CHUWI is a Shenzhen-based PC brand that's been around since 2004, delivering affordable devices in the form of laptops, tablets, and, more recently, mini PCs.

While I've tested CHUWI laptops in the past, the AuBox X 256V that the company sent me is its first mini PC I've had a chance to test.

It's super compact, it features a snappy Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPU, and it has lots of ports to work with.

I've been using the CHUWI AuBox X on my desk for a few weeks now; here's what you need to know before buying.

CHUWI had no input, nor saw the contents of this review, prior to publication.

How much does the CHUWI AuBox X cost?

CHUWI's AuBox X is available now to buy directly from CHUWI's store.

The more affordable model, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, costs $679 — that's with tax included.

The high-end model that I'm reviewing here, with an Intel Core Ultra 7 256V CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, costs $829. Again, that's with tax included.

CHUWI is offering an exclusive $80 discount for Windows Central readers. When checking out, use code WindowsCentralAuBoxX.

These configurations are effectively locked; if you want more storage, you can upgrade after purchase. Memory is, unfortunately, soldered to the chip and not upgradeable.

Here's a quick look at the specs that make up the CHUWI AuBox X 256V, as reviewed.

Is the CHUWI AuBox X built well?

The AuBox X uses a magnesium alloy chassis, meaning it gets the durability perks of metal without weighing much. Indeed, at just 1.27 pounds (580g) and measuring only 5 inches square, it's one of the tinier PCs we've tested here at Windows Central.

And although it takes up little room on a desk, I appreciate that CHUWI tosses in a VESA mounting panel. You can quickly mount the PC onto the back of a monitor or the underside of a desk, further saving room.

The magnesium shell has venting on either side to feed the single internal fan with cold air, while hot air exhausts out the back. That's an optimal setup.

Unfortunately, the fan does get relatively loud when the CPU is under load. While running Cinebench tests, I measured approximately 61dBA directly behind the PC where hot air exhausts. From about a foot away, the volume dropped to about 51dBA, which is a lot more respectable.

In any case, unless you have the PC mounted under your desk (or elsewhere out of the way), you're going to hear the fan when the PC is working.

The AuBox X's port selection is plentiful, but I wish for more USB-C

This tiny mini PC has more ports than you might expect, but they're not necessarily the ports you want.

The front of the device features a single USB4 port, and that's it for the USB-C form factor, other than the 100W power input on the back.

Otherwise, the front panel has dual USB-A — one 3.2 Gen 2 at 10Gbps and one 3.2 Gen 1 at 5Gbps — a 3.5mm audio jack, and a power button.

Native video output on the back of the PC is decent, with DisplayPort 1.4 and dual HDMI. However, there are some quirks.

Something I've never seen before is a warning that the DP 1.4 port can't be plugged in or out when the PC is turned on; it needs to be powered down before use.

CHUWI also lists both HDMI ports as using the 2.1 standard, yet one is FRL and the other TMDS. Considering TMDS is an HDMI 2.0 technology, it means that you're actually only getting one HDMI 2.1 port with full 48Gbps bandwidth.

This mini PC should nevertheless support three external displays. I tested using one 4K and one 2.5K display, and the PC had no issues.

I appreciate the inclusion of a 2.5Gb Ethernet port for speedy wired internet, and there are plenty of USB-A ports to work with. If only those USB-A ports on the back climbed above 5Gbps.

As I mentioned, it would be nice to have extra USB-C connections on the back of the PC.

How is the CHUWI AuBox X's performance?

Aside from a bit of fan noise, I don't have much to complain about regarding the CHUWI AuBox X's performance.

Its Intel Core Ultra 7 256V CPU, which launched in late 2024, remains a solid performer with 8 cores and a boost clock up to 4.8GHz. Although it has a base TDP of 17W, CHUWI designed the system to be capable of jumping up to 37W for short bursts. That's as high as this chip goes.

Also on board is an integrated Arc 140V graphics chip, providing a respectable amount of power for such a small device. It compares well to the discrete NVIDIA GTX 1650 and can even give the RTX 3050 a run for its money in certain games. I wouldn't buy this PC for gaming, but it can certainly hold its own in lighter titles.

CHUWI markets the AuBox X as an AI PC, and indeed it is capable of running local models thanks to its Neural Processing Unit (NPU) hitting 47 TOPS of power. The PC is Copilot+ certified.

The biggest drawback in terms of AI (and overall) performance is the capped 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM. There's no way to upgrade memory since it's integrated with the chip; be wary of this limitation when buying for AI workloads.

I ran several benchmark tests to get an idea of general performance compared to other PCs we've recently tested.

In Geekbench 6, the Core Ultra 7 256V that lends itself to the AuBox X 256V's name performed quite well, delivering strong single-core performance and showing plenty of space for all cores to function.

Cinebench 2024 was largely the same, with the Core Ultra 7 256V pulling ahead of the similar 258V. And as for the SSD, well, no complaints from me thanks to stellar read and write speeds.

Cracking open the CHUWI AuBox X 256V to see what's inside

Removing the bottom panel via four captive screws, I took a chance to poke around inside the mini PC.

Presented immediately are three M.2 slots: two for storage and one for the Wi-Fi 6E card. Both SSD slots fit full-size 2280 drives, so no issues there.

The rest of the device is fairly locked down. The Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has integrated RAM, so there's no option to upgrade after purchase.

Should you buy the CHUWI AuBox X?

You should buy this if ...

✅ You're interested in a capable mini PC with AI smarts via the 47 TOPS NPU.

✅ You don't have much space on your desk and want a super compact PC.

You should not buy this if ...

❌ You want a PC that can handle a life of gaming.

❌ You want a PC with more upgradeable components; a traditional desktop is still a better choice.

CHUWI's AuBox X 256V is competitively priced at $829, and you can knock a further $80 off by using code WindowsCentralAuBoxX at checkout. The PC is built well, offering solid performance for regular and AI tasks.

My complaints — fan noise, not enough USB-C ports, and a 16GB cap on RAM — should be taken into consideration before buying, but they're certainly not dealbreakers.

If you do want a great mini PC with more RAM, something like the Geekom A9 Max we tested remains a top option. Its Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU is AI-capable, and the system includes 32GB of memory. It does, however, cost $1,399 these days, nearly twice as much as the AuBox X.

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I love mini PCs, and as such, ASUS has all my attention with its dual Computex and Microsoft Build reveal of its new Ascent QN10.

On the outside, it looks like a normal mini PC that could have been made by any of the manufacturers in the space. But inside it has what I've been waiting to see.

Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon X2 Elite. Hoo boy.

So let's get right down to business. The releases from both Build and Computex are, of course, full of talk about AI, and yes, this is very much an AI PC. Like pretty much everything else coming out right now.

But here's what we're looking at on the hardware front.

ASUS is proud to declare the Ascent QN10 as the world's first mini PC with an 80 TOPS NPU inside. Being a Snapdragon X2 Elite-powered device, it'll of course also be fully Copilot+ compatible.

I tried using a mini PC as a primary machine in 2025 and quickly found there are very few drawbacks. Generally they have more ports than I'll ever use, they take up no space, they're quiet and efficient, and they're perfect for an unseasonable British heatwave because they're not spitting great lumps of hot air back into my office.

Whether for work, play, or, yes, AI, a mini PC really can do it all, and there's nothing to suggest the Ascent QN10 will be any different. We already know the Snapdragon X2 Elite is highly capable, and I know first-hand that gaming on a Snapdragon PC isn't as bad as some corners of the internet would have you believe.

There is one factor to consider carefully, though.

The spec sheet for the Ascent QN10 states that it tops out at 32GB RAM. Admittedly, for the majority of users this is fine. I have 32GB in my own mini PC and equally so in my gaming rig.

But Intel and AMD-powered mini PCs can offer much more than this. The QN10 and its Snapdragon platform uses LPDDR5X memory, which is great, but also not user-upgradeable. By contrast, my own Geekom A9 Max with a Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 at its heart uses SODIMM, which, while slower and less efficient, can be upgraded.

This is the tradeoff we'll have to make. But it does mean that for some workloads, including as an example, running larger local AI models, the QN10 might not be for you.

Nevertheless, I'm excited for this. As a do-it-all machine, it looks like it'll tick more than enough boxes. Windows on Arm is better than its ever been, and Qualcomm is a huge part of that.

Hopefully this kickstarts the rest of the PC makers into having a go themselves and not just with the higher-end chips. What we still need to know is how much it'll cost and when we can get one. But for now, color me impressed.

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Just days after announcing the RTX Spark-powered Surface Laptop Ultra (coming later this year), Microsoft has today announced a second RTX Spark device for the Surface portfolio, this time aimed solely at developers looking for a mini PC that can run sustained AI workloads with a 100W thermal envelope.

Officially dubbed the Surface RTX Spark Dev Box, this Microsoft-made mini PC will be available to purchase later this year, and features one petaflip of AI compute power and 128GB of unified memory, which is capable of running up to 120B parameter models locally without needing to reach out to the cloud.

It also features WSL2 with native GPU passthrough, full CUDA support, Visual Studio Code, GitHub Copilot, and many other Microsoft-made developer tools pre-installed.

No other details about the device have been revealed, and pricing is still a mystery. But since we know RTX Spark devices won't be cheap, expect this device to cost somewhere in the thousands when it ships later this year.

The Surface RTX Dev Box will be Microsoft's first Surface-branded mini PC. This isn't the first dev box that the company has shipped, however. In 2023, Microsoft shipped the Windows Developer Kit, powered by a Snapdragon 8cx Gen3 with 32GB RAM, aimed at developers looking to build Windows apps for Arm.

The Surface RTX Spark Dev Box is a much more polished product, with a much wider target audience. It's for developers, but not just developers who want to build for Windows on Arm. It's for all developers, looking to build software and AI experiences. The company wants Windows to be the platform for developers, not just Windows developers.

We'll have more to share about the Surface RTX Spark Dev Box as information becomes available. In the meantime, is this a product you might be interested in buying? Let us know in the comments.

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The RAM crisis has been claiming victims left, right, and center, and the Raspberry Pi is, once again, taking a massive hit.

Previous price rises were unavoidable, and today, Raspberry Pi has announced another raft of equally unavoidable increases. They're significant, too, bringing into question whether or not the little single-board computer (SBC) is worth it anymore in some use cases.

So, what's it cost now? That depends on your location, but the table below plots the dollar increases across the current range.

Generally speaking, the more RAM you want, the bigger the increase. Makes sense. Not every model is affected, with some of the lower RAM variants of recent Raspberry Pis being kept at their current rates for now.

"As painful as these price rises are, there are some brighter spots in the picture. We’ve been able to hold the price of Raspberry Pi 400 with 4GB of memory at $60, and the 1GB and 2GB variants of Raspberry Pi 4 and Raspberry Pi 5 at between $35 and $65. These are capable and versatile modern Raspberry Pi computers at affordable price points."

In addition, older models, including the Pi Zero, are unaffected as they use older LPDDR2 which Raspberry Pi says it holds significant stocks of. There's also a new 3GB version of the Raspberry Pi 5 being introduced today to provide another option to help customers get the most they can from their budget.

The Raspberry Pi has an almost limitless number of applications, but at its heart, it's a cheap computer. But unless you're actually building something, these unfortunate price rises may no longer make it as attractive as it once was.

The 16GB Raspberry Pi 5 now costs $305 in the U.S., and remember, that's just for the board. You don't get anything else with it. No storage, no case, no operating system.

If it's a cheap computer you want rather than a tool to make something with or tinker around on, a cheap mini PC suddenly looks like a better buy. It'll probably come with Windows 11, but you can still use Linux instead if you prefer.

A mini PC can still be efficient when it comes to power, albeit perhaps not quite as good as the Raspberry Pi, and in almost every case, will have a more powerful CPU.

If you want a cheap home server, for example, or to build your own NAS, run Plex or Jellyfin, or even just learn a little about self-hosting or a number of software tools, a mini PC will be as effective as a Raspberry Pi. A mini PC will also likely be upgradeable, with most having user-accessible RAM and storage.

At least if you were eying up one of the higher-spec models. Unless you absolutely need all that RAM, the cheaper ones still exist (even if they're not quite as cheap anymore), and they'll still serve you well.

But thanks to the RAMpocalypse, the higher-tier Raspberry Pis don't necessarily make the sense they once did. Which is sad. I love the Raspberry Pi, I've got a bunch of various models in my stash that I've tinkered with on a number of projects over the years.

What I hope most of all is that the prices settle and we can go back to some sense of normality. It's a glaring example, though, of how affordable computing is being attacked just as much as those wanting a beastly gaming rig.

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The mini PC market is hot these days, and it seems like most of the big (and small) brands are buffing their lineups with new options. Dell isn't to be excluded, and it has just announced a new and compact Dell Pro 5 Micro PC.

The Dell Pro 5 Micro (P5M1260) is expected to launch on March 31, 2026. Pricing has yet to be announced.

This is Dell's first "mainstream" desktop, mini or not, to include Windows 11 Copilot+ capabilities, and it's all thanks to the use of Intel's Core Ultra vPro Series 3 processors. It's available with the Core Ultra 7 366H vPro or the Core Ultra 5 335 vPro.

These Intel "Panther Lake" mobile chips, besides offering improved efficiency and performance (especially for the integrated graphics), come with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of hitting 50 TOPS for AI tasks. That's more than enough for the built-in Copilot+ tools in Windows 11.

Whereas many mini PCs focus on the consumer market by offering a low-cost entry to Windows, Dell's Pro 5 Micro delivers the security and management features that professionals require. I'm talking primarily about Dell's advanced security features like SafeSupply Chain, SafeBIOS, and SafeID, as well as scalable management for IT teams.

How does Dell's new Pro 5 Micro mini PC power five external displays?

What I find more interesting is the design of the PC. It starts at just 2.42 pounds (1.10kg), and its 1.2L chassis can be mounted practically anywhere if you're not using it vertically or horizontally on your desk.

A wide range of ports makes it easy to connect all your peripherals, but Dell goes one step further with an open, modular slot on the back of the PC. At checkout, you can choose one of nine options to fill it with.

Go for the dual DisplayPort 1.4 module, and you'll have a mini PC capable of powering five external monitors with a mix of 5K and 4K resolutions.

Don't need that many external monitors? Add more USB-A or USB-C ports, or legacy ports like PS/2, VGA, or Serial, should you require them.

Getting inside the Dell Pro 5 Micro doesn't require any tools, and once inside, you can access the M.2 slots for the SSD and the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth combo card. The use of DDR5 RAM suggests that the memory can also be upgraded after purchase.

Dell offers Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 6E wireless options, and from the factory, you can configure up to 64GB of DDR5-6400MT/s RAM. Storage ranges from 256GB to 1TB with SED capabilities.

As for power, the PC can run off a 90W barrel adapter or a 100W USB-C adapter (or a connection from a monitor capable of delivering that much power via USB-C).

What do you think about Dell's new business-focused mini PC with Copilot+?

Mini PCs keep getting better, and I love to see Dell keeping up with its first Pro Copilot+ desktop.

For me, the standout feature is either the customizable port module that unlocks support for five external displays or the Copilot+ capabilities, but I want to know what you think.

Is this something you'd consider buying as your next business partner? Will it depend on the price when it launches? Let me know in the comments section!

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The mini PC market had a great year, and with laptop and desktop prices expected to continue climbing in 2026, I foresee many users considering a switch to a more affordable device that's powerful and compact.

Lenovo is kicking off CES 2026 with a new Yoga Mini i PC that weighs just 600 grams (1.32 pounds) with a 0.65-liter chassis. That's even more impressive considering the chassis is made from aluminum, matching the aesthetic of Lenovo's premium Yoga laptops.

It's absurdly small, with its round design measuring just 5.12 x 5.12 x 1.91 inches (130mm x 130mm x 48.6mm). Forget a backpack or messenger — you could slip this into your back pocket when you leave the office.

And despite having such a tiny frame, Lenovo has packed in some impressive performance hardware and additional features to improve the user experience. The mini PC runs on Intel's latest Core Ultra X7 Series 3 chips, up to an X7 358H with integrated graphics. These chips have more than enough power to run Windows 11's Copilot+ AI tools.

You can configure the Yoga Mini i with up to 32GB of LPDDR5x-8533MT/s RAM and up to 2TB of M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD storage. There's no word if the SSD is user-upgradeable, but I do know that the LPDDR5x RAM is soldered to the board. It all runs on a 100W USB-C power adapter.

Here's where things get interesting. The Yoga Mini i comes with Wi-Fi sensing abilities, which can automatically wake the PC when it notices changes in Wi-Fi signals (caused by, say, you walking through your office). That's a bit too much sensing for my liking, but I'm sure some will appreciate the feature.

A built-in ambient light will pulse when it senses your presence, and the same light will show up for certain notifications and reminders. The small power button on the side of the device includes a fingerprint reader for additional security through Windows Hello, something that's not often seen on even the best mini PCs currently available.

I don't blame you for thinking that a mini PC this small might lack the port selection for a full workload. However, that's not quite the case. Lenovo managed to fit in dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2) with 100W charging capabilities, another USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), 2.5Gb Ethernet, HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm audio combo, and one USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2).

That covers video, data, internet, and power, and Lenovo says the Yoga Mini i can support "up to four high-resolution displays" with its native port selection. A built-in speaker and microphone make it easy to conference without any additional hardware.

Lenovo expects to launch its new Yoga Mini i in June 2026 with a starting price of $699.99.

Mini PCs are becoming more popular all the time, and companies like Lenovo are pushing the limits in terms of size, power, and features. Will your next PC be a mini PC?

Much of what you'll see at CES 2026 will be iterative upgrades to the same technology you're used to. Laptops receive generational performance gains, and monitor resolution continues to increase, which generally only interests the kinds of people who are growing tired of whatever's on their desk. Thankfully, HP brought something genuinely interesting to Las Vegas this year — the EliteBoard G1a.

I know it looks like a keyboard, but it's actually a mini PC with a choice of AMD's Ryzen AI 300 PRO mobile processors inside. That includes an NPU rated for up to 50 TOPS, which classifies the EliteBoard G1a as a Copilot+ PC. Of course, it still is a functional keyboard on the outside, but its primary intention is to replace AIO PCs and help prevent limitations of screen sizes. If you ever saw the Raspberry Pi 500, it's like that.

HP calls it "the first and only AI keyboard PC," and part of its inspiration was noticing how many hybrid workers were constantly working from laptops with their lids closed, switching instead to an external monitor. If those high-end displays are permanent fixtures, then why not put the "PC" part into something more convenient than a full-size laptop and keep the video-out? It's a great idea, but it gets even better when you see how much thought went into this.

An upgradeable and serviceable AI PC

It's essentially the same keyboard experience as HP's EliteBook laptop range, though we're told the key travel has been "tuned for the desktop space," which I think is fair to assume means a deeper typing experience. You get a number pad, too, if you're into that kind of thing — and our advice on the best laptops with numpads strongly hints that many of you are.

But we all know what a keyboard is, so let's talk about the components inside this curious PC-in-disguise. By far, the best news about the EliteBoard G1a is the fact that it's using standard parts that you'd find in most upgradeable laptops. That includes DDR5 SODIMM RAM for memory and M.2 NVMe solid-state drives for storage.

The rest of the board is serviceable with a top-down design for the spill-resistant keyboard portion that users can replace "in ten minutes" and a removable bottom panel that gives easy access to the cooling fan and its various PC components. Other valued extras, like an optional fingerprint reader, depend on the HP EliteBoard G1a "Next Gen AI PC" you choose — of which, there are two.

Both EliteBoard G1a models are similar and almost identical at a glance. However, one has a permanently fixed USB-C cable while the other is detachable.

The former gives you an extra USB4 port to compensate, but both variants support up to four 4K monitors running at 60Hz — an ambitious spec sheet for what looks like a regular keyboard.

Its remaining multi-option component categories, such as wireless networking standards and storage capacity, will be configurable in HP's online store.

Of particular note is the configurable battery, which gives the EliteBoard more flexibility if you just need to hook it up to a monitor for a few hours, as HP claims around 3.5 hours of use on a full charge.

A battery-powered mini PC built into a rugged but slick keyboard that replaces your laptop during daily commutes to the office? I'm into it. The EliteBoard G1a reminds me of my beloved HP Envy Move — an AIO PC with a battery — in that it dares to do something different without resorting to gimmicks. It's a well-deserved winner of the CES Innovation Award, and I can't wait to try it.

What do you think of the HP EliteBoard? Is it innovative or gimmicky? Would you ever use it at work or even as a permanent home PC? Let me know!

Mini PCs are a great alternative to both laptops and full-size desktops, and plenty of users have recognized them for their competitive pricing, strong performance, and compact footprint.

