Mini PCs, also known as mini computers, have become increasingly popular over the past few years. These compact, versatile devices pack the power of a desktop computer into a tiny package comparable in size to external hard drives or streaming devices.
Mini PCs offer significant benefits in portability, flexibility, and affordability compared to full-sized PCs. Their small footprint saves space while fitting nicely into any environment. You can even mount them behind monitors for a cleaner, minimalist setup.
This article will discuss how to select the right mini PC for your needs and present the top options across various categories.
How to Choose the Best Mini PC
Several factors determine which mini PC is the best fit for you:
Size and Portability
The whole point of a mini PC is its petite dimensions. Consider where and how you will use the device to decide just how small it should be. Will you bring it back and forth to the office? Choose an ultra-portable stick PC. Is it for your home media center? A slightly larger model may work better.
Also look at weight if frequent transport is needed. The lightest mini PCs weigh less than a pound.
Performance Specs
Processing power, graphics capability, RAM, and storage are other vital considerations that dictate how well your mini PC can handle tasks.
Mini PCs equipped with Intel Core i3, i5, i7 or AMD Ryzen processors provide better performance for gaming, video editing, programming and more demanding applications. Models with older Intel Atom, Celeron or Pentium chips work well for basic computing.
For graphics-intensive uses, mini PCs with dedicated GPUs are preferable over standard integrated graphics.
Most mini PCs have at least 4GB RAM which is sufficient for general usage. 8-16GB RAM allows for smooth multitasking and advanced work.
Storage ranges from 32GB for affordable, basic models to 512GB or 1TB for mid-range and high-end mini PCs. Many also support microSD cards for expanding capacity.
Operating System
You’ll need to decide between Windows or Linux-based mini PCs. Some models even offer Android for a mobile-style experience.
Windows 10 is still the most widely supported OS, but Windows 11 compatibility continues to grow.
Connectivity
Look for mini PCs with HDMI, USB 3.0, USB-C and microSD card slots at minimum. Wireless connectivity like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is also standard. Some pricier models feature Thunderbolt 3 ports and faster Wi-Fi 6 as well.
Budget
Mini PC prices span between $100 to $800+. Setting a budget earlier helps narrow choices to models with suitable performance specs and features.
The 6 Best Mini PCs on Earth Today
Based on the above criteria, these stand out as the top mini PCs in various categories:
Best Overall: ACEMAGIC AMD Ryzen Mini PC
The ACEMAGIC AMD Ryzen Mini PC strikes a superb balance of portability, performance and connectivity as a productivity workhorse or family computer.
An AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor and Radeon graphics deliver responsiveness for everyday work, web browsing, 4K video and casual gaming. The 117 x 112 x 51 mm micro PC weighs just 700g for taking anywhere.
16GB DDR4 RAM keeps multitasking smooth while 512GB storage gives substantial capacity. Support for multiple 4K displays (up to 3 screens), a wide array of ports, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 also make this mini PC hugely versatile.
Pros
- Powerful 8-core Ryzen CPU and Vega 8 graphics
- Light and compact
- Expandable SSD and system memory
Cons
- CPU performance capped for thermal reasons
- No Thunderbolt ports
Best Uses: General productivity, home entertainment, students
The ACEMAGIC AMD Ryzen Mini PC combines the convenience and flexibility expected from mini PCs at a reasonable cost. It outperforms comparably priced competitors.
Best Budget: Beelink U55 Mini PC
The Beelink U55 shines among affordable mini PCs as a web browsing and basic computing companion.
The Intel Celeron N5105 is no powerhouse but readily handles undemanding tasks. 8GB DDR4 RAM lets you open multiple browser tabs and programs comfortably. Integrated UHD graphics display webpages and video smoothly at up to 4K 30 fps.
64GB of eMMC storage holds a couple large files alongside installed software. Micro SD expansion up to 2TB allows for more local or portable media storage.
