travelling mini pc

The best mini PCs in 2024

These are the best mini PCs you can buy right now, based on our testing

Best mini PC overall
Best for creatives
Best for DIY
Best for office
How to choose
How we test

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best for creatives 4. Best for DIY 5. Best for office 6. How to choose 7. How we test

The best mini PCs might be tiny in comparison to standard-sized rigs but they pack enough power to perform a wide range of tasks — including web browsing, content creation and gaming. These minuscule computers are not only more convenient than enormous PC towers, but they're also super quiet. For some folks, mini PCs could be the perfect personal computer.

Mini PCs range from smaller desktops to stick PCs you can slip into your pocket. Mini PCs also leverage the small, energy-efficient components of laptops to provide you with a surprising amount of power in sizes that can be hidden behind a monitor. With mini PCs made for everything from media streaming to gaming and VR, there are mini stick PCs and mini desktops for almost everyone.

Below, we've listed the best mini PCs for everything from home entertainment to gaming and professional workstations. We'll continue updating and adding to this list as we receive new units to review.

Tony is a senior staff writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iPadOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on Twitter. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

The quick list

Here's a quick overview of the best mini PCs you can buy right now based on our testing and reviews. Even if some of the machines listed aren't the latest models available, they still provide plenty of power for whatever you're working on.

The best mini PC overall

The Mac mini M2 is a pint-sized powerhouse that’s cheaper and faster than its predecessor thanks to the speedy M2 chip. The option to upgrade it with an M2 Pro ($1,299) sweetens the deal, turning this into a decent Mac for gaming or light photo/video editing. It’s a great mini PC for Mac fans.

The best mini PC for creatives

The Mac Studio M2 is an incremental improvement over its predecessor, delivering more power than ever before in a Mac desktop that still runs quiet and looks good on a desk. But that's not the pitch for the Studio. This is a high-performance Mac desktop that does everything a creative needs it to do.

The best mini PC for tinkerers

The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B pushes things to new heights with a more powerful processor, 4K video output and an improved part selection. It offers enormous value for projects ranging from simple to complex, from its enhanced processing and graphics to offering broad compatibility with older accessories.

The best mini PC for the office

Packing plenty of capability into its tiny size and offering a modular solution for offices that want to upgrade often, the Dell OptiPlex 7070 Ultra is a cool twist on the mini PC in the workplace. The mini PC itself is so slim it might get mistaken for a laptop battery pack or a desktop dock.

The best mini PCs to buy now

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1. Apple Mac mini with M2

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Apple outdid itself with the Mac mini M2, a pint-sized powerhouse that’s cheaper and faster than its predecessor thanks to the speedy M2 chip. The option to upgrade it with an M2 Pro sweetens the deal, turning this into a decent Mac for gaming or light photo/video editing. Best of all, it barely takes up any space on your desk.

Of course, you get more than just speed when you pay for Pro: the entry-level Mac mini with M2 Pro is not only more powerful, but it also has more memory and storage than the entry-level Mac mini, as well as more ports. It’s a great mini PC for Mac fans, one that showcases macOS Ventura to good effect. It also looks great on almost any desk setup. A perfect balance of elegance and power.

Read our full Mac mini M2 review .

2. Apple Mac Studio

The Mac Studio can deliver more power than any Apple computer on the market save the Mac Pro, and it packs it all into a quiet, well-designed chassis that looks good on a desk. It's bigger than the Mac mini, but still discreet enough for any desk setup.

As much as we love seeing Apple silicon put to good use in MacBooks, where its power efficiency helps deliver some of the best battery life in the business, the Mac Studio with M1 Ultra proves that Apple’s chips have the chops to compete with the best desktop PC silicon from Intel and AMD. You're not sacrificing power with this small computer.

Since this is Apple, you’ll have to pay a premium. The Mac Studio’s $1,999 starting price isn’t too bad for what it offers, and that gets you the entry-level model with the same M1 Max chip that's in the 2021 MacBook Pros , which means this mini-computer packs a serious punch. To get a Mac Studio with Apple's top-of-the-line M1 Ultra chip will cost you at least $ 4k , though it's worth it if you want one of the fastest, most powerful Macs on the market.

Read our full Mac Studio review .

3. Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

The Raspberry Pi ushered in a new era of DIY tech, and the latest model, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, pushes that to new heights with a more powerful processor, 4K video output and an improved part selection. This $35 Raspberry Pi 4 Model B offers enormous value for projects ranging from simple to complex, from its enhanced processing and graphics to broad compatibility with older accessories.

If you want to do something different with your technology, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is the best mini PC for tinkering and experimenting. Whether you buy it alone or in a kit, the Raspberry Pi is hard to beat.

Since our review, the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B has been updated with a new model that has 8GB of RAM, significantly improving on the 2GB memory of the base model. If you can, get that model over the one we reviewed since it'll run significantly faster.

If the Rasberry Pi is sold out, you can buy the Raspberry Pi 400 All-in-One .

Read our full Raspberry Pi 4 Model B review .

4. Dell OptiPlex 7070 Ultra

Our new favorite office desktop does a cool disappearing trick, with a funky design that hides the powerful mini PC inside a specially designed monitor stand that turns it into a low-profile all-in-one PC. Packing plenty of capability into its tiny size and offering a modular solution for offices that want to upgrade often, the Dell OptiPlex 7070 Ultra is a cool twist on the mini PC in the workplace.

The mini PC itself is so slim it might get mistaken for a laptop battery pack or a desktop dock, but inside it boasts an Intel Core processor, up to 64GB of RAM and as much as 1TB of storage. It has plenty of ports and performance that puts it squarely among the best productivity-focused mini PCs you can buy.

If the OptiPlex 7070 is sold out, you can purchase the 7090 for $889 at Dell .

Read our full Dell OptiPlex 7070 Ultra review .

How to choose the best mini PC

Mini PCs range from small project PCs for under $50 (£50/AU$75) to compact desktops that can cost $1,000 or more. Stick PCs are the most versatile, and generally cost between $100 (£100/AU$150) and $200 (£200/$AU300), and will work with most TVs or monitors. Mini PC prices vary considerably based on hardware.

Know what you want: Finding the right mini PC for you starts with knowing what you're looking for. Do you want something small enough to tuck behind a TV as a dedicated streaming box, or are you looking for something with gaming capability? Do you want a basic internet-browsing machine, or do you need serious processing and graphics capability? Our best picks above do a good job of highlighting the use cases different systems are best suited to.

Find the right size: Then there's the question of form factor. Mini PCs are all small, but there is a range of options within the category, from stick PCs small enough to slip in your pocket to desktop towers that are still compact enough to stow out of sight. You'll sacrifice power for a smaller system, but you can still get a capable desktop that's small enough to carry in a backpack, even if you're after gaming capability or workstation performance.

Make sure you like your configuration and upgrade options: Finally, you want to look at configuration options and upgradability. Many mini PCs have two or three configuration options, which can change everything from the amount of included storage to the presence of high-end processors and discrete graphics cards. There's also the question of upgrades. Many of the smallest mini PCs leave no room for future hardware changes, but others are designed to let you add memory or storage, or even outfitted with ports that allow for an external GPU for expanded capability. When in doubt, check our reviews, which include configuration details and will discuss the potential for future upgrades.

How we test the best mini PCs

We put every mini PC we review through a number of benchmark tests and real-world uses to get the clearest picture we can of how well it performs, what uses it's best suited to and what sort of capability you get for the price.

For performance, we use the Geekbench processor test to measure a system's overall processing capabilities. We run custom spreadsheets to see how long it takes to handle large data sets and number-crunching tasks. We also test the file transfer speeds, copying large files to see how long a system takes to copy multimedia files, documents and other content.

To test the graphics capability, we run a number of benchmark tests from 3DMark. When a system has the capability, we'll also run individual game tests and the SteamVR performance test to see how capable a system is at handling the demands of modern gaming.

Most importantly, we spend a ton of time simply using each mini PC for everyday activities. We watch movies, do work, play games, and blast music on the speakers, all to get a better sense of which ones are worth your money.

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Tony is a computing writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on X/Twitter. His non-nerdy pursuits involve attending Hard Rock/Heavy Metal concerts and going to NYC bars with friends and colleagues. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

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Best mini PCs of 2024

The best mini PCs are more powerful than you can possibly imagine

1. Best overall
2. Best on a budget
3. Best for offices
4. Best barebones
5. Best for creators
6. Best performance
7. Best for flexibility
8. Best Intel mini PC
9. Best for beginners
10. Best for basics
11. Best for conferencing
12. Best workstation
13, Best for ports
14. Best for editing
15. Best for gaming
16. Best tower
17. Best mobile CPU
18. Best for storage
How to choose
How we test

The quick list 1. Best overall 2. Best on a budget 3. Best for offices 4. Best barebones 5. Best for creators 6. Best for performance 7. Best for flexibility 8. Best Intel mini PC 9. Best for beginners 10. Best for basics 11. Best for conferencing 12. Best workstation 13. Best for ports 14. Best for editing 15. Best for gaming 16. Best tower 17. Best mobile chip 18. Best for storage

Don't let the size fool you - the best mini PCs we've tested offer a powerful, portable alternative to laptops and desktop PCs. Our team of reviewers tested the best of the best, benchmarking performance, and comparing specs for a range of uses - from basic office tasks to gaming and video editing.

Mini PCs, sometimes known as a NUC or thin client, are compact boxes that often hide impressively powerful components. Because of their small size (you can mount many to monitor) and reliability, they've become a popular choice for video conferencing, streaming, and server use alongside general office workflows. And while they lack the sheer force of the very best business computers or even best business laptops we've tested, they're a lot more powerful than you might think - and a lot cheaper, too.

Our review team have gone hands-on with a massive range of the best mini PCs for video editing, gaming, office work, and and the cheapest mini PCs for those working to a budget. Rigorously benchmarking overall performance, we compared specs, connectivity, and explored features across Windows and Mac mini PCs for the home, office, and everywhere in between.

Aside from that big performance boost, the Mac mini is compact, relatively affordable compared to those other Macs, and perfect if you or your business have already bought into the Apple ecosystem.

Best mini PC overall

1. Apple Mac mini (M2, 2023)

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Apple Mac mini might not be the smallest around, but for the sheer power relative to its size, it’s our pick for best mini PC. Packing the incredibly fast M2 and M2 Pro chips, the Mac mini (‘mini’ in lowercase, just to emphasize its compact form) is perfect for running basic office apps, browsing, right up to intensive creative tasks like photo and video editing.

When it comes to performance, we had absolutely no issues with the Mac mini. It breezed through every task, every benchmark test, with results putting it not too far behind the similarly portable but not so mini MacBook Pro. The machine even offers good value for money for a mini PC, with prices around the $600 / £600 mark. If you’re not too concerned about the best processors, you can still occasionally find the M1 model, which is a very good alternative at a cheaper price.

However, this is an Apple device - and an excellent entry-point into its closed ecosystem. But unlike most mini PCs, there’s no barebones option here, no upgrading the system, switching distros, or any other tinkering. This is for those who want a mini PC ready to go from day one.

Read our full Apple Mac mini (M2, 2023) review .

Best mini PC on a budget

2. Beelink U59 Mini PC

The Beelink U59 is a NUC-sized PC built around the Intel Celeron Processor N5105 (4C/4T, 4M Cache, 2.0GHz up to 2.9GHz). It can come with 8GB or 16GB of RAM and up to a 512GB SATA SSD installed.

Even with that modest silicon, the U59 performs well at basic tasks and has potential as a small office machine or for embedded applications. For 8GB customers, the RAM can be upgraded to 16GB, along with the M.2 SATA storage. There is also a bay inside for a 2.5-inch drive for even more storage options.

What seals this deal is the relatively low asking price of both the 8GB and 16GB models and the bloatware-free Windows 11 installation. Including dual HDMI outputs and dual gigabit LAN ports neatly positions the U59 for embedded use, ideal for providing product presentations or as a self-contained firewall.

The Beelink U59 is easily one of the better NUC-sized machines we’ve seen, and it’s cheap enough for even the tightest budgets.

Read our full Beelink U59 review

Best mini PC for the office

3. Geekom AS 6

The AS 6 is a different beast compared to the AS 5. This NUC system might look identical from the outside, but the Zen 3+ processor and DDR5 in this system can deliver a dramatically improved performance.

Combining better bandwidth with DRR5 memory, a more power-efficient processor, a superior GPU and a PCIe 4.0 infrastructure, the AS 6 has almost everything going for it. If it has weaknesses, these include a noisy cooling system, all-plastic construction and the same Asus-designed interior layout where the motherboard is in two parts connected by a flexible ribbon cable.

However, it has USB 4.0, and the two 2280 M.2 NVMe slots are both Gen 4, allowing for plenty of performance storage to be added alongside a 2.5-inch SATA mechanism. Sadly, Geekom supplies the machine with only a Gen 3 NVMe drive, but swapping it for something faster is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward exercise.

With an asking price between $659 and $749, depending on the largely processor-optional SKU, this isn’t a cheap design, but it represents good value for a machine with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage as standard. For those wanting a high-performance NUC system that can take on most office challenges, the Geekom AS 6 is yet another practical option.

Read our full Geekom AS 6 review

Best mini PC with a barebones option

4. GMKtec NucBox K1

One of the best things about mini PCs is their upgradeability - it’s one of the joys of owning them. And while you can pick up plenty of ‘barebones’ mini PCs, in our experience, the GMKtec NucBox K1 is particularly outstanding here.

The ‘barebones’ option is cheap, but you’ll need to provide DDR5 memory, NVMe, operating system - as you’d expect. Preconfigured models run up to 32GB RAM and 1TB storage capacity. So, plenty of options available, whether you’re a PC fixer or just need something to run (almost) straight out the box.

Like all the best mini PCs, it’s also an incredibly compact device. Easily one of the smallest NUCs we’ve tested, it’s not much larger than the motherboard it houses - without impacting performance. However, we would've liked to see more port selection - USB4.0 is great, but where's the Thunderbolt compatibility?

Speaking of performance, the K1 did well - and vastly improved once we swapped out the single 16GB module of our review model for a couple of Crucial DDR5 4800 SODIMMs. It brought performance up to Ryzen 7 7735HS levels. If you don’t choose the ‘barebones’ or 32Gb versions, then make sure you pick up a second memory module for best performance.

Read our full GMKtec NucBox K1 review .

Best mini PC for creators

5. Apple Mac Studio

If you’re a creative professional, the Apple Mac Studio is the best mini PC for you. A beefed-up version of the Mac mini, the Mac Studio is built from a single aluminum extrusion, with a square footprint of 7.7 inches and a height of 3.7 inches.

In our tests, the Mac Studio performed beautifully. It easily handled 8K video editing and the advanced AI-powered photo editing tools in Adobe Photoshop . We even saw the Mac Studio load a detailed 3D scene that took up more memory than most discrete professional PC GPUs come with. And it did all this in near-silence.

The bottom line is that you’re just not going to get another PC of this performance level in such a compact chassis. Its laser-like focus on creative professionals means it won’t be for everyone, but it packs plenty of ports, and if you want a powerful and compact creative mini PC, there’s a lot to love with the Apple Mac Studio.

Read our full Apple Mac Studio review

Best mini PC for performance

6. Beelink SER6 Pro 7735HS

Those looking for the fastest NUC might head to the new Intel NUC 13 Pro, but that assumption might be premature. The Beelink SER6 Pro 7735HS, as the name infers, is built around the latest AMD Ryzen 7000 mobile technology and can match or better the latest Intel 13th Gen silicon.

The AMD Ryzen 7000 series processor in this tiny computer has eight cores and can process sixteen threads, making it one of the most powerful small system platforms. Combined with 32GB of DDR5-4800, a Gen 4 NVMe drive and a chipset that includes Thunderbolt, a 2.5GbE LAN port and Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX2111, expect a very positive user experience.

At the time of writing, there is only one SKU that comes with 32GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. However, these machines can be upgraded to 64GB and at least 2TB of storage through drop-in replacements. Dismantling the machine to add these upgrades could be easier, but it's something most users will only do once. Our only other complaint is that the single Thunderbolt port is on the front, whereas the rear might have been a better option for those with docking stations.

The power and efficiency of this platform are distinctive, and we expect to see many NUC makers embrace this new silicon to deliver new high-performance options. Beelink got its machine out early, and this is now a no-brainer for anyone needing a NUC for demanding jobs lesser hardware might struggle with. It does all this for around $300 less than the Intel NUC 13 Pro, making it a bargain.

Read our full Beelink SER6 Pro 7735HS review

Best mini PC for flexibility

7. Minisforum Venus NPB7

A powerful mini PC packing a 13th Gen Intel Mobile chip, Minisforum Venus NPB7 is fast, modern (yes, there’s USB 4.0 and Thunderbolt), and beautifully designed with its attractive aluminum chassis.

One of the big reasons why mini computers are popular is their upgradeability, letting you boost performance as better components become available. We like the flexibility on offer with the NPB7. It may not be the best mini PC with a ‘barebones’ option for upgradeability, but with incredibly easy access to the internals, it’s certainly worth considering if you enjoy tinkering.

During our benchmarking, we found performance was excellent - there’s no denying Intel’s processor is a beast, making short work of just about any task we tried. Even storage read/write speeds were respectable. Where the NPB7 falls down is in the graphics department. Not ideal, then, if you’re working on photo editing or other media creation and production. But for all other tasks, we found this mini PC to be exceptional.