I now have HP's new EliteDesk 8 Mini (G1a) in front of me, and I've lately changed my workflow to run entirely off of the device. I've been having a blast so far on a Copilot+ system that's reliable, stable, and plenty snappy. Here's what you need to know before buying.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by HP. HP had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

A compact 1L chassis with extensive upgrade and replacement options

I'm always amazed at how much performance hardware and cooling can fit into the best mini PCs, and HP's EliteDesk 8 Mini (G1a) is a great example.

It measures just 1.35 inches (3.43cm) thin and is roughly 7 inches (~18cm) in width and depth. Weighing in at 3.13 pounds, it's no heavier than many laptops, and you shouldn't really notice it if you slip it into a bag to take with you. The chassis is a mix of plastic and aluminum, but it's as sturdy as can be.

The top panel is perforated to help feed the cooling fans with enough air, while the bottom panel has non-slip feet and pre-drilled holes for VESA mounting. I've been using the PC horizontally, but you can always add a vertical stand for an extra $2 at checkout.

The PC's front I/O — embedded in a stylized plastic faceplate —includes one USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), dual USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2), and a 3.5mm audio combo jack for headsets. Here you'll also find a standard power button.

The back of the PC is where you'll find the bulk of the ports, including HDMI 2.1, dual DisplayPort 2.1, a single USB4 with 100W power delivery, dual USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2), and RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet. A lock slot can help keep the PC in place.

Here's where things get interesting. The back of the EliteDesk 8 Mini has a couple of modular sections, allowing you to customise some of the ports. My review model is equipped with an extra Thunderbolt 4 port — something you don't often see on AMD PCs due to Intel's licensing — and two Mini DisplayPort connections.

Not the ports you need? HP has a generous selection of alternatives, from video to 2.5GbE to USB. The highest any of these configs costs is $81 (for the dual Mini DP), but the next priciest is only $17. In the same vein, you have a bunch of choices for the WLAN card, ranging from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 7.

The top panel of the PC is easily removable with just a thumb screw holding it in place. The internal hardware is packed in tightly, but HP made some smart decisions here to alleviate the upgrade process.

The main system fan is seated on channels that allow it to be lifted up and away from the rest of the PC. This reveals the dual SODIMM RAM slots for upgrades. The "loose" fan has dampeners on the sides to prevent rattling, and indeed, there was none during my time with the PC.

Unfortunately, the SSD isn't as easy to swap; it's located below the second fan that is screwed into place. Certainly not a dealbreaker. HP is focusing a lot on repairability for this mini PC, and just about every part that goes into it can be ordered from HP's PartSurfer market. That's a bigger deal now than ever as PC prices continue to rise due to a global RAM and storage shortage.

Steady Ryzen performance and impressive cooling abilities

At the time of writing this review, HP is offering a wide selection of pre-configured EliteDesk 8 Mini models starting at a discounted $759. All models run on AMD, and HP gives you the choice of Ryzen PRO or standard chips. On the table are several RAM options ranging from 8GB to 64GB, as well as storage options from 256GB "Value" SSDs up to 2TB TLC SSDs.

Although my review unit doesn't have it, HP's Wolf Pro Security comes with all pre-configured options, and it's available to add through the detailed customizer if you're building your own system. Its suite of security tools is certainly a boon for pros dealing in sensitive data, but anyone can take advantage of its added protection.

Let's dig into performance. My review unit has an AMD Ryzen 7 AI PRO 350 CPU — the top option — with 32GB of dual-channel DDR5-5600 RAM and a 1TB TLC M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD.

With 50 TOPS of AI power from the Ryzen Neural Processing Unit (NPU), the PC easily makes the cut for Copilot+. This gives you access to all of the latest AI tools baked into Windows 11, including Cocreator, Recall, Live Captions, and much more.

Even if you don't want to use the AI tools in Windows 11, HP's EliteDesk 8 Mini is a stellar performer for everyday work. I experienced no hiccups during daily work, and it took on sustained stress tests like a champ.

I ran a 20-minute full system stress test with the CPU maxed out at 4.3GHz and sitting at about 97°C. The loudest I measured the PC was 56dB right at the rear exhaust. From about a foot away from the PC, noise falls to about 49dB. You'll hear the fans kick on under load, but they never scream, whine, or get loud enough to remain noticeable. The case doesn't get overly hot, either.

This isn't a mini PC that you want to buy for gaming, yet the integrated Radeon 860M graphics have enough juice to handle lighter and well-optimized titles.

HP EliteDesk 8 Mini (G1a) review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a compact mini PC with Copilot+ tools on board.
• You're a professional who needs extra security via HP's Wolf Pro.
• You don't have a lot of space on your desk and don't want a laptop.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You're a gamer who wants a full-time gaming PC.
• You have no interest in using AI on your PC.
• You'd rather use a system with an Intel or Qualcomm chip inside.

HP created the EliteDesk 8 Mini (G1a) for professional use, and I can see it working quite well for a lot of enterprise customers. The configuration options are plentiful, it comes with additional security, and it has AI capabilities.

But that doesn't mean more casual PC users can't take advantage. This is especially true when HP's configurable setup allows you to skip extra costs like Ryzen PRO chips and TLC SSDs.

I love the modular rear port setup and the quiet, capable cooling system, two features that you won't find in a lot of the competition. Performance is great for my workflow involving heavy web browsing, occasional Copilot use, Photoshop, Office, and more. However, I do have one suggestion.

If you're looking for the utmost local AI performance, I recommend you check out the HP Z2 Mini (G1a) we reviewed favorably. It has AMD's Ryzen AI MAX+ PRO 395 chip that can "steal" up to 96GB of system RAM to be used as VRAM for its integrated Radeon 8060S GPU, making it a killer system for more demanding AI work.

I'm lucky to have a job like this; I'll never say otherwise. Turning an enthusiasm for tech into a career — I'm grateful every day. One of the perks, of course, is getting to try out a host of new products throughout the course of a year, and sometimes, they stick around.

That's exactly the case with the mini PC. I've dabbled in the past, and going back over a decade, I had a Mac Mini as my daily driver. In recent times, though, I've used my gaming PC for everything — work and play — but it's overkill for the work part.

Then came along the Geekom A9 Max mini PC. I liked it so much that it's become my daily driver for almost everything, and it was an awakening. These little boxes can be seriously powerful, yet take up significantly less space, generate less heat and noise, and, importantly, do it all more efficiently. It's the best move I made this year.

Laptop chips are seriously good now

The last time I really used a Windows mini PC for any length of time was a good few years ago now. But that was using a desktop AMD APU. I bought an ASRock Deskmini and slapped a Ryzen 5 3400G in it as a small box to work from, and even do a bit of gaming. It was that good.

Nowadays, virtually all the mini PCs that come across our desk are using laptop chips from either Intel or AMD. It's a testament to the advances the industry has made that using one of these isn't just good; in most cases, it will feel as good as using a desktop CPU.

The one I'm using is AMD's Ryzen AI 9 HX370, a 55W APU with 12 cores, 24 threads, and Radeon 890M graphics. Four of those cores are full-fat Zen 5, the other 8 'efficiency' cores are Zen 5c. This is the same type of setup as my desktop Intel CPU has, where it's 20 cores in total, with a split of 8 and 12.

I'll openly admit that both of the CPUs I just mentioned are overkill for virtually everything I do. I'm not running CPU-intensive processes all the time. Local AI and gaming is the meat of it.

The Ryzen AI 9 HX370 is seriously good. In a mini PC, I don't have to worry about battery life, so it can be pushed as much as needed, and it absolutely devours anything I need to do.

AMD's integrated graphics have always been praiseworthy, standing tall above Intel for many years. The Radeon 890M is no exception. I'll touch a little on gaming later, but the other main task I've been using it for is running local AI models in LM Studio.

Thanks to fitting 32GB of RAM inside this little box, I can offload up to 24GB of that to the GPU and run pretty large LLMs without issue. Obviously, it's not going to compete with an RTX 5090.

But the point is that it's a full PC that costs around $1,000 and can tackle tasks that you might think you'd need to spend a heck of a lot more on a dedicated GPU for.

Yes, gaming on a mini PC is possible, and enjoyable

Since handheld gaming PCs started to become a thing, we're seeing more attention from both the game developers and AMD on the software side to make titles run well on less powerful hardware.

I'm not saying my desktop gaming PC has been replaced, because it hasn't. I'm still using an RTX 5090 to waste far too many hours playing Call of Duty.

But 1080p gaming at 60 FPS and above with this chip is perfectly doable. When I reviewed the Geekom A9 Max, I tried a number of games and, thanks to FSR, didn't struggle to hit 60 FPS in even demanding titles.

Cyberpunk 2077 can be played at medium settings at 60 FPS or higher, using frame gen. Call of Duty plays above 60 FPS, Forza Horizon 5, too, and that one is on high settings.

AMD's FSR upscaling tech is constantly evolving, and it's as good on a little mini PC like this as it is on a handheld like the Steam Deck or Xbox Ally. Frame Gen, too, I think, is actual magic. I wouldn't use it in a multiplayer game, but in a single-player title like Cyberpunk 2077 or Spider-Man: Remastered, it's crazy how good it really is.

I've even been able to play Borderlands 4 on this thing. It's not the best experience, but given how tough that was on PCs when it launched, it just goes to show that mini PCs can perform, even against the odds.

The next thing I want to try, probably over the holidays when I don't have to work, is using the Xbox Full Screen Experience and seeing what it would be like as a living room games console type box. I have considered Bazzite, but specifically, I want to see how the Xbox Full Screen Experience translates to the big screen.

There are very few compromises in using a mini PC over a regular desktop

It ultimately boils down to having found very few compromises in trying to use a mini PC for work over what I've been using previously. Aside from some gaming, there's nothing I can't do on the Geekom A9 Max that I've been doing on my gaming PC or laptop.

It actually has better connectivity options than my desktop, believe it or not. There are two SSD slots, and the RAM is upgradeable, too, when it no longer requires a mortgage to buy.

I also did some rough calculations on how much money I can save in the course of a year by reducing the amount I use my gaming PC and its very thirsty RTX 5090. Based on the price of electricity here in the UK, I could save as much as £300 over the course of the year by reducing how much I use my gaming PC. That's not an insignificant saving.

When I reviewed the Geekom A9 Max, I said it was a box that could do it all, and the more I've used it since, the more convinced I am. This was a smart move.

Does my story tempt you to switch to a mini PC, or are you too reliant on your current setup to give it up? Let me know in the comments and the poll below!

I've been looking for a good, all-rounder Windows mini PC with an Arm processor ever since Qualcomm unveiled its Snapdragon X line of SoCs last year. It's taken a while, but we finally have one in the form of Lenovo's new IdeaCentre Mini X, powered by the base Snapdragon X, housed in a premium metal and plastic enclosure that's much like the older Mac Mini design, but with better upgradability and a more affordable price.

In fact, I might go so far as to say this is the best Arm-based Windows mini PC you can buy right now, with a large selection of ports, great performance for everyday tasks, and a premium build quality that you don't often find on mini PCs in this price range. It's certainly a contender for our roundup of best mini PCs.

I've been using the IdeaCentre Mini X as my primary desktop for the last two months, and this is my long-term review.

Price and specifications

The Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini X starts at $699 and comes with the Snapdragon X SoC, 32GB RAM, and 512GB SSD as standard. There's also an $899 model that comes with the slightly more powerful Snapdragon X Plus SoC, still with 32GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage, though I don't think this is necessary for most people.

Frustratingly, the configurations you're able to buy will likely depend heavily on either the region or retailer of choice. Not all models are available in all regions, so your pricing and spec options are likely to vary.

Design and ports

The IdeaCentre Mini X features a minimalist contemporary design that looks at home on any desk, under any monitor. It's a 195mm x 191mm box made out of a combination of aluminum and plastic. The sides of the device are aluminum, and the top and bottom panels are plastic, as they are removable.

The box itself looks and feels very premium, and I love how slim and low-profile it is compared to most other Windows mini PCs. It is on the heavier side, however, though that shouldn't matter much given it's a desktop PC that you're likely not going to be moving around much.

The grey and black color choice is also one I really like. It looks very clean, modern, and premium to touch. The top and bottom covers pop off, which allows access to the inside of the device, where you can swap out and replace components like SSD storage or Wi-Fi card. RAM is soldered, but storage is upgradable using a standard M.2 drive.

The IdeaCentre Mini X also comes with a stand included in the box, which lets you set the device up on its side if that's an orientation you prefer. For me, I prefer having it lying flat, but if you're tight for space, the included plastic stand makes propping it up on its side, so it stands tall is super easy and convenient to use.

Along the front of the device, we have one USB-A port, one USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a power button. Around the back, there's one Ethernet jack, three USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a DisplayPort 1.4a. There are plenty of ports to go around, though I do wish there were one more USB-C port on the back for extra versatility.

The underside and back of the box are where your vents are located for thermal management. The device has a built-in fan, which helps keep the Snapdragon X cool under load. The fan itself is almost never audible, and for the first few days ,I really did think this was a fanless system. The only time I heard it spin up was under heavy load during benchmarking.

Performance

Lenovo offers the IdeaCentre Mini X in two SoC flavors, the Snapdragon X or Snapdragon X Plus. We received the base model Snapdragon X variant for review, and luckily, I found that this doesn't make it a slouch by any stretch of the imagination.

The base Snapdragon X SoC is great for everyday tasks and light creative work. Paired with the 32GB RAM that this system includes, it's a multitasking powerhouse, easily capable of handling multiple apps running all at once and switching between them without missing a beat.

In our benchmarks, we found the IdeaCentre Mini X lines up with the exact kind of performance you'd expect from an Arm-based mini PC in 2025. In Cinebench 2024, it earned a single-core score of 96 and a multi-core score of 687, putting it in line with Apple M1/M2 performance.

In Geekbench 6, it earned a single-core score of 2,137, a multi-core score of 10,828, and then 9,780 in the OpenCL GPU benchmark test. In CrossMark, it earned a score of 1,332, placing it alongside the Beelink SER5 Pro and Surface Studio 2+. It's a perfectly capable machine for most tasks, which is brilliant.

The only thing it's really not good at is gaming or high-intensity creative work that requires a GPU or a more powerful CPU to run smoothly. Because this is the base SoC, it only has 8 cores, four of which are performance cores, and so demanding tasks will take longer or be laggy as a result.

Again, for day-to-day tasks or light creative work, you won't notice any slowdowns. It's really perfect for office-based workflows, web browsing, email, Teams, and Slack, and media consumption tasks, with a bit of light Photoshop and video editing on the side if you need to get that done every so often.

Conclusion

Overall, I've really loved my time with the IdeaCentre Mini X. It's the Mac Mini of the Windows world I've been waiting for, albeit slightly on the larger side compared to the Mac Mini M4. Still, I think it looks great sitting on my desk, and it's cool and silent pretty much all of the time, meaning I forget it's even there.

It has enough ports to go around, and the ability to upgrade things like storage or Wi-Fi card down the line is also an extra nicety you don't always see on these kinds of PCs, so I'm glad Lenovo put in the extra effort to make that possible. The included stand is also a nice touch.

If I have any complaints, it's that I'd like to see more CPU options down the line. Lenovo currently makes Snapdragon X or Snapdragon X Plus variants, but I'd love to see a Snapdragon X Elite option too. I'd also like to see variants with less RAM, as for whatever reason, 32GB is the base amount. Not everyone needs that amount, and so a lot of people could save a few bucks if there were a 16GB variant too.

Ultimately, this is a great mini PC, one of the best in the Windows market currently. It looks great, performs well, and is actually quite affordable too. If you wait for sales, I bet you can grab one of these new for as little as $599. At that price, it's a no-brainer.

PC gaming mega-brand Valve surprised us all this afternoon with a trio of hardware announcements, including the return of its once-abandoned Steam Machine mini PC concept, alongside a revival of its similarly ill-fated Steam Controller and, finally, the Steam Frame headset, a sequel to the much more successful (and still marketed) Valve Index for virtual reality PC gaming. For me, the first is arguably the most interesting.

You'd have to survey an astronomical number of PC gamers before you found one who didn't know about Valve and, in turn, its software platform Steam. Industrial naming trend aside, the dominant figures at Valve are responsible for some of the nerdiest and most influential software in prominent gaming categories, such as the paradigmatic Half-Life and its contributions to the first-person shooter genre.

Now, after the roaring success of its still-beloved Steam Deck handheld gaming PC, Valve is seemingly taking everything it learned from its Linux-based SteamOS and its overwhelmingly broad adoption via the Steam Deck and its OLED variant and applying it to a new generation of gaming mini PCs. Not that I wish to imply the effort had gone to waste, but Valve has tried all this before.

Back in 2014, Valve unveiled an initial range of OEM partners ready to develop their own take on Steam Machine desktop PCs, targeting prices "as low as $499 and top end systems rivaling today’s bleeding edge gaming PCs." Of particular interest in this first announcement is the inclusion of the $49.99 original Steam Controller, packaged in each box as standard, unlike the new Steam Machine.

Even if you weren't paying particularly close attention back then, you'll likely recognize some prominent brands if you're still interested in PC gaming today. Alienware and Gigabyte, in particular, are still extremely prevalent in 2025, though their hardware efforts aren't focused in the same way. The latter, for example, is more recognizable for its desktop components, such as motherboards and graphics cards — just like Zotac.

What happened to the first adopters?

Alienware, on the other hand, firmly remains in the gaming hardware space with high-scoring laptops like the Aurora 16|X and equivalents on the desktop side, including the powerful Area-51 pre-built gaming PCs. We weren't watching SteamOS too closely when the Steam Machine concept was first unveiled, as CES 2014 had exciting news for Windows 8, which took priority (sorry, Valve). Our friends at PC Gamer did test the Alienware Steam Machine, but Linux gaming showed it still wasn't a threat to Windows, and the compact PC didn't impress.

Would Alienware come back for another Steam Machine attempt now that Valve has refined SteamOS and its Proton compatibility layer for Windows PC games? My gut says no, but it isn't impossible. Personally, I lean towards the doubtful side simply because Dell's gaming division hasn't shown any interest in building a handheld gaming PC, despite being the ones to champion the concept with its Alienware UFO concept.

Now, a handheld and a compact desktop might seem like different beasts at a glance, but they're actually quite similar. Once you remove the screen and controller buttons, what's left is the spitting image of what you'd find in a gaming-centric mini PC. Alienware has the know-how to build a cool, quiet desktop in the style Valve wants, but if it hasn't earnestly tried to start things off with a handheld, I can't see it making the leap to a Steam machine.

Which gaming brands make more sense?

While the first wave of OEMs has the chops to deliver another compact gaming PC, a few brands have already made important steps towards dominating the handheld-like mini PC scene, primarily ASUS. If you've ever looked into the Steam Deck, chances are you've heard of the ASUS ROG Ally; the first Windows-based handheld to really challenge Valve's dominant position. The Ryzen Z1 Extreme ROG Ally is still my favorite Windows 11 option, particularly for its open access to PC Game Pass.

Lenovo is another likely pick, potentially designing a Steam Machine to fit within its Legion gaming subbrand, alongside the Windows-based Lenovo Legion Go and its successor, the Legion Go 2. It's perhaps even more likely to see Lenovo adopt the Steam Machine than even ASUS, as it already experimented with Valve's OS in its Legion Go S (SteamOS) handheld.

In the same vein, I wouldn't be surprised to see Acer and MSI join the conversation, based on their experiences with the 11-inch Acer Nitro and Intel-based MSI Claw handhelds, though the latter is shy about US availability with AMD-based Claw models. Essentially, I'd wager that we're far more likely to see current players throwing their hat into the Steam Machine ring than we would see a return from the likes of Falcon Northwest, or even a long-awaited attempt from the gaming specialists at Razer.

Besides, none of this speculation should discount Valve's in-house efforts. While its own Steam Machine looks like an Xbox Series X sliced in half, it could end up being one of the best, if the Steam Deck is anything to go by, and if it can undercut console pricing. I know that I'm already tempted to put some budget aside for the eventual launch, hoping anti-cheat is less of a problem by then, but I'd happily be swayed by an OEM offering a few extra features or a more exciting design — again, something Razer could excel at, if only they'd try something outside of monstrous Blade 18 gaming laptops.

Given the constraints in the video game industry as of late, you might think it was a crazy move to launch anything like a new console in the coming years. Valve is no ordinary company, though.

Despite Xbox hardware being down year-over-year for several quarters and PlayStation posting a very modest 1% increase in playtime hours despite PS5 sales keeping pace with PS4 — Valve is unbothered and has decided it's time to revive its Steam Machine efforts that originally started in 2014.

Following the success of the still beloved Steam Deck, Valve is doubling down on hardware in a big way and has revealed a range of new hardware today as part of that effort. We have an all-new Steam Machine, targeting a Spring 2026 launch, as well as a long-rumored VR headset called the Steam Frame, previously codenamed Deckard. There's also a brand-new Steam Controller to go along with both. Here's everything we know so far.