Size-wise, the Beelink U55 resembles a small set-top box at just 117 x 112 x 36 mm and 300 grams. Connections like fast USB 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI 2.0b and Gigabit Ethernet lend convenience. Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2 provide wireless connectivity.
Considering everything the Beelink U55 Mini PC offers, its low cost under $200 is very wallet-friendly.
Pros
- Extremely affordable price
- Compact and lightweight
- MicroSD storage expansion
Cons
- Mediocre performance
- Limited IO ports
Best Uses: Web browsing, basic office work, simple media playback
The Beelink U55 Mini PC punches above its weight for computing on a strict budget. Students and less demanding users will appreciate its capabilities and portability.
Most Portable: MeLE Quieter2Q Stick PC
If ultra-compact size for mobility is a priority, the MeLE Quieter2Q Stick PC is a top contender for world’s most portable mini PC.
It resembles a somewhat oversized USB flash drive, measuring just 136 x 38 x 16mm and weighing 37 grams. A built-in strap lets you securely hold the tiny PC.
Performance comes via a quad-core Intel Celeron J4125 clocked up to 2.7 GHz, along with Intel UHD 600 graphics. 8GB LPDDR4 RAM powers smooth app switching and web browsing.
The 64GB eMMC and microSD slot accommodate media files and some programs, while connections like HDMI, USB and Type C help interface with peripherals. Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth handle wireless duties.
Overall, the Quieter2Q stick PC presents a highly practical option for productivity and streaming on business trips or vacations where minimal size and weight are crucial.
Pros
- Extremely small and light footprint
- Capable CPU performance for its size
- Hardware video decoding
Cons
- Limited built-in storage
- No Ethernet port
Best Uses: Business travel, mobile entertainment
If you want a versatile computer in your pocket, the tiny yet mighty MeLE Quieter2Q leads pocket-sized PCs in practical performance.
Best for Gaming: Minis Forum EliteMini HM90
Gamers craving serious power in a mini PC will want to examine the Intel NUC9 Extreme Compute Element-based Minis Forum EliteMini HM90.
At the heart of this beast lies a laptop-grade Intel Core i9-9980HK 8-core CPU clocked up to 5GHz with overclocking potential. Paired with Intel UHD 630 integrated graphics, gameplay feels fast and fluid at 1080p medium settings. Configuring a dedicated GPU card like the RTX 3070 boosts performance further.
32GB DDR4 SO-DIMM RAM heightens system responsiveness and enables extensive background processes during gaming sessions without performance hits. PCIe NVME SSD storage sees quick load times.
Abundant IO ports allow connecting high refresh rate monitors, wired gaming mice and mechanical keyboards, external drives and more. Coupled with Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5GbE connectivity, the EliteMini HM90 checks all the boxes for a supreme mini gaming rig or workstation.
Just expect to pay a premium for this class of computing power starting around $999. Shoppers wanting more gaming power from a mini PC will be thrilled though.
Pros
- Flagship Intel Core i9 processor
- Upgradable RAM, storage and graphics
- Loads of connectivity options
Cons
- High price tag
- Runs very hot at peak loads
Best Uses: Competitive gaming, performance workstation tasks
The Minis Forum EliteMini HM90 demonstrates extreme gaming desktop performance is achievable from well-engineered mini PCs like itself. Portability may suffer somewhat, but the speed and responsiveness won’t.
Best Mini PC for Apple Users: Apple Mac Mini (M1 chip, late 2020)
Apple fans seeking a versatile, super-efficient MacOS desktop should check out the latest M1-based Mac Mini.
The Apple Silicon M1 system-on-chip inside the Mac Mini completely reinvents expectations of its performance. The 8-core CPU demolishes Intel chips on benchmark processing tests while using a fraction of the power. Integrated 8-core graphics also accelerate photo editing and lightweight gaming.
Up to 16GB unified memory keeps your creative workflow smooth across multiple professional apps, augmented by super-fast 512GB SSD storage. Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 6 and a decent port selection provide capable connectivity.