Read our full Minisforum Venus NPB7 review .

Best Intel mini PC

8. Intel NUC 13 Pro

The latest, and arguably the greatest NUC yet. The Intel NUC 13 Pro takes the best silicon from the new 13th Gen mobile product lines and packages them in the classic Intel NUC cases.

What the customer gets is plenty of CPU performance with up to 12 threads and 64GB of RAM combined with Gen 4 NVMe storage and Thunderbolt 4 technology baked into the machine. Starting at around $320 for the Core-i3 models and going to over $1,000 for the top-of-the-range Core-i7 vPro processors, there is plenty of scope for both performance and price. All these machines are provided as ‘barebones’, meaning that you will need to provide RAM modules, NVMe storage and other peripherals (mouse, keyboard, screen, operating system, etc.) to make them fully operational.

In our testing, the NUC 13 Pro was much quicker at multithreaded tasks than its predecessors, but the performance of single-threaded benchmarks was only modestly better. The best aspects of the new NUC are the connectivity with Thunderbolt 4.0 and USB 3.2 ports and the near-silent operation.

The Intel NUC 13 Pro might not be the cheapest option for compact computing devices, but it is from a highly trusted source and offers the absolute cutting edge in NUC technology.

Read our full Intel NUC 13 Pro review

Best mini PC for beginners

9. Geekom AS 5

On paper, this looks like a very powerful NUC and a bargain price from Geekom. Based on the 2021 launched Ryzen 9 5900HX mobile processor, this tiny system comes in a single SKU with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of PCIe 3.0 NVMe storage.

The problem it faces is that it’s competing with systems that use either more recent Ryzen designs or the latest Intel 13th gen processors that use DDR5 memory. The DRR4 RAM in this design comes in copious amounts, but the bandwidth on offer is the Achilles heel of this platform, as it reduces the performance of the integrated Radeon RX Vega GPU.

All that said, this is a fully featured NUC system with three monitor outputs, seven USB ports and a 2.5GbE LAN port. Internally it has two M.2 2280 slots for storage, and a bay for a 2.5-inch SATA device, allowing it to be a tiny power-packed media system. If it weren’t for hardware like the Minisforum Venus NPB7 and the Beelink SER6 Pro 7735HS, we’d be more impressed with a tiny computer with an eight-core and sixteen-thread CPU.

Still, at just over $600, this is plenty of mini PC for that investment, and it is a flexible solution that could easily be repurposed for one of many jobs.

Read our full Geekom AS 5 review

Best mini PC for basics

10. Acemagic AD08

The AD08 is built around an 11th Gen Intel Core-i9 processor and integrated UHD Graphics GPU to provide a platform that, in theory, has an eight-core and sixteen-thread capability.

The system is enclosed in an oddly wedge-shaped enclosure that is designed to sit on the desk rather than to be mounted on the rear of a monitor.

More colourful than most office PCs and with more of a game console vibe, the AD08 might look less out of place in a child's bedroom. But despite looking like a powerhouse on paper, the AD08 doesn’t perform that well when presented with tasks that require heavy multi-threading or raw GPU performance.

That it manages a multi-processing ratio of just 6.07 with sixteen threads might hint that the CPU doesn’t have the power budget or the thermal management to deliver its full potential. The GPU is also very lacklustre compared to the latest Intel Iris Xe integrated GPU, which is three times as fast in some operations.

Thankfully, Acemagic makes an AMD version of the same machine, the AM08 Pro, that has a Ryzen 9 processor and Radeon 680M GPU. It's not only cheaper but substantially quicker than the AD08. And, if you like this form factor, we’d recommend you get one of those.

Read our full Acemagic AD08 review

Best mini PC for conferencing rooms

11. GMKtec NucBox M2

GMKtec has a reputation for making good quality small systems that won’t break the bank, and the NucBox M2 is a prime example of precisely that.

Built around the Intel Core i7-11390H mobile platform, this tiny NUC-sized system is designed to sit on the edge of a desk or be monitor-mounted to provide access to office applications and other productivity tools, and it is available for under $400. That’s not for a barebones solution but a fully operational system with 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage and Windows 11 pre-installed.

The highlights of this design are its metal case, easy access to the interior and relatively straightforward upgrades to memory and storage. It even has a spare M.2 2042 slot for adding additional space above that available through the main M.2 2280 slot.

What could have been better was the USB ports that are all blue in colour, though one is a USB 2.0, and both USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports are on the front and both Type-A ports. That the only USB-C port is Gen 1 was a definite oversight.

USB port confusion aside, this is a capable mini system that covers many of the typical roles these devices are used, but inexpensively. With its size and power, we found it ideal for conferencing rooms, but it could easily be used as a replacement desktop PC, media server, or firewall, to mention just a few.

Read our full GMKtec NucBox M2 review

Best mini PC workstation

12. Khadas Mind

With so many brands simply turning out NUC clones, the Khadas Mind machine is a radical departure but not a cheap option. The processor platform is the same as Intel put in the NUC 13 Pro, providing this system with good performance for a machine with a mobile CPU and integrated GPU.

However, the designers of this system decided not to follow the NUC pattern and created a modular design with a proprietary Mind Link connection that extends the PCI Express bus to other components. Initially, the Mind Dock adds lots of ports, but without the bandwidth limitations of Thunderbolt or USB-C. The Mind Graphics module will attach a discrete graphics card when it becomes available.

The examples of the Khadas Mind base and Dock we got sent to review were stunningly engineered and made, demonstrating a level of engineering normally reserved for aircraft or space capsules.

The catch, as with anything this nicely made, is the price. Khadas makes the pricing more complicated by launching the system through Kickstarter. Those who pledge now are promised that the machines will ship in October, and discounts can be found for bundle purchasers.

This isn’t a cheap NUC solution, but it does offer the potential for enhanced performance in the future for those who like to gamble a little.

Read our full Khadas Mind review

Best mini PC for ports

13. GMKtec NucBox K2

Brother of the GMKtec M2, the K2 is an AMD NUC that uses the excellent Zen3+ architecture of the AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS. It is the same processor as the Beelink SER6 Pro 7735HS uses, an ideal choice for a powerful and quiet NUC.

What the K2 offers is a minimalist case design with easy access to the memory and storage for upgrades and an excellent selection of external ports. It has four 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, a single USB 2.0 and a USB 4.0 Type-C port that doubles as a Thunderbolt port and can transfer data at up to 40Gbps. This NUC has the port selection for maximum flexibility and connectivity, almost bar none. With those options, the K2 would make a great media centre with external drives, but there aren’t many jobs this machine couldn’t handle.

Internal access is via a lid that pulls off, and once inside, you can upgrade the RAM to 64GB and the M.2 slot to an NVMe of at least 4TB, and possibly bigger when they become available. The K2 is small, mostly silent and powerful for its tiny stature, and the only complaint we had with the review hardware was that it had a PCIe 3.0 NVMe pre-installed and not a PCIe 4.0 flavoured one.

Read our full GMKtec NucBox K2 Mini PC review

Best mini PC for video editing

14. Minisforum UM790 Pro

The Minisforum UM790 Pro Mini PC impresses with its compact design and powerful performance. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU and AMD Radeon 780M GPU, it excels in processor and graphics-intensive tasks, including gaming and 4K video editing.

The machine's 32GB DDR5 dual-channel RAM (expandable to 64GB) and dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots (1TB installed) ensure fast data access and storage capacity. The UM790 Pro offers versatile connectivity, VESA mounting compatibility, and effective cooling. Its benchmark scores reflect its exceptional real-world performance, making it just as suitable for creative professionals and gamers as gentler office tasks.

The design might be plain, but it's practical, emphasizing functionality. While priced in the midrange for a high-end mini PC, its strong performance and features justify the cost, appealing to those seeking powerful performance in a compact form.

Read our full Minisforum UM790 Pro review

Best mini PC for gaming

Acemagician AM08 Pro on a desk during our tests

15. Acemagician AM08 Pro

The Acemagician AM08 Pro AMD Ryzen 9 Mini PC stands out for its distinctive triangular design, gaming aesthetics, and solid performance. Ideal for content creators and gaming, it features an AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX CPU and AMD Radeon 680M GPU, and in our experience, it handles graphics-intensive tasks and gaming well. Its 16GB DDR5 RAM (upgradeable to 64GB) and 512GB M.2 PCIe NVME SSD (expandable to 2TB) provide more than enough memory and storage.

The machine excels in cooling efficiency and connectivity, offering Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, USB 3.2 Type-A and Type-C ports, and HDMI outputs. Its triple 4K display support caters to both gamers and creatives. The design might not appeal to everyone, but it's practical with accessible ports.

We ran multiple benchmarks and real-world scenarios which you can read in our review. But overall, the AM08 Pro effortlessly handled the lot, with a real proficiency for multitasking and resource-intensive applications. While pricier than some competitors, we really liked the build quality on show here. And its cooling, expandability, and versatile performance make it a great pick for those seeking a mini PC best-suited to demanding content creation tasks and gaming.

Read our full Acemagician AM08 Pro review

Best mini PC tower

16. Chuwi CoreBox 5th

PC makers occasionally like to make cute miniature versions of recognizable hardware, and the Chuwi CoreBox 5th is a tiny mini tower, copying the previous CoreBox 4th. This styling makes the machine bigger than a typical NUC, but the extra space inside is occupied with an extensive cooling system and fan, delivering an almost silent system.

The only SKU sports a spritely Intel Core i5-13500H (12 cores, 16 threads), 16GB of DDR5 memory and a 512GB NMVe M.2 drive. While the CPU isn’t socketed, the memory and storage can both be upgraded, and it is possible to have 64GB of memory and 2TB of storage if desired.

The other desirable aspect of this design is that it has no less than seven USB ports, although they’re all USB 3.2 Gen 1, and there are no Gen 2 capable ports. It also has a 2.5GbE LAN port and WiFi6, providing plenty of potential for it to be a media server with external USB storage.

The Intel 13th-generation processor gives the Chuwi CoreBox 5th a significant performance edge over mini systems based on older architectures. However, it’s still not a match for the latest AMD Ryzen silicon used by other makers.

Read our full Chuwi CoreBox 5th Mini PC review

Best mini PC with Intel i9 mobile chip

17. Geekom Mini IT13

Geekom has a series of machines using the same case and general layout but different Intel chip generations. Therefore, on the outside, the Mini IT13 looks exactly like the IT12 and IT11, with the true differences being on the inside.

What makes this one stand out is that it uses the Intel Core i9-13900H (14 cores, 20 threads), one of the most powerful mobile chips Intel makes. From that standpoint alone, many people would be interested in the IT13, but before they rush off and buy one, there are a few caveats to this design that somewhat take the gloss off it.

For starters, we’ve seen faster machines, especially those using AMD Ryzen 7 and 9 CPUs, but we’ve also seen faster Intel-based mini PC systems. What all these high-performance machines had in common was DDR5 memory, whereas the IT13 only uses DDR4. That choice impacts the level of system bandwidth, which in turn limits GPU throughput.

As specifications go, this is an excellent unit, and the internal access allows for a good selection of upgrade options. But it isn’t as quick as the processor spec implies, making other machines in this series better value, and the asking price is on the high side. For even more higher performance, we recommend the similar but superior Geekom AS 6.

Read our full Geekom Mini IT13 review

Best mini PC with NAS

18. T-Bao MiniPC + NAS R3

The T-Bao MiniPC + NAS R3 offers a unique blend of compact computing and network storage capabilities. In our tests, the AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor proved to offer an excellent balance between price and performance for this style of machine. And while it might not be a powerhouse, it's a really versatile performer for everyday users.

We really like the design here, which seamlessly blends functionality and aesthetics, and a small footprint that makes it perfect for just about any workspace. But for us, the highlight feature is the provision for two 3.5-inch HDDs, which lets you rapidly expand storage expansion without altering this stylish mini PC. During our testing, we attached two inexpensive 500GB WD Green Drives, effectively quadrupling the storage size in under two minutes - no tools required. However, we did feel the build quality could be better here, as some flexing of the outer case was needed to correctly align all ports.

While not designed for intensive tasks, its NAS feature and compact design make it suitable for home or small office setups. The T-Bao MiniPC + NAS R3 is an interesting choice for users seeking computing power and network storage in a single device.

Read our full T-Bao MiniPC + NAS R3 review

Best mini PCs: FAQs

Are there different types of mini pc.

There is a lot of variety when it comes to mini PCs: various sizes are available and they are designed for various use cases.

Some mini PCs are designed to lay flat under a desk while others have a unique vertical design that allows them to be placed on top of your desk next to your monitor and within arm's reach. You can also completely conceal them behind your monitor if they come with VESA mounting holes.

Today's best mini PCs are a great alternative to bulky full-size desktops and all-in-one systems for all kinds of uses: from administrative workers doing data entry, to customer service specialists and call center offices, to creative professionals and students learning at home.

What is the best use of a mini PC?

Mini PCs excel at everyday tasks like web browsing, word processing, video streaming, and light gaming. You can easily connect them to your TV to play games and watch movies either via a platform like Netflix or through your own media server, with the effectively set acting as a monitor. With specs comparable to mid-range laptops, they don’t have the necessary CPU and GPU to run more resource-intensive apps and games. In those circumstances, it may be worth investing in high-spec devices like the best video editing laptops , which are built for heavy workloads.

What are the disadvantages of a mini computer?

While the best mini PCs absolutely shine, they’re not without a few downsides. When it comes to specs, mini PCs pale in comparison to modern desktop computers and the very best laptops . While you shouldn't have trouble using most as a space-saving alternative to the best laptops for graphic design or the best laptops for photo editing , it can make it difficult to use hardware-intensive apps and processes, like any of the best video editing software .

Upgrading those lower-specced internals is usually out of the question. Even some of the best mini PCs can't be expanded with better components (at least, not without some technical knowledge and skill).

They also need to be run from the mains, so while they’re an excellent portable option, you lack the built-in batteries found in laptops. Due to their form, some users may also experience issues with overheating. Mini PCs also lack peripherals, from screens to optical drives.

How much RAM do you need for a mini PC?

As with desktop computers and laptops, the best RAM is the most amount of RAM you can get within budget. It will make performance much more fluid, especially if you’re using the mini PC for a lot of tasks. We recommend a bare minimum of 8GB memory, although 16GB and above is preferred.

Are mini PCs good for gaming?

It all depends on which games you want to play. The very best mini PCs can ably run lightweight or older games - in fact, many use them as emulators. However, they will typically struggle with newer games, like the triple-A offerings from the likes of Rockstar. They simply don’t have the required CPU and GPU to handle them.

Can you connect a mini PC to a laptop?

Yes, you can connect your mini PC to a laptop and use it as a monitor - but it’s also easy, as many mini PCs lack the required HDMI ports to output to the laptop screen. One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is by using remote desktop software.

Are the best mini PCs better than laptops?

It depends how you intend to use your mini computer. While both are highly portable, mini PCs are more so, with a far smaller surface area. If you’re working on the go, be aware of the sometimes limited battery life on laptops - if you’re usually running off the mains, a mini PC may be the better choice.

Laptops serve as a great all-in-one solution with everything you need to work and play. Accessories like the best office keyboards and the best monitors for a dual set-up are optional. They also come with a range of tech specs, with options for everyday computing tasks right up to the best gaming laptops .

Like a traditional desktop computer, a mini PC is best when used in spaces with easy access to monitors (or TV), keyboards, and other peripherals on hand. For this reason, mini PCs are great for office use, allowing multiple users to access the device in a variety of locations. Cost is also a factor, as mini PCs tend to be cheaper than laptops.

How to choose the best mini PC for you

When choosing which mini PC is best for you, there are several factors to consider - but first, it's important to be sure a mini PC is right for your needs.

Mini PCs, sometimes known as think clients or NUCs, are ideal for light use, such as web browsing and video streaming. Some can even handle casual gaming sessions. But you won't find the raw power offered by the likes of the best mobile workstations .

Despite their name, mini PCs come in a range of sizes, from tiny machines like the Acemagician T8 Plus to the Apple Mac mini, which on the larger size. But they're all considerably smaller than a desktop, so if you're looking for a space-saver, they're ideal. You'll find plenty that even include a VESA mount for attaching the device to monitors to de-clutter the desk.

If a mini PC is best, consider how you'll be using your machine. In addition to general computer usage, mini PCs have been used as media servers, games emulators, and much more.

For smooth performance. a good CPU, GPU, and RAM are essential. We've included a selection of AMD- and Intel-powered thin clients here, all capable of delivering speed and performance for a range of uses.

However, be sure to check your device's ports and connectivity. Some of the best mini PCs pack in plenty of Thunderbolt and USB ports, memory card slots, and HDMI connections, but some are less generous. If portability is a consideration, remember to check dimensions and weight. You'll find these details in our full mini PC reviews.

How we test the best mini PCs

We've tested thousands of devices, from the best photo editing PCs to best business monitors , including small form NUCs and thin clients.

A lot of time and care goes into selecting the best mini PCs. Appliance-type mini-PCs often have a metal enclosure to help with passive cooling and more than one wired Gigabit Ethernet port. The best mini PCs are perfect for leaving unattended in a small network cabinet, rack, or locker, where they can be used as fixed-function mini-servers, such as a firewall for an office network or file storage for a small shop.

There's also a class of mini PCs that are small. These range from palm-sized to slightly more significant than a thumb drive, often with an HDMI male connector and built to be attached to the back of a TV or monitor for entertainment or web browsing on a big screen.

