The Mini-PC has gained immense popularity in recent years, owing to its compact size and powerful processing capabilities. Many Mini-PCs on the market are designed to be palm-sized and utilize cutting-edge processors from Intel, which are as small as an SD card. This development is revolutionary and remarkable, making the Mini-PC a versatile tool with numerous applications in both personal and professional settings. From small offices to large enterprises, the Mini-PC is becoming a must-have gadget for computing enthusiasts around the globe.
What is a Mini PC?
A Mini PC is a compact and portable computer that offers powerful computing functionality without taking up too much space. Its small size makes it easier to transport and store, while still allowing users to enjoy a range of tasks and applications that a traditional desktop or laptop can handle, such as a high-quality motherboard, a speedy processor, ample amounts of RAM, and a reliable hard drive. Additionally, Mini PCs also include a diverse array of connectivity interfaces to support various peripherals and accessories.
These compact devices are equally efficient compared to laptops in terms of daily usage. Some x86-based Mini PCs like LattePanda 3 Delta can run 4K video, and some advanced models like Beelink and Intel NUC can run intensive applications like Photoshop even VR gaming.
The Advantages of a Mini PC
Mini PCs are very small and compact. Most often due to their small size, Mini PCs are highly portable. Unlike a heavy laptop, a Mini computer can be easily carried from one place to another making it ideal for people who are constantly on the travel, enabling them to get all their work done, from anywhere and at any time.
This feature is small and portable, which can save desktop space and make it easy to store and move. Attaching it behind the monitor can also make the computer more discreet, not taking up desktop space, making the desktop more tidy and easy to manage.
Review: Small and Portable Mini PC
Mini PCs are designed with energy efficiency in mind, using lightweight laptop hardware and low-power processors that typically consume no more than 15W. To further reduce energy consumption, many of the components are soldered to the motherboard, and expansion ports that require additional power are often sacrificed. RAM is also carefully selected based on power consumption considerations, as data transmission through the bus can be a significant power drain. One of the benefits of these devices is that their battery life is longer, allowing for extended use without requiring frequent charging. This feature contributes to their overall portability and convenience.
A Mini computer is flexible in many options. It is perfect for multitasking, allowing users to work on documents, browse the internet, check emails, and play games all at the same time. The device comes equipped with components that support numerous peripherals and features, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Mini computers are designed to provide all the features of a traditional computer in a compact size, making them a more affordable option. They are perfect for users who have limited desk space or are always on-the-go but still require a computer for their work or personal use. The smaller size of Mini computers also makes them energy-efficient, which is beneficial for those looking to save on their electricity bills. Overall, the convenience and affordability of Mini computers make them a great option for anyone in search of a reliable and functional device.
Mini PCs are essentially small desktop computers that offer better compatibility than laptops. This is because they usually use standard desktop components that are interchangeable and upgradable, whereas laptops use proprietary components that are often limited in terms of compatibility and upgradability.
The Remarkable Uses of Mini PCs
Mini PCs are ideal for a variety of gaming setups, offering many of the same qualities as other gaming machines. Whether you're looking to save space on your desktop or simply value mobility without sacrificing performance, some X86-based Mini PCs might be just what you need for Gaming.
LATTEintosh DIY Mini PC
Mini PCs are great for industrial applications due to their compact size and low cost. They can be used as an embedded control system or a monitoring station.
1.Healthcare
Mini PCs are becoming increasingly popular in healthcare operations due to their compact size and advanced security features, such as encryption. They also offer surprisingly powerful computing capabilities, making them a smart choice for healthcare professionals looking to streamline tasks and increase efficiency.
2.Education & Learning
Mini PCs are an excellent tool for enhancing the learning experience in various educational settings such as libraries, computer labs, and classrooms. They offer an ideal environment for students to study with ease, and at a Minimal cost.
1. Home Theater:
Mini PCs are perfect for your home theater. With the easy installation of an operating system and your preferred media player, you can quickly connect your Mini PC to your television through an HDMI cord, making it a convenient option for your home theater needs.
Home Theater System with LattePanda 3 Delta
2. Digital Signage & Advertising
The digital signage market has become huge, with over $15 billion worldwide revenue. Mini PCs are perfect for these digital signage applications because they have a small, eye-catching form factor. They can also withstand high temperatures, often an issue in public places where digital signs may be present. These Mini PCs are ideal for drive-thrus, airports, and other public places that use dynamic displays for advertising and information.
Due to their small size, Mini PCs can easily fit into tight spaces or hidden areas to ensure your home or business safety.The small form factor also allows them to go unnoticed by people who enter the area being monitored by the security system.
