHz). It comes with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD, making it suitable for office work, web browsing, multimedia, and home use.
This mini PC includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 2.5GbE Ethernet port, ensuring fast and stable connectivity. It supports dual 4K displays via HDMI, allowing for multi-monitor setups. With four USB 3.2 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and expandable storage options, it offers versatile connectivity. The enhanced cooling system keeps noise levels low while maintaining performance.
Users appreciate its small form factor, quiet operation, and value for money. Some noted that while it’s great for everyday tasks, it may struggle with demanding applications. Overall, it is a solid budget-friendly mini PC for those needing a space-saving and efficient computing solution.
3. BOSGAME Mini PC B95 (Intel N95, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)
The BOSGAME Mini PC B95 is a compact and powerful desktop computer featuring an Intel 12th Gen N95 processor with 4 cores and 4 threads, capable of reaching up to 3.4 GHz. Designed for home, office, and multimedia use, it comes with 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB M.2 SSD, offering fast performance and ample storage.
This mini PC supports triple 4K displays via dual HDMI and one Type-C port, making it a great choice for multi-monitor workstations. It also includes Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and multiple USB ports for enhanced connectivity. The compact size allows for easy mounting behind a monitor using the included VESA bracket, saving space.
Users appreciate its quick performance, quiet operation, and small form factor. Many find it ideal for office work, web browsing, and light multitasking, though some noted long Windows updates and the lack of built-in speakers. Overall, it’s a cost-effective mini PC with solid performance for everyday tasks.
2. Intel NUC 13 PRO NUC13ANHi7 (Core i7-1360P, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
The Intel NUC 13 PRO (Arena Canyon) is a high-performance mini PC powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1360P processor with 12 cores (4 performance + 8 efficiency) and a max clock speed of 5.0 GHz. It comes with 32GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB SSD, making it a compact yet powerful system ideal for office work, multimedia, business applications, and even light gaming.
This mini PC supports 8K and 4K multi-display setups via dual HDMI 2.1 and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, providing exceptional video output capabilities. It includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity for both wired and wireless use.
Users praise its fast performance, compact design, and multiple connectivity options. Some feedback highlights fan noise under heavy loads, but the device’s overall reliability and excellent build quality make it a popular choice for professionals looking for a powerful, space-saving desktop solution.
1. Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny 50q (Intel Core i5-13420H, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)
The Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny 50q is a compact and powerful mini PC designed for business and professional use. It features an Intel Core i5-13420H processor with 8 cores (4 performance + 4 efficiency) and 12 threads, offering solid multitasking capabilities. The 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB NVMe SSD provide fast boot times and smooth system performance.
This Windows 11 Pro desktop supports dual 4K displays via DisplayPort and HDMI and includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and an RJ-45 Ethernet port for reliable connectivity. With its small footprint, it can be easily mounted behind a monitor, making it ideal for office setups with limited space.
Users appreciate its fast performance, compact design, and ease of setup. Many highlight its quiet operation and reliability, while some mention that the fan noise can be noticeable under heavy workloads. Overall, it’s a strong choice for professionals needing a space-saving, efficient computing solution.
How to Choose the Best Mini Desktop PC
Mini desktop PCs are an excellent choice for those who need a compact, space-saving, and powerful computing solution. Whether you’re looking for a workstation, a media center, or a gaming rig, mini PCs can deliver impressive performance in a small form factor. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs?
This guide covers the key factors to consider when choosing a mini desktop PC, helping you find the perfect balance of performance, features, and budget.
1. Determine Your Primary Use Case
The first step in choosing a mini desktop PC is identifying how you’ll use it. Different tasks require different levels of processing power and features:
- Basic Office Work & Web Browsing: Intel Core i3 / AMD Ryzen 3, 8GB RAM, SSD storage.
- Creative Work & Productivity: Intel Core i5/i7 / AMD Ryzen 5/7, 16GB RAM, powerful SSD.
- Gaming: Dedicated GPU (NVIDIA or AMD), high-speed RAM, efficient cooling.
- Home Theater & Media Streaming: 4K support, HDMI output, silent operation.
- Mini Server / NAS Setup: Multiple storage bays, high-speed networking, reliable cooling.
2. Choose the Right Processor (CPU)
The processor determines how fast your mini PC runs. Some common options include:
- Intel Core i3 / AMD Ryzen 3 – Basic tasks like web browsing, emails, and office work.
- Intel Core i5 / AMD Ryzen 5 – Balanced for multitasking, light gaming, and creative work.
- Intel Core i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 – Great for demanding applications like video editing and programming.
- Intel Core i9 / AMD Ryzen 9 – High-end performance for professional workloads and gaming.
- Apple M1 / M2 / M3 – Excellent power efficiency and performance for Mac users.
3. Consider RAM for Multitasking
- 8GB RAM – Suitable for basic tasks (web browsing, office work).
- 16GB RAM – Ideal for multitasking, creative work, and gaming.
- 32GB+ RAM – Necessary for professional workloads like video editing or 3D modeling.
4. Get the Right Storage Type and Capacity
- 256GB SSD – Minimum recommended for basic users.
- 512GB – 1TB SSD – Ideal for most users, providing speed and storage space.
- 2TB+ SSD / HDD – Best for gaming, media storage, or large files.
- NVMe SSDs – Faster than traditional SATA SSDs, ideal for performance-driven users.
5. Check Graphics Capabilities (GPU)
- Integrated Graphics (Intel Iris Xe, AMD Radeon Vega) – Good for office work, media playback, and casual gaming.
- Dedicated GPU (NVIDIA GeForce RTX, AMD Radeon RX) – Needed for gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.
6. Ports & Connectivity
- USB-A & USB-C – For external storage, keyboards, and accessories.
- HDMI / DisplayPort – Connect to monitors and TVs.
- Ethernet (LAN Port) – For stable wired internet connections.
- WiFi 6 & Bluetooth 5.0+ – Faster wireless connectivity.
- Thunderbolt 3 / 4 – High-speed data transfer and external GPU support.
7. Cooling System & Noise Levels
- Active Cooling (Fans) – Most mini PCs have small fans to prevent overheating.
- Passive Cooling (Fanless Design) – Silent operation, ideal for HTPCs and quiet workspaces.
- Efficient Airflow Design – Check user reviews for overheating issues.
8. Operating System: Windows, macOS, or Linux?
- Windows 11 – Best for business, gaming, and general use.
- macOS (Mac Mini) – Great for Apple users, offering excellent performance and integration.
- Linux – Ideal for developers, servers, or open-source enthusiasts.
9. Size & Design
- Ultra-compact (4″ x 4″) – Great for office work, media streaming, and travel.
- Mid-size Mini PCs – Offer better cooling and performance for multitasking and gaming.
- Larger Mini PCs (SFF – Small Form Factor) – Support powerful hardware and dedicated GPUs.
10. Budget & Brand Considerations
Mini PCs come in various price ranges:
- Budget ($200 – $400) – Entry-level models for basic tasks and media streaming.
- Mid-Range ($500 – $800) – Ideal for productivity, gaming, and creative work.
- High-End ($900+) – Best for professionals needing high performance.
Popular Brands: Intel NUC, Apple Mac Mini, Beelink, Minisforum, ASUS, HP, Dell.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mini desktop PC depends on your needs, budget, and performance expectations. If you need a general-use PC, go for a mid-range model with a Core i5/Ryzen 5, 16GB RAM, and SSD storage. For gaming or creative work, a mini PC with a dedicated GPU and efficient cooling is ideal.
By considering performance, storage, connectivity, and cooling, you’ll find a mini PC that fits your workflow, space, and budget perfectly!