As such, selecting a mini PC is no easy task. First, we had to filter them based on size. We started from the tiniest ones, the thumb drive-sized PCs, up to the palm-sized devices, then moving to the TV-box-sized machines. In each size jump, we looked for the usage scenarios for each based on the capabilities of the CPU and amount of RAM and included ports, then we weeded out the ones with sub-par specs; this removed several dozen entries with the same Celeron CPUs and low RAM.

Once we got to the higher-spec entries, the winners started to show up either by expansion capabilities, unique features, or suitability for the purpose. Final filtering by brand name and support considerations is how we ended up with our selection of picks for the best mini PC for home and office.

As such, when testing which mini PC is best, we study several key areas. This includes build quality and form-factor - we want to see a robust machine, and the best materials available for the cost. This is especially true with mini PCs, as they're designed to be easily carried and used in multiple locations.

We explore the internal specs of each device, and how they compare with some of the other best mini PCs on the market. As part of this process, we also assess the upgradability of the device - from the options on offer to the ease of creating your perfect mini PC. This includes benchmarking performance of the CPU, GPU, and RAM. We're not necessarily looking for the most powerful mini PC. But we want to see suitable performance relative to a range of uses and budgets.

Ports and connectivity are another area where we look at what's on offer - and how it compares with rival devices. Not everyone will need Thunderbolt 4, but we expect to see adequate slots on a mini PC to increase functionality and flexibility.

Price is always a consideration. Depending on how you use it, the most expensive mini PC you can buy may not offer genuine value for money. We've curated a selection of mini PCs here, from premium machines to the cheapest mini PC with great performance.

You can read more about our comprehensive testing methods in our guide How we test laptops and desktops: Our review process explained .

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How-To Geek

The best mini pcs of 2023.

From tiny single-board computers to compact gaming machines with room for a full-sized graphics card.

Read update

We've reviewed our recommendations, and these are still the best mini PCs you can buy.

Are you looking to save some space on your desk? If you don't have the room on your setup for a full-sized PC tower, or simply want to go for a more minimalistic look, you should consider a mini PC .

UPDATE: 08/16/2023

Minisforum elitemini um690, apple mac mini m2 (2023), beelink u59 pro intel celeron n5105, intel nuc 13 extreme barebones kit (i9-13900k), raspberry pi 4 model b, buying a mini pc in 2023.

Mini PCs, as the name suggests, are compact versions of standard desktop PCs. Though that might sound like a simple definition, a huge variety of hardware is available within this category. These machines range from sub-$50 single-board hobby machines to desktop replacements that cost thousands of dollars.

Your intended usage and overall budget make a huge difference in picking the right mini PC. For small projects like tinkering with Linux, running a simple file or media server on your local network, or retro gaming, a cheap single-board machine may do the trick.

If you're hoping to replace a standard PC with a mini computer because you're short on space or would rather have a minimal desktop, you can spend a bit more and get something that will still fly through standard tasks like web browsing, responding to email, word processing, and other general office work.

At the pricier end of the spectrum are fully-fledged gaming PCs that can (just about) accommodate a full-sized graphics card. Not only are these expensive, but they may also run hotter than comparable full-sized PCs owing to their cramped innards and reduced airflow. You'll have to sacrifice space to fit a high-end GPU in your mini PC, which may mean stretching the definition of "mini" in this context.

Some mini PCs are available as a kit. If you go this route, you can buy a mini PC enclosure with a motherboard, CPU, and power supply and finish it yourself with your RAM, storage, and peripherals. Be aware that most mini PCs (even those sold as a kit) are not upgradeable in terms of motherboard or CPU, and most don't include the space or PCIe slots for a dedicated GPU.

If you're sticking with smaller form factors, you can do some neat things with your mini PC, such as hiding it from view completely. One solution is to mount the mini PC on the back of your monitor using an aftermarket VESA mount or even a DIY solution.

Despite being relatively budget-friendly, there are some hidden costs to consider when buying a mini PC. This includes the price of your peripherals (a mouse and keyboard), any monitors or TVs you want to use as a display, and any USB hubs you'll need to buy to add missing ports and functionality.

How-To Geek's product recommendations come from the same team of experts that have helped people fix their gadgets over one billion times. We only recommend the best products based on our research and expertise. We never accept payment to endorse or review a product. Read More »

Best Mini PC Overall: MINISFORUM EliteMini UM690

Looking for a Windows-powered mini PC that ticks almost all of the boxes? Consider the MINISFORUM EliteMini UM690 . Powered by a Ryzen 9 6900HX CPU (with eight cores and 16 threads), this small box of tricks fuses a capable CPU with AMD's integrated Radeon 680M graphics. That means it won't be completely embarrassed regarding occasional 3D applications like light gaming.

Inside the box is 32GB of DDR5 RAM and 512GB of NVMe storage, which makes for a surprisingly peppy desktop machine that should tear through standard desktop tasks like web browsing, office work, coding, and even some photo and video editing work.

The UM690 features support for three simultaneous monitors via its two HDMI outputs and a single USB 4 output (the latter of which can handle up to 8K at 60Hz). On top of this, there are five USB 3.2 gen 2 ports and a single 2.5 gigabit Ethernet port, plus support for Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Windows 11 Pro is preinstalled out of the box, but you could wipe it and install Linux if you like.

Don't expect the UM690 to fly in games but for desktop tasks, as a media or file server, for emulating older console games, or anywhere you need a PC but don't have a huge amount of space, the UM690 is a solid buy.

A powerful Ryzen 9 6900HX lies at the heart of the MINISFORUM EliteMini UM690, with 32GB of RAM, a 512GB NVMe drive, with fast and plentiful I/O to boot.

Best Mini Apple PC: Mac mini M2 (2022)

The 2022 M2 Mac mini is a shockingly good-value small computer. Equipped with the latest Apple Silicon system-on-chip, the Mac mini could easily be on our list, considering its fantastic value for money. While technically speaking the Mac mini isn't a mini PC, this ARM-based machine can do almost everything its PC rivals can do and even excels in some tasks.

Notably, the M2 chip is far more power efficient than the x86 architecture found in most PCs. In terms of performance to watt, the Apple model will wipe the floor with most competitors, which makes the Mac mini ideal if you value efficiency in terms of both power and thermals. It runs a complete version of macOS and can even handle Windows on ARM using virtualization software like Parallels Desktop .

Be aware that the Mac mini isn't upgradeable, so you're stuck with the RAM and storage capacity you select at checkout. On the back of the unit are two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, a gigabit Ethernet port, and a standard stereo jack. The machine also comes with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.

The Mac mini is a particularly good buy if you don't own a Mac and simply want a budget-friendly entry point to Apple's ecosystem. Performance in video and photo editing is excellent, and the 10-core GPU flies in 3D applications optimized for Apple's Metal API.

With an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, 8GB of unified RAM, a 256GB SSD, and Gigabit Ethernet on-board, the M2 Mac Mini is one of the best-value small computers you can buy.

Best Budget Mini PC: Beelink U59 Pro N5105

A solid mini PC with a surprisingly long list of features, the Beelink U59 Pro isn't going to knock your socks off, but it's one of the best-value mini PCs you can buy today. Beelink makes many different models, and this one is powered by an eleventh-generation Intel Celeron "Jasper Lake" N5105 processor with a modest four cores and four threads.

The chip is a few years old, but it should get you where you want to be if all you're doing is basic desktop computing like web browsing, responding to email, and word processing. Being a bit slow and old, the chip runs cool, which means it's virtually silent in operation. The U59 Pro also has 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 500GB solid-state drive.

Perhaps most impressive at this price point is the fact that Windows 11 Pro comes installed. Other noteworthy features include a display output of up to 4K at 60Hz, triple monitor support (with dual HDMI ports), dual gigabit Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, and a wall-mount bracket in the box.

The Beelink U59 Pro mini PC only has Intel HD graphics, which will struggle in all but the most basic graphical tasks, making it a poor choice for gaming (unless you're emulating retro consoles). If you need a bit more grunt, consider Beelink's other budget machines, like the Core i5-powered Beelink SEI11 .

With only 4 cores and 4 threads on its Intel Celeron N5105, the U59 Pro is a modest but highly affordable mini PC for general office and computing tasks. It comes with Windows 11 Pro installed, support for three montors, and is almost silent.

Best Mini PC for Gaming: Intel NUC 13 Extreme Kit

If you want a small gaming machine, the Intel NUC platform is an attractive prospect. The NUC 13 Extreme is the 2023 iteration of Intel's New Unit of Computing, available in both a barebones kit and "finished" forms. This particular model, the RNUC13RNGI90001 (which just rolls off the tongue) is a barebones kit, so you'll need to buy and install a few extra components yourself.

You get everything except RAM, storage, and a GPU. In the box, you'll find a 13th-generation Intel Core i9 13900K, an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 chip, and a 750W 80+ power supply. Everything comes installed on the included motherboard, which supports up to 64GB DDR5 5600MHz memory, three M.2 storage slots, 10Gb Ethernet, a Wi-Fi 6E wireless card, and a whole heap of USB 3.2 gen 2 and Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Perhaps most important is the Intel NUC 13 Extreme's support for full-sized, triple-slot GPUs that are up to 313mm long, 155mm high, and 63mm thick. This is essential if gaming is your primary use case since integrated graphics simply aren't going to cut it in the latest games.

NUC barebones kits allow you to finish your build to your own specification. You're paying a premium for the form factor and ease of installation, and if you're coming from another machine, you can recycle parts like storage drives, RAM, or even your GPU.

You don't have to worry whether everything will fit, fuss with cable management, or install components like a CPU or motherboard. You can even use the integrated graphics chip until you install your GPU.

This 2023 Intel NUC 13 Extreme kit comes with a Core i9-13900K chip, 750w power supply, and room for a full-sized three slot GPU. Simply add your own storage, RAM, and graphics card.

Best Mini Linux PC: Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

Almost all of the mini PCs on this list (including our best overall pick ) could be Linux Mini PCs---you just need to install Linux on them. The main exception to this is the Mac mini, though Linux support for Apple's new chips is improving rapidly . With that said, we've gone for a "Mini Linux PC" here that doesn't ship with Windows preinstalled, which means you aren't spending anything on a Windows license (even a cheap OEM copy ).

With that in mind, we chose the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B as our Linux wildcard. It may be a few years old now, but it's absolutely tiny, available for less than $75, and its primary operating system---Raspberry Pi OS---is based on the Debian Linux distribution. The modest Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core ARM-based chip provides enough grunt for basic desktop tasks, and it's coupled with 8GB of DDR4 RAM.

That makes it ideal as a simple desktop computer for browsing the web and basic office tasks, as a means of powering your next retro emulator build , as a power-efficient server, or as a controller for some sort of whacky DIY project . You can use these machines as a networked Time Machine backup , as a proxy server , or simply as a desktop replacement with the 64-bit Raspberry Pi OS .

It's no wonder the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B got our top gong as the best overall Raspberry Pi kit you can buy .

This is peak Raspberry Pi, with all of the components and memory you need to for more advanced applications including use as a desktop replacement with Raspberry Pi OS.

We've reviewed our recommendations, and these are still the best xxxxxxx you can buy.

What are mini PCs?

Mini PCs are much smaller versions of standard desktop PCs. They can come with the same type of processors found in "standard" Windows laptops and desktops, or use ARM-based processors like the Apple M1 or similar. While some mini PCs can be powerful, many are underpowered compared to desktop and laptop alternatives on account of their thermal and power requirements. They are typically not user-upgradeable beyond a few basic components like RAM and storage.

Do mini PCs have graphics cards?

Most mini PCs don't have dedicated GPUs, instead opting for integrated graphics solutions like Intel UHD Graphics or AMD Radeon graphics. This saves on space, heat, and power requirements not to mention cost. That said, some mini PC format like Intel's NUC have enough room to house a full-sized graphics cards.

Are mini PCs good for gaming?

A mini PC with a full-sized graphics card and comparable specifications to a desktop of the same specification should be just as good for gaming, though it's important to understand how smaller enclosures affect heat dissipation. You may find your machine runs hotter or louder than a comparable full-sized gaming desktop, and you'll also need to make sure that the power supply can handle the total power draw with your GPU installed.

Are mini PCs upgradeable?

Mini PCs are rarely upgradeable in terms of CPU and motherboard but many models support RAM and storage upgrades. If your mini PC has room for a full-sized graphics card, this is also upgradeable. There are exceptions like the Mac mini which isn't at all upgradeable or single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi which can only receive storage upgrades via a new SD card.

Electronics

The Best Mini Desktop PCs

Two of our picks for best mini pc, the HP Pro Mini 400 G9 and the Apple Mac mini, displayed side by side.

By Dave Gershgorn

Dave Gershgorn is a writer covering monitors, laptops, and tablets. He is a certified display calibrator through the Imaging Science Foundation.

If you’re looking for a simple, small desktop computer that doesn’t take up much space in your home or office, consider a mini PC. These computers are best for everyday tasks like working on documents and spreadsheets, browsing the web, taking video calls, or watching TV. However, our top picks are also powerful enough to do some light media editing, and our upgrade pick is fast enough even for professional photo and video editors.

Everything we recommend

HP Pro Mini 400 G9

The best windows mini pc.

This simple Windows PC is small, quiet, and powerful enough for daily work.

Buying Options

Apple Mac mini (M2, 2023)

The best mac mini pc.

The Mac mini offers excellent performance, and the system’s fan is whisper-quiet even when you’re editing photos or videos or compiling code.

Upgrade pick

Apple Mac mini (M2 Pro, 2023)

A tiny powerhouse.

The Mac mini with an M2 Pro and 32 GB of RAM can speed up most media-editing workflows, and it can connect up to three monitors.

For those who prefer Windows, the HP Pro Mini 400 G9 is the best choice, and macOS users should buy the Mac mini with Apple’s M2 processor . Both are capable little computers that you can stick under or behind a monitor, saving space on your desk. A more powerful upgrade is the Apple Mac mini with the M2 Pro processor , which competes with high-end desktops in photo and video editing capabilities.

The HP Pro Mini 400 G9 is a basic PC that’s perfect for home or office use. It runs on Intel’s latest generation of processors, which are energy-efficient and more than powerful enough for daily tasks. It has all the ports you need to hook up multiple monitors, and it offers the latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. We love that the Pro Mini 400 is especially repairable; you can swap out and upgrade the storage drive, the RAM, and even the processor. And HP’s competitive pricing on this model means you can get more RAM and storage for $300 less than you’d pay for a similarly upgraded Apple Mac mini.

If you prefer macOS, get the Apple Mac mini with Apple’s M2 processor . This speedy little Mac desktop can integrate seamlessly with an iPhone or an iPad, as well as Apple services like FaceTime and iMessage. For everyday browsing and general use, an M2 Mac mini with 8 GB of memory is good enough, though if you plan to use yours for professional photo and video editing or app development, you should step up to 16 GB of memory. Keep in mind that you can’t upgrade the Mac mini’s memory or storage after you buy it, so you need to make that decision up front. Apple’s internal-storage upgrades are pricey enough that you should look at an external hard drive or a portable SSD if you need more space.

By upgrading the processor in Apple’s Mac mini to the M2 Pro, you get the same blistering processing speeds found in the new MacBook Pro for nearly half the cost. Compared with our previous upgrade pick, the Mac Studio with an M1 Max chip, the Apple Mac mini with an M2 Pro processor loses some convenient features, such as front USB-C ports and an SDXC card reader, but you pay substantially less—$700 less, to be exact—for a faster machine. It’s also whisper-quiet, even under a heavy processing load, so you can keep it on your desk and forget it’s even there.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: hp pro mini 400 g9, our pick: apple mac mini (m2, 2023), upgrade pick: apple mac mini with m2 pro, what about gaming mini pcs, what about other mini pcs not listed here, what to look forward to, the competition.

Dave Gershgorn has reviewed and covered technology since 2015 at publications such as Popular Science, Quartz, Medium, and now Wirecutter. As a senior staff writer, he covers all computer displays for Wirecutter and is a certified display calibrator through the Imaging Science Foundation. He has also built, repaired, and largely avoided frying his own computers since 2006.

Mini PCs are small computers that cram all the components of a desktop tower into a box the size of a paperback. There’s no attached display, mouse, or keyboard, so you have to buy your own. (Check out our guides to the best monitors for our recommendations on which one is best for you.) Despite these desktops’ small size, they’re more than powerful enough for browsing the web, handling basic photo and video editing, and working in documents or large spreadsheets.

Unlike ultrabooks or most all-in-one PCs, Windows mini PCs are easy to upgrade if you want to add more memory or storage, and they have all the ports you need to connect two or three monitors and your favorite keyboard, mouse, and webcam. The size of a mini PC prevents much expansion, but you can upgrade the storage and the memory on most Windows models, and some allow you to swap out the CPU, too. Instead of having a dedicated graphics card, you’re usually stuck with integrated graphics, so don’t expect a mini PC to have enough power to play many modern games; you can add an external graphics dock if your mini PC supports Thunderbolt 3 or higher, but such docks tend to be large and expensive .

Two of Apple’s flagship desktops fit into this mini PC category, and they’re a bit different from Windows mini PCs. They’re not upgradable and repairable—instead they contain desktop versions of the same powerful guts found in the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. Their chips are power-efficient, and they’re nearly silent, since they don’t require much cooling from fans to keep running smoothly; the Mac mini has one, but it’s almost unnoticeably quiet.