For a starting price around $699, the M1 Mac Mini rewards owners with incredible speed and efficiency. And access to Apple’s optimized macOS software ecosystem makes getting work done simple.
Pros
- Apple M1 chip enables blazing performance
- Fanless thermal design runs cool and quiet
- macOS software ecosystem integration
Cons
- Fewer ports than older Intel models
- Maximum 16GB memory
Best Uses: Creative work, programming, office use, macOS ecosystem
The Apple M1 chip-equipped Mac Mini showcases excellent single and multi-threaded workload performance perfect for behind-the-scenes productivity use.
Best 8K Mini PC: ElecGear Mini IT11 Geekom Edition
Creators working extensively with high-resolution footage will want to examine the ultra-specced ElecGear Mini IT11 based on Intel’s 11th Gen NUC platform.
This mini PC flaunts huge performing power via an unlocked 8-core i7-11375H Tiger Lake processor up to a blistering 5 GHz. Intel Iris Xe graphics also enable smooth 8K video editing and playback thanks to hardware decoding support.
40GB of fast DDR4-3200 RAM aids editing responsiveness plus extensive multitasking. Multiple storage configuration options are available including dual NVMe SSDs and SATA HDD expansion.
Abundant I/O like HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4 and USB ports provide next-gen monitor connectivity and 10Gbps data speeds. Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 GbE ready networking boost transfers. Thunderbolt 4 plus optimized thermal design help extract every ounce of performance.
Starting around $1300, the loaded specs let creators utilize the ElecGear Mini IT11’s power for media projects of all sizes, especially those working extensively in 8K.
Pros
- Flagship 11th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU
- Capable integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics
- Hardware video decode acceleration
Cons
- High price tag
- No dedicated GPU option
Best Uses: 8K video production, 3D animation, content creation
With unmatched CPU muscle and unmatched media encoding capabilities, the ElecGear Mini IT11 stands atop mini PCs for creative professionals, especially regarding 8K production.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Mini PC
Follow these tips to fully utilize your mini PC:
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Attach fast external SSD storage via USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt ports for increased capacity without cluttering internal space.
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Connect multiple displays if your chosen model supports multi-monitor output. Extra screens really bolster productivity.
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Mount mini PCs behind monitors, on walls or under desks using VESA mounts for a cleaner, space-saving setup.
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Use compressed air to routinely clean PC case vents and fans to prevent overheating and thermal throttling which hampers performance.
The Future of Mini PCs
Mini PCs will continue trending smaller and more powerful as mobile computing technology improves. Computer-on-a-chip designs will enable thinner stick and cube designs without sacrificing speed or connectivity.
Even more compact models the size of smart home hubs could appear, potentially battery powered. But performance will still scale to rival mid-range laptops and desktops.
Expect maximum RAM capacity and storage to incrementally increase. Connectivity speeds will also get faster with USB 4 and Wi-Fi 6E becoming standard. Thunderbolt 5 may emerge near the end of the decade.
Regardless, mini PCs look set to satisfy even greater demands from users than they already do today.
Conclusion
Mini PCs deliver desktop computer utility in a highly compact form factor. Their versatility suits uses ranging from college work, home media enjoyment, portable gaming, business travel productivity or space-saving workstations.
Selecting your ideal mini PC involves comparing critical aspects like portability, specifications, operating system, connectivity and budget to match capability with intended usage needs. Examining both strengths and limitations of specific models greatly helps as well.
I evaluated six top options covering various categories to demonstrate today’s finest mini PC choices for different function priorities. The ACEMAGIC Ryzen Mini PC provides the best overall mixture of performance, design and value. But alternatives like the super-affordable Beelink U55 or ultra-portable MeLE Quieter2Q each shine brighter regarding budget efficiency and mobility respectively.
As mini PCs continue progressing while retaining flexibility, their popularity shows no sign of slowing either. But the models highlighted today already deliver versatile, satisfying computing experiences.