Steam Machine specifications

Valve's Steam Machine (not to be confused with the 2014 Steam Machines) sports some impressive specs on paper, though it doesn't seem to outclass the Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5, despite using some more modern AMD Zen 4 architecture. Valve itself says the Steam Machine is "over 6x more powerful than Steam Deck", and should offer a comparable 4K @ 60 FPS experience when stacked up against Microsoft and Sony's consoles, while soundly beating the Xbox Series S and Nintendo Switch 2.

Again, the Steam Machine uses AMD's more modern (but technically previous-generation) Zen 4 processor architecture, sporting six CPU cores with twelve threads at 4.8 GHz. Despite having fewer cores than the Xbox Series X and PS5, the process node should give it superior per-core performance. These new Steam Machines should punch above their weight owing to that updated, more efficient technology, but the Xbox Series X, PS5, and PS5 Pro in particular should easily keep pace owing to higher core counts.

It's a similar story with the GPU: the Steam Machine's recent RDNA 3 architecture also offers improved power efficiency and higher performance compared to the older generation (but still not using RDNA 4, AMD's current tech). Even the Xbox Series X|S can use the same generation of upscaling as the Steam Machine — FSR 3.

The Steam Machine sports 28 compute units (CUs) at 2.45 GHz, compared to the Xbox Series X's 52 CUs at 1.8 GHz, and PS5's 36 CUs at 2.23 GHz. Microsoft's console, again, offers the most raw graphics computational power here, but the Steam Machine will punch above its weight owing to its more modern architecture and choice of lightweight operating system, SteamOS.

Memory (RAM) is where things continue to diverge. The Steam Machine hasn't yet offered official memory bandwidth figures, but it combines 16GB of DDR5 system memory with 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM for the GPU.

It has more total memory on paper than the Xbox Series X's 16GB dual-pool GDDR6 RAM and PS5's unified 16GB GDDR6 pool, but the Steam Machine's PC-like split memory design may impede its overall memory bandwidth despite having a larger amount. It should, in theory, remain competitive here with both the PS5 and Xbox Series X, but we need more information to know more to get a solid answer.

The Steam Machine oddly has only two storage options up for grabs: a 512 GB model and a 2TB model. Xbox storage cards are notoriously expensive CFExpress PCI cartridges, while the PS5 went with more standard M.2 NVMe options that users can purchase off the shelf. The Steam Machine diverges by offering microSD expansion, allowing its users to easily transfer large amounts of games from a Steam Deck and back to their Steam Machine.

MicroSD technology isn't fast enough to effectively run all AAA games, but the Steam Machine's internal storage should be more than up to the task for the majority. Although we don't have a ton of info on what's sitting inside it here, it's unlikely to be using ultra-modern microSD Express tech.

Finally, we have the operating system. SteamOS has become incredibly capable over the last few years, with Valve deploying reams of updates as part of its Steam Deck line. It's incredibly user-friendly and easy to use, and its powerful Proton layer translates Windows games to Linux without any developer input — generally speaking, at least.

Proton does have some shortcomings, namely with functions like anti-cheat systems. As such, many Windows-native multiplayer games with kernel-level anti-cheat systems don't run on SteamOS. Proton will only get better over time, too. SteamOS does allow you to exit out into full Linux desktop mode as well, allowing you to install launchers, games, and other apps not available on the Steam store itself.

You can get things like Xbox Cloud Gaming, Battle.net, Genshin Impact, and other titles that aren't available to buy via Steam like this, but it isn't always a particularly easy experience — even more so if you include the fact that you need a mouse and keyboard to navigate it effectively.

Regardless, Steam has quite literally thousands of games available directly on its store, the vast majority of which will run on this platform without issue. This will be the first "console" that has games from Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox on a single device, via a single store.

It does miss out on many of the world's most popular games that aren't available on Steam or Linux, such as Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite (not to mention GTA 6 at launch), but there are workarounds for many of these if you're willing to tinker. And who knows, if SteamOS begins to see broader adoption, maybe these games will come across natively as well.

Given that this is more designed for a sofa-style experience, I expect Valve will use its Steam Deck Verification process to verify games for the Steam Machine in a similar way. Though there's absolutely no reason why you wouldn't be able to plug a keyboard and mouse in and use this as a full desktop mini PC.

The Steam Machine interestingly reflects Xbox's vision for its own next-gen console, which will be more PC-like, complete with the ability to exit out to the desktop, and install other launchers and games not available natively on Xbox itself.

Valve hasn't yet confirmed pricing, although the more modern and pricy RDNA3 and Zen 4 components are a strong indicator that it might be difficult for the Steam Machine to undercut its PS5 and Xbox Series X rivals in any significant way. We'll have to wait and see there. For now, the Steam Machine is targeting that aforementioned Spring 2026 launch. Until then, you could try building your own Steam Machine.

Steam Controller specifications

Interestingly, the Steam Machine will only include a controller optionally, since the console will work with any Xbox or PlayStation controller you have lying around already. Any controller that's compatible with the Steam Deck (and that's a lot) will also be compatible with the Steam Machine.

However, if you do want or need a controller, here's what Valve is offering as a follow-up to its original, less successful Steam Controller from 2015.

The Steam Controller works with any device running Steam, which includes Windows PCs, macOS, and devices like the Steam Deck. It should also be compatible with the next-gen Xbox as well, given that the next Xbox is going to run full Windows.

It connects up with a USB "puck" which can connect four controllers simultaneously, and it also supports Bluetooth and USB wired play on top. The puck is pre-paired and has a proprietary wireless signal, which should be comparable in quality to PS5 and Xbox controllers for speed and reliability.

Where it has the Xbox and PS5 standard controllers beat is battery life, with 35+ hours on a single charge, making it more like the Xbox Elite controller. It also boasts magnetic TMR thumbsticks, which should eliminate drift in ways the Xbox and PS5 controllers currently don't.

Where things get even more interesting are the large dual trackpads, similar to that old-school Steam Controller and the Steam Deck. These support haptics and help control games that don't have native joystick support. It also supports gyro gameplay, with six-axis motion sensing.

It has ABXY Xbox-style buttons and symmetrical PlayStation-style thumbsticks, while sporting four programmable back buttons and standard triggers and bumpers. It also sports capacitive grip sense, detecting when it has been picked up.

There's no mention of price yet, but I imagine it'll sit somewhere between a standard Xbox controller and a more pricey Xbox Elite controller in price, given its impressive specs.

What do you think?

Seeing a new console launch in an era where both PlayStation and Xbox are pointing at short-form video platforms like TikTok for decreasing growth might seem like a bold move, but the Steam Machine is no typical console.

Despite some limitations of Proton and Linux, Steam remains one of the world's most popular and favored video game ecosystems. Steam sales are legendary, Valve's approach to customer satisfaction is industry-leading, and developers flock to the platform owing to its relaxed certification processes.

Steam's discovery engine is second to none. Every time I log into Steam, I discover new games I've never heard of, as the system understands my habits and has more options to cater to those habits than other platforms. Some of the world's most popular games, like Fortnite and Roblox, might not be available natively, but Steam has become home to massive viral mega-hits in recent years, such as Megabonk and Peak more recently. I wish Xbox were capable of delivering similarly, but Microsoft has been pursuing a more Steam-like feature set for its own Xbox PC platform recently, which it says is growing rapidly, too.

Rumors have been ramping up that Valve might seek to pair its Steam Machine launch with the borderline mythical Half-Life 3, too. The team at Valve makes legendary games in its own right, including DOTA2, Counter-Strike 2, Left 4 Dead, Portal, Team Fortress, and more. Valve used Half-Life Alyx to boost interest in its own VR efforts previously, so could it pull off a similar feat for the Steam Machine?

The Steam Machine will also be the first "console" in the world that comes with games from Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox as standard, as the walls around "exclusivity" become increasingly blurred. PlayStation recently said its unprecedented launch of Helldivers 2 was a huge success on Xbox, and Microsoft has been putting its games everywhere and anywhere at a breakneck pace.

What the future of the game industry looks like is anyone's guess, but Valve is becoming an increasingly interesting part of the hardware discussion, which is great to see.

FAQ

One of the lesser-known secrets to budget gaming actually revolves around using a mini PC rather than a laptop, desktop, console, or gaming handheld.

Despite having a relatively modest graphics card, I can and have easily played AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Baldur's Gate 3, Elden Ring, and much more while getting super high frame rates on a cheap mini PC, even though it has a simple GPU. And it's all thanks to cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW.

Here's how to get an affordable gaming setup on a mini PC, just like the one I have. I've also provided recommendations for my top mini PC to use when gaming.

What you'll need

At the very least, you'll need a mini PC, a monitor, a keyboard, a mouse, and a cloud gaming service such as NVIDIA GeForce NOW and/or Xbox Game Pass, which offers Xbox Cloud Gaming on select titles.

Here are my top recommendations:

Here are some other helpful buying guides if you'd like additional help.

• Best gaming monitors
• Best gaming mouse
• Best gaming keyboard
• Best mini PCs for gaming

How to set up GeForce NOW on your mini PC

Using GeForce NOW with your mini PC is a cinch. After you've subscribed to the service (or use the free tier), here are the steps you take to access your games.

1. Connect the mini PC to your monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and then plug the power cable in.
2. Next, you'll need to power the mini PC on and go through the Windows setup process. This might take a few minutes.
3. Once you're at the Windows desktop, open a browser and go to the NVIDIA GeForce NOW download page.
4. Download GeForce Now and allow it to install.
5. After it installs, open the GeForce NOW app and either log in or create a new account.
6. Click on the hamburger menu in the top left and then go to the Connections tab.
7. Now, connect the various digital stores and game services that you use to NVIDIA GeForce NOW. You can connect to Ubisoft, Battle.net, Epic Games, Steam, and Xbox.
8. Once that is complete, click the hamburger button and then Games.
9. Now you can select any of the games from your library to play.

Enjoy playing your games. Remember that GeForce NOW is not a subscription to a library, but rather a subscription allowing you to play your games on an NVIDIA server. Different tiers provide different perks.

Things to be aware of with cloud gaming and mini PCs

• You don't need to have the best hardware or accessories: The beauty of cloud gaming is that you don't need the very best monitor, computer, keyboard, or controller. You can get a gaming setup that fits your budget. Maybe having a nice monitor is important to you; if so, then you can spend more on the monitor and save money on less expensive (but reliable) accessories.
• You need a stable (wired) high-speed internet connection: As the name suggests, cloud gaming relies on an internet connection to work properly. If you don't have fast internet speeds or access to a stable, wired connection, then cloud gaming might not be a good fit. You'll ideally have a download speed of 25 Mbps or higher and an upload speed of 5-10 Mbps or higher.
• Cloud gaming streaming services often require subscriptions: While you can certainly save money with cloud gaming (and some cloud gaming services are free), you might need to get a yearly or monthly paid membership in order to get the cloud gaming experience you really want.
• GeForce NOW doesn't give you access to a game library: Unlike Xbox Game Pass, GeForce NOW isn't a game library subscription. Instead, it's a membership that allows you to play games you already own over the cloud from one of NVIDIA's powerful servers. In other words, you will need to purchase the supported games you want to play separately from this subscription.
• GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming work on handhelds: I've said this before, but gaming handhelds like the Xbox Ally X, Steam Deck, and Legion Go 2 are basically mini PCs with screens, batteries, and controllers. This means you can access cloud gaming services on them for smoother gaming. You can check out my guide on how to put GeForce NOW on Steam Deck.
• Be careful when buying a mini PC: I've said plenty on this subject already, but you need to be careful when buying a cheap mini PC since some can come with malware on them. For more info, check out this list of mini PC brands I've tested and trust.
• Dedicated gaming mini PCs exist, but are expensive: In case you didn't know, there are a handful of gaming mini PCs out there with relatively powerful mobile NVIDIA RTX and mobile AMD Radeon GPUs (such as the ASUS ROG NUC (2025) and the HP Z2 Mini G1a). However, these devices tend to be much more expensive than a typical mini PC.

Cheap PC gaming that still provides high FPS

The awesome thing about cloud gaming on a mini PC is that you can still stream your library of supported games on it without having to buy an expensive gaming laptop or gaming desktop to run games locally.

This freedom allows you to choose what parts of your gaming setup you want to spend more money on. If you really want the best gaming keyboard, you can choose to buy that and then keep everything else simple. Either way, it saves you money.

Cloud gaming FAQ

I'm a big fan of mini PCs and frequently recommend my most trusted mini PC brands to family and friends. These devices tend to cost much less than a desktop or laptop and don't take up a ton of room while still being able to tackle a range of tasks.

The thing is, there are several mistakes people tend to make when purchasing a mini PC. Some of these oversights are harmless, while others can put you at risk.

To keep you safe and allow you to get the exact device you're looking for, I've put together this list of the seven common mistakes to avoid that people make when buying a mini PC.

1. Buying the cheapest option without researching first

I'm going to hammer this home several times during this page; there are some underhanded people out there trying to sell mini PCs with malicious software on them, specifically malware that can send your sensitive data, like banking and other personal info, to someone else.

RELATED: I discovered malicious software on a couple AceMagic mini PCs a few years ago

One of the most common ways these shifty sellers convince people to buy one of these dangerous devices is by selling it for a song.

Outside of safety concerns, the cheapest mini PC might not fit the use case you have in mind for it. As such, you shouldn't just buy the cheapest mini PC you can find.

If you do want an inexpensive mini PC with modest performance, I recommend looking at the Beelink EQR6, which has a starting price of $389.00 at Amazon.

2. Falling for deals that are too good to be true

This goes hand in hand with the previous tip, but it's different enough that it warrants addressing separately.

If you discover that a mini PC is being offered at a ridiculously low price, then it's likely a scam. And if it isn't a scam, then there might be something wrong with the device, or it might not work well.

Now, there are certainly times when a mini PC can go on sale, like during a Black Friday deals event or Amazon Prime Day. However, you'll want to check prices against other similar devices to ensure it isn't too far down from where it ought to be.

Really, to save yourself any kind of hassle, avoid buying a mini PC that's selling at a much lower price than is typical.

3. Purchasing a mini PC based on customer reviews

There are two reasons why buying a mini PC based on customer reviews is a bad idea: Safety and usability.

Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Newegg, and others allow third-party sellers to sell things on their sites. The problem is that it is possible for a malicious third-party to sell an item that has been tampered with or intentionally designed to cause harm. So even if a customer likes their mini PC, they might unknowingly have a device that's stealing their information and isn't safe to use.

On top of that, what one person uses their mini PC for might not fit the same use case you're intending to use it for. What you want to do is understand what you want the computer to do and then buy a mini PC whose specs, ports, and size are conducive to that vision.

4. Forgetting that you need additional accessories

Mini PCs are just like desktops in that you need to connect them to a keyboard, a mouse, and a monitor in order to interact with them.

I recommend checking out our lists of the best computer mice, best keyboards, and best monitors to help you out with this.

Note that some mini PCs come with HDMI cables or USB-C display cables. However, others do not. So you will want to double-check this and buy a compatible cable, if necessary.

5. Failing to consider upgradeability, thermal design, and cooling

Despite their small size, there are several mini PCs on the market that allow for limited upgradeability — Typically, only the RAM and SSD are intended to be swapped out. Make sure you know what kind of options are available to you and what their max capacities are.

Now, since mini PCs have such small form factors, many of them are fanless. If they aren't optimized and designed well, they can throttle, overheat, and get damaged. Some can even emit a loud noise as air rushes out of the vents.

It's hard to know if this is the case unless you have one in your presence. To check these things before buying, it's best to check a review from a trusted site and see what the reviewer has to say.

6. Assuming all mini PC offer similar performance

Although small, mini PCs can offer vastly different performance from each other. This is due to a variety of factors, including what kinds of processors and other components are used in the devices. While most mini PCs offer modest performance, there are some, like the HP Z2 Mini (G1a) ($1.999.00 at HP) and the ASUS ROG NUC (2025) ($1,899.00 at ASUS), that are specifically designed for gaming and have relatively powerful GPUs.

Additionally, how well a mini PC keeps cool also determines how well it works.

Before buying a mini PC, determine what kind of tasks you want it to perform, and then make sure to buy a device that offers the following:

• A processor and graphics card that are powerful enough to keep up with the tasks you want to do on the mini PC. There are countless offerings from Intel, AMD, and NVIDIA, so make sure you understand what kinds of things they can handle.
• Large enough memory (RAM) capacity to facilitate smooth multitasking, background processing, and efficiency. 16GB to 32GB is usually plenty.
• Enough storage (SSD) to hold all of the data and files you want the computer to have. I recommend 512GB to 1TB, depending on how many files you tend to create.

7. Neglecting to make sure it has the OS you want

This might seem like an obvious one to many people, but it's still a problem for some.

While most mini PCs on the market run Windows, there are also mini PCs that run macOS or Linux. Never assume that the mini PC you're looking at is the operating system you're looking for; this will only lead to frustration.

BONUS: Assuming a clean install of Windows gets rid of all malware and problems

While it's true that wiping a computer and reinstalling Windows on it can get rid of the vast majority of viruses and malware, it's still possible for a device to be harmful or for it to not work properly after doing a clean install.

After all, if a company cut corners or allowed shady software on a device, they might have made other alterations to the mini PC, such as putting firmware malware on secondary drives.

It's also possible that an untrustworthy seller or manufacturer fudged some things to make the mini PC work, and doing a clean install could break these adjustments.

As an example, when I did a clean install of Windows on a mini PC that had malware on it, the Wi-Fi card stopped working, possibly because the manufacturer used a generic Wi-Fi card and tricked the system into thinking it was a more common one.

My advice is to avoid shady devices to begin with, rather than putting yourself at risk.

Be safe and get a mini PC that fits your needs

If you plan out what you want from a device and then thoughtfully purchase a mini PC with the right specs, you can end up with a reliable little device.

Just remember that there are scammers out there who would love to get you to interact with malicious software. Only purchase trusted mini PCs and only from trusted sellers to keep yourself safe. Additionally, never fall for a deal that seems too good to be true.

Avoiding common purchasing mistakes can help you get a safe mini PC that perfectly suits your needs.

FAQ

Mini PCs are exactly what they sound like: smaller versions of the traditional Windows desktop towers that you might be used to. Some shrink down to pint-sized cubes, while others retain a more familiar, albeit suped-up, shape with gamer aesthetics. Then, there's the unusual (but technically accurate) subcategory of PC gaming handhelds; miniature PCs with a twist, and all the more capable.

Even if you have heard of them, mini PCs are often mistaken for being entirely low-power devices with no real chance of handling any PC gaming. That isn't the case, and even in those examples, you can fall back on modern, low-latency cloud gaming if your home Internet connection is up to the task. We've tested our fair share, and these are the best mini PCs to consider if you're interested in gaming.

Quick list

Get the mini PC that fits your gaming needs best

Some of the best gaming laptops and desktops are expensive, but you can significantly reduce device costs by going with a reliable mini PC. As with any computer, you'll just want to make sure the device you purchase meets your specific use cases.

If you want to save a lot of money, you can get a relatively simple Windows mini PC, like the Beelink EQR6. It can run graphically simple games like some 2D platformers and some pixel art games. You can also play more graphically demanding AAA games on it via cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Meanwhile, if you're more interested in a compact computer with a powerful GPU that can play AAA games locally, devices like the HP Z2 Mini (G1a) and the ASUS ROG NUC (2025) make for some of the best mini PCs that suit your needs. Note that dedicated gaming mini PCs tend to be expensive, but part of what you're paying for is the compact form factor in addition to the solid gaming performance.

Of course, if you want a device that you can play on the go, the Xbox Ally X is the device to consider. It's basically a Windows 11 mini PC that has a 7-inch display, built-in controllers, and a battery. If you don't mind having a less powerful option that may or may not play every AAA game, the Steam Deck OLED is another handheld to consider.

I'm going to preface this by saying that a handheld gaming PC is basically a mini PC with a built-in screen, battery, and controllers, but mini PCs and handhelds both have tradeoffs that might serve your gaming needs better.

There are several different handheld gaming PCs and hundreds of mini PCs to choose from. For the sake of brevity, this page will mostly focus on comparing the Xbox Ally X (since it's our best handheld gaming recommendation) against the Geekom IT13 mini PC, which is our best mini PC recommendation, but there are plenty of other options to choose from.

I've also included a section on this page that lists our top mini PC recommendations and top handheld recommendations while explaining what each device is especially good for.

Until then, let's discuss the pros, cons, and tradeoffs while comparing a mini PC against handheld gaming PCs.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Specs

Before we go any further, take a gander at the specs for the Xbox Ally X and the Geekom IT13.

Of course, there are plenty of other handheld gaming PCs and mini PCs to choose from. I'll go over some general differences between these two types of devices.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Price & use case

TL;DR: Mini PCs tend to offer more powerful CPUs and can cost less than handhelds, but they also require additional accessories like a monitor or keyboard. Handheld gaming PCs provide everything you need for portable gaming, but the best ones are rather costly.

Both mini PCs and handheld gaming PCs can be expensive, depending on the configurations you purchase.

