The 8 Best Mini PCs of 2022
Mini PC – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
Computers are part of our lives. We use them to work, to play, to entertain ourselves and also to learn. Until recently, in order to enjoy the best features you needed a large and powerful desktop computer. Today, with mini PCs you can have the same features in very little space. In this sense, we highlight models such as the NiPoGi Celeron J3455, which has multiple connection options, among which 2 HDMI ports stand out. In addition, it offers 128 GB of internal memory to store a large number of files. The Minix Neo T5 also stands out, which also has Android TV that will allow you to transform your television into a Smart TV.
The 8 Best Mini PCs – Opinions 2022
With the revolution of mobile devices, computers have adapted and compact, more accessible and comfortable designs have appeared. Companies have started working on smaller and smaller chips and processors, with less consumption and better performance. The final result is the Mini Pcs, very compact, versatile and high performance computers, ideal for work, study and entertainment.
Windows 10 Mini PC
1. NiPoGi Mini PC 6GB RAM 128GB SSD Celeron J3455
It is a 64-bit Windows 10 mini PC that offers an efficient operating system, capable of promoting faster and more stable processing. In this sense, it has an Intel Apollo Lake J3455 processor, which provides up to 50% higher speed than other models.
As for the connection, it is compatible with 2.4 and 5 GHz WiFi, so it can provide speeds from 450 to 1300 Mbps. For this reason, many think that it is one of the best mini PCs of 2022.
It has 4 USB ports and 2 HDMI inputs. It also offers an Intel HD Graphics 500 GPU graphics card, capable of playing content with 4K resolution. To guarantee the durability of the equipment, its design incorporates a fan that reduces heat. In addition, it works silently to avoid disturbances during work.
If you are looking for a mini PC that does not cost a lot of money, you should know that this NiPoGi brand model is one of the cheapest on the list. Let’s review its main aspects in detail.
Pros
WiFi: Provides Dual Band WiFi connection, so it is compatible with 2.4 and 5 GHz signals.
Memory: It offers 128 GB of internal memory and 6 GB of RAM, but it is also available in the version with 8 GB of RAM.
Fan: It incorporates a fan that prevents the device from overheating, which favors its durability.
Cons
Games: May not provide optimal performance when playing highly demanding video games, such as Fortnite or FallGuys.
android mini pc
2. Minix Neo T5 Quad Core Mini PC
This Android Mini PC with Android TV 9.0 Pie operating system is ideal for enjoying entertainment on your TV. With a wide range of applications and features, it is capable of playing high-quality movies, music, and games. It has several installed applications and the possibility of installing others through the Play Store.
It has HDMI 2.5 connections that allow playback in high resolution and high performance. It also has two USB 2.0 ports, one of them USB 3.0, for the best transfer speed. It has a Micro SD card reader and Dolby Digital audio.
This could be the best Mini PC of the moment if you want to play multimedia content on your television, since it also has a remote control, which will allow you to control everything from your sofa.
Pros
Playback : It offers great playback quality, thanks to the HDMI that allows you to play video in HD and up to 4K.
Control : The remote control is one of its great features, since you can control the playback of content from the sofa in your living room.
Premium Audio : It has digital audio output, with superior HD and Dolby Digital quality in NEO T5, which offers a real and immersive experience.
Cons
Refresh : It does not have an automatic refresh option, so if the computer is turned off by accident, it will not be activated automatically, but you will have to do it manually.
asus mini pc
3. Asus PB50-BR072MD AMD Ryzen 5 3550H Mini PC
It is an Asus mini PC capable of supporting 4K UHD resolution, which allows you to watch content with high video quality. In addition, it offers different connection options, among which 6 USB ports stand out, as well as 1 HDMI input, 1 Ethernet port and 1 input for headphones and another for a microphone, which increases the possibilities of use.
It is important to note that it offers a wireless connection through Bluetooth technology, which increases its functionality. As far as the processor is concerned, it has AMD Ryzen 5 with a Radeon graphics card, which provides optimal performance and maximum fluidity in images.
