This blog was updated in June 2022.
The classic desktop PC is commonplace in almost every home and office, and for good reason. They’re reliable and powerful but they also take up a substantial amount of space, which can be pretty awkward if you’ve got limited room in your home. You could get an all-in-one PC to make up for this, or you could opt for the increasingly popular mini-computer.
To help you decide whether a mini-computer is right for you, we’re going to use this blog to compare desktop PCs with mini PCs. What is a mini PC? You can probably guess that it’s smaller, of course – but is it as powerful? And how does it compare in terms of cost?
Mini PCs, also known as mini-computers or mid-range computers, are essentially like normal desktop computers. They possess most of the features and capabilities of desktop PCs, but they are tiny in comparison!
This size, while saving space, also grants mini-computers certain advantages and disadvantages.
Like any computer, mini PCs have a central processing unit (CPU) and memory, which means a mini PC operates pretty much the same way as a ‘standard’ computer does. They generally have the same parts as a computer but there are a few differences which we’ll explain now.
The processor performs operations based on data. Mini PCs generally use ARM-based processors as they are small and energy-efficient. An ARM processor is one of a family of CPUs based on the RISC (reduced instruction set computer) architecture developed by Advanced RISC Machines (ARM).
ARM makes 32-bit and 64-bit RISC multi-core processors designed to perform a smaller number of types of computer instructions so that they can operate at a higher speed, performing millions of instructions per second (MIPS).
Your computer memory stores data. There are two types of memory, read-only memory (ROM) and Random-access memory (RAM). ROM cannot be altered, while RAM can be repurposed.
All computers need some form of memory to help them operate at peak performance.
Mini PCs typically use Flash memory to hold information, allowing them to stay small and compact.
The operating system is the platform used to run other programs. A mini-computer’s operating system will vary depending on the brand.
Computer ports allow for the connection of other devices such as a monitor, keyboards, etc… Depending on the model of the mini PC, it may also have USB or HDMI, RCA-video out, and even an audio jack!
OK, so we’ve told you what’s inside a mini PC, but what is not included? As you might have guessed, a mini PC’s size means it can’t fit every traditional component inside its case.
All computers need a good cooling system. Unfortunately, a mini-computer’s size prevents sit from mounting normal fans. This may become an issue at some point as computing generates a lot of heat. However, if you’re concerned about that aspect, you can always add an additional fan to your mini PC for peace of mind.
The real-time clock (RTC) is a timekeeping device which keeps going after you’ve shut down your computer and gone away to do something else. However, the RTC relies on power from a battery, but mini PCs don’t have a battery, hence they have no RTC.
Naturally, with a mini-computer, there’s no display, keyboard, or mouse, and thus, this is something you’ll have to pay extra for. Some mini PCs do support Bluetooth. If not, you can always connect using the USB ports.
Most mini-computers are of a similar design, shape, and size. However, you can get a barebones mini PC if you so desire. A barebones mini PC is usually cheaper, but they don’t come with a hard drive and RAM – instead, they usually consist of the case, motherboard, and processor.
Barebone kits offer more flexibility and are generally popular amongst computer hobbyists who like to select their own favourite components – it all comes down to whether you want to be more hands-on or prefer to get started straight away.
Ready-to-go kits are more convenient and easier to set up, which makes them ideal for beginners. And more importantly, you don’t have to install and update your OS and drivers, which is great if you’re not familiar with tech set-up requirements.
By now, you might already be thinking of a few reasons why you would purchase a mini PC over a laptop or desktop.
First is their size. This shouldn’t come as a surprise with the name ‘mini’ – because of its tiny body, it is portable, light, and can be packed away easily to save space.
Even though they may not have much onboard storage, that’s not a huge problem if you use the cloud and web service options. It’s probably true that gamers won’t have a mini PC at the top of their wish list, but for simple computing tasks, they are a good fit for many people who need to do basic computer tasks.
And this small size also means they can be much cheaper in comparison to desktop PCs, gaming PCs, and laptops. They’re more cost-effective, which usually means they’re cheaper.
Mini PCs also offer great versatility. You’re able to change the parts inside a mini PC whenever you need to and it’s up to you which monitor you want to use with it. You can use your TV screen or a computer monitor.