In general, mini PCs tend to cost less (anywhere from $300 to $1,000+), while the latest and greatest Windows 11 handhelds can cost between $800 and $1,200.) That said, some handhelds are great value buys since you don't have to also buy a monitor or controller to interact with them.

For example, the Geekom IT13 mini PC's processor is technically more powerful than the Xbox Ally X; however, the Xbox Ally X is optimized for gaming, and it also provides a touchscreen, controllers, and a battery, which the mini PC doesn't have.

To be clear, mini PCs and Windows 11 handhelds are actual Windows PCs, just in smaller forms.

What it really comes down to is that the best gaming handhelds trade off power for portability. Some offer more premium features than others, so you might find one option that fits your needs better. They are also optimized for gaming by design, with systems that are more suited to GPU-heavy tasks. Still, they typically aren't as powerful as the best gaming laptops or best gaming desktops.

Meanwhile, mini PCs are intended for more general Windows computer use with a heavier CPU focus, but in a small package. They can be tucked away out of sight if you'd like a minimalist setup. Depending on their configuration, they can be used for everything from office work to gaming. Just note that the vast majority are not optimized for video games, and most don't have powerful GPUs.

Once again, a dedicated gaming laptop or gaming desktop is more powerful. But that doesn't mean you should rule a mini PC out.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Performance and storage

TL;DR: In general, mini PCs tend to be better at performing CPU tasks and often allow for RAM and SSD upgrades. Handhelds tend to be better at GPU tasks and sometimes are only designed for SSD upgrades.

As my colleague has previously pointed out, several mini PCs are only about the size of a bagel, and handhelds are relatively small devices as well. This means that there isn't a lot of room for upgrading certain parts, or at least, not as much room to do so as you can with a full-blown desktop

Still, it's pretty standard to see handhelds and mini PCs that offer 16GB to 32GB of RAM along with 512GB to 2TB SSDs. Depending on the company, some of these devices are designed around upgradability, so you can easily swap out storage and memory as needed, but you need to check on a device-by-device basis.

WD_BLACK has designed SSDs exclusively for Xbox Ally X, but there are several other options you can choose from. You'll just need to make sure you get the size that's compatible with your device.

For instance, it's very easy to upgrade the SSD on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. However, it's harder to get to the SSD on a Legion Go 2, and it requires more work to upgrade.

Of course, you can also insert one of the best microSD cards in most handhelds, and several mini PCs have SD card slots as well.

Now let's talk performance.

I alluded to this previously, but for the most part, handhelds tend to be better built for GPU tasks while mini PCs tend to be better suited to CPU tasks.

That's because most handheld gaming PCs out right now feature AMD Ryzen Z2 Series handheld APUs (accelerated processing units) designed around gaming, whereas mini PCs can have a much wider range of Intel and AMD processors at hand, but tend to have lower integrated GPUs.

There are exceptions to this, however, such as the pricey ASUS ROG NUC Gaming Mini PC, which has a laptop version of the RTX 5080 GPU and sells for $3,137.99 at Amazon. So if you really want a small computer that offers impressive graphics, this is the device to consider.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Software & Services

TL;DR: Windows handheld gaming PCs and Windows mini PCs can run the same programs and services. However, how well a game runs depends on the device's internals.

While there are exceptions, the vast majority of PC handhelds and mini PCs are Windows 11 devices that function just like a full-blown Windows desktop or laptop.

This means that both mini PCs and handhelds can be used to surf the web, stream shows, make video calls, download programs, run various games, and more. As always, every game has minimum system requirements, so your device needs to meet those in order to run a game well.

That said, the most popular handheld gaming PC to date is the Steam Deck, which runs the Linux-based SteamOS. In case you don't know, SteamOS operates very differently from Windows 11 and offers more of a console-like interface for convenient gaming.

There are also Android gaming handhelds and macOS mini PCs out there. As with any device, each of these machines can only run compatible software. If your main focus is PC gaming, then it's best to stick with Windows 11 or SteamOS devices.

You should be aware that there are a few services that can turn just about any device into a gaming machine, regardless of how good a GPU it has.

For starters, NVIDIA GeForce NOW is a subscription that allows you to stream supported games that you own from a powerful distant server onto your device via the cloud. In other words, a beefy computer far away runs your games, allowing you to get smooth gameplay on your simple computer.

NVIDIA GeForce NOW works on Windows 11, Android, and even macOS devices. I even have a handy guide explaining how to set up GeForce NOW on Steam Deck, if you're interested.

Another option is Xbox Cloud Gaming, which lets you stream a large library with everything from indie titles to AAA games.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Best options to buy

TL;DR: We've tested and reviewed every mini PC and handheld gaming PC listed below. Our top pick for handhelds is the Xbox Ally X, while our top mini PC pick is the Geekom IT13. But each device has its own perks and tradeoffs.

Best handheld gaming PCs

• Xbox Ally X: $999.99 at Best Buy — The most powerful current-gen, Windows 11, AMD Z2 Series handheld gaming PC on the market today. It offers plenty of settings customizations, too.
• Steam Deck: Starting at $399.00 at Steam — The most affordable handheld available right now. It runs SteamOS and has a simplified interface.
• Lenovo Legion Go 2: Starting at $1,099.99 at Best Buy — A current-gen Windows 11 handheld with detachable controllers, a large OLED display, and a built-in kickstand.
• Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS): Starting at $649.99 at Best Buy — This handheld runs SteamOS, but has more powerful internal components than the Steam Deck.
• ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme): $649.99 at Best Buy — While not the latest and greatest, this last-gen Windows 11 handheld can still run many PC games while costing less.

Best mini PCs

• Geekom IT13: $699.00 at Amazon — A fantastic computer with plenty of ports and solid CPU performance.
• ASUS ROG NUC: $3,137.99 at Amazon — This is an actual gaming mini PC with various configuration options. You can have up to an RTX 5080 L in here.
• Beelink EQR6: $439.00 at Amazon — It won't cost you nearly as much as some other mini PC, but it has better integrated graphics than most, too.
• Geekom GT1 MEGA: $799.00 at Best Buy — An AI mini PC with powerful internals to the point that you'll often forget that it is a mini PC.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Which should I buy?

So which type of device should you get?

Honestly, there are cases where a handheld will suit your specific use case better and cases where a mini PC will suit you better.

Choose a handheld gaming PC if: You love the idea of being able to move around your home while gaming, or want to be able to take your gaming device on trips.

Choose a mini PC if: You want a relatively inexpensive PC that doesn't take up a lot of room and is perfect for connecting your various accessories to.

Mini PC are wonderfully compact computers that can pack a lot in a small package. They're also very tempting compared to buying a desktop or laptop since many of them cost significantly less.

That all said, not only can it be daunting to choose from the myriad options to choose from, but there are also some really shady mini PC companies out there that can sell you a device that has malicious software on it. That's why I only recommend people purchase a mini PC from one of the companies that we have tested and trust.

I've put together some tips for buying a mini PC, as well as a list of our most trusted mini PC brands and why we recommend them.

It is certainly possible to factory reset some shady mini PCs, do a clean Windows 11 install, and make them safe to use. However, if you aren't comfortable with that process, it's better to just get a trusted mini PC to begin with. Additionally, you can't always guarantee that all malicious factors have been removed when doing a clean install.

Our most trusted mini PC brands

These are our most trusted brands listed in alphabetical order. Some brands offer a wide range of PCs while others only offer a few models.

• ASUS ROG — Some of the mini PCs in the NUC line (previously Intel's) are honest-to-goodness gaming mini PCs. So, if you want a powerful mini PC for playing video games locally, this is the brand to consider (see at ASUS ROG).
• Beelink — Excellent budget brand with a wide range of models and configurations to choose from (see at Amazon).
• Dell — One of the world's most well-known computer companies. It offers a Dell Pro Micro line (previously OptiPlex) of mini PCs with plenty of configurations to choose from (see at Best Buy).
• Geekom — My personal favorite mini PC company. It offers a robust range of options with several configurations to choose from. This brand also tends to cost less than top brands while still offering a healthy range of ports and great performance (see at Amazon).
• HP — Another of the world's top computer companies. HP notably offers the Z2 Mini (G1a) mini PC, a powerful AI computer with impressive graphics capabilities (see at HP).
• Lenovo — The world's top desktop and laptop manufacturer. Its ThinkCentre and IdeaCentre mini PCs tend to offer solid performance (see at Lenovo).

You can head over to our list of the best mini PCs we've tested to see which devices we recommend most.

Tips for buying a reliable and safe mini PC

• Don't trust reviewer ratings on Amazon: Reviews can be very helpful for understanding a product's capabilities. However, there are plenty of people out there who have bought an inexpensive mini PC and enjoy using it without realizing that it has shady software on it that could steal your information. For this reason, you cannot trust reviewer ratings. Remember, reviews can be faked or written by someone who doesn't know whether a device is safe.
• Only purchase from trusted brands, avoid generic ones: While there are several trustworthy mini PC manufacturers out there, there are also hundreds of cheap companies that have cut corners to create an inferior product or have allowed malicious software to be placed on their devices.
• Only purchase from the seller who manufactured the mini PC: If you're shopping at a retailer that allows third-party sellers, like Walmart or Amazon, you need to be careful. Mini PCs from third parties can be tampered with before being shipped out to you. This being the case, make sure you only purchase from trusted companies and ensure that the device you are buying is actually sold by the seller (company) that manufactured it. Do not buy a device from a company that didn't make it.
• Make sure you know what you're getting in the box: Some mini PCs will come with all of the cables and accessories you need to connect the computer to a monitor. However, some might not come with everything you need, so you might need to make additional purchases.

• You need at least a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and cables: Just as with desktops, mini PCs need to be connected to necessary accessories before you can use them. Make sure you have everything you need, including a mouse, keyboard, monitor, and either a USB-C or HDMI display cable to connect the monitor to the mini PC.
• Understand port selection and upgradability before buying: Most mini PCs do not offer a lot of customization options. Some will make it very easy to upgrade RAM or SSDs, but others won't. Additionally, some mini PCs will have a wider range of ports than others. Make sure you choose one that allows you to connect the accessories you'll want to use and allows you to do the upgrades you want.
• Avoid a deal if it seems too good to be true: While it is possible to find a really good sale like a Black Friday mini PC deal, there are also plenty of scammers out there hoping you buy their disingenuous product. Avoid a deal if it seems too good.
• Make sure you get the operating system you want: The vast majority of mini PCs are Windows devices; however, it is also possible to get a macOS device or, in some rare instances, a Linux device. At any rate, make sure you get an OS that fits what you're looking for.
• Beware of preloaded bloatware, spyware, or other malicious software: There are plenty of dishonest mini PC companies that allow malicious software to be installed on their devices, even on generic devices that look especially professional. If you do buy from a generic company or third-party seller, be on the lookout for forced software usage or anything out of the norm.

Mini PC FAQ

RELATED: I discovered malicious software on a couple AceMagic mini PCs a few years ago

For help with that, check out our guide on how to do a clean installation of Windows 11.

The majority of shady mini PCs will only have malicious agents on a software level. This means that in many cases, doing a Windows clean install can remove anything dangerous.

However, it is also possible for a company to create something malicious on a hardware level that can't be removed with a clean install, so you shouldn't assume that doing a clean install will automatically make the device safe.

WARNING: It's possible that parts of your mini PC will stop working after a clean install of Windows is done. For instance, when I did a clean install to get rid of malicious software on a mini PC, the Wi-Fi card stopped working.

Stick with a safe and trusted mini PC

Hopefully, you found this page helpful. Mini PCs have made my life so much more convenient since they don't take up a lot of room, can cost a lot less than a desktop or laptop. Plus, they can still offer plenty of ports, solid performance, and other conveniences.

You just need to be careful not to fall for the many scams and malicious devices on the market today. If you stick with trusted brands while avoiding generic ones, and don't fall for deals that are too good to be true, you should be able to get an awesome little computer that you can trust.

The mini PC is a fast-growing category and everyone wants in. The latest to cross my desk is from Sapphire, a company you probably know best for its line of AMD Radeon graphics cards.

As popular as the category is becoming, it's still hard to actually innovate. After all, by design, a mini PC is a small box. But this small box stands apart from its peers with a simple, but I think, brilliant feature.

It has a magnetic lid. MAGNETS!

Why is this such a big deal? It's about the most user-friendly mini PC I've seen in recent times, that's why. The magnetic lid simply pops off, revealing beneath it the RAM and pair of SSD slots.

Upgrading mini PCs is usually possible, but more often than not involves prying feet away from the base, taking out any number of tiny screws, disconnecting wireless cables, and such. It's doable, but it can be fiddly. I spent a cool 10 minutes getting properly into the Geekom A9 Max, for example.

With the Sapphire Edge AI, it takes a literal two seconds to pop the top off and you're in. This is especially important since it's planned to be sold as a barebones kit, so you'll be supplying your own RAM and SSD.

Spec wise, well, there's naturally some variation to make it your own since you'll be spec'ing up your own RAM and storage. But you have two LPDDR5 slots to fill with up to 96GB of RAM.

There are also two vacant SSD slots, one for the regular sized NVMe SSD, and one for the smaller 2230 form commonly used in handheld gaming PCs.

But what about what Sapphire provides? There are three versions, all using AMD's Ryzen AI 300 series, with a Ryzen AI 5 340, Ryzen AI 7 350, and Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 to choose from. I have the middle tier in house for review, which will be coming soon.

As such, all tiers of the Sapphire Edge AI are Copilot+ PCs, with a 50 TOPS NPU. All tiers utilize Radeon 800M series graphics, though for gamers, the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is definitely the way to go.

You get plenty of connectivity, too, with the only obvious omission, an SD card slot. Otherwise, you're getting HDMI 2.1, USB-C 4.0, Wi-Fi 6, and 2.5G Ethernet.

First impressions are good, but I'll be following up soon with a full review. The only downside might be finding one to buy. But Sapphire says it will be selling through authorized resellers, such as Overclockers in the UK, and that should begin in the coming weeks.

In the UK, prices start at £439, with the Ryzen AI 7 model at £539, and the AI 9 HX370 coming in at £649.

It's fun to see even simple features really make a difference to the user experience, though. Mini PCs are becoming easier and easier to recommend, even for more intensive tasks such as AI and gaming. It's a category I'm going to be keeping a close eye on through 2026.

FAQ

It's no secret that mini PCs have exploded in popularity in recent years. They can be used for a wide range of purposes, they take up hardly any space on a desk, and they're generally priced competitively, allowing you to get your hands on powerful computing for less.

At least, that's the idea with most mini PCs. ZOTAC's new MAGNUS EN275060TC doesn't yet have a set price, but it will almost certainly cost more than many of what we consider to be the best mini PCs on the market today.

That's all because of its desktop-class RTX 5060 Ti graphics card. It isn't the first mini PC to feature a discrete GPU, but it is one of the few options that offer the full desktop version.

That might not be a notable achievement on its own; it's the new mini PC's size that really drew my attention. The case measures just 8.27 x 7.99 x 2.45 inches with an overall 2.65-liter capacity, with all components stuffed inside.

Considering ZOTAC's Twin Edge RTX 5060 Ti standalone desktop GPU measures 8.7 x 4.7 x 1.6 inches, the company evidently took the NVIDIA GB206 processor and designed a completely new cooling system to fit inside the cramped internals.

NVIDIA's RTX 5060 Ti is one of the company's latest graphics cards, which means it comes with all of the latest Blackwell improvements to ray tracing, AI workloads, and upscaling.

DLSS 4 and its Multi Frame Generation tech — exclusive to RTX 5000 GPUs — won me over earlier this year after I tested it extensively on an RTX 5070 Ti. The way it can boost framerates without loss of fidelity is just short of magic.

What other hardware comes in the ZOTAC MAGNUS EN275060TC?

ZOTAC's MAGNUS EN275060TC has a desktop-class GPU, but the rest of the hardware is much more tuned toward a mobile package.

It's centered around an Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX laptop processor with 20 total cores (split between 8 Performance and 12 Efficient), a Turbo frequency up to 5.2GHz, and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of 13 TOPS.

ZOTAC offers up to 96GB of DDR5-6400 SODIMM RAM, the same used in gaming laptops. It's replaceable after purchase, as are the dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs.

Port selection looks to be quite generous, with three DisplayPort outputs, one HDMI, dual Thunderbolt 4, five USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2), a UHS-II SD card reader, and dual 2.5GbE connections for wired internet.

Wireless internet is also at the cutting edge thanks to Wi-Fi 7 support, which comes bundled with modern Bluetooth 5.4. In typical mini PC fashion, the new MAGNUS has pre-drilled holes ready for mounting.

Why is a desktop GPU better than a laptop GPU?

Why is having a desktop-class GPU important? It's a common misconception that laptop and desktop graphics cards are the same thing. They do, after all, share the same name. Or at least, that's what it looks like at first glance.

NVIDIA doesn't offer a laptop version of the RTX 5060 Ti, so I can't draw a direct comparison. But I can show how the desktop and mobile versions of NVIDIA's GPUs differ using the RTX 5060.

The desktop version uses a GB206 processor, and it has 3,840 CUDA cores, 8GB of GDDR7 VRAM, a 128-bit memory bus, and a Total Graphics Power (TGP) rating of 150W.

The laptop version of the RTX 5060 uses the same GB206 processor (not always the case, especially with NVIDIA's more powerful laptop cards), but it drops the CUDA core count to 3,328 and the TGP to somewhere between 45W and 100W, depending on the laptop.

Clock speeds are also wildly different. The desktop version hits somewhere around a 2,500MHz boost clock, whereas the laptop version tops out at about 1,000MHz less.

Altogether, you can expect somewhere around 15-20% better performance from the desktop-class card, which is no small amount.

ZOTAC's new mini PC is "coming soon"

While ZOTAC has yet to attach a firm release date and price to its new MAGNUS mini PC for US buyers, I spotted it at LASystems.be with a listing price of €1,704.09. Translated directly to USD, that's about $1,978.

Considering that the price is for a barebones kit, lacking RAM and storage, ZOTAC might have a hard time reaching mass appeal when so many great gaming laptops and great gaming handhelds can offer a stellar gaming experience at a cheaper price.

(via Videocardz)

FAQ

I've owned every major handheld gaming PC that has been released in the last few years, and after playing each device for dozens, if not hundreds, of hours, I've gained an appreciation for peripherals that improve my gaming sessions.

Many of my most-used handheld accessories are already inexpensive, but Amazon Prime Day, has made some downright cheap and very affordable. Grab these for your Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Legion Go, or other handheld gaming PC.

There are even more discounts available during Amazon Big Deal Days.

Protect your handheld and make it more convenient to use without spending a ton

I chose the accessories on this list because they are useful to every single handheld currently out there, whether you've got the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Legion Go, Legion Go S, MSI Claw 8 AI+, or have preordered one of the upcoming Xbox Ally or Legion Go 2 handhelds.

It's hard to decide which of these accessories is most important for your handheld gaming PC, but then, that really depends on how you use the device and what setup you currently have.

If you tend to play a lot of games, then it's a good idea to pick up a microSD card if you haven't already. I personally hate having to uninstall and rearrange game files too frequently, so having a larger storage space to work with adds a lot of convenience.

Outside of that, my most-used accessory is either the USB-C 90 Degree Male to Female adapter or the extra 65W charger. I highly recommend the adapter since it puts less strain on your handheld port and the charging cable, potentially allowing them to last longer without getting damaged.

My next most-used accessory has to be the USB-A to USB-C adapter. I've plugged so many of my USB-A accessories into this inexpensive peripheral, including headsets, my colorimeter, keyboard and mouse dongles, and more. It's much cheaper than a docking station or a hub, and its small size makes it super easy to travel with, too.

If you're playing a game that requires you to type things in or requires some cursor controls, then you might want to get the Artciety Foldable Keyboard. I've used this several times to interact with certain games. I've even used it to type articles on my handhelds. It works very well.

Lastly, I love having a docking station so I can play my handheld on a large TV or computer monitor when the mood strikes me. The iVanky one I highlighted is great for most handhelds; however, if you have a larger device like the Legion Go, Legion Go 2, or ROG Ally X, grab the JSAUX one. It's designed specifically so that the USB-C cable can reach these larger handhelds' ports without straining.

Handheld Gaming PC FAQ

I know that some people aren't all that familiar with mini PCs, so I've taken a moment to answer some commonly asked questions about these small desktops.

October 2025's Amazon Prime Day event has come and gone. However, there are still plenty of discount deals active even though the festivities are over until the next Prime Day event.

One such discount is for one of my favorite Geekom mini PCs, the GEEKOM Mini PC IT12, which is on sale for $499.99 on Amazon (a 9% discount from its normal MSRP of $549.00) exclusively for Amazon Prime members.

BONUS: Use code WINDOWS12GK during checkout (choose payment method) for an extra 5% off (-$25), bringing the price down to $475 before taxes!