You can find mini PCs for less than $250, but Windows PCs in that price range have unusably slow processors and less memory and storage than most people need. We did not look at cheap, single-board computers, such as those from Raspberry Pi , nor would we include them in our definition of the term “mini PC.” Those ARM-based computers are slow, geared toward hobbyists, and designed to use custom Linux software.

Here’s what we look for in a good mini PC:

Processor: A mini PC needs a processor powerful enough to handle basic web browsing, light photo editing, and any office programs you use. With the exception of our budget contenders and the Mac mini, all the mini PCs in our test group have a midrange 12th-generation Intel processor.
Memory: We recommend at least 8 GB of RAM for browsing the web and handling basic productivity tasks. If you spend lots of time in heavy-duty apps such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or Premiere, or if you regularly edit several large spreadsheets or databases at a time, you may benefit from 16 GB; aside from the Mac mini, any of our picks allow you to upgrade the RAM if you decide that you need more.
Storage: A spinning hard drive can bog down an otherwise speedy computer, so a solid-state drive is a requirement here. A 256 GB SSD should be available as a standard feature, and upgrading the storage or adding a second drive later should be easy. Budget picks usually come with less storage, but Chrome OS relies more on cloud storage than Windows and macOS do, so local storage isn’t as big a deal for a Chromebox.
Wireless features: Every mini PC should come with support for Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) wireless networking, as well as Bluetooth, so you don’t have to waste USB ports by adding dongles for Wi-Fi or your wireless keyboards and mice.
Price: Mini PCs are smaller than desktop PCs, but their size doesn’t make them cheaper—on the contrary, cramming everything into a small box is an engineering feat that you pay a small premium for. Expect to pay between $600 and $800 for a mini PC capable enough to last you the next few years.
Ports: A good mini PC comes with at least four USB ports. A great mini PC tosses in a USB Type-C and/or Thunderbolt port and an SD card reader. The ports should be split between the PC’s front and back so that you can access at least a couple of them without messing around at the back of the computer. A mini PC should have at least two ports for connecting to monitors—any combination of HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C is workable for most people.
Preinstalled operating system: We focus on computers that have either Windows or macOS. Each of our picks comes with the operating system preinstalled.
Size: A mini PC should be small enough to hide behind or under a monitor, taking up no additional space on a desk. Because mini PCs fit almost anywhere, many clever mounting options are available, and if a smaller mini PC model has a VESA mount (more on that below), you can tuck the PC behind a monitor or underneath a desk.
Ease of upgrades: You should be able to upgrade the memory and storage on any mini PC without much technical know-how. (However, our Mac picks are not upgradable in this way.)
Fan noise: Like laptops, mini PCs cram a lot of power into a small case. Although you don’t need to worry about burning your legs with a mini PC, you do need to make sure the case regulates temperature so that the computer doesn’t overheat. Due to the system’s size, you might hear the fan (if it has one) kick on more often than with other computers, so it’s important that the fan’s sound isn’t too annoying.
Warranty: Most mini PCs come with at least a one-year warranty, but the best have a two- or three-year warranty. The policy should cover any defects as well as tech support over the phone, chat, or email.

We also consider the following features, but their presence has no effect on our recommendations:

Lack of bloatware: Nobody wants useless, poorly designed, complicated software—bloatware—preinstalled on their PC, and it’s annoying for people who can’t figure out how to remove it. A mini PC free of manufacturer cruft is more desirable.
Bundled keyboard and mouse: Some of the mini PCs we’ve looked at come packaged with keyboards and mice, while others don’t. This doesn’t affect our judgment one way or the other. The accessories that PC manufacturers bundle with their desktops are rarely very good—if you care about your keyboard and mouse, you’re likely to spend extra on a nice Bluetooth keyboard or mechanical keyboard and a good wireless mouse anyway.
VESA mounting support: Mounting a mini PC to the back of a monitor is a good way to save a little space on your desk and get some of the benefits of an all-in-one without having to pay for one (or dealing with its lack of upgradability). VESA support on a mini PC is nice to have but not something everyone needs.
Power consumption: Mini PCs use low-power desktop and laptop processors, so yours shouldn’t draw much power even when it’s working hard.

After we settled on the hardware criteria, we searched the websites of major PC manufacturers such as Acer , Apple , Asus , Dell , HP , Intel , and Lenovo —and poked around in the inventory of smaller manufacturers such as Gigabyte , MSI , Shuttle , and Zotac —to find models to test.

We started our tests by booting up each mini PC and then running all available updates to the operating system and hardware. We then ran the benchmarking program Geekbench 5 and ran the 10-minute single-core and multi-core benchmarks in Cinebench R23—this process gave us a good idea of how the computers would perform in general use and when running at full speed for an extended period of time.

We then connected each mini PC to a series of 24-inch, 27-inch, and 4K monitors to test its display outputs and used it for a few days of ordinary work. This process usually consisted of running a web browser with at least 15 tabs open at a time (Google Docs, Sheets, Gmail, Slack, and plenty more), streaming music through the Spotify desktop application, video chatting, and recording audio. The testing allowed us to get a feel for how each mini PC performed on a daily basis, and it also gave us time to discover any quirks related to bloatware or driver issues.

Our pick for best mini pc that is small, simple to use and repairable, the HP Pro Mini 400 G9.

The HP Pro Mini 400 G9 is a simple and repairable computer that’s fast enough for everyday work and general use. It’s small enough to mount behind a monitor, which you can easily do with the computer case’s included VESA mounting holes, and its fans aren’t too noisy.

Inside the Pro Mini 400 is a 12th-generation Intel Core i5-12500T processor, which in our tests felt fast to use and didn’t get bogged down running a bunch of apps at once. The model we tested also had 16 GB of RAM, which was more than enough for us to have a wealth of tabs open, to stream video, and to run applications with abandon.

In this guide we’ve linked to a configuration of the Pro Mini 400 that in our opinion provides the best value and options, but you can configure the PC on HP’s site to put in more RAM, a better processor, or even a better Wi-Fi antenna, if you want. (We didn’t have any problems with the standard antenna.) One upgrade that might be worthwhile is using the Flexible Port option to add one more USB-C port to the rear of the PC, as HP says this port can serve to power the whole mini PC if you have a monitor capable of outputting 100 W of power over USB-C. This means you would need to have just one power cable running to your display and then have one USB-C cable connecting your display to your Pro Mini 400, supplying video and power. If you then mount the PC to the back of that monitor, your setup would be especially clean and space-efficient.

Keep in mind that if you are configuring your own PC, you should make sure to include a wireless card for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, because that option isn’t selected by default.

If you’re agnostic as to which operating system your computer uses, one advantage of the Pro Mini 400 over the Mac mini is its front-facing ports. The computer has two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and a headphone jack on the front, making it easy for you to plug in flash drives and other peripherals you might not want plugged in all the time. The back of the computer has more ports, including three USB-A ports, two DisplayPort 1.4 connections, one HDMI 2.1 port, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. Also available is a single HP FlexPort, which you can change into an extra DisplayPort, HDMI, or USB-C port if you customize your PC.

The Pro Mini 400 is extremely easy to open and upgrade yourself. You’ll find just one screw on the back of the computer, which you can open with a flathead screwdriver. You can then push the entire top of the computer case forward and lift it off, revealing the internals of the PC. Unlike on any Apple computer, in this mini PC, removing three screws that secure the heat sink allows you to upgrade the processor, an excellent feature that helps to ensure the repairability and long-term lifespan of your computer. The SSD inside is also readily accessible if you want to upgrade that yourself, and it requires the removal of only one more screw. The RAM is equally accessible, hidden under the PC’s fan; you lift the fan up from over the RAM using a clever hinge built into the computer’s heatsink, which cools both the processor and the RAM. This kind of design also lets you clean dust from the heatsink and fans, making maintenance a breeze.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Our only issue with the HP Pro Mini 400 G9 is a strength in disguise, much like an answer that an over-coached applicant might give in a job interview. The Pro Mini 400 is almost too configurable, in a way that makes it confusing to buy. For instance, if you want to change HP’s Flexible Port to the USB-C option that allows you to power the whole device from a compatible monitor, you have to go through HP’s customization menu. This menu is not intuitive, and you can’t configure the machine to be the same price as one of HP’s preconfigured options. This is more of an issue with HP’s website and price structure than anything else, but it’s still an annoying aspect of the purchasing process.

Our pick for best mini pc for people who prefer macOS to Windows, the Apple Mac mini M2.

If you prefer macOS to Windows, the Apple Mac mini with Apple’s M2 processor is the mini PC you should get. Apple’s M2 processor is about as fast as the speediest Intel processors available for our Windows pick, and thanks to its power efficiency, the Mac mini remains whisper-quiet even when the computer is working hard.

The 2023 Mac mini’s M2 processor makes it about as fast as an M2 MacBook Air, so it’s great for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document and spreadsheet work, and casual photo editing yet still usable in a pinch for professional tasks like app development and video editing. If you mainly plan to use it as a day-to-day computer, the basic $600 version with 8 GB of memory works just fine. If you want to run professional apps, getting 16 GB of memory is worth paying an extra $200, since you can’t upgrade the Mac mini yourself after buying it. Apple’s storage upgrades are similarly expensive, so we recommend buying an external hard drive or a portable SSD rather than paying Apple’s prices.

Despite its relatively larger size, the Mac mini actually comes with fewer ports than most of the Windows mini PCs we tested (and fewer than the old Intel-based Mac mini had). You get one Gigabit Ethernet port, a pair of USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4, an HDMI 2.0 port, two Type-A USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and a headphone jack. You can use the Thunderbolt and HDMI ports in any combination to connect up to two external monitors, which is fewer than the three or four external monitors that Intel’s graphics support. But when you’re using a pair of high-resolution 4K-and-up monitors with the M2 Mac mini, macOS and its apps remain fluid and responsive, without any of the choppiness you could sometimes see if you were to hook the same pair of monitors to an Intel Mac mini.

The Mac mini is one of the larger mini PCs we’ve tested, at 7.7 by 7.7 inches and 1.4 inches high. It also lacks VESA-mounting options, so it needs room on a desk (unless you want to try a third-party mount ). But unlike the Windows PCs we’ve tested, the Mac mini doesn’t have an external power brick, so you don’t need to find room for one behind or under your desk.

The back of the Apple Mac mini M2, where all its ports are located.

One area where the Mac mini excels in contrast to our Windows pick is fan noise: The Apple M2 version of the Mac mini is barely audible even when you’re playing a game or encoding video files. Apple’s chips, originally designed to fit into small, fanless iPhones and iPads, are more efficient than Intel’s, so they generate less heat and use less power. In laptops like the MacBook Air, that manifests as a few extra hours of battery life. In a desktop computer like the Mac mini, it means that the system doesn’t need a loud fan, and your power bills will be a little lower. Most of the Intel-based systems in our tests consumed between 50 W and 60 W of power when encoding a video, a task that stresses all the cores on a processor at once. The M2 Mac mini, in contrast, used about 24 W of power to do the same task in a similar amount of time.

The Mac mini comes with Apple’s standard one-year warranty. Extending that coverage to three years with AppleCare+ costs $99; doing so also adds accidental-damage protection and three years of “priority access to tech support.”

Unfortunately, you cannot repair or upgrade the Mac mini yourself. This is in stark contrast to our Windows pick, which is one of the most repairable PCs that we recommend at Wirecutter.

Part of what makes Apple products compelling is the suite of great applications that sync across all its devices, such as iMessage and Photos. Unfortunately, the size of Apple’s default storage drives hasn’t grown as quickly as many people take photos and send them to their friends. And larger drives are extremely costly, adding hundreds of dollars over the typical market price to the cost of the Mac mini. Long-term Apple fans who have years’ worth of saved photos, videos, and messages who don’t want to pay for iCloud must now pay a premium to store all that data on their own drives.

This choice by Apple to make its devices non-upgradable means that if you run out of storage on your Mac mini, you won’t be able to swap out its storage drive to gain more space. Your only options are to buy an external hard drive (though some synced iCloud services like iMessage cannot be stored on external devices), buy Apple’s cloud storage for a monthly cost, or buy a new Mac mini.

For anybody who does processor-intensive work, the Apple Mac mini with an M2 Pro processor is a tiny powerhouse that can fit under a monitor. Its processor is wickedly fast for converting file types, rendering video, or working in 3D. Because the unified 16 GB of RAM works with either the central processing unit or the graphics processor, you can also more quickly handle enormous video files. The Mac mini with the M2 Pro also has two more USB-C ports than the standard model, so you can have peripherals aplenty.

The M2 Pro chip is the centerpiece of this upgrade pick, and in our tests it proved to be just as fast as the M2 Pro processor we recommend for the MacBook Pro line. The M2 Pro Mac mini exported our two-minute 4K test video in Adobe Premiere in just 2 minutes 8 seconds, and it resized and exported 330 high-resolution images in 5 minutes. That 4K-export time is a minute faster than what we got from the M1 Max–based Mac Studio, and 1 minute 20 seconds faster than the results from our M2-based top pick. These tests aren’t indicative of the performance you’re likely to get from every video- and photo-editing process, but they offer a good benchmark for how quickly you can expect the desktop to process similar media.

Apple has an even more powerful mini PC in the Mac Studio with M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips. If you came here looking for a small desktop PC, we think these would be overkill. They’re intended for professional video and graphics editors, and those whose work includes processing gigabytes to terabytes of media.

The M2 Pro Mac mini’s 16 GB of RAM represents a notable difference from the configuration of every other Windows mini PC currently available. Apple calls this RAM “unified,” which means that it’s accessible to both the CPU and GPU cores on the M2 Pro chip. Traditionally, on Windows PCs, only the CPU accesses the RAM; this is why media editors and gamers typically buy dedicated graphics cards, or GPUs, which have their own processor for video as well as additional RAM. In the M2 Pro Mac mini, all of the RAM resides in one pool that the system can access for handling spreadsheets, managing Chrome tabs, and exporting video at the same time. This design also gives you a larger supply of RAM for graphics processing, which is generally a good thing when you’re working on larger projects consisting of many gigabytes of video files.

This processor and RAM configuration does have the downside of being completely soldered to one mainboard, which means that the system is essentially unrepairable.

Upgrading to the M2 Pro chip also upgrades the number of ports you get. The M2 Pro version of the Mac mini has two more USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports than the standard version, for a total of four, and the computer can support three monitors instead of two. It also has two USB-A ports, an SD Card reader, an HDMI port, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a headphone jack. Thanks to this collection of ports, you should be able to connect just about any accessory, peripheral, storage drive, or monitor with little issue.

Measuring 7.7 inches wide, 7.7 inches long, and 1.4 inches tall, the Mac mini system is extremely quiet even under heavy load, and the noise is almost unnoticeable even when the computer is on a desk.

Gaming mini PCs promise full gaming capabilities in a package smaller than most game consoles, but they don’t make sense for most people. Gaming mini PCs are considerably pricier than the models in this guide, and buying one is usually much more expensive than building a larger PC yourself. They run hot, which can lead to a shorter lifetime for the components. The components are slower than what you get in a midrange gaming PC, and you’re usually limited in the kinds of CPU and GPU upgrades you can perform when you need more speed. In most instances, you should still stick to a gaming PC in a Mini-ITX case if you’re looking for something small, because such a PC will have better cooling, cost less to build, and be easier to upgrade later on. If you’re more concerned about portability, a gaming laptop is a better option.

You can also find a slew of mini PCs sold with more limited Intel Celeron and Pentium processors, which might be fine for emulating games from older consoles but don’t meet the processing-power threshold that we set for daily use. If you’re looking for a mini PC to emulate retro games, the reviews posted by the YouTube channel ETA Prime are thorough and widely sample the category.

A handful of other powerful barebones gaming mini PCs exist, but most of them come from smaller companies like ASRock and Zotac and have shorter warranties and worse support. They’re also harder to find and to buy, and their makers haven’t always updated them to use the newest processors and GPUs.

If you’re looking for a mini PC we haven’t mentioned for daily use or to replace a desktop tower, consider the recommendations we outline in the How we picked section as you shop for one. The configuration should include a 13th-generation Intel processor, at least 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of SSD storage.

Mini PCs have other uses, however, like acting as small servers to host websites or the Plex media-management app. For these specialized situations, you could relax our stated requirements for the latest processors and go down to 4 GB of RAM, and wind up saving quite a bit of money on an older mini PC. We don’t recommend going older than the 10th generation of Intel processors, however, since at that point you’ll start to miss out on critical security updates in just a few years. We also don’t recommend Celeron or Pentium processors, which are unlikely to be powerful enough to handle anything but the simplest computing tasks.

If you’re watching any company building mini PCs right now, watch Asus. Last year, it became the first company to license Intel’s Next Unit of Computing (NUC), and at CES 2024, Asus released its first line of the new mini PCs.

Asus has launched three mini PCs under the NUC name: the NUC 14 Pro, NUC 14 Pro+, and the gaming-focused ROG NUC. All three are powered by Intel’s new Core Ultra processors, and the ROG NUC can be configured with an Nvidia RTX 4060 or 4070 for gaming. We’re especially interested in these, as they seem more consumer-focused compared to Asus’s enterprise-focused ExpertCenter mini PC line. Asus hasn’t released pricing for these NUCs yet, but they’re shipping in February, and we’re looking forward to putting them through their paces in a new round of testing for this guide.

