When it comes to buying an important tech gadget, there are many specifications to consider, compare and understand. Therefore, here are a few things we considered when searching for the finest mini PC boxes on the market.
A mini PC barebone comes only with the motherboard, processor, and case, while ready-configured mini PC boxes also include a hard drive, RAM, and an operating system of your choice.
In the case of barebones, you will need to buy the RAM and storage separately. These barebone PCs are ideal for those with prior knowledge about PC components and who know what they are looking for.
On the other hand, ready-configured boxes are ready to use upon unboxing. These are the perfect choice for people who don’t want to stress themselves by buying each component separately. These are also great for people who aren’t well-acquainted with the PC world and don’t know which specification they should get.
There are many things to consider before purchasing a mini PC box. To simplify it, we have listed some factors that may help you decide which one to buy.
Most mini PCs come with an HDMI port or sometimes even a display port. These ports allow you to easily pair up with any screen or LCD lying around. However, make sure that your monitor has either of these ports before purchasing your mini PC box. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to purchase a relevant converter separately.
Mini PC boxes, in most cases, do not support a desktop PC RAM but rather the smaller laptop ones instead. Therefore if you decide to upgrade your RAM in the near future, you will need to check which type of RAM your mini PC is compatible with. Further, if you’re computer comes equipped with a DDR4 RAM, don’t try to swap it out with a DDR5 as these are not backward compatible.
Mini PCs mostly come with a 128GB SSD, although that is unnecessary. However, many mini PC boxes also host expansion slots where you can easily increase your system memory up to 2 TB. Moreover, some mini PC boxes also host micro SD slots, making the storage process simpler. Keep an eye out for these PC boxes if you need a ton of storage for their work.
First up on our list is a mini PC box by Coofun which features a Celeron J4125 processor, providing a smooth experience. This is further assisted by the 8GB DDR4 RAM, which ensures a rapid processing speed and allows you to open a ton of applications simultaneously without stuttering or freezing. The mini PC box also hosts an SSD with 128 GB of storage which drastically improves your data transfer rates, increasing your PC’s overall speed.
All these great specifications are packed in only a compact plastic box smaller than an iPhone that can be carried anywhere you go. The GK41 even comes equipped with an HDMI and display port, allowing you to simultaneously connect two monitors and multitask easily. With its top-notch processing speed and compact design, the Coofun GK41 stands as the best overall product on our list.
Next up is a mini PC box by AWOW that features the latest Windows 11 and is equipped with all the specifications in a high-performing desktop system. A Celeron J4125 processor and 8GB RAM allow the mini PC box to run incredibly fast, resolving your work-related tasks effortlessly. Complimenting the specifications is a 128GB SSD that provides sufficient storage space and minimal loading times, making your workflow more efficient.
The mini PC box also comes with a triple display option that lets you connect three displays simultaneously, allowing you to view various screens and multi-task efficiently. As the icing on the cake, the mini PC also supports 4K video quality so that you can watch your movies and videos with an immersive visual experience.
The third option on our list is by Kamrui, which comes pre-installed with a Windows 10 Pro. Its compact size makes the mini PC box extremely easy to carry and place anywhere you go. However, don’t get fooled by its size, as the little box contains a 128GB SSD along with 8GB of RAM, making sure you don’t run out of any type of memory while using the system.
If you think the SSD storage isn’t fit for you, you can easily expand it up to 2TB with the help of the expansion bay situation in the mini PC. The mini PC hosts a VESA mount to save you even more space, allowing it to be stuck to any surface, even at the back of your monitor, keeping your desk neat and clean.
The Chuwi LarkBox Pro is designed with compatibility in mind, given its lightweight constructions and compact size. However, despite those incredible specs, the mini PC box packs a punch with 6GB DDR4 RAM and Windows 10 pre-installed for your convenience. The mini PC box also hosts a 128GB SSD and a slot for a micro SD, assuring that you’ll never be running out of space to save your files.
You’ll be able to connect all your important peripherals to the mini PC box, including your keyboard, mouse, screen, and even a Bluetooth speaker. The mini PC box is also equipped with a modern VESA support system, allowing it to be mounted behind your monitor to avoid any clutter on your table.
Last on our list is the Minix Neo, hosting a whopping 240GB SSD coupled with 8GB of DDR4 RAM to ensure your PC runs smoothly and never lacks storage. However, if you’re unsatisfied with the current numbers, you can also expand the SSD storage up to 1TB and double your RAM as well if your work demand even higher performance.
The special feature of the mini PC box is that it only consumes 6-16W of power, making it the perfect companion for extended working sessions. The mini PC box also supports virtualization, allowing other operating systems apart from Windows to run on it as well. And despite consuming such little power, the mini PC box is able to provide you with high-video quality at 4K and 60 FPS.
Only the RAM and storage of a mini PC box can be upgraded. The CPU can be upgraded as well, but it voids its warranty.
A mini PC box can run games. However, if you are a passionate gamer, they might not be the top choice for you since the experience will not be as good as it will be on a desktop PC or gaming laptop.
Depending on the type of work, a mini PC box can be used 24/7. If it is light work like using Microsoft Word or browsing the internet, there is no issue. But if it is something like video editing, you need to provide it with good ventilation to prevent overheating.