Make an affordable mini PC even less expensive

In addition to having reviewed several Geekom mini PCs over the years, I've also previously written about how they're affordable while also being reliable and trustworthy, unlike some other shady mini PC brands out there.

The Geekom IT12 in particular has a blue metal casing that puts me in mind of Doctor Who's Tardis, since, despite it being a compact device, its Intel i7-1280P processor still offers solid performance while being paired with capacity 32GB RAM and 1TB NVMe SSD.

What's more, this thing is loaded with ports. There are two USB-A ports on the front along with a headphone jack for easy reach. Then on the back, there are two HDMI ports, two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and an ethernet port.

It even offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so all of your various accessory connection needs are met.

Like many other mini PCs, Geekoms are small and easy to tuck out of sight. Geekom makes this even easier, though, by supplying mounting plates in the box. That way, you can connect it to the back of a compatible monitor for a sleek and tidy desk.

Geekom Mini PC FAQ

Geekom and mini PCs in general aren't something that many people are familiar with, so I've taken a moment to answer several commonly asked questions about them.

Right now, as part of Amazon Big Deal Days (a form of Amazon Prime Day), several of my favorite Geekom mini PCs are discounted to more affordable prices.

For instance, the Geekom IT13 that I absolutely recommend (after reviewing it), usually sells for $659.00, but right now it's only $560.00 at Amazon — that's $99 off.

Windows 10 end of life is almost here. If you need to get a Windows 11 device, this is a more affordable way to do so. You can also view more Geekom mini PC deals at Amazon.

Tiny desktops with solid performance and plenty of ports

If you've been to Windows Central before, then you might have previously seen me gushing about Geekom. I've tested dozens of mini PCs, but this company produces some of the best ones on the market with steady performance and several conveniences.

One of the things I most appreciate is that Geekom mini PCs always offer a healthy range of ports. Some will be located on the front of the device, for easy access, but most are located on the back.

The IT13 has a solid Intel i9-13900HK processor supported by an Intel Iris Xe Graphics to handle anything from video conferences and emails to streaming and even creative work in Adobe Photoshop.

What's more, having 32GB RAM and 1TB of storage allows this device to load and store data quickly, and with plenty of file space to keep up with your needs, too. I never had any issues multitasking with this mini PC, even when I had a few programs and a dozen Google Chrome tabs open at once.

Additionally, most Geekom mini PCs, though small, typically allow for some limited upgradeability with at least SSD upgrades as a possibility.

Now, the IT13 wasn't designed with intensive gaming in mind, at least not locally. However, if you utilize programs like Xbox Cloud Gaming or NVIDIA GeForce NOW, you can run more graphically demanding games on distant servers and have them stream to this mini PC. That's how I was able to play Cyberpunk 2077 on it.

Mini PC FAQ

I know that some people aren't all that familiar with mini PCs, so I've taken a moment to answer some commonly asked questions about these small desktops.

Beelink is back with a new version of its SER9 Pro mini PC, this time powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 CPU and Radeon 780M GPU. Still housed in a premium, compact form factor with plenty of ports, the new SER9 Pro is all about offering great CPU and GPU performance that tries not to throttle while still remaining cool and quiet when in use, and affordable.

I've been daily driving the Beelink SER9 Pro for the last month, and this is my full review.

Price and availability

The Beelink SER9 Pro with AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 is available directly from Beelink, and can also be found on Amazon. It usually retails for $639, but can be had for just $519 right now at the Beelink website.

There's just one configuration of the SER9 Pro with AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 to be had, featuring 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage out of the box. It is available in two colorways however, coming in either Silver or Space Grey. The RAM Is unfortunately soldered, but the storage can be upgraded yourself after purchase.

Beelink also sells a seperate dock accessory called the Mate Mini that adds an additional set of ports and two more M.2 SSD slots for $99. It's designed in a way that complements and integrates well with the SER9 Pro, making it feel like a natural extension of the mini PC.

Design and ports

Like most Beelink PCs, the SER9 Pro looks and feels great. It's made out of high-quality material, with a metal chassis that's cold to the touch. The device is available in two colors: silver or space grey, but we think the silver one looks best. Its overall size is similar, though slightly bigger, than a Mac mini M4 coming in at 135 x 135 x 44.7 mm.

Along the front, we have our power button, a 3.5mm audio jack, a USB-C port, and a USB-A port. Also on the front are four holes that run along the top front panel, which is where the omni-directional microphone is placed. We'll get into more about how that sounds in the next section.

Around the back, we have a whole bunch more ports including three more USB-A ports, another USB-C port, another 3.5mm audio jack, a 2.5Gb LAN port, a HDMI 2.1 port, and a DisplayPort 1.4. Also on the back is where the venting for the fan and heat is, so be sure to give the backside plenty of room for the best cooling.

Features and dock

The Beelink SER9 Pro comes with a number of features that help differentiate it from the crowd. Right out of the gate, Beelink touts the SER9 Pro as being great for talking with AI chatbots like ChatGPT, thanks to its built-in omni directional microphone that's designed to isolate your voice, even in a loud open space.

The microphone is capable of isolating your voice up to 5 meters away, which is really handy if you have the PC sat on your desk like most people would. The microphone is very clear for one that's built-in, and AI apps had no trouble picking up my voice, even when I had loud music playing in the background.

I will say that if you're someone who mounts their mini PCs behind or underneath your desk, you might find that the built-in microphone has a little harder time picking you up. This wasn't always the case, but I found if the mini PC was under my desk, some AI apps would struggle to fully hear what I was saying and misinterpret my commands.

The mini PC also has an integrated dual-speaker system on the inside, which is handy for when you need to listen to audio but don't have a dedicated audio setup or monitor with speakers available to you. The built-in speakers are just fine, they're nothing, but you wouldn't expect them to be. They have no real bass, but are clear enough for calls.

The other big selling point of Beelink mini PCs is their upgradability. Both RAM and storage can be very easily upgraded on the SER9 Pro, with the process just requiring a handful of screws to be undone before the bottom plate pops off, giving access to the internals.

The device has two M.2 2280 PCIe 4 SSD slots, with one of them occupied as spec'd out of the factory. That means you can have two separate SSDs inside the mini PC for whatever you like, whether that be to run in a RAID configuration or to use as a backup, or something else entirely.

With the new SER9 Pro, Beelink is now also selling a new dock accessory dubbed the Mate Mini, which adds a set of additional ports to the Beelink that integrates really nicely with the overall SER9 Pro design. The dock is super compact and flat, and is designed in such a way where you can place it on either the bottom or top of the SER9 Pro and have it look integrated.

The dock connects to the SER9 Pro using the USB-C port on the back, and comes with a special USB-C adapter that makes aligning the dock with the PC easy. Once connected, you've got an additional row of ports, including two more USB-A ports, another Ethernet jack, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB-C port. It also has a full-sized SD card reader on the side!

But it's what's on the inside that makes the Mate Mini special. It features two additional M.2 SSD slots, so you can have even more storage attached to your SER9 Pro. Each slot supports up to 4TB in size, so you could have 8TB of storage inside your Mate Dock, and 8TB of storage inside the SER9 Pro for a total of 16TB. Crazy stuff for a mini PC.

Performance

On the inside, the Beelink SER9 Pro is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 255H, which is essentially a rebadged Ryzen 7 8745H. That means it's built on the older Zen 4 architecture and so doesn't have all the performance improvements in the GPU and CPU department that were made with Zen 5. That also means it doesn't have an NPU that makes it Copilot+ capable, and so isn't a great choice for Windows AI features.

With that in mind, it's still a very capable machine. In our Geekbench 6 test it earned a single-core score of 2,495 and multi-core score of 12,129, putting it in the same ballpark as the Ryzen 7940HS and 8945HS. In Cinebench 2024, its single-core score was 100 and multi-core score was 836. It also earned a score of 1,806 in CrossMark.

When it comes to gaming, the AMD Radeon 780M is a capable integrated graphics processor. It's not the best by any means, but if you're looking for a mini-PC that can handle casual gaming it will serve you well. Cyberpunk 2077 averaged around 35fps in the benchmark test on high graphics settings at 1080p, which is perfectly playable.

Both Shadow of the Tomb Raider and DOOM: The Dark Ages averaged around 27fps on high graphics settings at 1080p too, which means if you were willing to drop your graphics settings to medium, you would very likely see upwards of 40fps in most modern titles. When it comes to older games, the 780M is a champ. I was able to run GTA V at a full 60fps on the highest settings, no problem.

Is the SER9 Pro a gaming mini-PC? Absolutely not. But it'll handle gaming in a pinch if you need it. I'd say the 780M is better served when editing photos and rendering videos, as it makes rendering creative projects much faster compared to most integrated GPUs. I would recommend running the device in the 65W performance mode if you are planning to game.

When under load, the SER9 Pro doesn't get all that loud. Its fan is audible, but it's not at an offensive level and is what you'd expect when running the CPU and GPU at full blast.

Conclusion

The Beelink SER9 Pro with an AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 is really interesting. The chip is new, but its performance is really only on par with flagship chips from a couple of years ago. It's not pushing the boat out by any means, but that's not Beelink's fault. The H 255 is just a rebadged Zen 4 CPU, designed as a lower cost APU.

With that in mind, it does make the SER9 Pro more affordable. Coming in at around $500 if you can find it on sale with discounts, it's an incredible deal with you consider the good GPU performance and the fact that it comes with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage. It's no slouch of a PC, capable of productivity workflows, creative tasks, and even some gaming.

I really like the size of the SER9 Pro, and I also love the new Mate Mini dock, which makes turning this device into a powerful at home server or storage machine super easy.

When it comes to running Large Language Models (LLMs) and other intense artificial intelligence workflows locally, colossal desktop PCs powered by hyper-expensive NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPUs tend to reign supreme.

Even the best discrete GPU quickly runs out of VRAM under these conditions, though, and that's where AMD's poorly named Ryzen AI MAX platform comes in. This all-in-one platform fulfils a very specific niche and does so in devices barely larger than just an NVIDIA GPU by itself, and it's this platform that HP selected for its flagship Z2 Mini (G1a) PC.

I've been using this compact mini PC and putting its insane hardware to the test, and reaffirmed that 1) HP knows how to make stellar enterprise-ready devices and 2) AMD Ryzen AI MAX should be the go-to for anyone who wants to meet their AI demands without sacrificing all their desk space.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by HP. HP had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

A beautiful design that nails the fundamentals

The HP Z2 Mini (G1a) is definitely a "mini" PC, although it's still beefier than the most compact options from companies like Geekom. That makes sense — there's a lot of power under this hood, and at 20cm x 16.8 x 8.55cm and around 2.3kg, it's still around the same size as an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 by itself.

Many enterprise products clearly prioritize function over form, but the Z2 Mini manages to offer top-notch practicality in addition to elegant design. It's all matte black, with an interesting front grille design that allows for maximum airflow through the unit.

It looks awesome, but it does attract a lot of fingerprint smudges, so be careful when handling it. The Z2 Mini (G1a) is designed to operate vertically, horizontally, or even mounted on a rack, to the wall, on the back of your monitor, or wherever else you want it. The HP logo on the front also rotates to match the orientation of the PC, which I always love to see.

You get lots of ports on the rear and a few on the side (or top, depending on your orientation), and the Z2 Mini also supports HP's "Flex I/O" with two expansion slots for enterprises to customize their units. Even without expanding, though, you still get five USB Type-A ports, three USB Type-C ports (two of which are full USB4/Thunderbolt 4 ports), two Mini DisplayPorts, Ethernet, a Kensington Nano Security Slot, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Mini DisplayPort is a bit odd and will likely require an adapter, but you can't deny the Z2 Mini is loaded with ports, and it's on the cutting edge of wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, too. There's even a single, 2W internal mono speaker, since that's apparently important to enterprise customers (yes, the audio quality is terrible, tinny, and muted, but it's not meant for entertainment).

Like the other best mini PCs, the Z2 Mini allows for toolless access to its internals, including the two M.2 expansion slots. A simple switch lets you slide off half the main body, providing much more comfortable access than most mini PCs can manage... but that switch doesn't feel secure at all; there's a lot of give in the removable panel even when the switch is fully engaged. It's the one place the Z2 Mini (G1a) doesn't feel as high quality.

Ridiculous performance — exactly what you paid for

Depending on your configuration, your HP Z2 Mini (G1a) could have anywhere from 6-16 CPU cores and 16-40 GPU cores, but it's all under the AMD Ryzen AI MAX umbrella, and it's all with an industry-leading Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that enables Copilot+ PC AI features.

The model I reviewed sits near the top with the 16-core Ryzen AI MAX+ PRO 395, 40-core Radeon 8060S, and 128GB of shared memory. Like other devices built on this platform, you can allocate up to 96GB of VRAM to the GPU. The Z2 Mini (G1a) supports many of HP's enterprise-focused apps and features, too, including the Performance Advisor app that lets you tweak every element of your PC (such as VRAM allocation) without needing to dive into the BIOS.

All that VRAM means the Z2 Mini can run massive LLMs entirely locally and entirely on the GPU, leading to drastically improved performance that can genuinely best the flagship NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPU. It helps that the Radeon 8060S is actually quite impressive for an integrated GPU, competing with laptop-grade RTX 4070s in overall performance.

This is my third experience with AMD Ryzen AI MAX, following my HP ZBook Ultra 14 (G1a) review and ASUS ROG Flow Z13 (2025) review, and I've been impressed each time. While true desktop-grade hardware will absolutely outperform this mini PC in most tasks, you won't find such a capable compact PC anywhere else.

As expected, the HP Z2 Mini (G1a) performs better on average than the two laptops I've reviewed using the same platform, thanks to a beefier thermal system. Speaking of, the Z2 Mini does an excellent job cooling itself under sustained loads, but the fans do get loud — certainly more than your average mini PC.

At the end of the day, this mini PC excels at creative and AI workflows, exactly as HP designed it to do. This is a heavy-duty enterprise workstation meant for the most demanding users, and it delivers on that front while being backed by HP's impressive enterprise suite, like the HP Wolf Security Pro platform. Yes, you can also play games on it (I enjoyed some Forza Horizon 5), but those considering this mini PC will be doing so with a job in mind.

HP Z2 Mini (G1a) review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want the most powerful mini PC you can get your hands on.
• You want a compact workstation for heavy-duty AI workloads.
• You highly value HP's added enterprise features and programs.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You won't take advantage of the shared system and GPU memory.
• You're looking for a capable but affordable mini PC for the home.

The HP Z2 Mini (G1a) is an absurdly good bit of kit — I'll just put that out there. AMD knocked it out of the park with its Ryzen AI MAX platform, and HP kept that momentum up with its practical design and bevy of useful features.

When it's on sale, the Z2 Mini (G1a) also isn't a terrible value considering all the capabilities packed into its compact chassis, but that's if it's on sale. Like all HP Z-series devices, this mini PC can be incredibly expensive, which makes it even more important that you're certain this is the PC you actually want.

Yes, it's far more powerful than your average mini PC, enough that it can play all the latest and greatest PC games in a form factor not much larger than your average desktop GPU, but it's designed with very specific and very demanding workloads in mind. It's a specialized tool targeting AI-focused enterprises, and you see that in every part of this mini PC — all the way to its mounting support.

In that niche, though, the HP Z2 Mini (G1a) simply can't be beat, and you can configure your own from $2,480 at HP.com... or peruse HP Z2 Mini (G1a) configurations at HP.com for potential discounts.

Over the summer, I took a trip to London, England, to visit MSI's UK offices and see what kind of tech it was cooking up — besides the usual gaming hardware that I'm used to. As much as I'm a fan of the MPG motherboards and Ventus graphics cards that have featured in my custom desktops over the years, I'm also a giant advocate for mini PCs, something I hadn't expected from MSI.

After going hands-on with the MSI Cubi NUC AI 1UMG, a relatively standard offering in the same vein as Intel NUC mini PCs you might have seen in the past, I was more intrigued by a variant that wasn't currently available at the MSI office for me to tinker with right away. I'd touched on some light details, but later got my hands on it: the Cubi NUC AI+ 2M, previously seen at CES 2025 — with Copilot+ PC certification.

Yes, most Copilot+ PCs have existed as laptops, but there has been an ultra-tiny category of Copilot+ mini PCs like the previously reviewed Beelink SER9 that launched before Microsoft ever released local AI tools like my favorite, Click to Do, and the controversial Windows Recall. These Cubi NUC variants are firmly in the enterprise space, advertised specifically towards businesses, but I still jumped at the chance to try one now that Microsoft's local AI tools are live, and here's what I found.

It's not that a regular consumer wouldn't be able to buy the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG; on the contrary, they're listed on standard retailers like Amazon.

The real caveat to the Cubi NUC series is its target audience: these mini PCs are designed for anything from a working office sprawling with monitors to touchscreen interfaces in fast food restaurants.

Now, obviously, the Copilot+ functions of the NUC AI+ 2MG are designed for traditional workloads, but there's still an obvious focus on the enterprise market.

PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) materials are used in its construction and security-first offerings, like a fingerprint reader, surround more professional considerations like dual RJ45 Ethernet ports, which are generally more useful in offices. Finally, a built-in microphone and speaker alongside a VESA monitor mount make the business-centric appeal quite obvious.

Physically, the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG is almost indistinguishable from the AI 1UMG, its slightly more slimline sibling that lacks Copilot+ PC certification. That also explains the missing Copilot button on the AI 1UMG, but it's here on this taller variant and mirrored by a power button that now comes with a built-in fingerprint reader. Still, some tradeoffs make this Intel Lunar Lake-based mini PC 'different' rather than simply 'better' than its Meteor Lake counterpart.

Port selection is the most obvious divider between the two Cubi NUC AI mini PCs, as this AI+ 2MG Copilot+ PC comes with two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports on the front panel, surrounded by a combo audio jack and a micro SD card reader, whereas the AI 1UMG offers a forward-facing USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port instead, ditching the 3.5mm audio and card reader.

It's not a total deal breaker, as either Cubi NUC model gives you two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports on the rear side, but I'd still prefer at least one option on the front panel now that most of my peripherals have adopted the modern connector. Besides, this is aimed at the business sector, not at me and my collection of gaming-centric accessories. A little cable management (or a Thunderbolt docking station) could make use of the entire I/O offering.

There's a similar example of trade-offs around the rear side of the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, as it ditches the secondary HDMI 2.1 port in favor of two USB-A 2.0 ports. You have to presume that this pairing is intended for basic peripherals like a mouse and keyboard, because anything else would be seriously stunted by the outdated 2.0 standard.

Both of the Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports support DP (DisplayPort) 2.1 output anyway, so there are other options for additional screens. Without a dedicated docking station, you could connect three separate monitors to the AI+ 2MG via one HDMI cable and two Thunderbolt-to-DP equivalents. It's a little more finicky than hooking up two standard HDMI-supported displays, but it's not a bad thing.

By far, the most surprising (and invisible) addition to the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, at least over its AI 1UMG sibling, is the built-in speaker and microphone. Admittedly, I had forgotten about both until I heard the Windows 11 boot sound. This speaker certainly isn't designed for listening to music, that's for sure. Almost entirely devoid of low-end bass frequencies, this is more of a dialog-only offering, better suited to narrating documents or listening to virtual meetings.

So, is it any good? The Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG features the same Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor as MSI's Claw 8 AI+ gaming handheld, which I already showered with praise for its stellar performance, but I still tempered my expectations. Out of the box, the MSI Center companion app is pre-installed, housing a power meter to monitor average and total wattage over a selected time period (nice). Sadly, Norton 360 antivirus is also installed alongside a 'Dropbox promotion' (boo).

Regarding performance, the CPU in the AI+ 2MG ranks just above Acer's Swift 14 AI laptop with the same Core Ultra 7 258V processor but below the previously reviewed MSI Claw 8 AI+ gaming handheld and even further down from my current favorite Copilot+ PC, the ASUS Zenbook S 14. It isn't terrible for a mini PC running at 17W TDP, but I don't think it'll have the same appeal as some mass-produced office desktops do to retro gaming enthusiasts for their surprisingly capable components.

The memory-on-package (RAM) isn't upgradeable like the SO-DIMM RAM in the Cubi NUC AI 1UMG, but you could replace the standard M.2-2280 SSD yourself here, if you ever needed to. Again, you'll have access to Microsoft's latest Copilot features, but I doubt you'll ever be reaching for that physical Copilot button. At least teardowns are as easy as ever, totally on brand for a NUC.

It's a capable little mini PC, and a refreshing Copilot+ alternative to a laptop, but I still think AMD chips in dominant competitors like the Geekom A8 Max on my desk will stay as my top recommendation for everyday consumers. I'm a big fan of what Intel achieved with Lunar Lake chips, but there's little for your average Windows user to benefit from here — the Cubi NUC range is better for enterprise customers, which is exactly what MSI itself already says.