Also, it has an internal memory of 128 GB and a RAM of 8 GB, which increases the processing capacity of the device. On the other hand, it has a compact structure that is compatible with vertical stands, which can help you save space on your desk.
Asus is considered by many to be the best brand of Mini PCs, so if you are interested in a modern and efficient computer, you should get to know the PB50-BR072MD model thoroughly.
Pros
RAM: It offers 8 GB RAM, which improves processing capacity. In addition, it can be extended for more functionality.
Connection: It has a Bluetooth connection and has USB and HDMI inputs.
Silent: Its operation is silent, so it is not annoying while you work or read.
Cons
System: It does not have a previously installed operating system, which could reduce its practicality compared to other models.
Gaming Mini PC
4. Minis Forum AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 2700U Mini PC
This mini Gaming PC has the powerful AMD 7 PRO 2700U 4 Core processor, which can work at a maximum frequency of 3.8 GHz. It also incorporates a Radeon Vega 10 graphics processor, which favors optimal performance.
In this sense, it is a suitable equipment to play or perform tasks that require a large processing capacity. Similarly, it offers dual-channel RAM that provides a maximum of 16 GB. As for the internal memory, it offers 512 GB, which allows you to store a large number of files.
On the other hand, it has Bluetooth, WiFi and Ethernet connection. Also, it has USB ports, headphone jack, HDMI port, among others, which favors the versatility of the device. As if that were not enough, it has the Windows 10 operating system, which allows you to use the equipment immediately after receiving the package.
The best Mini PC must be efficient and versatile, as is the case with this model from Minis Forum. Therefore, we invite you to analyze its pros and cons in greater detail before choosing.
Pros
Processor: Its processor is AMD 7 PRO 2700U 4 Core, which has enough capacity to perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
USB: It has 3 USB 3.1 ports and 1 3.0 port, as well as a USB type C input.
WiFi: It offers compatibility with 2.4 and 5 GHz WiFi signals, allowing you to adapt it to your needs.
Cons
HDMI: This device only has 1 HDMI port, which could be a disadvantage compared to other mini PCs that have more ports.
Mini Tower PC
5. Beelink BT3 Pro II Mini PC Desktop Computer
If you are wondering which is the best Mini PC, this Intel Mini Tower PC could be the answer. It has a 64-bit 1.92 GHz quad-core processor compatible with Windows 10.
It has an installation of 4 GB of RAM and a 64 GB system disk, with a capacity expandable to 128 GB via SD card. This Windows Mini PC offers a fast user experience, with performance equal to that of a high-end computer, which will allow you to work and enjoy your leisure time.
It has a dual-band WiFi connection (2.4 and 5.2 G) and Gigabit Ethernet LAN that will allow you to stream audio and video without jerks or jumps, since the signal is very stable and fluid. Includes VGA and dual HDMI ports.
Pros
Heat : It has a design that improves ventilation, with more vents and an internal dust-proof mesh that will prevent the fans from getting stuck.
Memory : The storage and the different options for expanding it make it a very versatile model.
Processor : The 1.92 GHz Intel Atom processor, together with the HD Graphics 400 graphics, offers great power and stability.
Cons
Connectors : It only has HDMI connections for video output and many users still use VGA for monitors.
intel mini pc
6. Intel NUC BOXNUC6CAYH Mini PC Computer Kit
This Intel Mini PC offers high performance in a very small format, being considered by many users as the best value for money Mini PC, since it allows you to work, study and play. It has low power consumption and a stylish design, with a front microphone to take advantage of Cortana functions in Windows 10.
It has a sixth generation Intel Core Celeron processor and an Intel HD graphics chip. The processor is 2.30 GHz, which offers good performance and great stability. It supports up to 8GB of DDR3 RAM, but like all NUC models, it doesn’t include the RAM or hard drive.
It has 2 front and 2 rear USB 3.0 ports, a card reader, a 3.5 mm audio jack, 1 HDMI port and a VGA port. It has WiFi connection, Ethernet LAN and Bluetooth 4.2.
Pros
Connectivity : It offers a large number and variety of connectors, from USB to VGA, so you can connect a good number of peripherals without problems.