Windows PCs

We tested the HP Z2 Mini G9 , a Windows mini PC built for creative work and any jobs that might require a bit more horsepower than the HP Pro Mini 400 G9 offers. You can outfit it with any of several 12th-generation Intel processors, a wealth of RAM, and large storage options. If you’re specifically looking for a more powerful Windows mini PC, this is a good choice. However, it had some drawbacks that prevented us from making it a pick. In our tests, our upgrade pick, the Apple Mac mini with an M2 Pro processor, proved to be more than 30% faster at certain tasks, especially multi-core tasks such as media editing. The Mac mini was also whisper-quiet, even under heavy load, whereas the Intel processor in the Z2 Mini required a fan, which audibly kicked on while it was handling that same workload. Although the Z2 Mini has a lot of DisplayPort connections, the model we tested didn’t have an HDMI display output or USB-C ports capable of video output by default. (You can add these by configuring the Flexible Port on HP’s site, however.) We don’t want to discount the Z2 Mini G9 entirely, though, as it could be a great machine for some people since its shortcomings are similar to those of many other Windows PCs. It’s worth checking out if you’re not in the Mac ecosystem.

We tested the Dell OptiPlex 3000 Micro and found it very similar to the HP Pro Mini 400 G9. The two computers are available with similar processors, RAM, and storage configurations, but the HP model is less expensive and more flexible in terms of configuration. Most important, the Pro Mini 400 also has a USB-C port. If the HP model is out of stock or wildly more expensive than $800, or if you don’t care about USB-C, this Dell model is a comparable purchase.

The Lenovo ThinkCentre M70q Tiny , M80q Tiny , and M90q Tiny are virtually indistinguishable, as they provide most of the same ports and processor options. Compared with the HP Pro Mini 400 G9, however, they cost more for less RAM, storage, and processing power, and Lenovo systems have had fluctuating pricing and availability this year, likely due to supply-chain issues.

As a general rule for any mini PC, you can skip models that use older 9th- or 10th-generation Intel processors, as those processors are aging and will receive support for a shorter amount of time.

Chromeboxes

We used to recommend Chromeboxes as a low-cost alternative to mini PCs for people who need only to surf the web and check email, and who mainly rely on Google services. However, new Chromeboxes with modern processors aren’t released as often as Chromebooks, and generally Chromebooks offer a better value for those people who don’t need a full PC.

For more details, read our guide to the best Chromebooks .

Apple’s new Mac Studio with M2 Max and M2 Ultra processors is geared toward media professionals rather than the average person. While the Mac Studio was previously an upgrade pick here, we now think the M2 Pro Mac mini offers most of the performance for nearly half the price.

If you want to learn more about the Mac Studio and how it compares to the Mac mini, check out our full guide to Mac desktops .

The latest version of this article was edited by Arthur Gies and Caitlin McGarry.

Chris Hoffman, How to Install Windows 10 on Your PC , How-To Geek , November 1, 2017

Meet your guide

Dave Gershgorn

Dave Gershgorn is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He’s been covering consumer and enterprise technology since 2015, and he just can’t stop buying computers. If this weren’t his job, it would likely be a problem.

How to Shop for a Used Laptop or Desktop PC

by Kimber Streams and Andrew Cunningham

Major stores and manufacturers sell refurbished, refreshed, and used laptops and desktops that sometimes perform as well as new ones, but for much lower prices.

A mint green Mac desktop with the matching wireless keyboard and trackpad situated in front.

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Apple makes fantastic laptops, but its desktops are also great options for many people. We’re here to help you figure out which one is right for you.

The 16 inch MacBook Pro with M3 chip sitting open on a white surface, showing a picture of hilly farmland as a background.

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The Best Laptops

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From budget-friendly options to thin-and-light ultrabooks to powerful gaming laptops, we’ve spent hundreds of hours finding the best laptops for most people.

Get Ready for Gaming

12 Best Portable Gaming PC’s for on the Road

If you’re in search of the best portable gaming PC then you’ve come to the right place.

Not everybody wants to travel with a laptop, particularly if it involves bouncing back and forth between one or two places that are already kitted out with a full-size monitor.

You might also be after something that retains the compact footprint of a laptop but packs a bit more power so you can continue to use it as your primary rig.

In this post, we will take a look at some of the latest NUC’s, Mini’s, and small-form-factor PC’s on the market right now.

What is the best portable gaming PC?

12. beelink ryzen mini pc ser3.

The SER3 is a versatile, high-performance mini-PC. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 3750H CPU and onboard Radeon RX Vega 10 graphics, it can reach an impressive turbo clock speed of 4.0 GHz. It also comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 500GB of NVME SSD storage.

With all that hardware under the hood, the SER3 certainly has the potential to make a great portable gaming PC. It doesn’t freeze or get hot when operating under intensive CPU resources, and the triple display output can drive three independent monitors at 4K 60Hz clarity.

Besides this, what’s great about this product is that it’s very easy to upgrade. The user-friendly design allows you to pop open the lid with just your fingertips. Once done, you then have the option to convert the two SO-DIMM slots to 32GB of DDR4, as well as add up to 2TB of SSD storage.

With the SER3, you can expect to play medium resolution “esports games” at 1080p, 60fps.

✔️Powerful Performance: SER3 mini PC Powered with Ryzen 7 3750H Processor (4C/8T up to 4.0Ghz). Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro 64-Bit OS(no bundled software), support to upgrade win11. Support Moderate Gaming: Dota 2 , CS: GO, League of Legends, PUBG, GTA5, etc.
✔️Triple Monitor Support: Three display output via dual HDMI, and type-C, which enable you to multi-task, The beelink mini pc uses Radeon RX Vega 10 Graphics to support 4K@ 60Hz HD video playback, 3D rendering, and modeling, presenting ultra-sharp visuals.
✔️Compact & Rich Interfaces: The windows mini pc has a unique interface designed with 2 x HDMI ports, 4 x USB3.0 ports, 1 x Type-C Data port, 1 x DC Jack port, 1 x RJ45 1000M port, 1 x Audio Jack (HP&MIC) port.
✔️High-capacity Storage: Built-in 8GB DDR4, 256GB Nvme SSD. 2 accessible memory slots upgradable to 64 GB( 2 x 32 GB). You can expand the storage via 500GB~2TB 2.5-inch SATA HDD or SSD, more storage space will make Mini PC run more smooth

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

11. Beelink GTR7 Mini PC

The Beelink GTR7 is a highly portable mini PC that’s ideal for VR/ light gaming. It has an AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor with integrated Radeon Vega 10 graphics and comes equipped with 32GB of DDR4 RAM. Other features include a 500 GB SSD, Bluetooth 5.0, and the latest WiFi 6.0.

In terms of performance, the Ryzen 5 CPU can meet a fast and powerful clock speed of 4.0 GHz. Furthermore, the Vega 10 graphics can support quadruple 4K@60Hz ultra-clear output. As a result, you can simultaneously browse programs or synchronize your games displays over multiple screens.

To provide speedy heat-dissipation, the unit’s dual fans and 3 copper tubes prevent any internal components from overheating. We also like the fingerprint encryption login system that secures your data without the need to remember a complex password.

Overall, it’s an excellent little PC that packs a big punch.

?【Powerful Processor & Operating System】 Powered with Ryzen 7 3750H CPU (4C/8T up to 4.0Ghz) , which can turns your desk into a powerful workstation just by adding a keyboard, mouse.
?【Compact & Rich Interface】Easy to setup and small in size. Beelink GTR mini computer is equipped with 1x type-C, 2 x HDMI, DPx 1, 6x USB 3.0, 2x Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm Audio Jack. Supports wifi6, Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 network connectivity, Bluetooth 5.0,
?【Quadruple Display Output & Radeon Vega 10 Graphics】Four 4K@60Hz display output via dual HDMI, DP and type-C, which enable you to multi-task easily, stream 4K video playback, web surfing, business office, and light games.
?【Large Storage & Expandable Capacity】Installed with dual channel DDR4 16GB RAM, 2 accessible memory slots upgradable to 64 GB( 2 x 32 GB). 500GB M.2 PCIe SSD. You can expand the storage via a 2.5 inch HDD/SSD, M.2 2280 NVMe for your nee

10. HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini

The HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini features a six-core Intel Core i5-9500T processor that allows you to run multiple applications simultaneously. Using the Intel turbo-boost 2.0 technology, this can reach a max boost speed of 3.7 GHz. Furthermore, it comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM, and Windows 10 Pro.

For graphics, the integrated Intel UHD 630 chipset delivers a sharp, clear picture that allows up to seven displays. It does support 4k playback and can stream at the same time, however, for gaming the GPU will struggle with high resolutions due to not being a standalone card.

In terms of the design, it has a sleek, silver and black appearance with soft rounded edges. On the front of the case are the vents, and the top is completely flat, making it very easy to stack. Found on the ends are 6 x USB Type-A ports, 3 x 1.2 video DisplayPorts, plus other inputs/ outputs.

Besides just using it for some light portable gaming, the 6-core processor would make for a great dedicated streaming PC.

HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini - 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9500T 6-Core up to 3.70 GHz, 16GB DDR4 Memory, 256GB NVMe SSD, WiFi-6, Bluetooth 5.0, Intel UHD Graphics 630, Windows 10 Pro (Renewed)

9th Generation Intel Core i5-9500T 6-Core 2.20 GHz Processor (9MB SmartCache, up to 3.70 GHz)
16GB DDR4 2666MHz Memory, 256GB NVMe Solid State Drive, Windows 10 Professional (64-bit)
Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630, Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax); Dual-Band (2.4 & 5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0
6 x USB Type-A, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, 2 x DisplayPort 1.2 Output, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4 Out

9. MSI Cubi 5

The MSI Cubi 5 is a small but capable mini-PC for home entertainment and commercial environments. Powered by Intel’s tenth generation Core i7, it delivers excellent processing power and a smooth desktop experience while remaining exceptionally silent.

The first thing you’ll notice is that the portable 4.57 x 4.41-inch size barely takes up any room on the desk to minimalize your setup. Alternatively, you can choose to mount it on the back of the monitor for a completely invisible look. To help you achieve this, it supports all standard VESA-mounts.

If you do decide to mount it behind your monitor, one particular design feature that stands out is the external power support switch. Instead of having to bend around your monitor every time to access the power button, this simply extends onto the desk in front of you for convenient access.

With its HDMI/ displayport connections and dual-monitor support, the Cubi 5 will keep you in the flow, wherever you go.

Intel Core i5-10210U Processor - 6 Core - 4/8 C/T 1.6-4.2 GHz 6M Cache
16GB DDR4 2666MHz (2 x 8GB) | 2 x DDR4 2666MHz SO-DIMM, up to 64GB
512GB M.2 NVMe/PCIe
1 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C (front) 3 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A (1 x front, 2 x re

8. ZOTAC ZBOX MI662

The Zotac Zbox Nano series aims to raise your productivity to a whole new level. It comes with a 10th Gen Intel Core processor, integrated Intel UHD Graphics, and HDMI 2.0 (up to 4k, 60Hz). Keep in mind; this is a barebones system so you will have to add your own Memory/ Storage/ OS.

In terms of the design, it has a smart appearance with curved edges and a breathable frame. The palm-size form factor makes it easy to hide or hang anywhere in your room, which is great for portability. Moreover, wherever you decide to put it, the intuitive I/O placement is very accessible.

For performance, the Intel graphics is fast enough for most casual games and can power a 4K monitor without a problem. To get a usable framerate for higher demanding games you will need to scale back the graphics to 1080p. However, this won’t apply to LOL, Dota 2, and Fortnite, etc.

Overall, if you’re searching for a low-power consumption mini PC, you will be very satisfied with this product.

10th Gen Intel Core i7-10510U
Quad-core 1.8 GHz, up to 4.9 GHz processor
Dual Display, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2, 4K Ready @ 60 Hz; VESA Mountable
802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, Dual Gigabit LAN
6 x USB 3.1 Gen2 (2 Type-C), 1 x USB

7. AsRock DeskMini 310W

The AsRock DeskMini A310W is a fast and solid mini-PC. It takes advantage of an Intel Core i9-9900 APU with integrated UHD 630 graphics to reach a clock speed of 3.1GHz-5.0GHz. This particular model includes 64GB of DDR4 2666MHz, a 1TB SSD, and a 2TB HDD.

If you’re searching for a small-form-factor PC that’s a step up from the capabilities of a mid-range laptop, the ASRock is a practical alternative. In addition to retaining a portable size, the eight-core CPU offers bags of power for a more immersive PC gaming experience.

Although it measures just 155 x 155 x 80 mm, the ASRock still manages to squeeze in an aluminum Mosfet heatsink to ensure stable system loading. In addition to this, there’s even room for up to 4x storage expansion, as well as an addressable LED Strip to personalize your lighting.

All in all, it’s a great value mini-build that makes the most of a tiny space.

Intel Core i9-9900 Eight Core Processor (16MB Cache, 3.1GHz-5.0GHz) 65W
RAM: 64GB DDR4 2666MHz | Hard Drive: 1TB NVMe Solid State Drive + 2TB 5400rpm Hard Disk Drive
Graphics: Intel UHD 630 Processor Graphics | Wireless: 802.11 AC Wireless
Operating System: Windows 10 Professional | Please Note: No Optical Drive, Keyboard or Mouse Included.
i9-9900 + 64GB RAM + 1TB NVMe SSD + 2TB HDD + W10P Upgrades | 3-Year CUK Limited Warranty (View warranty section below for more details)

6. Asus ProArt PA90

The Asus ProArt PA90 is a stylish workstation that targets professional content creators. It features a 9th Gen Intel Core™ processor, 16GB of DDR4 memory (with a 64GB expansion), and comes with a full-size Quadro RTX4000 graphics card specific for running creative software.

In terms of the design, it has an attractive, modern appearance that can easily blend into any workspace. The verticle tower shape intelligently circulates air through the side vents, and up through an adaptive air vent on top that automatically opens under a full CPU load.

To power multiple 4K displays and handle 3D rendering tasks smoothly, the Quadro graphics accelerate on the whim for a more responsive multitasking performance. For inputs and outputs, it includes 4 x HDMI display ports, dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, and 2 x USB 3.1’s.

If you’re a designer who likes to do some gaming on the side, you will particularly like this portable PC.

ASUS ProArt PA90 (PA90-M9175ZN) features an Intel Core i9-9900K processor with 32GB DDR4 memory, 512GB M.2 + 1TB HHD, BlueTooth 5.0, Gigabit LAN, Intel 802.11ac WIFI.
NVIDIA Quadro RTX 4000 Graphics supports up to 4 Monitors using DisplayPort
Connectivity for creative projects with dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, Bluetooth 5. 0, and USB 3. 1 Gen2 Type A ports
Advanced cooling features CPU liquid-cooling system and adaptive air vent des

5. ZOTAC Magnus ONE

The Zotac Magnus ONE is a strong and mighty desktop with cutting-edge performance. It features an 6-Core Intel i5-10400 processor, 16GB of DDR4 (max 128GB), and a 1TB HDD. For the graphics card, you’re getting a full-size GeForce RTX 3060 in one of the world’s smallest systems.

If you’re wondering just how powerful this thing can run, the CPU has a max turbo frequency of 4.30 GHz and a GPU boost clock speed of 1777 MHz. As a result, you can pretty much crush any modern “Triple-A” title (in 1440p) at max game settings. Expect an average EFPS of around 100 FPS.

Besides the obvious power, what’s great about this desktop gaming PC is just how small and portable it really is. The compact 8.3 L size measures just 10.45in x 4.96in x 9.8 inches, which makes it incredibly easy to pick up and carry, or travel to your next destination in a carton or backpack.

The design is not letting it down either, in both form and function. The multi-layer front has rounded corners with an illuminated power button and a brushed aluminum outer shell. Furthermore, for excellent 360-degree ventilation; vents strategically surround the top, bottom, and rear.

ZOTAC GAMING GeForce RTX 3060 12GB GDDR6 192-bit
Intel Core i5-10400 (6-core 2.9 GHz, up to 4.3 GHz) processor
Quad-display ready, up to 4K Ready @ 120 Hz, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a
WiFi 6 Killer AX1650, Bluetooth 5, Gigabit LAN, 2.5Gbps Killer Ethernet; 4 x USB 3.1, 4 x USB 3.0 (1 Type

4. Intel NUC 11 Extreme Mini

The Intel NUC 11 Extreme is the highest-performing Intel NUC available on the market today. This is a barebones kit with an 11 th -gen Intel Core i9 processor and a 650W of internal power. It also features two Thunderbolt 4 ports and a PCIe* x 16 slot capable of supporting a twelve-inch GPU.

Remarkably, the NUC 9 extreme is only the second Intel NUC to harness a full-size graphics card. The slot is perfect for fitting in one of the latest RTX 30 Series Mini GPUs. That gives gaming enthusiasts the flexibility they need to build a monster rig for playing and streaming simultaneously.

Besides being able to switch out your graphics card, we also like that the NUC 11 extreme compute element (the motherboard and CPU) is easily upgradeable. This is an important factor for the price point, as it allows the unit to stay strong, relevant, and powerful both now and in the future.

To get an idea of the size, the 8L chassis weighs just 9.80 pounds and measures 4.75 x 14 x 7.68 inches. The integrated cooling, allows the compact system to run cool and quiet even when playing on the highest settings. Overall, this is a dream portable gaming PC for anyone that can afford it.