Mini PCs are also known for their low energy consumption. This might not sway your decision when buying, but it’s satisfying to know that you’re doing your bit to save the planet whilst also saving you a little on your electric bills.
A mini PC uses less power and so needs less cooling. This means that many mini PCs don’t need or have a fan. Some models don’t use an optical disc drive and use a solid-state drive, which means that they are virtually silent.
The trade-off of a mini PC’s size is that the hardware specifications and processing power of a mini PC are usually reduced, which means that running complex apps and intensive workloads are not always as effective as they would be on desktops.
On top of this, one of the first things you’ll notice is that mini PCs have either very limited or zero scope for upgrading. Everything is fixed on the motherboard permanently, hence, there is not much space or slots available to make upgrades.
And unsurprisingly, mini PCs have no graphics card. Due to their small size, there’s not much room for controlling the computer’s heat and, therefore, many of the mini PCs come with integrated graphics instead of a dedicated one.
Lastly, while a mini PC is portable, you still need all the peripherals associated with them to use them, increasing the costs and things to carry when compared to a standard laptop.
As with any computer, your needs will determine your choice of CPU. Are you a user who wants to use your mini PC for light tasks like emails and browsing the internet or are you a heavy user who needs a lot of power for video editing and graphics work?
If you’re a light user, it’s best to stick to the basic mobile-grade chips (eg. Intel Atoms) or desktop core i3. If you have a more demanding workload, then a desktop core i5 and above is required! The CPU will usually determine how expensive your mini PC is going to be.
Whether or not a mini PC is any good will depend on your needs. For home, work, and education, almost all of the mini PCs on the market right now are good enough to perform basic tasks such as browsing social media, answering emails, and attending online lessons.
If you’re a regular gamer, you shouldn’t need to spend a fortune on buying a gaming laptop or gaming PC. You can purchase a mini PC and then upgrade the parts as required!
As for the specs, we recommend at least 4 GB for a graphics card that will deliver 30-40 fps which will prevent constant lagging. For the CPU, an i5 will be fine. When it comes to RAM, 16 GB will be sufficient, and you can always go for a 250GB HDD.
However, if you’re a dedicated gamer that wants to play the latest triple-A games at high settings, a mini PC is not for you. For that, you’ll need a dedicated gaming rig.
Mini PCs are a much more attractive proposition today than they used to be. While a desktop PC will give you plenty of power and can be upgraded, they’ll take up more space. A mini PC is not as powerful and generally can’t be upgraded, but they are ultra-portable, and are just the job for those everyday tasks. The decision is yours!
Browse our ranges of powerful desktops and mini PCs here.
If you’re ready to buy your first mini PC or upgrade an existing one, you can find everything you need right here in the Ebuyer store. From increased RAM to external hard drives, you can buy exactly what you need.
And don’t forget, we’ve got plenty more articles like this one that you can read over on the Ebuyer blog.
If you’re in the market for a new computer, you may be considering one of the best laptops or even one of the best tablets to use as a laptop replacement. Despite the fact that they’re actually quite easy to work on and upgradeable, fewer people are buying desktop PCs.
While the best gaming PCs will always be an exception to this as no other type of computer offers the same level of performance they do, most people these days prefer laptops even if they don’t plan on taking them out of their houses. For those that just need a reliable computer that’s powerful enough for web browsing, working on documents and other simple tasks, you may want to consider opting for one of the best mini PCs instead.
Unlike a large, bulky desktop tower, mini PCs are exactly what they sound like: tiny PCs that fit just about anywhere; you can even easily put them in a backpack — some in your pocket — and bring it with you. They give you the desktop experience at a fraction of the size of a regular desktop and they can often be had for significantly less.
Whether you’ve never heard of a mini PC before or you’re already familiar with them, here are 5 things you should know before picking up one for yourself or someone else.
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From square boxes to rectangles to sticks you can plug into the back of one of the best monitors, mini PCs come in all kinds of different shapes and sizes. There are plenty of options to choose from to fit your particular needs. However, it’s worth noting that those geared towards businesses like the ThinkCentre Tiny from Lenovo or similar models from Dell and HP are usually rectangular in shape. Meanwhile, mini PCs from Beelink, Geekom and other brands more geared towards consumers mainly use a square shape.