Mini PCs have come a long way in the last few years. That's partly down to some serious advances in tech from Intel and AMD. The latest generations of mobile chips from both brands are now serious alternatives to using what we put inside desktop rigs. All while using a fraction of the power.

Compromises are minimal, and that's exactly the case with the new Geekom A9 Max, a mini PC that's truly captured a place on my desk in the last couple of weeks of use.

With an incredible AMD APU (processor) inside, stacks of storage, plenty of RAM, and better connectivity options than my gaming PC, this tiny little box punches far above its diminutive form.

Right now the Geekom A9 Max is available at a discounted price, too. On Amazon in the U.S. it's just $999, while in the UK you can pick one up for £999 if you have an Amazon Prime subscription.

As an additional bonus for Windows Central readers, if you buy the A9 Max from the Geekom store and enter the code WINDSA9MAX you can take an additional 6% off the price.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Geekom. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

The Geekom A9 Max is a tiny box full of tricks

Right from the unboxing experience, there's a whiff of the Mac Mini about the Geekom A9 Max. The simple white packaging with silver accents reveals inside a similarly sleek silver box. Give or take a few millimeters and grams here and there, it's about the size of the latest Mac Mini, too.

That means even the smallest, most cramped setups can find a home for the A9 Max. Made even more convenient with the included VESA mount, so you can hide it from view and attach it to the back of your monitor. I'm not going to do that, though. I like looking at this little thing.

It's constantly amazing to me that something so small can offer so much. And I'm someone who used a Mac Mini for the first time about 14 years ago. I'm back with the same feeling of wonderment with the Geekom A9 Max.

Where it pulls ahead of, well, Apple, especially, is that it's not all form over function. The front of the A9 Max is packed with FOUR USB 3.2 ports, including one that's always powered. Then you go round the back, and business really picks up. Dual HDMI 2.1, dual 2.5G Ethernet, dual USB-C 4.0, another USB 3.2, and a basic USB 2.0 port. Oh, and a full-sized SD card slot on the side.

I'm not joking when I say the connectivity here is better than on my gaming PC. And it's smaller than my power supply.

How do they cram so much hardware inside?

The Geekom A9 Max is the first time I've used one of AMD's more recent Ryzen AI APUs. There's no going back. This isn't a Strix Halo mini PC — and it doesn't have the price of one either, thank goodness — instead using Strix Point. Or, to give its full name, the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX370.

That means 12 cores (made up of 4 x Zen 5 cores and 8 x Zen 5c cores) with 24 threads and Radeon 890M graphics, with a 50 TOPS NPU. That NPU also means this is a Copilot+ PC, albeit, for whatever reason, with no sign of Recall.

This review unit comes with 32GB DDR5 5600MHz RAM, but that can be expanded up to 128GB because it's regular old SODIMMs, not soldered. Storage-wise, it comes out of the box with a 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, with space for another in the m.2 2230 form factor (best known as the form factor used on handheld gaming PCs).

It uses a 120W power brick, so no internal power supply gives Geekom more space to play with. It's configured for 54W on the APU, but realistically, you're only pushing this when you're gaming or doing some local AI. The highest I've seen it spike is 58W.

Most of the time it's very quiet, and all of the time very efficient. Geekom's cooling solution does the job, and even under extended load in my warm office, CPU temperatures haven't exceeded 87C (188F), while reaching 71C (160F) in gaming. GPU temperatures top out at 70C (158F).

The only thing really missing is an Oculink port. If you have an external GPU that uses this connection, you can't use it with the A9 Max. You can use an eGPU over USB 4, but that doesn't help if you already have one with Oculink.

"Crowned for AI, built to game"

The heading above is the exact tag line Geekom uses for the A9 Max. I rarely buy into marketing, but they're on the money with this one. The key is the Radeon 890M integrated GPU. It's built on RDNA 3.5, has 16 cores, and thanks to the ability to dedicate a chunk of the overall system memory for it, up to 24GB of VRAM in this spec.

You don't need that for gaming; in fact, for gaming, you don't need more than 8GB. It's configured out of the box with 2GB, but you can change this in the AMD software, reboot, and you're good to go. For gaming, I've been using 8GB, leaving 24GB as RAM. For AI testing, I've split it right down the middle at 16GB/16GB.

Doing this means that this tiny PC can even run gpt-oss:20b, a 20-billion-parameter LLM, with ease. Using LM Studio to leverage the Radeon 890M, I'm able to return 25 tokens per second on gpt-oss:20b with a 4k context window. The model easily fits inside the 16GB dedicated GPU memory, and the Radeon 890M has sufficient compute power to perform well.

Other similarly large models don't perform quite so well, but AMD worked with OpenAI on gpt-oss:20b, so it's understandable. But this is a perfectly usable little AI workstation, even more so if you go up to 64GB or 128GB of RAM. With Stable Diffusion, you can leverage the NPU for graphics work, aside from the Copilot+ features that tap into it. It's pretty slow, though, and I'd recommend just using the GPU.

It's a brilliant gaming box, too. While it's on the pricier side as something to dedicate as a small living room gaming PC, it's certainly got the horsepower for it.

In Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p, medium settings with FSR balanced, we see an average of 61 FPS. Turn on frame generation, and you can add another 30 FPS to that. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, set to balanced at 1080p, with the balanced FSR preset, delivers a 77 FPS average.

Forza Horizon 5 on high settings at 1080p hits 66 FPS average, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 1080p with medium settings and using Intel's XeSS on balanced returns 61 FPS.

Naturally, you can tweak all the settings you want, but it's perfectly possible to game at 60 FPS and above at 1080p on the Geekom A9 Max at medium to high graphics.

Not forgetting the CPU, either. That 12-core Ryzen AI 9 HX370 does well. Its Cinebench scores are on par with other tests we've done with this chip, likewise in other synthetic benchmarks. Grabbing some comparison data from our buddies at Techradar also shows that it outperforms the standard Apple M4 in the Mac Mini in these same tests.

I should point out one thing, though. The BIOS on the Geekom A9 Max is fairly limited, but there's one thing in there I changed that impacted performance, at least in the benchmarks. There's not much in the way of tweaks you can make, but by setting the fans to performance, you trade a little extra noise for a little extra performance. It bumped the Cinebench score by 30 points, which isn't insignificant.

All the PC most people will ever need

You should buy this if ...

✅ You want an efficient, yet powerful desktop PC.

✅ Connectivity is important.

✅ You'd like to be able to game and handle local AI workloads.

You shouldn't buy this if ...

❌ You need to process massive GPU workloads, such as larger AI models or high resolution gaming.

❌ You're shopping on a budget.

I've toyed with the idea for years of ditching my much-loved desktop gaming PC. It's my baby, and I adore it, but it's overkill for almost everything. That even includes gaming. Time spent with the Geekom A9 Max is the first time that has made me think that I can truly do it.

For most people, most of the time, this little box is all the PC they would ever need. It can game, it can tackle AI workloads, it's packed with enough of the latest tech that it won't be outdated for a long time to come.

AMD deserves its flowers, too. While the Ryzen AI 9 HX370 has now been succeeded by the ridiculous (and expensive) AI Max+ 395, this chip is no joke.

The CPU is incredible, the integrated GPU equally so, and mini PCs like the A9 Max are, I believe, the future of desktop computing.

For around $1,200, you get a high-performance PC that's also efficient enough to be run all day, every day, and not cripple your electricity bill. I did some basic calculations, and switching to the Geekom A9 Max over my gaming PC could save me as much as £200 a year in electricity alone.

I'll sacrifice some settings and frame rate in games, but then, with the new NVIDIA GeForce Now top-tier offering an RTX 5080, even that's not really an issue.

Should you buy one? Absolutely, if it's in your budget. This is one of the best mini PCs that can do it all.

OK, I'll start by saying the headline is a little tongue in cheek. Of course, we think a Windows 11 PC is better than a Mac. You're not convincing us otherwise.

But Geekom's next mini PC is very much in the same arena as the Mac Studio. They're billing the Geekom A9 Mega as "the most powerful mini PC on earth" and there's a degree of truth to that.

It won't stand alone, but there isn't much company for it. That's because it's going to be one of only a small number of PCs, mini or otherwise, confirmed to use AMD's Strix Halo APU. Or, to give it its full title, the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395. I'll be calling it Strix Halo from here on out.

This is simply the king of mobile chips right now, and not yet widespread. Part of that is surely down to the price. We've seen it ourselves inside the ASUS ROG Flow Z13, and it's inside an HP mini workstation we currently have in the review backlog. You'll also find it in the Framework Desktop, and a mini PC from GMKTec.

I might have missed one or two, but there's not many. And that in itself is enough reason to take serious notice of the Geekom A9 Mega.

The beating heart of the Geekom A9 Mega is that Strix Halo APU backed up by up to 128GB LPDDR5X 8000 unified memory. Unlike previous generation APUs from AMD, the Strix Halo adopts a similar approach to Apple Silicon, where the system can dynamically allocate memory to the GPU up to a total of 96GB.

That's different to the way it's done on previous generation chips, like the Ryzen AI 9 HX370 in the Geekom A9 Max I'm currently in the process of reviewing. On these chips, you're able to silo off a chunk of the RAM to be dedicated for the GPU, but it's unable to do it dynamically like a unified memory system.

It's more efficient, reduces bottlenecks, and latency. It's just better.

The Geekom A9 Mega will also be a potent little box for running local AI. Despite its size, the fact it can dedicate up to 96GB of memory to the GPU means even pretty massive LLMs will run locally. This thing will swallow up the full gpt-oss:120b.

That GPU is also a huge deal. Strix Halo comes with the Radeon 8060s, the first true desktop-quality integrated graphics. It can go toe-to-toe with RTX 40 series cards. It can even do ray tracing.

AMD really has changed the game with Strix Halo, but it doesn't come cheap. Geekom will be going live first through Kickstarter, and if you sign up ahead of launch you can get one at a reduced price of $1,899.

But hey, to get a Mac Studio with a measly 96GB of unified memory you have to spend $3,999. In that context, it's an absolute steal. It'll be better for gaming, too, because, Windows 11.

I'm just happy to see another option coming with Strix Halo inside. Alongside the Snapdragon X platform, it's one of the most exciting hardware advancements in Windows PCs in many a year. I'm looking at my gaming PC under my desk right now and starting to wonder how long it is for this world.

Sign up to be notified of the Kickstarter launch for the Geekom A9 Mega on its page right now. At this time, there is no indication when that might be.

A prominent brand among PC gamers, MSI has offered some of the best value graphics cards and motherboards for years. I've used its hardware more times than I count; in my custom-built desktops and those made for friends, but the brand has still expanded its scope more than I realized.

I'm aware of its budget-centric gaming laptops; they're popular during almost any sales event, such as Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday, because they offer an affordable introduction for those who otherwise don't have a substantial budget. Still, I had overlooked the manufacturer's efforts in the mini PC space until it revealed some intriguing new MSI "Cubi" models at CES 2025.

MSI invited me to its London office to hear details of exactly that: its two new AI-centric mini PCs now functional and running Windows 11, with a sample to tinker with and some insight into why the company is expanding its Cubi range with the MSI Cubi NUC A1 1UM and AI+ 2MG.

Intel introduced the concept of a NUC (Next Unit of Computing) mini PC in 2013, using its low-power "Sandy Bridge" mobile processors, and continued to iterate on the design until ASUS acquired a non-exclusive license to Intel's NUC designs. Now, there are examples of mini PCs that cater to specific needs and even venture beyond Intel chips.

Many brands have updated their naming trends, but MSI remains traditional, sticking with NUC and utilizing Intel's "Lunar Lake" Core Ultra mobile processors in its Copilot+ PC effort, the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, and "Meteor Lake" equivalents in the Cubi NUC AI 1UMG, though both are configurable for component changes.

At a glance, the concept remains familiar: a blocky, miniature cube equipped with Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports and running Windows 11, offering the same level of versatility as any productivity-centric laptop or desktop PC, albeit in a tiny form. However, there are a few features that MSI hopes will make these mini PCs stand out from the crowd.

First up is the sustainability angle since both of the Cubi NUC models are built with PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) materials, and, according to Gökhan Bodur, the jovial head of MSI UK marketing, the packaging will later follow suit to remove all instances of plastic bags and ties inside. It sounds like an obvious move for the enterprise sector, but I'm still celebrating every example of responsible manufacturing when I see it.

Then, the pint-size Cubi NUC AI 1UMG (0.51 L) and Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG (0.826 L) come with a cute, detachable power button that makes it much more viable to attach the mini PCs to the back of a monitor with an included VESA mount. To be fair, the Cubi NUC already has a power-link option via HDMI to wake the mini PC through a compatible MSI-branded monitor, and the dual 2.5G Ethernet ports on both models will likely offer a "Wake on LAN" alternative, like other NUCs.

Nevertheless, it's easy enough to attach the power button to the side port of the Cubi NUC, and it's the route I'd likely take if I were setting one up in the kinds of small business or education settings that MSI is targeting. The button itself has a sticky pad, so it can still be mounted out of sight without being out of reach — a useful addition that I'd like to see in more consumer mini PCs.

Finally, at least on the Cubi NUC A1 1UMG, you can connect four external monitors via the dual HDMI and Thunderbolt 4 ports. It's a big effort for a mini PC, but it has its reasons.

Of course, you could set up a typical workspace with screens dedicated to any particular app or metric tracker, but the Cubi NUCs are also targeting digital signage. In that, you could display four individual menus at a restaurant, or run a multi-screen ordering system. It's a flexible little PC, but a reminder that it's targeting enterprise markets first, not your average PC consumers.

Then again, there's nothing really stopping anyone from buying a Cubi NUC from MSI, particularly if you're craving a Copilot+ mini PC similar to the Beelink SER9, existing in a category that's already extremely slim. It won't be the cheapest thing in the world, but one ready-made $949.99 variant of the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG features the same Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip as MSI's Claw 8 AI+ handheld, a category leader in its own right.

For anyone else interested in replacing their full-size desktop with a pint-sized alternative, the previous-generation Cubi NUC A1 1UMG is priced at $749.99 at Best Buy with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD paired with an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor, but configurable with the same Core Ultra 7 155H that featured in Lenovo's Slim 7i 14 (Gen 9) — one of my all-time favorite laptops. While the memory and storage are generous, it still stands in the shadow of its more capable Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG sibling, but it has its own target audience.

It'll be tempting to recommend the Copilot+ PC-certified Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG if it were ever to go on sale, particularly after I was shown MSI's rigorous testing process that ensures each mini PC should last for years. It's reassuring for a market that I'm not familiar with seeing MSI explore.

If a regular consumer were to spring for the AI+ 2MG, they'd get a built-in microphone, speakers, fingerprint reader via the on-device power button, and even a dedicated Copilot button, if they really wanted those.

Either way, I'm just happy to see more Copilot+ PC options that aren't strictly laptops. Anyone who recognizes my byline will know that I'm a big advocate for mini PCs; I'm adamant that they're a better solution than semi-permanently leaving a laptop attached to a docking station.

That, and it's satisfying seeing products make it out of CES 2025 and into full production, rather than disappearing into the ether. Still, if either of these new mini PCs deserves highlighting, it's the Cubi NUC AI+ 2MG, and I hope it'll succeed well enough to warrant some generational follow-ups from MSI.

As endless as this discount-driven week might feel, we are in the final hours of Amazon Prime Day (or Prime Week, as we've affectionately named it), and time is running out on its price-slashing mania. Trust me, I'm just as exhausted by the relentless onslaught of "lowest-ever" and "the best AA batteries I've used" headlines, but this discount means something special to me.

• Shop all Amazon Prime Day deals

Mini PCs do not get the respect they deserve. In fact, I don't think most people have ever used one, or perhaps even known that Windows 11 options were available in a similar vein to Apple's Mac mini. We're big advocates of these pint-size Geekom units, but the biggest thing keeping me from recommending my model was its astronomical price — until these A8 Max AI deals went live.

No monitor? Where's the rest of it?

Mini PCs aren't completely ignored. When I first shared how I was sick of laptop docks and spaghetti cables, it garnered a healthy amount of attention and a totally fair reaction to the price of the Geekom A8 Max AI. Almost a thousand dollars is a lot to ask for a laptop processor contained in a shell the size of a sandwich when you don't get a monitor, keyboard, or any kind of mouse.

Geekom's Prime Day deal certainly helps things with a 20% discount, bringing the mini PC down to a much more reasonable price, but there's still an issue for people who don't have spare peripherals lying around their home or office. Personally, I still use a previously reviewed Alienware's 27-inch 240Hz "AW2723DF" gaming monitor, and it happens to also be on sale.

Better than Steam Deck? But, this isn't a console

Good point, and no, a mini PC isn't supposed to be an alternative to a handheld gaming PC like Valve's highly praised Steam Deck or, my personal favorite, the (temporarily at Walmart) $549.99 ASUS ROG Ally. However, these portable PCs have undoubtedly shown the value of integrated graphics in mobile processors. In particular, the Radeon 780M-equivalent chip used in the "Z1 Extreme" ROG Ally.

I've spent an almost embarrassing number of hours playing my library of PC games on a Steam Deck and, more recently, the ROG Ally, and I can tell you without getting into nerdy spec sheets that the latter is more powerful. So, when I saw that both models of the Geekom A8 Max AI mini PC use the same integrated graphics chip as ASUS' handheld, I knew that I'd be fine for occasional gaming in whatever's holding my obsession.

Essentially, if you can play it on a Steam Deck, then you can play it on the Geekom A8 Max AI. It comes with Windows 11 Pro installed, and I even dual-boot into Fedora KDE (don't tell anyone) to check on the progress of Valve's Proton compatibility layer that runs Windows games on Linux PCs. This little box does it all, and I always come back to Windows for that familiarity and compatibility.

Ahead of Amazon Prime Day this week, several of my favorite Geekom mini PCs are on sale. These small Windows computers are usually inexpensive, but these discounts make them super cheap.

The Geekom Air12 Lite usually sells for $189.00, but right now, you can get it for just $139.00 at Amazon.

If you need a computer with a bit more power, I recommend grabbing the Geekom IT13, which usually sells for $699.00 but is now only $599.00 at Amazon for Prime Day.

Of course, if you want, you can also look at all of today's Geekom Prime Day deals at Amazon.

• Geekom Air12 Lite: was $189.00 now $139.00 at Amazon
• Geekom IT13: was $699.00 now $599.00 at Amazon
• Geekom A8: was $529.00 now $499.00 at Amazon

Why I can easily recommend Geekom mini PCs

Over the last few years, I've tested dozens of mini PCs, including several from Geekom.

To be clear, there are a lot of cheap and shoddy mini PCs on the market that I suggest you stay away from, but Geekom mini PCs stand out as excellent choices thanks to their metal chassis, solid performance, and wide range of ports.

Best of all, mini PCs usually aren't nearly as expensive as some desktops and laptops on the market, so you can meet your computer needs without spending as much when you get a Geekom.

Because of these factors, I regularly recommend Geekom mini PCs to friends and family. I even gave my dad a Geekom IT13 last month for Father's Day because I was so impressed with this model after reviewing it.

Since these computers are so small, it is very easy to find a place for them, even in a crowded student apartment or office.

What's more, Geekoms come with mounting plates so you can attach them to the back of compatible monitors to keep your desk clean and clutter-free.

Now, part of what makes mini PC inexpensive is that they typically don't have the highest-tier CPUs (central processing units) or GPUs (graphics processing units), but that doesn't stop them from being gaming devices.

I've specifically used Xbox Cloud Gaming (beta) and NVIDIA GeForce NOW to stream games like Cyberpunk 2077, Dragon's Dogma II, and more on Geekom mini PCs. It's a far more affordable way to get PC gaming in your home.

The final thing I'll point out about Geekom mini PCs is their healthy range of ports. Typically, most Geekoms come with at least one RJ45 LAN port, two HDMI ports, and then a smattering of USB-A and USB-C ports.

Between all of these options, I've never had a problem connecting monitors and PC accessories to my mini PC. Plus, Geekoms come with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi cards, so you can connect more peripherals that way.

If you just need a basic computer for simple internet browsing and show streaming, the Geekom Air12 Lite will suit your needs just fine. Plus, selling for only $139 at Amazon, makes it very easy on your wallet.

However, if you want a mini PC with a bit more power, you should consider the Geekom IT13 ($599.00 at Amazon) or the Geekom A8 ($499.00 at Amazon).

They're both fantastic devices that each have 32GB RAM and a large 1TB SSD storage capacity. The difference is that the A8 is powered by AMD processors while the IT13 is powered by Intel (and it's blue). Both offer limited upgradeability and also feature Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 for your convenience.

If you're having a hard time deciding between them, I say go with the IT13. I love that it is blue instead of grey or black, plus it's at a greater discount right now.

When it comes to affordable computers, you really cannot beat mini PCs. These small devices don't take up a lot of room, but they can be used for everything from basic computer tasks to cloud gaming.