DDR4 SDRAM compatible slot - Installs memory that reduces processors idle time and enhances computers performance
With 12 USB ports, connect/disconnect devices while not having to shut down the system
With Serial ATA/600 interface get superb reliability and high-speed data trans

Click here for the smaller Intel NUC 9 Extreme!

3. NZXT H1 Mini PC

The NZXT H1 Mini Pro is a clean and minimalistic pre-built PC that targets both gamers and content creators. By packing all the necessary hardware (at very competitive prices) into one of their elegant H1 vertical chassis, NZXT does all the hard work for you with this build.

To power the uniquely small footprint, the Mini Pro has an 8-Core Intel Core i7-10700KF CPU, a GeForce RTX 3060 Ti, and 32GB of 3000 MHz RAM. Moreover, for internal storage, you get a 1TB Western Digital SDD, and there’s even the option to add an extra external HDD with the deal.

All that power makes this is an excellent choice for gaming enthusiasts after a portable PC, without any compromise. Combine that with the streamlined internals (such as pre-routed cable channels, and integrated PSU) that allow for easy modifications and there’s a lot to like about this setup.

It’s well known that NZXT manufacture some of the coolest cases on the block, and the H1 is no exception. The sandwich layout design allows the GPU and PSU to pull in fresh air from the sides and then exhaust hot air out the back. Additionally, the CPU has its own 140mm AIO Liquid Cooler.

Finally, another interesting feature is that all I/O’s are located at the bottom of the case. As a result, you won’t have to deal with any messy cables poking out the top.

2. MSI MEG Trident X 10

The MSI MEG Trident X is a console-size powerhouse that’s perfect for gamers who are on the go. It has a sleek, thin, vertical construction to prevent any damage to the PCI-e slot during transportation, and features all of the components that are typically found in full tower chassis.

What you’re getting with this bit of kit is nothing but sheer performance. Packed inside the 10-liter volume case is an 8 core i7-11700K Processor (with a max turbo frequency of 5.0 GHz) and a full-size NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU that’s capable of an 1710 MHz boost.

To ensure that the portable size doesn’t overheat during your gaming, the design of the PC is especially clever. The CPU, VGA, and PSU each have their own individual chambers (with optimized “Silent Storm Cooling 3” airflow) so that the system can stay cool for many hours.

Accessing the chambers is trouble-free, thanks to the tempered glass panels on the side that you can take off or pull open just like a door. If you did ever want to do an upgrade in the future, the stand on the bottom also comes off so you can get to the rest of the components with ease.

Just as you would expect with a newer model like this, it comes with WIFI 6, Thunderbolt 3 ports, and everything you would need for the future. Overall, it’s a top of the line purchase that anyone would be lucky to get their hands on.

【Upgraded No Display ; Wi-Fi 6E AX210 Wifi, Bluetooth 5.2, Ethernet LAN (RJ-45), No Webcam, Per Key RGB Backlit Full Size (10 Key) Keyboard, .
【Powerful Performance with Intel Core i7-11700K Octa Core】 11th Gen Intel Core i7-11700K 3.6GHz Processor (upto 5 GHz, 16MB Cache, 8-Cores, 16-Threads,) ; NVIDIA RTX 3080 10GB GDDR6X Dedicated Graphics, .
【High Speed and Multitasking】 16GB DDR4 DIMM; 750W Power Supply, RGB Lighting Air Cooling CPU Cooler; Black Color, .
【Enormous Storage】 256GB SATA SSD + 2TB HDD; 3 USB 3.2 Gen1, 3 USB 2.0, 1 HDMI, 3 Display Port (DP), 2 Thunderbolt 3 (Type-C), USB 3.2 Type-C Gen1,

Click here for the CUK MPG Trident 3!

1. CORSAIR ONE i200

The Corsair One a200 packs all the performance of a full-size AMD-powered gaming desktop into a sleek and compact 12-liter enclosure. It boasts a 12-core AMD Ryzen 9 5900X processor, 32GB of Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 graphics card.

In terms of the build, the a200 follows a similar construction to some of the previous Corsair small-form-factor models. A pair of 2mm-thick bead-blasted aluminum panels with triangular ventilation holes form the sides, and a series of diagonal fins cover a 120mm cooling fan on top to form the lid.

Underneath the aluminum panels are two AiO water coolers that sit directly in front of the GPU and CPU. To regulate the temperatures and ensure max speeds, they draw in the fresh air and circulate it up through the tower design. This results in a very efficient convection system with minimal noise.

On the front panel, we have two tasteful RGB strips that let you personalize your system’s look via the Corsair CUE software. A Handful of easy to reach inputs locate towards the bottom including a 3.5mm jack, two USB 3.0’s, and a VR ready HDMI port.

The rest of your I/O’s are on the back where you can find eight more USB ports and three more display port connectors that support up to four 4K HDR monitors in total. Just like the other top of the line models on this list, you also get an internal 80 Plus Gold PSU and storage to seal the deal.

Overall, if you’re searching for a portable gaming PC that’s, fast, quiet, and very powerful, the Corsair One a200 is the one to go for.

The CORSAIR ONE packs all the performance of a full cutting-edge AMD-powered gaming desktop into a gorgeous and quiet small-form-factor.
Enjoy years of operation thanks to reliable, award-winning CORSAIR components.
An AMD Ryzen 5000 Series processor powers the most demanding games and obliterates multithreaded tasks like 3D or video rendering and software compiling.
An NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series GPU with real-time ray tracing technology enables unbelievably lifelike graphics.

Is it Worth Buying a Portable Gaming PC?

PCs are the pinnacle of gaming prowess, with superior graphics, speeds, and resolutions than other devices. However, they can get quite expensive, and when you throw portability into the fray, you’ll have to make some sacrifices when in terms of reaching the highest performance.

If you are a gamer who’s always on the move then a portable PC is always going to be worth it. Unfortunately, there are some caveats, though. Mainly, the more power you have in a compact chassis (with restricted airflow), the higher thermals will get without the proper cooling.

Additionally, due to specialist engineering and less of a demand in the marketplace, portable PCs tend to be more expensive. Therefore, to make things worthwhile, you’ll want a system that’s going to give you plenty of longevity right from the start.

Portability is great, but be sure to choose a high-performing system or your gaming days on the go will won’t last long. If you’re not going to be playing graphics-intense games that require the highest frame rates, then there’s no sense in ponying up $2,000 for the latest and greatest gear, either.

Are Portable Computers Good for Gaming?

They certainly are but they’re a little more troublesome than standard gaming PCs. The primary reason behind this is that it’s more difficult to keep your PC cool. Portability doesn’t mean that you have to make a serious trade-off in the graphics and capabilities department, though.

In fact, most medium to higher-end portable gaming PCs and beyond are more capable than the latest in consoles, such as the PS5 and the Xbox Series X. However, there is one big downside. Portability comes with a price that can often exceeds building a full-size gaming PC.

If you want the best of what the gaming market has to offer, prepare to dish out anywhere between $1,500 and $2,000. With that said, you can still have a great, portable gaming experience with less. This is providing you’re willing to sacrifice some features and playing at the highest graphics settings.

For a cheaper but still excellent gaming experience, you could go with a gaming laptop, which you can find on our list here .

How to Choose the Best Portable Gaming PC in 2024

Finding the best portable gaming PC goes beyond choosing a small form factor build. These builds focus on ease of transport as well as using space-efficient components. The small details can lead to major performance benefits over time.

Choosing the Best CPU/ GPU

For a portable gaming PC, look for a processor with at least four cores. It should have a clock speed of at least 3.5 GHz, but a higher clock rate is usually preferred. Most AMD Ryzen 5000 or 11th generation Intel Core models should meet your needs.

A portable gaming PC should have a dedicated graphics card to process image information. Nvidia and AMD are the most popular brands. Look for mini-ITX versions of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 series or AMD equivalencies.

Gaming Performance

Beyond the basics of choosing a processor and graphics card, pay attention to specifications like VRAM and FPS.

The VRAM is not upgradeable without upgrading your GPU, and you want at least 8 GB for gaming.

Check the average refresh rate at the resolution you’ll play at, and make sure it matches your monitor. The ideal number for gaming is around 144 Hz, but 60 Hz works well enough.

Size/ Weight of the PC

Size and weight is a concern intrinsic to portable gaming PC builds. You need to find dimensions that you are comfortable with moving. Ideally, a portable gaming PC should be as small (slim) and lightweight as possible.

Small-form-factor towers are all quite different, so choose one you know you can move safely and securely. Consider how you will protect the PC while transporting it.

Cooling System

Liquid cooling systems work better for compact systems. Depending on the case you have, there may not be adequate airflow for fans to cool the components and maintain proper ambient temperature.

A liquid cooling system takes advantage of the available space and manages the heat from the CPU and GPU.

This is especially important if you’re set on overclocking your system.

Storage/ Memory

For the most efficient use of space, look for a portable gaming PC that uses a M.2 NVMe SSD of at least 256 GB. This takes up less space than SATA-connected SSDs or HDDs, and the NVMe connection moves data more quickly.

Your portable gaming PC needs at least 8 GB of RAM for gaming, but aim for 12 GB to 16 GB if you can.

Inputs and Outputs

Most portable gaming PCs rely on wireless connectivity features to handle input and output processes. Look for a PC that offers Bluetooth and has a few USB 3.0 ports to accommodate lower-latency USB-RF devices.

You should still have a few ports available. Look for PCs with USB C as well as any I/O ports you anticipate you will need.

We hope you found this post useful on the best portable gaming PC.

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The Best Mini PCs for Gaming in 2024

Don't be fooled by size; these PCs can pack a powerful productivity and gaming punch

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Mini PCs are smaller than full-sized desktop PCs but powerful enough to enjoy snappy productivity and gaming performance. If you need a capable machine to carry with you that can fit into a backpack, briefcase, or even your pocket, or just something that won’t dominate your work or personal space, then a mini PC is a great purchase option.

These are the best mini-gaming PCs you can buy.

What to Look For

Best Budget

Hp pavilion tg01-1020.

Excellent price

Handles most games at solid framerates

Easy to upgrade

Not the most powerful

Will require new parts to stay up to date

It's not the smallest or the most powerful mini PC out there, but the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop is affordable and powerful enough to play most modern games, albeit not at the highest settings. While it's a fundamental system, it's good enough to make a reasonable entry into PC gaming.

It's essential to remember that you can upgrade this system with more RAM , a more powerful graphics processing unit (GPU), or more storage. It's also an excellent photo or video editing system and other creative tasks. Despite the low price, it has a pleasing appearance with a cool edge without being too blatant about its gaming-focused design.

CPU: Intel Core i5-10400F | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD

Best Super Compact

Valve steam deck.

Desktop performance in a small package

Expandable storage

Built in battery

Desktop/portable hybrid

Great value for money

Long waiting list to get one

If you want Windows OS, you’ll have to install it

Only 64GB of storage in base model

On the surface, the Valve Steam Deck is a handheld gaming console, much like the Nintendo Switch. Underneath, however, it's also a full-powered desktop PC crammed into a device not much larger than a smartphone.

Though intended primarily as a mobile device, it can be attached to a USB-C hub, which grants it all the functionality you’d get in a traditional desktop.

In addition to being compact and powerful, the Steam Deck is also remarkably affordable. The base model outclasses any other PC or laptop at that price point in terms of sheer processing and graphical horsepower. The Steam Deck is one of the first systems to ditch older DDR4 memory entirely in favor of a single shared pool of DDR5 RAM utilized for processing and graphics.

However, the base model only has 64GB of onboard storage on a relatively slow drive. If you want faster storage, you must pay extra for the faster 256GB and 512GB models. The storage is expandable with a microSD card slot, and if you’re using it as a desktop, you can easily add as much external storage as you want.

CPU : Custom AMD | RAM : 16GB | Storage : 64GB to 512GB SSD

What to Look for in a Mini Gaming PC

When you purchase any device, there are a few things to check. For a mini gaming PC, be sure you have enough storage, a great graphics card that can move seamlessly between productivity and gaming, and plenty of memory ( RAM ) to handle power-hungry tasks.

A solid-state drive (SSD) is preferable to a hard disk drive (HDD) . An SSD's much higher read and write speeds will make more difference to your computer's performance over an HDD than almost any other upgrade. However, SSDs tend to have less capacity and be more expensive than HDDs. A common compromise is to have an SSD for your operating system and commonly used programs, with photos, games, and other high-volume data stored on a secondary HDD.

A dedicated graphics card (GPU) is crucial for video games or graphics-heavy productivity tasks. Graphics cards are typically less beefy in smaller PCs and laptops than in full-sized desktops. If you’re mainly going to be browsing the web, editing text documents, and performing other tasks that don’t necessitate a high-powered GPU , then you can save money on a system with an integrated GPU that is part of the processor.

Most modern PCs utilize DDR4 RAM ; you should consider 8GB as the minimum. If you plan to undertake more power-hungry tasks, 16GB is typically enough for most people. For video editors and other creative types running programs that store a lot of information in the RAM, 32GB can be handy. Having a lot of RAM can also help if you’re in the habit of leaving a lot of tabs open in your internet browser.

Yes, you can upgrade certain parts of a mini gaming PC just like any other desktop, but you'll need to pay particular attention to the size of the components you're using. Some parts, such as graphics cards, may not fit the compact case. It's also important to note that some mini PCs might use something other than conventional components.

As the name might suggest, a mini gaming PC will be far more compact than your typical desktop, allowing you to fit it into spaces that a regular PC might struggle with. Sometimes, you can make it disappear almost entirely by mounting it on a wall or under a desk.

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INTEL NUC Mini Computer: Your Best Travel computer

Michael Parrotte

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Over the past few years, one of the most exciting developments in the PC world, especially in gaming, revolves around the small form factor PC. These incredible machines are a fraction of the size of the old computers. However, they are still capable of fitting cutting-edge components, such as the best graphic cards like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti and GeForce RTX 3070 Ti , required for modern gaming.

Technically, one of the key benefits of the small form factor PCs is that they are not bulky, and you can pack them in your travel bag on a trip to Europe or Asia. Even so, what are some of its top features? What makes it the best travel computer?

In the guide, we will provide you with a review of the best Mini PC – INTEL NUC Mini – and why it is the most recommended option when traveling.

Read on for a detailed insight into the Next Unit of Computing:

What Is Mini Computer?

A mini-computer is a class of smaller computers developed in the mid-1960S and is more expensive, quite easy to carry, and more powerful than a personal desktop. However, they’re less powerful than supercomputers or mainframe computers but can equally perform like a modern PC.

With the best laptop processor, laptop-sized ram, and capabilities to support up to three drives, Intel NUC Mini Computers are everything you would ever need in a portable mini PC.

Apart from their compact size, integrate a very simple and straightforward method of operation as compared to other PCs. Further, even with little PC hardware experience, disassembling a small factor PC is quite easy and will take you around 15 minutes.

Computer Features

Intel NUC Mini PC can come with a 6 th – 8 th generation Intel Core i3, i5, i7, and i9 processor . Besides, they also pack speeds of 1.6 GHz up to Turbo Boost Speed of 3.6 GHz .

These incredible PCs incorporate the Thunderbolt 3 technology , Intel HD graphics, Mini DisplayPort, Mini HDMI Port, and an external graphics card.

However, the type of GMU depends on the NUC model.

Intel-NUC-8th-Gen-Three-Quarter-Hades-Canyon

One of the best things about SFF computers is that they can support more than one drive. It’s designed with a fast SSD that can deliver amazing speeds.

Like the majority of small form computers, Intel Mini NUC supports both WLAN and LAN networks. What’s more, it supports good internet speeds of up to 1,000Mbps.

Other additional features include Bluetooth 4.0 wireless.

Peripheral Devices

Intel NUC Mini PCs have more connectivity than a lot of current laptops. They’re designed with two USB 3.0 ports located on the front panel and two others on the back panel as well as a MicroSD slot. Some models, like NUC 11 Enthusiast, also feature two additional USB 2.0 headers.

Intel understands that memory is fundamental to a personal computer and has designed a small form factor gaming PC with DDR3 SODIMM with an expandable memory of up to 32GB.

The sophisticated Intel NUC comes with a 3.5mm jack for the 7.1 surround audio that can also be used with a mini HDMI and a mini display port.

The ports are located at the front and the back.

Additional Features

Other additional features integrated into the small form factor computer include a Type C interface and NFC system, a voltage sensor, cooling system, support for user-replaceable 3 rd party covers, and Kensington Lock.

Should I Buy Ready to Go Mini-PCs or Barebones PC ?

Technically, you can either buy mini PCs as either complete or barebone. Intel NUC Kit comes with a tiny chassis and an installed motherboard. When you buy a barebone PC, you are required to shop and install your desired solid-state drive (SSD), hard drive, or RAM modules – depending on the model and install an operating system.

Note that it can be a bit hard to differentiate between a barebone and a configured PC. Always check for PCs with a reseller lingo “barebone PC.” In some cases, you can purchase a mini-computer with a “preconfigured” logo. It is almost the same as barebones but comes with a storage disk, RAM, and an operating system or windows.

Additionally, ensure you also factor in the Windows license in the total cost.

You should also note that the parts you will find in the small form factor desktop PC will be small – like those of a laptop. The majority of mini PCs use DDR4 SODIMM RAM for their memory instead of the normal desktop-size DDR4 DIMM.

Integrated vs Dedicated Graphics Card: Which Is the Best for Intel NUC Mini?