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Stick-shaped mini PCs such as the Azulle Access4 almost look like a Fire TV Stick or one of the best streaming devices but since they’re so compact, you’re not going to see the same level of performance that you would with a larger device. As nifty as these stick style mini PCs are, you’re probably going to want to avoid them unless you only want to do the most basic of tasks. They do look cool though.
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Although you won’t have nearly as many ports as you would on a full-size PC, most of the mini PCs available today still give you plenty of USB Type-A ports at the back with one or two at the front. USB-C ports are becoming more common on mini PCs too and with devices like the Minisforum Neptune HX99G, you have access to several at the back and one on the front.
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One other interesting thing that you’ll often see with mini PCs when it comes to ports is multiple Ethernet inputs at the rear. With dual LAN ports, you can combine them for faster internet speeds but you also have a backup port in case one fails. Likewise, you may have one gigabit Ethernet port and a 2.5 gigabit Ethernet port to use with a multi-gig router. You can also use one of these Ethernet ports to connect to a network-attached storage (NAS) device.
These days most mini PCs support multiple monitors which is why you may see a pair of HDMI ports or even one HDMI port and one DisplayPort at the back. You can also use a USB-C port for video out on some mini PCs.
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Just because your mini PC is small and compact doesn’t mean it isn’t upgradeable. While this isn’t going to be an easy process with a device like a Mac Mini, for most Windows-based mini PCs, it actually is. For instance, with mini PCs from Geekom and Beeklink, you just need to carefully pop off the top lid and from here, you can swap out your RAM or add more and you can do the same with an M.2 SSD.
When upgrading the internals of your mini PC though, you do need to be careful. With the Beelink GTR5 pictured above, there’s an extra M.2 slot for adding another M.2 SSD. On other mini PCs though, you may only have one slot with a M.2 drive pre-installed that contains your Windows installation. This can be upgraded but you will need to copy the contents of it to another M.2 SSD first if you don’t want to have to reinstall your operating system. At the same time, some mini PCs (like this one for instance) let you install a 2.5-inch SSD on the underside of their lid.
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Gaming didn’t used to be something that you could do on a mini PC, but that has changed in recent years. Larger mini PCs like the Intel NUC 9 Pro pictured above actually have enough room inside that you can install a discrete GPU, albeit a smaller, less powerful one. Unfortunately, Intel killed off its NUC line of mini PCs earlier this year but it did hand over the rights to manufacture them to Asus. There are also some mini PCs with discrete graphics from AMD built in like the Minisforum Neptune HX99G.
If you want to play graphically intensive games on your mini PC, you can also hook up an external graphics card, granted you have the right ports. Normally for this, you’ll need to have a Thunderbolt port or a USB4 port which has PCIe capabilities. You’ll likely be better off buying a gaming PC or building your own but it’s always nice to know you have this option.
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The best all-in-one computers like Apple’s iMac or Microsoft’s Surface Studio 2 will look really sleek on your desk but they can also cost a fortune compared to most mini PCs. Fortunately, a lot of mini PCs either have VESA mounting holes on their underside or ship with a bracket that makes them VESA compatible. This way, you can mount them to the back of a monitor so they’re completely out of sight.
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If you’re using a monitor stand or a monitor arm and the VESA mounting holes at the back of your monitor are already being used, don’t worry as you can always buy a cheap adapter like the one pictured above. This goes in between your stand or monitor arm and lets you mount a PC on the back of your monitor next to your VESA holes. I use one of my own mini PCs this way and it’s great having such a powerful little computer completely hidden from sight.
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One of the best things about PCs in general is that you don’t have to buy one that’s already built and instead, you can build your own. The same is true with mini PCs and depending on what you plan on using yours for, you might be better off building one using a Raspberry Pi or a similar single-board computer.
Just a few months ago, I used a Raspberry Pi 4 Model B to build a NES-style mini PC for playing retro games and doing some light computing. Now that the more powerful Raspberry Pi 5 has been released, you can do even more with a similar setup.
For those that want a compact PC along with the ability to use a wider variety of components, you might want to consider a small form factor or SFF PC instead. This way, you can use a more powerful desktop processor along with a discrete GPU. When it comes to mini PCs though, the choice is yours but thankfully, these days you have loads of different options to choose from.
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