We at Windows Central really love Beelink and right now, the Beelink EQI12 mini PC is 20% off during Memorial Day deals. That brings the price down from $399.00 to just $319.00 at Amazon while this sale lasts.

A great mini PC for home, school, or work

My colleagues and I have reviewed a number of Beelink mini PCs over the years and have found these devices to be excellent. They're typically far from being powerhouses, but they offer great performance at a budget price range.

Overall, these mini PCs tend to be ideal for everyday home, work, or school usage. Plus, if you take advantage of services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming, you can easily enjoy a broad array of video game titles on this simple machine.

The EQI12 highlighted in this deal has a modest-yet-reliable Intel 12th Gen Core i5-12450H CPU (central processing unit) and 24GB LPDDR5 RAM to decrease power consumption. Meanwhile, the 500GB M.2 2280 PCIe SSD offers plenty of storage space for homework, office projects, personal files, and more.

It also offers a good range of ports with one USB-C port, four USB-A ports, two HDMI ports, two LAN ports, and a headphone jack at your disposal.

Honestly, if you just need a simple computer, the Beelink EQI12 is an excellent choice to go with. Especially, right now, while it is $80 off for Memorial Day.

I started using mini PCs regularly a few years ago, and ever since then, I've made it my mission to tell everyone about the very best mini PCs available.

Geekom, in particular, is a mini PC company that regularly impresses me with its reliable products, so I was eager to check out the latest Geekom Mini IT13 "2025 Edition" mini PC.

While the Mini IT13 doesn't blow me away with its performance, I've found that it is a solid choice for anyone who just wants a simple (and super compact) Windows PC.

It's more than capable of handling your everyday computer needs, from web surfing to video calls (and even some gaming and creative programs) without costing as much as a full-size desktop or laptop.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Geekom. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Geekom Mini IT13: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A slightly upgradeable Intel Core i9 mini PC with a blue casing that comes with an HDMI cable and a VESA mount.
• Who is it for? It's ideal for anyone who wants a compact and simple computer for work, school, or personal use. It easily handles video calls, everyday programs, and web surfing.
• How much does it cost? It has a starting price of $845.00 for the 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900HK with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD. There's also a $945.00 configuration with i9-13900H, 32GB RAM, and 2TB SSD. That said, Geekom mini PCs regularly go on sale, so you might be able to grab one at a discount.
• What did I like? Even though the Geekom Mini IT13 is small, there are plenty of ports, and it can support four monitors at 4K or one at 8K. Performance is steady and reliable, too.
• What didn't I like? This mini PC uses an outdated DDR4 chip rather than modern DDR5, so it's slower than it could be.

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Geekom Mini IT13: Pricing and specifications

There are two Geekom Mini IT13 2025 Edition configurations to choose from.

The one I tested sells for $849.00 at Amazon and features a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900HK along with Intel Xe Graphics, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD. It's possible to open and upgrade this model to a max 64GB RAM and 2TB SSD.

Meanwhile, there is also a more expensive $945.00 configuration that comes with a Core i9-13900H, 32GB RAM, and 2TB SSD if you want more storage space.

Neither of the configurations offered comes with an AI-centric NPU (neural processing unit), which means this is not an AI PC.

Geekom provides a 3-year limited warranty from the date of purchase and also offers a 30-day refund and return policy. You can learn more at the company's Return & Exchange Policy page.

You can purchase the Geekom IT13 mini PC at Amazon, Best Buy, or Geekom's website. There are also plenty of other Geekom models to consider.

Geekom IT13 — What's in the box?

When I opened the Geekom Mini IT13 box, I found the mini PC itself, an HDMI cable, a power cable, power adapter, manual, VESA mounting plate, and screws for attaching the mounting plate.

Many mini PCs on the market do not come with an HDMI cable or VESA mount, so these are nice perks to have.

With all of this in the box, all you need is a monitor, keyboard, and mouse for your computer setup.

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Geekom Mini IT13: What I like

Something I love about Geekom mini PCs is that even though they are small, they always provide a healthy range of essential ports, so I never feel limited when connecting monitors or accessories.

In this case, there are two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports on the front along with a headphone jack. On the back, there are two USB4 Type-C ports, another USB-A 3.2, a USB-A 2.0, two HDMI 2.0, and a 2.5GbE LAN port. Meanwhile, an SD card slot and a Kensington Lock are also found on the sides.

This mini PC also supports 4K on up to four screens or 8K on one, so you can have a decent multi-monitor "battle station" setup if you'd like.

Performance

I conducted several different tests on the Geekom IT13 to see how well it could perform. While CPU and GPU performance aren't insane, they are respectable and good overall.

Meanwhile, its SSD speeds aren't quite where I'd want them to be, but they're not horrible.

In my CrystalDiskMark testing, the SSD produced a 4,080 MB/s read speed and 3,226 MB/s write speed, which is just okay.

EXCELLENT: Results are notably above average.
GOOD: Results are respectable and as expected.
OKAY: Results are slightly lower than they should be.
POOR: Results are significantly lower than they should be.

Overall, these benchmarks show that the Geekom IT13 is a great device that produces results we'd expect given its configuration.

It's perfect for web surfing, video calls, everyday programs, and cloud gaming. As such, it can easily handle most people's work, school, and personal needs.

I even used it to edit projects in Photoshop and play Cyberpunk 2077 at an average 89.95 FPS (frames per second) via the cloud using NVIDIA GeForce NOW.

Just don't expect this device to smoothly run intensive games like this locally.

The only times the IT13 really struggled were when I had 21 Google Chrome browser tabs open (yes, I'm that kind of person) and, understandably, when I accidentally had Photoshop resize an image to 2048 inches when I meant to resize to 2048 pixels.

Even then, the mini PC never crashed or froze; it just slowed down from thermal throttling.

Thermals and fan noise

Despite having a very small form factor, the Geekom IT13 does have a decent cooling system.

I took temperature and noise readings while the mini PC ran CPU-stress testing for 20 minutes.

Unsurprisingly, the hottest area on the mini PC is the back vent, which peaked at 136 degrees F (~57.8 degrees C). Meanwhile, the back part of the top casing peaked at 106 degrees F (~41.1 degrees C), which is warm, but not overly hot to the touch.

Noises from the mini PC registered at a peak of 54.7 dB when taken next to the vents, but noises only peaked at 38.0 dB when I held the decibel meter near my ear while I sat at my desk.

This really isn't all that loud, and there isn't an annoying fan whine either, like I've noticed with some other mini PCs.

Component access and upgradability

I was able to open the Geekom IT13 very easily by following the illustrated step-by-step instructions that come with it.

This mainly just involved setting the mini PC upside down, removing the screws located within the footpads, and then carefully lifting the bottom casing until the interior was exposed.

As seen in my pictures, this mini PC houses two dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory slots that can hold up to 64GB of RAM.

Then, in addition to the M.2 2242 SATA SSD slot that can have up to a 1TB SSD, there's also an unused M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x4 SSD slot that supports up to 2TB.

Like with many computers, upgrading or customizing this device does void your warranty, so keep that in mind.

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Geekom Mini IT13: What I don't like

I really like this mini PC overall, but it's a bit disappointing that it still uses outdated DDR4 RAM instead of current DDR5, which is much faster and generally affordable at this point.

Of course, the Geekom IT13 isn't really designed for gaming or more intensive usage where DDR5 would be especially useful. But for the price, I'd expect DDR5.

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Geekom Mini IT13: Alternatives

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Geekom Mini IT13: Standout feature

Honestly, the latest iteration of the Geekom IT13 doesn't stand out all that much from other "Geekoms", and that's okay.

It's still a solid, simple computer that can handle your basic workloads.

But when compared against other mini PCs on the market, Geekom devices always stand out by being reliable, offering upgradable RAM and SSD, and coming with plenty of ports.

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Geekom Mini IT13: Score card

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Geekom Mini IT13: My final thoughts

✅ You should buy this if ...

• You're looking for a simple computer that can handle video calls, web surfing, and everyday programs.
• You'd like a mini PC that comes with a VESA mount and can easily be attached to the back of a monitor.
• You want a mini PC with plenty of ports that can connect to multiple monitors at once.

❌ You should not buy this if ...

• You want a computer that can locally run more graphically intensive games and programs.
• You'd prefer a mini PC that uses DDR5 memory chips.
• You're looking for an even simpler and more budget-friendly option.

In the realm of mini PCs, the Geekom Mini IT13 is a fantastic choice for people who just need a basic computer or those who want a solid PC that doesn't take up a ton of room.

This mini PC gives you access to a healthy range of ports, and you can connect up to four monitors for a great multitasking workstation.

You'll even be able to enjoy working in creative programs and playing some games locally. Just make sure to use cloud gaming services if you want to play something a bit more graphically demanding.

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During HP's annual Amplify conference, the tech company announced literally dozens (25 if I counted correctly) of new AI PCs that will start launching sometime in Spring 2025.

Considering their impressive specs, it's very possible that some of these HP devices will make their way onto our list of the best AI laptops.

For now, I've rounded up the HP AI PC laptop, 2-in-1, mini PC, AiO (all-in-one desktop), and gaming laptop that offers the most interesting features and specs. Check 'em out.

EliteStudio 8 AiO G1i — Everything you need in one place

Our editor-in-chief Daniel Rubino already posted a first look at this new HP Elite Studio 8 AiO Gl1 AI PC and walked away wishing he'd had a computer like this in college.

As with any AiO, it comes with a keyboard and mouse. Plus, the monitor houses the actual computer as well as a webcam. So, you get everything you need in one device with this purchase.

It's available in either 23.8-inch FHD or 27-inch QHD 75 Hz IPS display versions. As for the other specs, it sports the new 15th Gen Intel Core Ultra Processors (5, 7, or 9) with NPUs that can reach up to 13 TOPS.

• RELATED: AI PC guide | Copilot+ PC guide | TOPS guide | NPU guide

Configuration options also allow user to choose between an integrated Intel UHD Graphics or the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5000 Ti Series graphics cards.

It also has 64GB RAM DDR5-5600 SDRAM slots, with the choice of having up to a 2TB SSD.

With different configuration options to choose from and some impressive specs, this can be the perfect desktop that provides all you need in one spot.

OmniBook 7 Aero 13 — An ultraportable AI laptop

There's something satisfying about having an ultra-thin and light laptop. They not only look sleek but are excellent portable devices for work trips and on-the-go business people.

HP's latest OmniBook 7 Aero AI laptop offers a 13.3-inch display and measures in at a super slim 11.70 x 8.31 x 0.69 inches (43.18 x 211.07 x 17.52mm) while weighing less than 2.20 pounds (~1.0 kg).

This AI laptop comes with either an AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 CPU (central processing unit) with up to 50 NPU TOPS or an AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 with up to 50 NPU TOPS. Meanwhile, the integrated GPU (graphics processing unit) is either an AMD Radeon 860M or an AMD Radeon 840M.

Configuration options include 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5x-7500 RAM and either 512GB or 1TB SSD.

Meanwhile, this laptop provides two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a headphone jack for your connection needs.

HP EliteDesk 8 Mini G1a mini Next-Gen AI PC — A small form factor computer

If you're like me and appreciate having a computer with a small form factor, then the HP EliteDesk 8 Mini G1a Next-Gen AI PC might just be for you.

This mini PC is small but mighty, housing a next-gen AMD Ryzen AI 300 series APU, integrated AMD Radeon Graphics, two SODIMM Slots that can hold up to 64GB RAM, and up to 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD.

It doesn't skimp on ports, either. Altogether, it offers two USB-C ports, four USB-A ports, two DisplayPort 2.1, an HDMI 2.1, an RJ45, and a headphone jack.

Even so, it only measures 177 x 181 x 34 mm (6.97 x 7.13 x1.35 in) and only weighs 1.42kg (3.13 lbs). Plus, it doesn't take up much room on a desk and can easily be traveled with.

HP OmniBook X Flip 14 2-in-1 — Versatility and plenty of configuration options

I'm always interested in a reliable laptop that also functions as a tablet, and the HP OmniBook X Flip 14 2-in-1 looks like it fits that category. It might even make it on our list of the best 2-in-1 laptops.

It has several configuration options for you to choose from like your choice of either an Intel Core Ultra 7 200 Series processor capable of up to 47 NPU TOPS or an AMD Ryzen AI 7 or 5 300 Series processor capable of up to 560 NPU TOPS. There are also three integrated Intel Arc Graphics cards or two AMD Radeon 800M integrated graphics cards to choose from.

As for memory and storage, it can have up to 32GB RAM and up to 2TB SSD. Meanwhile, the 14-inch display can either be a 3K touchscreen OLED, a 2K touchscreen OLED, or a 2K IPS panel.

You can even get an optional stylus with this 2-in-1 for note-taking, drawing in creative programs like Photoshop, or simply navigating around on the screen without leaving fingerprints.

All of these options will allow you to build the exact 2-in-1 to meet your specific needs. Plus, that Atmospheric Blue chassis looks cool as hell.

HP OMEN 17 — Gaming with AI-boosted processors

Last but not least, the HP OMEN 17 is a gaming laptop that also serves as an AI PC. It features up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 CPU and a powerful NVIDIA RTX 5070 Laptop GPU to take on the newest games with the latest and greatest graphics.

Due to it having an AMD AI CPU, high TOPS, and a Copilot button on the keyboard, this is technically a Copilot+ PC as well as an AI PC that can handle gaming.

The display itself is a 17.3-inch IPS display with your choice of getting a panel that can either provide QHD resolution (2560 x 1440) with up to a 240Hz refresh rate and 3 ms response time or a different IPS panel that provides FHD resolution (1920 x 1080), a 144Hz refresh rate, and 7 ms response time.

Your various gaming needs are also met with up to Wi-Fi 6, up to Bluetooth 5.4, and a smattering of helpful ports. These include a USB-C port, three USB-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, an RJ45 LAN connection, and a headphone jack.

HP has an AI PC for any situation

HP has AI PC solutions for you to choose from in 2025 regardless of if you need a desktop, an AiO, a laptop, a 2-in-1, or even a mini PC.

These devices will start going on sale sometime in Spring at various prices depending on their configurations. Keep an eye out and you can grab one of these sweet new products for yourself when they launch.

I love mini PCs, and Beelink is at the top of the category. At this point, I've reviewed a couple of Beelink mini PCs (e.g., my recent Beelink SER9 and EQR6 reviews), and the GTi13 Ultra is the first I've reviewed that was designed around the concept of attaching a dedicated GPU to it.

With support for Beelink's dedicated GPU dock, you can attach almost any graphics card you want to it.

It's the first mini PC I've experienced that isn't limited to integrated graphics, and that opens a whole world of gaming and creative experiences I've not previously considered viable on a mini PC form factor like this.

I've been using the Beelink GTi13 Ultra for about three weeks now, and here is my full review.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Beelink. The company had no input and did not see the contents of this review prior to publication.

Beelink GTi13 Ultra: Pricing & Availability

The Beelink GTi13 Ultra is configurable with different RAM and storage options. The base configuration includes 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage and usually retails for around $759 (though right now it's $599 if you buy direct from Beelink).

You can also upgrade the storage to 2TB and the RAM to 64 GB. An even higher-end configuration with 96GB RAM normally costs $1,039 (but is just $839 from Beelink right now!).

We've reviewed the entry-level model with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD, which I think will be fine for most people buying this PC.

All configurations come with an Intel Core i9-13900HK and can be configured in either "Frost Silver" or "Space Grey" colorways. Our review unit is of the Space Grey model. In our Core i9-13900HK review, we gave it high praise for gaming. While it's older than the 14900HK, it helps reduce the cost of this mini PC, which I'm OK with. You can see the how the 13900HK compares to the 14900HK for more details.

Of course, Beelink also sells the dedicated graphics card docking station separately, which costs an additional $159. This docking station includes one PCIe 8x slot, a USB port, Wi-Fi antenna extenders, and an additional M.2 SSD slot or Wi-Fi card module upgrade slot.

Beelink GTi13 Ultra: Design & Ports

Kicking things off with design, the Beelink GTi13 Ultra looks clean and minimalist on any desk. It's quite a bit larger than some of Beelink's other mini PCs, and it's definitely on the more premium side, with a metal chassis that surrounds all four sides and the top of the PC.

Its size is larger than the Beelink SER9, the company's other flagship mini PC with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 SoC. That device measures just 135 x 135 x 44 mm, compared to the GTi 13 Ultra, which measures 158 x 158 x 56 mm.

That makes it larger in all dimensions, likely to make room for the PCIe x8 slot on the underside of the PC.

The device is available in two colors, frost silver and space gray. My unit is the space gray one, which pairs very nicely with the Beelink dGPU dock, which we'll discuss later in the review.

There are also plenty of ports on the GTi13 Ultra, including a USB-A and USB-C port on the front, a full-sized SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Around the back, we have four USB-A ports, a USB-C port, DisplayPort 1.4, and HDMI 2.1 out. We also have two 2.5G ethernet ports.

The front also includes a power button with a built-in fingerprint reader and a microphone array housed in four small holes along the top front of the device.

Beelink GTi13 Ultra: Dock & Features

The Beelink GTi13 Ultra's big selling point is its neatly tucked-away PCIe 8x lane underneath the PC.

This PCIe lane is designed for dedicated GPUs, and Beelink has even built a special dock for this mini PC that lets you hook up pretty much any graphics card of your choice. The dock supports a maximum of 600W of power, meaning it should support the NVIDIA RTX 4090.

The dock is plastic and features a single PCIe lane that carries data from the graphics card to the mini PC.

When connected to the dock, the mini PC sits upright on its side, still giving you access to the fingerprint reader while leaving enough space for the graphics card and mini PC to get good airflow and remain optimally cool.

Setting up the dock is pretty straightforward. It comes with a universal bracket for the graphics card to hold it in place, as well as a smaller bracket for the mini PC that secures it in place when connected to the dock. The mini PC simply slides onto the area where the dock lines up with the mini PC's PCIe slot.

The dock is also more than just a graphics card device. It includes an additional USB-A port for peripherals or external storage and can even be opened up to install an additional M.2 SSD.

If you don't need additional storage, you can use that same M.2 slot for a Wi-Fi card, which can increase wireless internet performance with a better antenna.

The dock is an ingenious idea, and I really love how it looks when the setup is complete. I hooked it up to my AMD Radeon 7600, and the package looked tidy.

It still takes up less room than a traditional desktop PC while maintaining similar performance. And, of course, you don't always have to use the dock if you don't intend to use a dGPU often.

I do have one minor gripe with the dock, however. The dock has a separate power supply, which makes sense as it will need the extra juice for hungry graphics cards. But what's annoying is the dock has its own separate power button that you must remember to press before turning on the mini-PC.

This means you need to hit two power buttons to turn the mini PC on when using the dock, which is a bit of a pain.

I wish the mini PC could automatically wake and sleep the dock when you hit the power button on the PC itself only, but that, unfortunately, isn't the case here.

Additionally, if you do forget to turn the dock on when you turn the PC on, you won't see a picture on your monitor, and the only way to fix it is to shut off the mini PC, turn on the dock, and then turn the mini PC back on.

One solution to this problem would be to simply never turn the dock off. The graphics card will power down when you power off the mini PC, but the dock will remain "on" until you manually press the power button.

I'm not sure if leaving it on will cause any damage in the long term, but I'm one of those people who likes to turn things off when I'm done with them at the end of a workday.

Additionally, the graphics card you choose to connect will influence how quiet the overall PC is. The mini PC is super quiet on its own, even under heavy load. But with a dedicated GPU connected, the graphics card's fans will be more audible, and that can be a bit frustrating if you're sensitive to that kind of thing.

This is enhanced because the graphics card isn't enclosed in a PC case like it normally would be in a tower PC, so it's right by your workspace and audible.

The Mini PC also includes other features, including a fingerprint reader neatly built right into the power button on the front of the PC. This fingerprint reader is excellent; it's nice and large and easy to hit, and it is superfast at recognizing your fingerprint, too. I love using this for Windows Hello login.

The PC also features upgradable RAM and storage, which you can access by popping off the bottom plastic cover to access the insides. The plastic cover is held in with four screws that are easily removable, and from there you pull the bottom cover off to gain access to the RAM and storage slots.

There are two M.2 SSD slots, one of which will already be occupied.

Beelink GTi13 Ultra: Performance

Unsurprisingly, the Beelink GTi13 Ultra's performance is nothing short of impressive. The Intel Core i9-13900HK, powering things under the hood, is a beast of a PC chip, capable of tackling pretty much any task you'll likely want to throw at a mini PC, including gaming, photo editing, video editing, and data crunching.

In our Cinebench 2024 testing, the CPU earned a single-core score of 122 and a multicore score of 906, placing it amongst other high-end creative PCs, such as the Lenovo Yoga AiO 9i and Geekom GT1 Mega.

In our Geekbench 6 testing, the Beelink GTi13 Ultra was a slight letdown. Its single-core score of 2,787 was good, but its multicore score was slightly lower than we were expecting, around 12,573, placing it below the Geekom A7 and GT1 Mega.