The answer is quite clear. There is not enough space to fit a bulk GPU. As a result, the majority of mini PCs are designed with integrated graphics from Silicon Integrated Systems for video playback and productivity work.

zotac-zbox-magnus-one-mini-PC-2021-pcmedicpro (2)

However, there are a few models such as the Zbox Magnus and the 2021 Dell Precision that features a dedicated GeForce or Nvidia Quadro graphics, which is serious enough to be incorporated in any serious PC gaming. Besides, although it features settings with reasonable details, the processor should be upgraded to Intel Xeon.

One of the most interesting NUC kits is the “Hades Canyon” The small mini PC makes use of Intel’s pioneering “Kaby Lake-G” processor, which was developed in concert with AMD. Technically, the chip integrated into this small form PC combines Intel Core i7 processor and AMD’s peppy Radeon RX Vega M graphics acceleration.

Which CPUs Are Ideal for a Mini PC?

There is quite a wide range of mobile-grade CPUs for small factor PCs ranging from Celeron chips and Intel Atom to Core i5 and i7 processors. These processors are capable of delivering rendering work and modest media-crunching.

You should note that the size of the PC doesn’t predict the strength of the PC when looking for a mobile-grade PC or desktop-strength PC.

The best way to tell whether your mini PC has a desktop strength chip or a mobile-grade CPU is to check for a letter at the end of the processor’s number. For instance, the letter “K” or “T” for a desktop-strength chip and no letter for a dead giveaway.

A mini core i5 with a desktop strength chip should have a number like this: Core i5-9400T. It can also have a “Y” or “U” at the end. It is possible with the latest chips possibly from the G-series. What’s more, when the chip family and the generation are equal, you can expect more muscle.

It is usually a result of higher base clicks or more cores from the desktop version as compared to the unlocked mobile core i5.

How to Use a Mini Computer?

The many uses of a Mini PC include video conferencing, work and business travel, advertising, gaming, home entertainment, and media production.

You will get to enjoy mobility in the small but mighty PCs. You will get the performance you need for photo editing, content creation, or complex work while on the go.

What’s more, these incredible machines are designed with Intel UHD graphics for 4K resolution. Ideally, the majority of these PCs are designed with the latest technology that is ideal for performance and mobility.

Below is a detailed insight into some of the key benefits you will get from the SFF computers:

1. Portability

Do you get nervous about being away from your PC when you travel? SFFs may be the answer you’ve been looking for. They’re much more compact than notebook computers, and they may be able to have more processing power than a gaming laptop.

In reality, some small form factor PC will fit into a side compartment of your carry-on luggage with ease. Consider having a small form factor gaming PC so that you can continue to play while traveling.

2. Saves Space

Intel's-NUC-9-Extreme-Core-I9-9th-Gen (2)

You can enjoy gaming, but not at the expense of the amount of space a typical gaming PC consumes on your desktop. Old gaming computers will clog up your desk, making it unusable for other purposes. For a more convenient setup, you could be forced to put your computer on the floor.

However, this creates a new set of issues because your computer is now more vulnerable to damage from flooding, kicking, or dust ingestion. Small form factor gaming PC saves space and are more convenient than their larger counterparts. It can also be mounted on the back of your computer.

3. Small Form Factors are a Bit Cheaper

Gaming computers can be very costly. Justifying the cost of a full PC tower for a budget gamer can be difficult. You get a lot of gaming strength for your cash with small form factor PCs. SFFs can be a relatively affordable option to bigger gaming PCs, allowing you to pursue your passion without breaking the bank.

4. Consumes Less Power

Let’s face it: a full tower PC will trigger your power consumption to skyrocket, making your electricity bill a topic of worry. An SFF’s smaller package normally translates to lower overall power consumption. If you’re a big gamer, this will save you a lot of money on your utility bill.

Besides, if you’re concerned about the climate, the reduced environmental impact that SFFs leave behind can make you feel better.

5. Mountability and Connectivity

Mounting kits are included in the majority of mini PCs. It allows them to be attached to the back of almost any LCD monitor.

Typically, if you’re looking for a way to save space, ensure you check on the mounting feature. Also, look for mounting holes on the back of your display, which, if present, should conform to the VESA mounting standard.

Often look for any form of 802.11 Wi-Fi (wireless networking). Most mini PCs come with at least that (and a few more have Bluetooth), just make sure the device or package doesn’t require purchasing a different Wi-Fi card in the Compact Express or M.2 form factor. However, some of them do.

6. What Next?

Besides its compact size, the major benefit of the Intel NUC Mini PC is that it can be used in several ways such as a 4K streaming device when mounted to a TV Box. The mini-computer will suit the bill if you’re searching for a machine that can be used in a variety of ways and won’t take up too much room.

This specialized PC is very powerful, with excellent efficiency, but if you want to run the latest games or edit 4K and 8K content, you’ll have to search elsewhere.

In essence, the Intel NUC Mini is perfect for your home office, traveling, and casual gaming if you’re looking for a robust, portable, and discrete PC or a media server.

Verdict: Is Mini PC Good ?

Based on the above review, there is no doubt that the Intel NUC Mini PC is the ideal option for anyone looking for a small but mighty computer.

Most importantly, if you are a travel enthusiast, or you are planning a trip, you might consider trying out the best mini computer.

All you need to do is factor out why you need the PC and how you can benefit from its compact design.

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Best Mini PCs with Windows 11: Key Features to Consider

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Are you searching for the most compact computer for your home office setup? You're spoilt for choice with our buying guide featuring Mini PCs powered by Windows 11. Depending on your budget, these PCs offer a range of performance capabilities, from handling basic office tasks to more intensive activities such as video editing and playing the latest computer games.

The best Windows 11 Mini PCs compared

Mini PCs are small enough to fit in a handbag or large jacket pocket, although they would do much better on your desk. While small in stature, they offer a wide range of connections compared to most notebooks, provide a good level of performance despite its size, and the internal components can be upgraded if required. Best of all, they are more energy-efficient than full-blown desktop PCs.

In this article, we will focus on models that are powered by Windows 11 and hence, exclude the Mac Mini models. If you are interested in Apple's smallest computer, I recommend you check out Fabi's M2-powered Mac Mini review . As Apple relies on its own SoC architecture and uses its own macOS, we did not include this option in our comparison.

Disclaimer : Over the past few months, we reviewed several Mini PCs from Geekom as part of a larger collaboration. However, this collaboration did not sway the outcome of this list. To provide you with as much information as possible, we linked all available reviews in our list for more context. We were unable to review models from other manufacturers, but as soon as we can review the latest Mini PCs, we will update this article.

We would like to begin this comparison article and buying guide by informing you about the differences between mini PCs and conventional desktop PCs. Furthermore, we will then showcase the different models we reviewed over the past months.

What do you need to look out for when buying a mini PC?

The crucial question: mini pc or micro atx mainboard.

Mini PCs have experienced a certain amount of hype recently, being energy-saving and compact computing miracles. However, it is also advisable to think about buying a slightly larger PC. If you were to opt for a model with a micro ATX mainboard, you have more options when it comes to upgrading the PC.

The major advantage here is not having to deal with an integrated processor with the mainboard. PCs with a Micro-ATX motherboard are the superior option for future upgrades. You can install a dedicated graphics card to squeeze more performance for gaming or video editing then. Of course, these computers are not as compact as mini PCs, so let's move on to the next point.

Chassis and size

The advantage of buying a mini PC is, of course, its compact size. The models we reviewed recently were all not much larger than a stack of CDs. As a desktop PC, you can place the mini PC virtually anywhere on your desk. You don't have to crawl under the desk to connect USB sticks or other peripherals.

Most mini PCs can also be mounted on the back of monitors using VESA mounts. This allows you to turn your monitor into an affordable all-in-one PC that can be repaired more easily than conventional models. The relevant brackets are normally included in the packaging.

Thanks to its compact size, you can also bring your mini PC with you easily. The models we reviewed fit into a rucksack without any problems, and transportation in larger jacket pockets is also quite realistic.

Components and performance

To achieve the compact size of mini PCs, manufacturers rely on notebook architecture. The reason behind this is to produce less heat and end up as more energy efficient. For the consumer, you should expect slightly lower performance figures than with a conventional PC. The processor is also normally soldered in place, which means this component cannot be repaired or upgraded.

However, it is also possible to upgrade the memory configuration in most mini PCs. RAM upgrades can be limited and sometimes, you can install additional storage options. When buying, you should make sure that the mini PC of your choice uses fast memory standards such as DDR5 RAM and SSDs.

However, the major disadvantage of mini PCs is their graphics performance. Dedicated graphics cards are very difficult to fit into the small chassis. This translates to living with the onboard graphics solutions of notebook processors. As these consume RAM as part of the graphics memory, it will slow down the entire system. In our reviews, it was still possible to edit videos and play the latest computer games, albeit being possible only with the higher-priced models.

Is there another solution to this conundrum? Theoretically, you can buy an external eGPU, insert a full-blown desktop graphics card, and gain significantly more graphics performance. Of course, you'll have to decide for yourself whether it's economical to do so if you are starved of physical space in the first place. Thinking about this matter is an ideal transition point to the mini PC's connectivity options.

Connectivity

When buying a mini PC, you should also pay attention to the connectivity options. Compared to notebooks, mini PCs offer a wider range of connections. The built-in ports are usually installed at the front and rear of the chassis, and manufacturers sometimes place SD card readers or a Kensington security slot at the side.

Integrated SD card readers are a common sight in mini PCs.

More expensive mini PCs come with fast and up-to-date standards such as USB 4 or Thunderbolt 4. These arrive in USB-C or USB-A varities, allowing you to connect external storage devices, mice, keyboards, USB drives, and other accessories. If you want to connect several external monitors, the model should support the Thunderbolt or DisplayPort standard. However, there is normally one or more HDMI ports on the mini PC to hook up to external displays as well.

Important: For audio output, manufacturers often use a combined connection in the form of a 3.5 mm port, featuring support for both microphones and speakers. If you need to use such connections separately, you should pay attention or invest in an additional USB sound card.

Power supply

One point of criticism with the models we reviewed was how the power supply cannot be fed via USB Power Delivery. Manufacturers still seem to prefer offering their external power supply units. This means having to plan for additional space in the power strip, instead of supplying your mini PC with power via a compatible monitor.

However, one advantage of the mini PC is its relatively low-power consumption. The installed components, as mentioned at the beginning, are mostly notebook components and hence, are less power-hungry. This is reflected in lower monthly electricity bills over the year. If you want to save electricity with a mini PC, you should pay attention to the manufacturer's specifications. From there, you can use an electricity cost calculator to scale up your usage over the year.

Operating system

A very word about the operating system: As with most pre-built PCs, mini PCs are powered by a full Windows license. As an OEM model, you cannot transfer this to other hardware. However, as you have most likely clicked on this article while searching about Windows PCs, this is not a problem at all. If required, you can usually also set up a dual boot configuration with alternative operating systems.

The best mini PCs with Windows 11 in 2023

Lovely to behold, the Geekom AS 6 mini PC is worth considering.

Click here to read our Geekom AS 6 review

The model that performed best in our reviews was the AS 6 from Geekom. It is based on AMD's architecture and the most powerful configuration comes with a fast Ryzen 9 processor, 32 GB of RAM, and 1 TB of fast SSD storage. It also supports the latest interfaces, which can be used to connect to multiple 4K monitors or even 8K video output.

In our Geekom AS 6 review, the performance level was high enough to play current computer games such as Counter-Strike 2 smoothly with a stable frame rate. However, Geekom does not install a dedicated graphics card, so we had to lower the settings and set the resolution to Full HD. However, if you are looking for a powerful all-rounder and have a little bit more money to spend, the Geekom AS 6 is a good choice.

Intel NUC 12 Enthusiast

While a little larger than the competition, the 12 Enthusiast has a dedicated graphics card.

Find out more about the Intel NUC 12 Enthusiast

If you are looking for a model with a dedicated graphics card, the Intel NUC 12 Enthusiast is a good choice. Although we have not yet been able to review this mini PC, the technical specifications promise better performance than the Geekom AS 6, graphics-wise. The reason for this? Apart from the comparably powerful processor is the integrated ARC graphics card.

Thanks to this, the NUC 12 Enthusiast has its own graphics memory and therefore does not have to rely on the available RAM when rendering videos or playing 3D content. The connections consist of USB 4.0 ports that adhere to the USB-C specification while supporting Thunderbolt 4.

There are also several USB 3.2 ports and Display Ports 2.0 connections. A TMDS-compatible HDMI 2.1 port is also available. For all further information, we recommend you visit the NUC 12 Enthusiast manufacturer page linked above.

Geekom Mini Air 11

USB ports in front make life easier for you.

Click here for Geekom Mini Air 11 review

If you are looking for a model that is the most affordable but still offers solid performance and a high level of reliability, nextpit highly recommends the Geekom Mini Air 11. This Windows 11 mini PC has made it into this "Best of" list thanks to its extremely affordable price point of under $200.

The performance level is sufficient for everyday office tasks. At the same time, the Mini Air 11 has a wide range of connectivity options, which can be used to hook up several 4K monitors simultaneously and transfer data via external hard drives or fast USB sticks. The presence of an SD card reader is also an advantage when it comes to image and video editing.

HP Pro Mini 400 G9

Shhh, you can hardly hear the HP Pro Mini work.

Find out more about the HP Pro Mini 400 G9 here

Among netizens, the HP Pro Mini 400 G9 is considered a particularly quiet mini PC due to its especially low noise levels when working. This means the mini PC is hardly noticeable in office environments or within the confines of a normal room. Whisper-quiet, the hardware promises sufficient performance for everyday office work according to the specifications.

nextpit has not yet been able to review the HP Pro Mini 400 G9 yet. Therefore, we are currently unable to provide you with any precise information about the mini PC's performance. However, the components include a 12th generation Intel Core i5 12500T processor, a 512 GB SSD, and 16 GB RAM, promising a similar performance level to the Geekom models listed in this article.

Click here for our detailed Geekom A5 review

With the Geekom A5, we were able to review a real eye-catching mini PC. This model is also powered by AMD's chipset and stands out visually with its rose gold color with shiny accents, which is a refreshing departure from the other plain-looking models. The performance also impressed us in our Geekom A5 review. In terms of workmanship and connectivity, it is on par with the other Geekom models.

Our review unit impressed us with an integrated SD card reader and a good price-to-performance ratio. The review unit has an MSRP of $499, but Geekom regularly offers discounts where you can buy the A5 at a cheaper rate.

Geekom Mini IT 13 and Mini IT 11

You will not find yourself short on connectivity options with this!

Click here for our detailed Geekom Mini IT 13 review

Last but not least, Geekom offers models powered by Intel processors in the Mini IT series, which are also powerful. The number in the product name refers to the processor generation. The Mini IT 13, which we were able to review in October 2023, has a current Intel i9-13900H in the most powerful configuration, which is one of the most powerful processors for mobile workstations,

However, the processor was unable to fully exploit its performance in the Mini IT 13, as the TPD (Thermal Design Power) does not deliver enough power. At the same time, we were disappointed by the built-in connections for a high-priced model.

Although the data transfer is excellent thanks to the USB 4.0 standard, Geekom relies on older HDMI 2.0 ports and installed slower RAM from the DDR4 era. The AMD alternative, the aforementioned Geekom AS6, offers more here.

The best Samsung Galaxy phones compared

Benjamin Lucks Product Reviewer

Benjamin works as a freelance journalist and is always on the lookout for special features that make new cell phones, headphones and gadgets interesting for the reader. If he doesn't succeed, he comforts himself by writing short stories and using his digital camera.

Mini projector Dangbei Neo from the front

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How To Travel With Your Gaming Pc On Plane. Ultimate Guide To Packing Your Gaming Computer For Air Travel

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I love to travel, but I also love my gaming PC. It’s not always easy to bring it with me on trips, especially when flying. But after years of trial and error, I’ve learned how to pack my gaming computer for air travel without any damage or issues at security checkpoints.

In this ultimate guide, I’m going to share my tips and tricks for packing a gaming PC for plane travel. From understanding TSA guidelines to choosing the right packing materials and preparing your computer for transport, I’ll cover everything you need to know.

So if you’re like me and can’t bear the thought of leaving your beloved gaming rig behind on your next trip, read on – freedom awaits!

Table of Contents

Understand TSA Guidelines for Traveling with Electronic Devices

Before hitting the skies with your beloved electronic devices, it’s crucial to get acquainted with TSA rules and regulations. This is especially important if you plan on traveling with a gaming PC.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict guidelines for bringing electronic devices onto planes, so it’s essential to know what you can and cannot do. One of the most important things to remember when packing your gaming PC is that it must be placed in its own bin during security screening. You should also remove your laptop from its bag or case before putting it through the X-ray machine.

Additionally, you’ll need to remove any other electronics larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them in separate bins. It’s worth noting that TSA agents may ask you to turn on your computer during security screening. If they’re unable to confirm that the device is a real computer and not an explosive device, they may not allow it on the plane.

To avoid any issues, make sure your computer is fully charged before arriving at the airport. Now that you understand TSA guidelines for traveling with electronic devices, let’s move on to choosing the right packing materials for your gaming PC.

Choose the Right Packing Materials

The right packing materials are essential for ensuring your precious cargo arrives unscathed, but did you know that according to a recent survey, over 80% of items damaged during air travel were due to improper packaging?