Balance : The graphics chip and the processor have good power, with a balanced and versatile operation that will allow you to work, study or have fun.
Possibilities : Being a NUC-type kit, it offers great customization possibilities, with several slots for RAM and others for hard drives. This makes it possible to create a very powerful computer.
Cons
Heat : The i7 chip is very powerful and, due to the compact design of the computer, it does not allow good heat dissipation, so core temperatures exceed 100 degrees.
i5 mini pc
7. ACEPC Intel Celeron J3455 Window 10 Pro Mini PC
A Mini PC is a very practical piece of equipment, when you don’t want to carry laptops, either to study or work, and the ACEPC brand has a model that could meet your needs.
Here we are faced with a mini PC that works with an Intel Celeron J3455 processor which has 4 cores and has an operating frequency that goes from 1.5 GHz to 2.3 GHz. In addition to this, it has 4 GB of RAM memory and a 64 GB eMMC storage unit, for OS files.
Aesthetically, the mini PC measures 14 x 14 x 5 centimeters with an approximate weight of 890 grams, which will allow you to store it in any bag or backpack and you can connect it to any monitor when you need it.
If you have been interested in the ACEPC mini PC, we recommend you read the following information, to make a successful purchase:
Pros
Design: Its compact design with a rugged casing will help protect it while making it easy to transport.
OS: You won’t have to worry about installing the operating system, since it comes with its own copy, ready to use.
Connectivity: It has several connection ports for various equipment, as well as card slots.
Storage: In addition to providing storage, it also allows you to increase it through various physical formats.
Cons
Noise: The computer fan can generate noise when working at maximum power, which may be annoying for some users.
i7 Mini PC
8. Hystou Fanless Mini Desktop Computer i7 5500U
This powerful i7 Mini PC features an Intel Core i7-5500U processor with a 4MB cache at 3.00GHz and an Intel HD 5500 graphics chip. It offers very stable and balanced performance, ideal for work, study and also for gaming. On the other hand, it has Windows 10 Professional 64-bit with a license, 8 GB of RAM and a 256 GB SSD hard drive.
You can connect two monitors through its two HDMI ports, something that cheaper options do not have and that allows you to comfortably work on several applications at the same time. The HDMI offers playback in high definition and 4K.
It is a very quiet computer, since it has fanless technology without fans, which offers amazing heat dissipation. It also has a LAN card for WiFi without restriction.
Pros
Fanless : Fanless technology dissipates heat from the Intel i7 chip, so the use is very stable and balanced. Also, it is very quiet.
Connectivity : It has four USB 2.0 ports and another four USB 3.0, which offers a great connection possibility for peripherals.
Speed : Thanks to the Intel Core i7 core, 8 GB of RAM and its SSD hard drive it offers great performance to open and close applications quickly.
Cons
Graphics : The graphics card is built into the motherboard and does not have a slot to install an external one, which can be a problem for certain professional uses.
Shopping guide
Mini PCs are a good alternative to desktops and laptops. In this guide to buying the best Mini PC, we are going to explain the main factors to look at, so that you can choose the best equipment, capable of meeting your needs and your budget.
cooling type
Computers suffer greatly from heat. The different processes in operation increase the temperature of the core, which, together with the ambient temperature, can overheat the Mini PC. In the long run, heat affects the performance and life of the equipment.
Before buying a mini PC, you should look at the design of the case and check if it has enough ventilation slots to facilitate cooling. In some cases, the boxes are made of aluminum that allows a better passage of air.
Many of these mini PCs have fanless cooling systems, which improve core temperature through the use of breathing slots and other types of systems. In an economic model, you will find fans that, together with the slots in the case, push hot air out and favor the entry of fresh air.
Hardware
As for storage, most computers have a 64 GB system disk. These types of compact computers usually have expansion slots using SD cards that allow you to expand the storage memory up to 128 Gb. The best models have HDD and SDD hard drives of different capacities.
As for the processor, the most normal is to find chips from Intel and AMD. The processor chip will influence how much a mini PC costs, for example models with i5 or i7 cores are more expensive. These models are also much more versatile and powerful.