Many people choose to buy a laptop for their home office. Mini PCs are suitable alternatives because they are small, compact, and quiet, and can fit in the palm of your hand. Mini PCs also can be portable workstation for people who are always on the go and need a reliable computing device.
Mini PCs Are Suitable Alternatives for Many Tasks
A Mini PC can be more suitable than a laptop in the following scenarios:
- Space constraints
Mini PCs are small and compact and can easily fit in tight spaces. This makes them ideal for use in places where there isn't enough room for a laptop.
- Dedicated use
If you need a computer dedicated to one task, such as a media center, digital signage, or a point of sale system, a Mini PC can be a more affordable and efficient solution than a laptop.
- Cost-effective
Mini PCs are usually cheaper than laptops and can be a great option if you need multiple computers but do not have a big budget.
- Upgradability
Mini PCs are often easier to upgrade than laptops. You can usually upgrade the RAM, hard drive, or even the processor in a Mini PC.
- Power Consumption
Mini PCs typically use less power than laptops, making them ideal for locations where power consumption is a concern.
Disadvantages of Mini Computer
Mini-computers typically have less processing power than traditional computers, which can make them unsuitable for certain types of applications that require a lot of computational power, such as video rendering or scientific simulations.
Due to the lack of a dedicated graphics card, the graphics processing capability of a Mini PC may be limited. This could result in significant performance degradation or stuttering in graphics-intensive tasks such as gaming or video editing. Additionally, the lack of a dedicated graphics card may limit the processing capability of certain software or applications that require high-performance graphics processing.
Mini PC Might Be the Future of Computing
Mini PCs Market market growth will increase by $19.83 bn during 2022-2026, accelerating at a CAGR of 5.04% during the forecast period according to the report from businesswire. According to the IMARC Group, the global laptop market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 1.43% during 2022-2027.
At present, Mini PCs are unlikely to replace desktop PCs, especially for tasks that require high-end components. But, Mini PCs have been a useful alternative for any purpose in which space-saving is more important. Mini PCs are constantly being upgraded and optimized for better functionality like RAM upgrading and cooling functions. All of these upgrades and optimizations work together to make Mini PCs more powerful and efficient for a variety of uses, such as gaming, home entertainment, and work productivity.
This blog was updated in June 2022.
The classic desktop PC is commonplace in almost every home and office, and for good reason. They’re reliable and powerful but they also take up a substantial amount of space, which can be pretty awkward if you’ve got limited room in your home. You could get an all-in-one PC to make up for this, or you could opt for the increasingly popular mini-computer.
To help you decide whether a mini-computer is right for you, we’re going to use this blog to compare desktop PCs with mini PCs. What is a mini PC? You can probably guess that it’s smaller, of course – but is it as powerful? And how does it compare in terms of cost?
Mini PCs, also known as mini-computers or mid-range computers, are essentially like normal desktop computers. They possess most of the features and capabilities of desktop PCs, but they are tiny in comparison!
This size, while saving space, also grants mini-computers certain advantages and disadvantages.
Like any computer, mini PCs have a central processing unit (CPU) and memory, which means a mini PC operates pretty much the same way as a ‘standard’ computer does. They generally have the same parts as a computer but there are a few differences which we’ll explain now.
The processor performs operations based on data. Mini PCs generally use ARM-based processors as they are small and energy-efficient. An ARM processor is one of a family of CPUs based on the RISC (reduced instruction set computer) architecture developed by Advanced RISC Machines (ARM).
ARM makes 32-bit and 64-bit RISC multi-core processors designed to perform a smaller number of types of computer instructions so that they can operate at a higher speed, performing millions of instructions per second (MIPS).
Your computer memory stores data. There are two types of memory, read-only memory (ROM) and Random-access memory (RAM). ROM cannot be altered, while RAM can be repurposed.
All computers need some form of memory to help them operate at peak performance.
Mini PCs typically use Flash memory to hold information, allowing them to stay small and compact.
The operating system is the platform used to run other programs. A mini-computer’s operating system will vary depending on the brand.
Computer ports allow for the connection of other devices such as a monitor, keyboards, etc… Depending on the model of the mini PC, it may also have USB or HDMI, RCA-video out, and even an audio jack!
OK, so we’ve told you what’s inside a mini PC, but what is not included? As you might have guessed, a mini PC’s size means it can’t fit every traditional component inside its case.
All computers need a good cooling system. Unfortunately, a mini-computer’s size prevents sit from mounting normal fans. This may become an issue at some point as computing generates a lot of heat. However, if you’re concerned about that aspect, you can always add an additional fan to your mini PC for peace of mind.