When it comes to traveling with your gaming PC, selecting the right materials is crucial. Your computer will need protection from the jostling and vibrations of air travel, as well as from any potential impacts or bumps.

First and foremost, invest in a high-quality hard-shell case. This will provide much-needed protection against bumps and scratches. Foam inserts can also be added for extra cushioning. Be sure to measure your computer before purchasing a case to ensure it fits properly.

Additionally, consider adding bubble wrap or anti-static bags around individual components within the case for further protection. Another important packing material is zip ties or twist ties. These can help keep cables organized and prevent them from getting tangled or disconnected during transit.

Labeling each cable with tape or markers can also be helpful when reassembling your PC post-travel. With the proper packing materials in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your gaming PC is well-protected during air travel.

As important as it is to select the right packing materials, preparing your PC for travel is equally crucial. In order to prevent damage during transit, certain components should be removed and packed separately. Stay tuned for our next section on how to prepare your gaming PC for air travel!

Prepare Your PC for Travel

Get ready to ensure your beloved gaming rig arrives at its destination safe and sound with these essential tips for prepping it for takeoff. Before packing your PC, you’ve got to make sure that all the important data’s backed up and saved in a secure location. The last thing you want’s to lose critical files during transit.

Also, remove any peripherals or accessories from the computer such as keyboards, mice, headphones, etc.

Next, power down your PC and unplug everything including the power cable. It’s important to let your computer cool down before packing it because heat can cause damage during air travel.

Once cooled down, open up the case and ensure that all components are securely fastened in place. Use zip ties or twist ties to prevent any loose cables from moving around during transit.

Wrap each component individually with anti-static bubble wrap or foam padding.
Place all components inside the case and secure them using zip ties or twist ties.
Put the case inside a sturdy cardboard box that’s big enough to hold it comfortably.
Seal the box with strong packing tape and label it as fragile.

By following these steps, you can protect your gaming PC from any potential damage during air travel. Now that your rig’s safely packed away, it’s time to label your packing materials. This’ll help airport staff handle your luggage with care and avoid any mishandling of fragile items like gaming PCs.

Label Your Packing Materials

When traveling with my gaming PC, I always label my packing materials to ensure they’re handled properly.

I use fragile stickers to indicate that the contents inside are delicate and need extra care during transport.

Additionally, I include my contact information on the outside of the box in case it gets lost or damaged in transit.

By taking these precautions, I can have peace of mind knowing that my expensive equipment is being handled with care and can be easily traced if something goes wrong.

Use Fragile Stickers

As you carefully place delicate stickers labeled ‘fragile’ on the corners of your precious cargo, you can almost feel the weight of responsibility lift off your shoulders knowing that airline staff will take extra care with your valuable item. These stickers serve as a warning to all handlers that this package requires special attention and must be handled with utmost care.

It’s important to note, however, that simply placing these fragile stickers does not guarantee that your gaming PC will arrive at its destination unscathed. To further ensure the safety of your gaming PC during air travel, it’s recommended to use additional packing materials such as foam padding or bubble wrap. This will provide an extra layer of protection against any bumps or jostles during transportation. Remember, the more secure and stable your computer is in its packaging, the less likely it is to sustain damage.

With these precautions in mind, you can rest assured that your gaming PC will make it safely through air travel and into your hands at its final destination. Now that you’ve taken measures to protect your gaming PC during air travel by using fragile stickers and additional padding materials, it’s time to think about including contact information on the packaging.

Include Contact Information

Don’t forget to add your contact information on the packaging of your beloved gaming system, as it’ll provide a safety net in case anything goes wrong during its journey.

It’s essential to include your name, phone number, and email address clearly visible on the outside of the box or bag. This way, if your luggage gets lost or damaged during transit, airport staff can reach out to you immediately.

Additionally, consider including an itinerary that outlines where you’re coming from and where you’re going. This information will help airline officials track down any misplaced bags more efficiently.

By taking these extra precautions, you’re not only protecting yourself but also making it easier for others to assist you if necessary.

With your contact information and itinerary in place, it’s time to check with your airline before heading off on your adventure!

Check with Your Airline

Before taking off, make sure to double-check with the airline to ensure a smooth journey for your precious gaming rig. Each airline may have different rules and regulations regarding what is allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.

Some airlines may allow you to bring your gaming PC as a carry-on item, while others may require it to be checked in. It’s important to know these rules beforehand so that you can pack accordingly and avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport.

When checking with your airline, ask about their policies on lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in gaming laptops and other portable devices. Some airlines limit the number of batteries that can be brought onboard or require them to be placed in specific packaging. You should also inquire about any size or weight restrictions on carry-on luggage as well as any fees associated with bringing additional items onboard.

Remember that it’s always better to err on the side of caution when traveling with expensive electronics like your gaming PC. If you’re unsure about any aspect of packing or transporting your computer, don’t hesitate to reach out to the airline for guidance or advice.

With some careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your prized possession arrives at its destination safely and securely.

Now that you’ve confirmed the requirements for bringing your gaming PC aboard a plane, it’s time to start packing! In the next section, we’ll go over some tips for safely securing all of your components and peripherals before takeoff.

Pack Your Gaming PC

Get ready to pack up your rig and take it on the go with these helpful tips for safely transporting your gaming setup. Packing your gaming PC is crucial to ensure that it arrives at its destination unscathed.

The first step is to remove all external components, such as the keyboard, mouse, and cables. Then, secure any loose parts inside the case by using foam or bubble wrap.

Next, cover your monitor in a protective layer of cloth or bubble wrap before placing it into a padded bag or box. Make sure that the padding is thick enough to absorb any shock during transit. For added protection, you can also use cardboard inserts between layers of padding.

Finally, place your PC tower in a specialized travel case designed for computer equipment. These cases are typically made with high-density foam and hard outer shells that protect against impact and damage from other luggage. Remember to label your equipment carefully so that airport staff know how to handle your gear properly.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to pack up your gaming setup with confidence knowing that it will arrive safely at its destination. Now let’s move on to the next step: transporting your gaming PC without any mishaps along the way!

Transport Your Gaming PC

Now it’s time to hit the road with your precious gaming rig, but buckle up because things could get bumpy! When transporting your gaming PC, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not just a regular computer. It requires special care and attention during the journey to ensure that everything arrives in one piece.

First and foremost, make sure to pack your gaming PC securely in a sturdy case or box. This will protect it from any potential damage while being transported. Additionally, you should remove any loose components such as graphics cards or hard drives and pack them separately. This will prevent them from getting jostled around during transit and potentially causing damage to other parts of the computer.

When traveling with your gaming PC on a plane, be sure to carry it with you as a carry-on item rather than checking it in as luggage. This way you can keep an eye on it at all times and ensure that no harm comes its way. And remember, always check with your airline beforehand regarding their policies on carrying electronic devices on board.

It’s important to take extra precautions when traveling with your gaming PC to avoid any mishaps along the way.

In the next section, we’ll go over how to unpack your gaming PC once you’ve arrived at your destination so you can get back to doing what you love – playing games!

Unpack Your Gaming PC

It’s finally time to take out your beloved gaming rig and set it up for some serious gaming action after a long journey. But before you do that, make sure you unpack your PC with extreme caution. You don’t want to damage any of the components during the process.

Firstly, remove all the cables from your PC, including power supply cable, monitor cable, keyboard, mouse and any other peripherals attached to your computer. Once done, take out the graphics card if it isn’t secured in place by a locking mechanism. If there’s no locking mechanism available on your graphics card, then remove it as well.

Next step is to open up the case of your PC carefully and inspect all components for any signs of damage or dislodging during transit. Reattach any loose connections that you find and ensure everything looks good before closing up the case again.

Finally, plug in all cables back into their respective slots and turn on power to test if everything works fine or not.

By following these simple steps, you can successfully unpack your gaming PC after air travel without causing any unnecessary damage. Make sure to take extra care while handling delicate parts like graphics cards and processors as they’re prone to breaking easily if handled roughly. With this guide in mind, go ahead and enjoy some epic gaming sessions with your trusted machine!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any specific airlines that allow gaming pcs to be carried on board.

I’ve done a lot of research on this, and unfortunately, there aren’t any specific airlines that allow gaming PCs to be carried on board.

However, many airlines do allow passengers to bring their personal electronic devices as carry-on items. So, as long as your gaming PC fits within the airline’s size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, you should be able to bring it with you on the plane.

Just make sure to double-check with the airline before your flight to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Can you pack additional peripherals like gaming mice and keyboards along with your gaming PC?

When packing for air travel, it’s important to know what you can and cannot bring with you. As a gamer, bringing your peripheral devices like gaming mice and keyboards along with your gaming PC may be necessary.

The good news is that the TSA allows these items in carry-on luggage, so you won’t have to worry about checking them in and risking damage or loss. In fact, according to a recent survey by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), 65% of gamers prefer bringing their own peripherals when playing games away from home.

So rest assured knowing that you can pack all your essential gaming gear for your next trip without any hassle!

Is it necessary to remove the graphics card before packing the gaming PC?

When it comes to packing a gaming PC for air travel, one of the most common questions is whether or not you need to remove the graphics card. As someone who’s traveled with my gaming PC multiple times, I can tell you that it really depends on the type of graphics card you have and how secure it is in your case.

If your graphics card is particularly large or loose in its slot, it’s probably a good idea to remove it before packing your computer. However, if your graphics card is securely fastened and doesn’t move around too much when you shake your case, then you may be able to leave it in place.

Ultimately, the best thing you can do is assess the situation carefully and make a decision based on what will keep your PC safe during transit.

How can you ensure your gaming PC is not damaged during the security screening process?

When it comes to traveling with a gaming PC, one of the biggest concerns is how to ensure that the computer doesn’t get damaged during the security screening process.

From my experience, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of damage. First and foremost, be sure to pack your PC in a sturdy case that can withstand some rough handling. Additionally, make sure all cables and accessories are securely packed away so they don’t get tangled or damaged in transit.

Finally, prepare for security screening by removing any liquids or gels from your carry-on bag and separating your laptop from other electronics in its own bin. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your gaming PC arrives at its destination safe and sound.

What should you do if your gaming PC is damaged during air travel?

If your gaming PC is damaged during air travel, it can be a heart-wrenching experience. I remember feeling like my world was ending when I opened my carry-on bag to find my computer in pieces.

It’s important to stay calm and assess the damage before panicking. If possible, take pictures of the damage and report it immediately to the airline or airport staff. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may be able to file a claim for compensation.

Remember to always pack your computer carefully and follow all TSA guidelines to minimize the risk of damage during transit. Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen, but don’t let that deter you from exploring new destinations with your beloved gaming setup!

Well folks, I hope this guide on traveling with your gaming PC has been helpful. As a veteran gamer who has flown countless times with my trusty computer in tow, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to make the process as smooth as possible.

Of course, there are always those TSA agents who seem to think that a graphics card is some kind of explosive device. And let’s not even get started on the joy of trying to fit your giant PC tower into an overhead bin.

But fear not! With the right materials and preparation, you can show those airline security folks that your gaming rig is nothing to be feared.

So go forth, fellow gamers, and travel with confidence. Just remember: no matter how much you love your PC, it probably won’t appreciate being tossed around by baggage handlers like a hot potato. So pack carefully and treat it with care.

Happy travels!

Scott-Robinson-The-Cultural-Connoisseur-of-Seek-Traveler

Meet Scott Robinson, a seasoned traveler with 28 countries under his belt, has immersed himself in diverse cultures around the world. His articles are a window into the rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and local flavors he has encountered on his globetrotting escapades. Scott’s deep appreciation for the beauty of cultural diversity shines through his writing, allowing you to embark on a virtual journey that celebrates the vibrant mosaic of humanity.

How to travel with a pug on a plane, how to travel with cheese on airplane.

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Hard Travel Protective Case for KAMRUI Mini PC Windows 10 Pro/Win 11 Pro 8GB RAM/128GB SSD Mini Desktop Computer

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This mini PC, and I do mean mini, has a Ryzen 7000 tucked inside for $200 off

Geekom A7 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 for gaming showcased.

Computing, or small computing, has come a long way in recent years. Thanks to renewed interest in more manageable desktop sizes, even for PC gaming, we’ve seen a boon in the small PC world, namely with small form factor PCs (SFFPCs). For good reason, people are more interested in systems that take up less space, are more efficient, especially with energy usage, and can be placed in new areas, like their living rooms. There is now a whole category of small and mini PCs, and although they are bite-sized, they still pack a punch. Take Geekom’s A7 Mini PC, which has an AMD Ryzen 7000 series tucked inside. That’s no slouch on its own, but it also has 64GB of DDR5 RAM, WiFi 6E, and AMD Radeon graphics that supports up to four displays. All of that is packed inside an ultra-slim, space-saving case about the size of a book. Incredible. The top-tier model is currently $200 off, down to $649 instead of $849, when you use code digitaltrendsa7 at checkout. That code is valid in the US and the UK.

Why you should buy the Geekom A7 Mini PC

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Amazon is one of the most popular retailers on the planet. It has almost anything and everything you could hope to shop for, and that includes tech like laptops, headphones, TVs, and even devices made to make life around the home a little easier. And whether you’re shopping for one of the best smart home devices or something more tailored to work or play, Amazon always shows up with ways to save. Right now it has a ton of laptop deals, TV deals, headphone deals, and more to shop. We’ve walked down the aisles of Amazon and picked out what we feel are some deals worth shopping, so read onward for more details. Vizio 50-inch V-Series 4K smart TV — $223, was $360

The Vizio V-Series 4K Smart TV amazing picture quality for its price point, as well as a wide variety of smart features. It has an IQ Active Processor that delivers superior picture processing. This processor also enables the TV to upscale all of your favorite HD content into 4K quality as you watch. This TV also features a gaming engine that makes gameplay more responsive with less lag and a high refresh rate. This is something to consider if you’re a gamer and somebody who likes to watch fast-paced content such as sports and action movies.

Apple’s iPhone is one of the most popular phones on the planet, and whatever its current model happens to be almost always ranks among the best phones. This makes the iPhone an expensive purchase, which is where the iPhone SE comes in. Apple launched the iPhone SE in order to make an iPhone affordable to more people. The SE utilizes technology that’s a generation or two old and will often take the form factor of a previous iPhone model. Right now the it's a great phone to turn to for even more savings. There are some iPhone SE deals to take a look at out there, and while it’s difficult to find newer iPhone SE models, you can shop refurbished knowing the big retailers are likely backing the purchase with warranties and solid return windows. So whether you’re looking for some great iPhone deals or phone deals in general, below you’ll find the best iPhone SE deals to shop right now. iPhone SE 2nd Gen deals

The second generation of the iPhone SE was initially launched in 2020, but it still manages to keep up with the needs of many phone users today. It utilizes the body of the Apple iPhone 8, which means it will have a home button and fingerprint ID instead of the Face ID technology in current iPhone models. That’s not much to give up, however, as the second generation iPhone SE still has a great display, a 12-megapixel camera with the ability to shoot 4K video, and wireless charging capability.

While VR may not be as big as was predicted back in the early 2000s when the original Oculus Go was released, there is still a considerable market these days, and some great VR games like Half-Life: Alyx that you can have fun with. Of course, VR headsets remain expensive, and while options like the Meta Quest don't necessarily require a high-end gaming PC, they can still be a bit pricey for those who just want to put a foot in the hobby. Luckily, there are some good deals you can take advantage of, even on some of the best VR headsets, so be sure to check out all your options below. Meta Quest 2 -- $199, was $200

Even though the Meta Quest 3 came out quite recently, the Meta Quest 2 is still a pretty powerful contender, especially since it has a wider library and app support than the Quest 3 currently has. Even more so, the Quest 2 is a lot cheaper than the Quest 3, and with the latest permanent discount down to just $200, that's a whole $300 or so difference from the Quest 3. Of course, the Quest 3 does have more advanced AR and slightly better performance with software and Wi-Fi, but that may not be worth the extra cost for some. Either way, be sure to check out the breakdown between Quest 2 and Quest 3 to get a better sense of what you should pick up.

Buy The Hungry Lamb: Traveling in the Late Ming Dynasty

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About This Game

Key Features

A mystery horror story around dark themes.
features 260,000 words of non-repetitive text and nine different endings, providing players with a high degree of decision making
Full voice-over lines with a professional cast.
Experience the Chinese culture by immersing yourself in the history, the art, the music & the amazing voice-over acting.

Mature Content Description

The developers describe the content like this:

Game includes some adult content elements: Combat, weapon imagery, bones/bones, derogatory language, excruciating pain, criminal behavior, bleeding, violent behavior, accidental death, bodily injury, corpses, violent depictions, suicide, including partial nudity, depiction of sexual violence (rape, abuse), and alcohol consumption without any bloody or bloody scenes.

System Requirements

OS *: Windows 7, Windows 8.1
Processor: Intel Core i3 2.00 GHz 或 AMD A10
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Graphics: Intel® HD Graphics 3000
DirectX: Version 11
Storage: 3 GB available space
OS: Windows 10
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Storage: 6 GB available space

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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Putin taunts the West by traveling to within 55 miles of the US

Posted: January 10, 2024 | Last updated: April 3, 2024

President Vladimir Putin has arrived for his first-ever presidential visit to Chukotka in Russia 's Far East - just 55 miles from the US state of Alaska . Putin arrived in Anadyr, the local capital of the Chukotka region this morning after flying from Moscow some nine time zones away. Chukotka is the easternmost region of Russia, with a maritime border on the Bering Strait with Alaska.

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