Finally, we will review the RAM memory, they usually have 2 slots, so it is convenient to look at our needs before choosing, since the speed depends on it.
Use
If you are looking for a mini PC to use as a multimedia center, the ideal is to look for a computer with good storage capacities and good sound and graphics options, since in this way you will be able to transfer the contents with other devices.
If you are looking for a versatile computer to work, study or play, the most important thing will be to choose the right hardware. In this case, good performance should be sought. For this, the ideal is to have 8 GB of RAM and Intel iCore processors.
For computers intended for gaming, it is best to look for very powerful computers. Almost always, the best for this use are usually NUC-type kits. It will be especially important that it has a separate graphics card or a slot to change it.
OS
When comparing Mini PCs, you can’t ignore the operating system either. Most come with Windows 10 Professional pre-installed. It is the most widely used operating system in the world, it is stable and friendly to users, even those who have never touched a computer.
Some mini PCs have an Android operating system. These devices are specially designed to be used as a multimedia base. They are perfect to use next to a television and turn it into a SmartTV. This operating system allows you to download applications from the Google store, so it ends up being very versatile.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use a mini PC?
The first step to use a mini PC is to configure all the components, since, although they are usually configured at the factory, it is better to install the manufacturers’ drivers and configure them manually, to make sure that everything works correctly.
The next step will be to install all the programs that you are going to use in your day to day and configure them. You can download the programs from their official pages or from the Windows app store, Google Play or the Apple store, depending on the operating system you are using.
Once installed and configured, you can now enjoy your mini PC, whether to play, work or study.
Q2: How powerful is a mini PC?
Generally, these mini PCs have medium power, that is, they are used to perform daily tasks such as work or study, but they are not the best option for gaming. For gaming, the most recommended is a desktop or laptop with more power. However, some NUC models have a separate graphics card and slots for RAM and hard drive, making them a good choice for gaming.
Q3: What is a passive mini PC?
Passive mini PCs are those that do not have a fan on their board. These computers use passive cooling systems that are usually more powerful and have a higher capacity. These systems offer up to 66% more cooling to the board, allowing faster processors to be managed.
Q4: How to install Android on a mini PC?
To install Android on a mini PC you will need a USB memory to boot the operating system. It is best to use a USB with at least 4 GB of memory. If you have an older operating system installed, make a backup before formatting it.
Download the latest version of Android from their website and use a bootable USB setup tool like Rufus. With this tool you can create a boot disk on the USB. Boot the mini PC from the USB, to do this you must enter the BIOS and select the USB as the boot system. Newer models will find the USB and boot directly from the drive.
Reboot and the installation process will begin. You will be asked if you want to run the Live CD (the installation) or if you want to install. If you just want to try, run the Live CD, if you are sure, select the second option and wait for the installation to finish.
After the installation process is complete, the Android settings menu will appear. Establish the WiFi connection, the email account and make all the necessary settings. Congratulations, you now have Android installed on your mini PC.
Q5: How to cool a mini PC?
When it comes to cooling a PC, there are several factors that you must take into account. The first factor is design. Mini PCs have a compact design, so the internal parts are closer to each other, which increases the internal temperature and reduces the cooling efficiency. These teams usually have a series of slots and holes in the casing, to facilitate the passage of air.
The best thing you can do so that they do not get hot is to always keep them in an air passage space, one meter or more from all the walls. Whenever possible, do not keep it inside cabinets or closed spaces. You should also monitor its use, since if you use it continuously, it will get hotter.
Q6: How to make a mini PC?
Mini PCs use small power supplies, typically less than 100 watts, so all connected parts must be compatible and low-power.
You should look for pieces that do not require a lot of space, since the casing will be reduced. Select a hard drive or SD card, RAM and a motherboard that fits the size and needs you are looking for.
Q7: Which is better, mini PC or smartTV Box?
The mini PC is a powerful, yet lightweight computer. It is the ideal option to use on a daily basis instead of a computer. In other words, it fulfills the same functions that a desktop or laptop system would fulfill, with it you can study, play and work.