The real-time clock (RTC) is a timekeeping device which keeps going after you’ve shut down your computer and gone away to do something else. However, the RTC relies on power from a battery, but mini PCs don’t have a battery, hence they have no RTC.
Naturally, with a mini-computer, there’s no display, keyboard, or mouse, and thus, this is something you’ll have to pay extra for. Some mini PCs do support Bluetooth. If not, you can always connect using the USB ports.
Most mini-computers are of a similar design, shape, and size. However, you can get a barebones mini PC if you so desire. A barebones mini PC is usually cheaper, but they don’t come with a hard drive and RAM – instead, they usually consist of the case, motherboard, and processor.
Barebone kits offer more flexibility and are generally popular amongst computer hobbyists who like to select their own favourite components – it all comes down to whether you want to be more hands-on or prefer to get started straight away.
Ready-to-go kits are more convenient and easier to set up, which makes them ideal for beginners. And more importantly, you don’t have to install and update your OS and drivers, which is great if you’re not familiar with tech set-up requirements.
By now, you might already be thinking of a few reasons why you would purchase a mini PC over a laptop or desktop.
First is their size. This shouldn’t come as a surprise with the name ‘mini’ – because of its tiny body, it is portable, light, and can be packed away easily to save space.
Even though they may not have much onboard storage, that’s not a huge problem if you use the cloud and web service options. It’s probably true that gamers won’t have a mini PC at the top of their wish list, but for simple computing tasks, they are a good fit for many people who need to do basic computer tasks.
And this small size also means they can be much cheaper in comparison to desktop PCs, gaming PCs, and laptops. They’re more cost-effective, which usually means they’re cheaper.
Mini PCs also offer great versatility. You’re able to change the parts inside a mini PC whenever you need to and it’s up to you which monitor you want to use with it. You can use your TV screen or a computer monitor.
Mini PCs are also known for their low energy consumption. This might not sway your decision when buying, but it’s satisfying to know that you’re doing your bit to save the planet whilst also saving you a little on your electric bills.
A mini PC uses less power and so needs less cooling. This means that many mini PCs don’t need or have a fan. Some models don’t use an optical disc drive and use a solid-state drive, which means that they are virtually silent.
The trade-off of a mini PC’s size is that the hardware specifications and processing power of a mini PC are usually reduced, which means that running complex apps and intensive workloads are not always as effective as they would be on desktops.
On top of this, one of the first things you’ll notice is that mini PCs have either very limited or zero scope for upgrading. Everything is fixed on the motherboard permanently, hence, there is not much space or slots available to make upgrades.
And unsurprisingly, mini PCs have no graphics card. Due to their small size, there’s not much room for controlling the computer’s heat and, therefore, many of the mini PCs come with integrated graphics instead of a dedicated one.
Lastly, while a mini PC is portable, you still need all the peripherals associated with them to use them, increasing the costs and things to carry when compared to a standard laptop.
As with any computer, your needs will determine your choice of CPU. Are you a user who wants to use your mini PC for light tasks like emails and browsing the internet or are you a heavy user who needs a lot of power for video editing and graphics work?
If you’re a light user, it’s best to stick to the basic mobile-grade chips (eg. Intel Atoms) or desktop core i3. If you have a more demanding workload, then a desktop core i5 and above is required! The CPU will usually determine how expensive your mini PC is going to be.
Whether or not a mini PC is any good will depend on your needs. For home, work, and education, almost all of the mini PCs on the market right now are good enough to perform basic tasks such as browsing social media, answering emails, and attending online lessons.
If you’re a regular gamer, you shouldn’t need to spend a fortune on buying a gaming laptop or gaming PC. You can purchase a mini PC and then upgrade the parts as required!
As for the specs, we recommend at least 4 GB for a graphics card that will deliver 30-40 fps which will prevent constant lagging. For the CPU, an i5 will be fine. When it comes to RAM, 16 GB will be sufficient, and you can always go for a 250GB HDD.
However, if you’re a dedicated gamer that wants to play the latest triple-A games at high settings, a mini PC is not for you. For that, you’ll need a dedicated gaming rig.
Mini PCs are a much more attractive proposition today than they used to be. While a desktop PC will give you plenty of power and can be upgraded, they’ll take up more space. A mini PC is not as powerful and generally can’t be upgraded, but they are ultra-portable, and are just the job for those everyday tasks. The decision is yours!
Browse our ranges of powerful desktops and mini PCs here.
If you’re ready to buy your first mini PC or upgrade an existing one, you can find everything you need right here in the Ebuyer store. From increased RAM to external hard drives, you can buy exactly what you need.
And don’t forget, we’ve got plenty more articles like this one that you can read over on the Ebuyer blog.