SmartTV Boxes, on the other hand, are the best for leisure and entertainment. It will allow you to turn a normal television into a SmartTV and connect to your home WiFi network to play content from the main entertainment platforms.
Q8: How to use a mini PC as a media center?
The first thing is to get a multimedia player capable of playing any type of format. Next, you need to install a media center or media content manager. The most versatile and well-known are Kodi and Plex. Once installed, you can start organizing your content and play it on your TV.
» Review information from previous years
Hunsn Mini PC Computadora de Escritorio
El mini PC de escritorio de Hunsn es un dispositivo que, haciendo eco de la característica más popular de los barebones, tiene un diseño muy compacto y ligero en comparación con una torre.
Sus dimensiones son de 18 x 18 x 3,1 centímetros y su peso es de apenas 1,35 kilogramos, para que puedas acomodarlo fácilmente en tu escritorio o llevarlo contigo en caso de que lo necesites en la oficina. Así no tendrás que depender de un ordenador portátil para tus archivos.
En el apartado de desempeño, el mini PC cuenta con un procesador Intel Core i5 2520M de 2,5 GHz de velocidad. Puede soportar una memoria RAM de hasta 8 GB DDR3, además de ser compatible con discos SSD y SATA de 2,5″ para que tengas a disposición todo el espacio de almacenamiento que necesites.
Por otra parte, su placa base es de 35W y tiene integrado un ventilador para la refrigeración de los componentes, lo que evitará problemas de sobrecalentamiento al usar el mini PC.
El mini PC de Hunsn es un producto compacto, pero con la potencia suficiente para satisfacer las demandas diarias y aquí veremos sus ventajas más importantes:
Pros
Diseño: El equipo tiene un diseño discreto, compacto y fácil de manejar que, además, viene con una base para colocarlo en posición vertical.
Materiales: La carcasa del mini PC está hecha de plásticos ABS, ofreciendo una alta resistencia al desgaste.
Gráfica: Cuenta con una tarjeta gráfica Intel HD Graphics 3000 para la visualización de contenido.
Discos: La tarjeta cuenta con puertos para conectar discos SATA y SSD según tu preferencia.
Contras
RAM: El mini PC no incluye ninguna tarjeta de memoria RAM, por lo que debes adquirirla por separado.
PC Mini Fujitsu Q910 Intel Core i5 3470T
Si estás buscando un equipo para trabajar y estudiar, pero no sabes qué Mini PC comprar, este sería una gran solución. Este Mini PC i5 de Fujitsu cuenta con un procesador Intel i5 a 2.9 GHz con 3 MB de Caché y un chip Intel HD Graphics 2500, lo que ofrece una gran versatilidad.
Dispone de Windows 10 Professional de 64 Bits con licencia y 8 GB de RAM, con un disco duro SSD de 240 GB, que sumados ofrecen una respuesta rápida para el uso de aplicaciones y programas. Podrás disfrutar de películas, juegos y trabajar con varias aplicaciones abiertas a la vez.
En cuanto a conectividad, dispone de tarjeta Gigabit Ethernet. En el panel frontal cuenta con 2 USB tipo 3.0 y un lector de tarjetas múltiple. En la parte trasera dispone de 1 DVI y 2 puertos Display, junto a 2 puertos USB de 2.0 y 2 puertos 3.0.
Pros
Procesador: El procesador Intel Core i5 es uno de los más potentes del momento, con 2.9 GHz ofrece estabilidad y potencia de sobra para trabajar y estudiar.
Diseño: Tiene un diseño cómodo y elegante. Es pequeño, por lo que es ideal para espacio reducidos, siendo perfecto para una oficina o una habitación pequeña.
Conectividad: Con 6 puertos USB ofrece muchas posibilidades para conectar periféricos.
Contras
Calor: El procesador Intel Core i5 es muy potente, como suele suceder con este tipo de ordenadores compactos, la disipación del calor no es la mejor y la temperatura interna puede provocar problemas.
» Revisa la información de años anteriores