However, in daily usage and heavy workflows, the performance of the Intel Core i9 inside the GTi13 Ultra is nothing short of excellent.

It's a powerful chip that can handle most tasks. SSD performance is also excellent, with CrystalDiskMark achieving 5195MB/s read and 4742MB/s write speeds.

The same can't be said for the integrated graphics, which are mediocre and disappointing. You won't want to use the Intel UHD Graphics for anything intensive, but if you're buying this mini PC, you're likely interested in utilizing that PCIe lane for a dedicated GPU card, which will boost graphics performance significantly.

For this review, I paired the Beelink GTI13 Ultra with an AMD Radeon 7600, allowing me to treat the mini PC as a gaming one.

With the card connected, I could run all my favorite games at a smooth frame rate at a 2K resolution, with most games set to medium or high graphics.

For example, in our 3DMark Time Spy test, the GTi13 Ultra achieved a low score of 2,121 when using the integrated Iris Xe graphics.

But when a GPU was connected to the dock, the score skyrocketed to 11,015, placing it up there with full-sized desktop PCs with RTX 4070 and 3080 cards.

For the Beelink GTi13 Ultra, you can hook up any dedicated graphics card you like, as long as it's compatible with a PCIe x8 interface.

That includes the new high-end NVIDIA RTX graphics cards. So, if you wanted to increase that performance score, you could very easily do so with a GPU upgrade later.

Beelink GTi13 Ultra: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

✅ You're looking for a mini PC that doubles as a powerful workhorse.

✅ You need a mini PC that's both powerful yet quiet.

✅ You want a mini PC that can competently game with your own dGPU.

You should not buy this if ...

❌ You don't foresee ever needing a dGPU.

❌ You have limited space on your desk.

❌ You want a PC that is more energy efficient.

The Beelink GTi13 Ultra is a workhorse mini PC. It's designed to get work done, purchased for a specific purpose that you already know you need it for.

In this case, any task that requires graphics performance. While you can buy the Beelink GTi13 Ultra without the dock to use as a standalone mini PC, I don't know why you would, as Beelink has better options out there, including the SER9.

The GTi13 Ultra's big selling point is that PCIe lane, which pairs with the dock and allows you to hook up any dedicated graphics card you choose.

The integration between the mini PC and dock could be better. I don't like having to manually power on both the dock and mini PC when turning on the PC, but this is a small gripe that most people will get over.

If you're in the market for a small PC that can take any PCIe 8x graphics card, the Beelink GTi13 Ultra is a great choice. The Dock itself isn't that expensive either, at just $159. It also doubles as an expandable storage bay for an additional M.2 drive.

Last year, Microsoft unveiled its first Windows desktop mini PC, except it's not your typical mini PC. It's a thin client, designed to run Windows 11 by streaming it from the cloud. Locally, the device runs a super lightweight version of Windows, which is designed solely to connect the user to a Windows 365 PC as set up by an employer in the cloud.

The device is called the Windows 365 Link, and is supposed to be the first of a new category of Windows 365 PCs. Microsoft is slowly ushering in a new category of Windows PCs that don't actually run Windows apps, and instead stream the Windows experience via the internet and remote desktop protocol.

There are many advantages to this, the primary one being security. Windows 365 PCs will be inherently more secure as the data they deal with is never stored locally. If the device is ever stolen, all the data that computer ever worked on would still be safe, stored in a secure cloud PC on the Windows 365 service.

It also helps with reducing e-waste, as thin clients like the Windows 365 Link aren't reliant on internal specs to be useful. In 10 years time, the Windows 365 Link device should still perfectly usable and secure, as the cloud PC can be upgraded with a better CPU, more RAM, and storage whenever necessary.

Now, images of a real Windows 365 Link have appeared in the wild, suggesting that we're getting close to general availability. The device is now in private testing with a number of Windows 365 customers, with general availability expected to begin in April.

The images show us just how small the Windows 365 Link is, being small enough to be held in one hand. It's made of plastic, similarly to the Windows Dev Kit 2023, and features a USB-A port and 3.5mm audio jack on the front, two more USB-A ports on the back, a USB-C port, ethernet, DisplayPort, and HDMI.

In regard to what's on the inside, I understand the Windows 365 Link is powered by a low-end Intel N250 Processor, 8GB RAM, and 64GB storage. On a normal PC, these specs would be pitiful, but as the device itself doesn't actually run any apps, it's not something the user is going to notice.

These low-end specs also allow Microsoft to price the box competitively. The device is expected to go on sale for $349 in April, which is much cheaper than a Mac mini M4, while potentially being more capable with a high-end desktop-class CPU and GPU, if a cloud PC is configured as such.

Of course, that does mean the Windows 365 Link is useless unless you have an active subscription to a Windows 365 PC. As things currently stand, Windows 365 is an enterprise only service, meaning you're only likely to ever come across the 365 Link if it's issued to you by your workplace.

It's not hard to believe that Microsoft would like to open Windows 365 up as a consumer service in the future, too. In fact, we know Microsoft wants to do just that. When that will be ready is anyone's guess, but I would wager it will be sooner rather than later.

For this MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ review, I've been using the mini PC as my work computer for the last week. I've also run the compact computer through the usual gauntlet of benchmark tests to see how it compares to similarly configured devices on the market. While it isn't a stand-out mini PC, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ is a solid computer. Here's where it excels and where it could do better.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by MSI. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Pricing and specifications

• The MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ is a rather costly mini PC, given the configuration options.
• It's difficult to find the exact configuration that I reviewed, but there are a few different options to choose from.
• Value rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The exact MSI mini PC configuration I reviewed features an Intel Core i7-1365U vPro CPU (central processing unit) with an Intel Iris Xe Graphics GPU (graphics processing unit), 16GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD. It's also covered by a 24-month (2-year) warranty. According to MSI, this mini PC has an MSRP of $1,279 but isn't currently available on the market. That said, there are other configurations available starting from $667, including barebones options.

At the time of writing, there are very few listings for the Cubi NUC 13MQ. The closest configuration I found to the one I reviewed features the same CPU, GPU, and SSD but had 32GB RAM instead of 16GB. However, this configuration sells for a whopping $1,229.00 at B&H, which is extremely costly for what's inside this device.

This is one of the biggest problems with the mini PC, it's too expensive. You can easily find less expensive alternatives on the market.

MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ — What's in the box?

In addition to the mini PC, the box included the power adapter, power cable, VESA mount, and an external power button. Unlike many other mini PCs I've reviewed, no HDMI cables were included with the Cubi NUC 13MQ. As such, you will need to supply one yourself in order to connect this device to your monitor or TV.

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MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Design and build quality

• The black casing is simple and professional-looking.
• A good range of ports make it easy to connect accessories.
• Design rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

There are a number of mini PCs on the market that try to grab your attention with flashy RGB lighting or a futuristic design. Those have their place for people who want them, but it can also make them look awkward in professional settings. Meanwhile, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ fits into both casual and business settings thanks to its simple black casing.

Desk-space-wise, it only takes up as much room as a bagel, and it easily fits underneath your monitor. Alternatively, the included VESA mount makes it simple to connect the mini PC to the back of a compatible monitor or under a desk for a more clean look.

MSI includes an external power button on the end of a cable, which plugs into the side of the mini PC. The button even has adhesive on the underside, so you can stick it somewhere that it won't move. That way, you can easily turn it on and off regardless of where it is mounted instead of fumbling for the power button on the mini PC itself.

As far as accessories go, there are plenty of ports to accommodate displays, headphones, keyboards, a computer mouse, and more. In total, there are 2x Thunderbolt 4 ports, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 2x HDMI ports, 1x microSD card reader, 2x LAN ports, 1x headphone jack, and 1x external power switch slot. What's more, the Cubi NUC 13MQ can support up to four displays, so you can have a decent workstation.

Component access and upgradability

To open the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ, you simply unscrew the four screws within the rubber feet on the bottom of the device. From here, pull off the metal shield, and you'll be able to view the inside. Users can upgrade two SO-DIMM, two M.2 SSDs (2280 & 2242), and one 2.5" HDD/SSD.

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MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Performance and thermals

• The Cubi NUC 13MQ scored lower than expected in certain benchmarks.
• A high-pitched whine is heard from the mini PC at all times.
• Performance rating: ⭐⭐⭐

I had to be very patient during my time with the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ since it frequently took longer than expected to complete certain tasks. For instance, there was a decent amount of waiting between clicking on Photoshop and the program actually showing up. Then, while working with Adobe's editing software, I frequently had to wait while the program performed edits at a slower rate than I was accustomed to. That said, the mini PC never crashed or was unable to complete an action I gave it.

As I always do, I started testing the mini PC's performance by opening Geekbench 6 and running a CPU test. The Intel Core i7-1365U got a single-core score of 2,298 and a multi-core score of 8,217. These scores are where we'd expected this processor to be. I also opened Cinebench and had the mini PC do a CPU rendering stress test. It earned a single-core score of 100 and a multi-core score of 426, which is very low.

After checking out the CPU, I turned my attention to the GPU by running 3DMark Time Spy. The mini PC got a score of 1,669, which is good for the Intel Iris Xe Graphics. However, I also ran the integrated graphics benchmark, Night Raid, to which the mini PC got a great score of 15,940.

To analyze the SSD, I ran CrystalDiskMark's sequential read and write test. The Cubi NUC 13MQ earned a 6,387 MB/s read speed, and a 5,653 MB/s write speed, which felt higher than I expected, given how often I had to wait for the mini PC to respond to certain commands. As another way to test the SSD, CPU, and GPU, I also had the mini PC transcode a 4K version of Tears of Steel in Handbrake. The Cubi NUC 13MQ took 4,725 seconds (1 hour and 18 minutes), which is a lot longer than several other mini PCs I've tested lately. It's really not a good result.

Finally, to round everything off, I opened CrossMark to check the overall system performance. At 1,518, the Cubi NUC 13MQ scored lower than desired but still within a reasonable range.

Thermals and noise

After running a CPU stress test in Cinebench for 20 minutes, I pulled out my thermal camera and took readings of the Cubi NUC MQ13. The top back of this mini PC peaked at 95.4 degrees F (35.2 degrees C) while the back vent area peaked at 128.7 degrees F (53.7 degrees C), which isn't too warm.

While the CPU stress test was still running, I pulled out a decibel meter and took measurements. Much like other mini PCs, this one doesn't have a fan, but air passing through the vents still makes noise. The Cubi NUC 13MQ registered at a peak of 49.8dB, which isn't very loud. However, a constant high-pitched whine that comes on as soon as the device gets powered on does make it hard for me to concentrate at times.

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MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Alternatives

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MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Score card

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MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You are limited on space and want a small computer

Only taking up the desk space of a bagel, the MSI Cubi NUC 13MQ doesn't clutter up your work area. You can even use the included VESA mount to attach it behind your monitor.

✅You want to be able to mount your mini PC somewhere out of sight but still have an accessible power button

This MSI mini PC's included external power button makes it easy to turn the device on and off, even if it's mounted somewhere out of sight.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You specifically want a fast device that can handle gaming and graphically intensive programs

This mini PC does not have the power necessary to handle demanding games or software.

❌You would rather buy a less expensive mini PC

There are plenty of less expensive mini PCs on the market that offer solid performance.

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As fun as it can be to test the latest PC hardware like NVIDIA's $2,000 GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition graphics card, I don't particularly enjoy writing articles with the same gaming computer I use in my downtime. My bulky Windows 11 files and folders are neatly organized, rarely popping up in places I don't want them, but there's still a certain level of zen achieved when the end of a work day triggers a disconnecting shutdown.

To this day, I maintain that the "ultimate" Windows 11 experience is often found on laptops more than on a desktop PC because you can access touchscreens, guaranteed built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and a genuine use for power-saving plans that try to incorporate with flaky sleep and hibernate modes. Sure, Microsoft has some serious improvements to make in the latter category, but there is a third option that I somehow overlooked.

My colleagues and I have tested our fair share of mini PCs, with the excellent Beelink SER9 and Geekom A8|A7 standing out as stellar favorites. I've even tested Geekom's earlier models myself, but I was still in the mindset that they weren't powerful enough to handle my needs or even capable of replacing my dug-in habits with my desktop PC's environment. Granted, most of that arrogance comes from a stubborn refusal to try anything new, but a recent situation sparked a "lightbulb moment."

Mini PCs vs. laptops and docking stations

I've tested my fair share of Windows laptops, with some high-end options proving entertaining in their moments but too excessive to warrant adopting into my daily workflow. Surprisingly, Lenovo's previous-gen Slim 7i 14 (Gen 9) won my affection more than any other despite its compact chassis and relatively plain appearance. For me, it had it all: OLED touchscreen, Windows Hello for face-recognition logins, and a proper mix of USB-A, USB-C, and full-size HDMI-out ports alongside a side-mounted power button (a point of contention among my colleagues, but I like them.)

It came around the world with me for various press events and habitually became a go-to machine for my home office because everything was already set up exactly how I wanted it. The best part was that none of my personal documents, photos, or games were muddying up the desktop and Start menu; it was a pure work-centric PC. So, if I already have two monitors and space for a dedicated mouse and keyboard, why wouldn't I hook the laptop to my desk setup? Let me explain.

First, unlike its business-centric ThinkPad range, Lenovo's 'Slim' laptops don't allow the external power button to have any effect while the lid is closed. So, while I can use it closed and still enjoy a single external monitor via its HDMI port or several with one of the best Thunderbolt 4 docks, I have to physically open the laptop whenever I want it to wake from sleep or power up from a complete shutdown. It's less than ideal, especially since I prefer to use UGREEN's basic $20 laptop stand and keep it vertical to save space.

It's enough to discourage me from awarding it a permanent place on my desk, and I gradually return my entire workflow to an overpowered gaming desktop. If the solutions involve leaving a laptop open with nothing happening on its screen or pulling it out of its cradle to pry it back to life with a life-support system of USB hubs and display docks hanging from its ports, then it isn't worth the effort. Plus, these daily annoyances mess with my feng shui, man.

Geekom's high-spec but miniature solutions

"If only I had a few more ports and an easier way to boot a second PC without switching a handful of cables." My pondering led to a quick realization that a mini Windows PC solves practically all of my issues, especially one with at least two HDMI-out ports and enough RAM to handle Google Chrome without breaking down into a sluggish mess. Sure, I could settle for a Geekom A6 at around $449, but the company's top-end A8 Max boasts AMD's Ryzen 9 8945HS processor with a built-in NPU alongside 32GB of RAM, and I'll benefit from the extra USB ports on the latter.

To clarify, the Geekom A8 Max sells for just shy of $1,000, and I'm not recommending its spec sheet to everyone as an implied necessity. This is a top-end, enthusiast-grade mini PC that solves all my needs and sets me up for years of work without worrying about exhausting storage space or needing extra RAM. Most Windows users can settle for one of the best mini PCs, including a more affordable option like the high-scoring Geekom A6 for around $450, and still benefit from a wealth of I/O options, including dual HDMI-out ports for external displays.

So, I have all of my peripherals connected via a USB hub in Alienware's AW2723DF monitor and the rear USB-C ports of the A8 Max, two displays hooked up to the respective HDMI-out ports, and an Ethernet cable connected to the 2.5G LAN port for wired networking. What more could I ask for? Oh, right, a dedicated power button that works as expected. Nice.

I'm telling you: don't sleep on mini PCs. They're an unappreciated third option between desktops and laptops, and I'm extremely happy with mine. An internal fan keeps the components cool under pressure, but for the most part, this miniature Geekom unit remains silent on my desk as I get most of my work done in a single browser app with a frankly embarrassing number of Chrome tabs.

Over the last week, I've been using the new Geekom A6 mini PC as my main work computer. I've tested several mini PCs over the last few years and have grown to like Geekom's products, so I was curious to see how this new computer held up to its predecessors.

While the A6 is far from the most powerful device I've ever used, it easily allowed me to complete all of my usual workloads without issue. It has many of the same limitations as most other mini PCs, but these are things to be expected in these kinds of devices.

Here's why I recommend the Geekom A6 as a great low-price computer, whether you want to use it as your main PC or give it a specific task.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Geekom. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Geekom A6: Pricing and specifications

• An entry price point of $449 makes the mini PC extremely affordable.
• While not the most powerful computer, it does feature solid internals.
• Value rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

There are literally hundreds if not thousands of mini PCs available right now, but many of them really aren't worth your time. That said, Geekom is a company that I regularly recommend to people due to the quality of its compact devices.

The Geekom A6, specifically, is a fantastic budget mini PC due to it having an MSRP of only $449.00 at Amazon or Geekom.com. Even at that price, you're getting a great range of ports, and the device itself comes with an AMD Ryzen 7 6800H CPU (central processing unit), AMD Radeon 680M integrated GPU (graphics processing unit), 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD. It's not the most powerful mini PC out there, but it can definitely handle everyday workloads.

To be clear, there are some mini PCs out there with similar configurations that can cost up to $200 less than this. However, it's best to purchase from a known company that you trust. I've personally had experiences where cheap mini PCs have come with malware installed. Geekom is a company that we trust here at Windows Central, and this specific mini PC offers a good configuration at an affordable price.

Thanks to its compact shape and light weight, it's very easy to mount the Geekom A6 behind monitors or under desks for a far more minimalist look.

Geekom A6 — What's in the box?

In addition to the mini PC itself, the Geekom A6 comes with a VESA Mount, screws, HDMI cable, power adapter, and a user guide. With all of this, you have everything you need right out of the box to hook it up to a monitor or even mount it to the back of a compatible monitor to keep it out of sight.

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Geekom A6: Design and build quality

• The casing looks good and doesn't take up a lot of room.
• Plenty of ports and some upgradability make it convenient to use.
• Design rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

With its simple aluminum alloy chassis and boxy shape, the Geekom A6 doesn't draw attention to itself. This works in its favor, making it far less showy than some other mini PCs out there. As such, it can look good in professional settings as well as casual ones.

The cubic device measures about 4.42 by 4.42 inches and is about 1.45 inches thick, which makes it very easy to place under a monitor or tuck into a desk. It also only weighs 2.42 pounds, so it doesn't put a lot of strain on screws or the included VESA mount when mounted somewhere.

Most importantly, despite having such a compact form factor, this mini PC still offers a very healthy range of ports. On the front, you get easy access to two USB-A ports and a headphone jack. Meanwhile, turn it around, and you get a USB4 Gen 3 USB-C port, a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, two HDMI 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port, a USB-A 2.0 port, and a RJ45 LAN port. Of course, there's also an SD card reader on the mini PC's right side.

Component access and upgradability

Being in such a small form factor means the A6 has limited upgradability, but even so, this mini PC was designed to be opened and upgraded to some degree. As with the other Geekom mini PCs I've tested, I had to pull the rubber foot pads off of the bottom of the device to uncover four screws. After removing these, I used my screwdriver as a lever to gently pull the back plastic off, revealing the A6's internals.

To make room for upgrades, there are two stacked DDR5 4800MT/s RAM sticks on one side of the mini PC equaling 32GB, but it can hold up to 64GB total. Meanwhile, the A6 comes with 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD, but the mini PC can house up to 2TB total if you want more storage.

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Geekom A6: Performance and thermals

• It offers solid performance and never gets super loud.
• You shouldn't expect it to run games locally or do more demanding tasks, but it's ideal for casual workloads.
• Performance rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

During the week that I used the Geekom A6 as my main work computer, I spent time writing up articles, editing images in Photoshop, surfing the web, and doing a bit of gaming. While it's by no means a powerhouse, this mini PC can be trusted with everyday activities. It even handled neural filters and camera RAW filter edits like a champ.

As with any computer I review, I also ran the Geekom A6 through a gauntlet of benchmark testing to see how it stacked up compared to similarly configured devices. While it won't knock your socks off with its performance, this mini PC does alright for itself.

To start things off, I tested the AMD Ryzen 7 6800H CPU by running Geekbench 6. The Geekom A6 earned a single-core score of 2,564 and a multi-core score of 13,215, which is on the higher side of the results we've seen for this specific processor.

From there, I ran some 3DMark benchmark tests to better analyze the integrated GPU. Now, the Radeon 680M graphics processor in the A6 isn't the most powerful option, so I wasn't surprised when this mini PC only got a gaming graphics score of 2,399 in Time Spy. I then ran the integrated GPU benchmark, Night Raid, to which the GPU got a healthy 22,249 score, which is slightly higher than this processor's average.

Out of curiosity, I downloaded Cyberpunk 2077 onto the A6 and ran the benchmark test after putting graphics settings at their low default (non-Ray Tracing). The mini PC was able to complete the test, but as you'd expect, it was very choppy, averaging 11 FPS (frames per second). I then played the game through a distant server via NVIDIA GeForce NOW and was able to get a much-improved average of 45 FPS while the game was running at Ray Tracing: Overdrive default settings. Cyberpunk 2077 also loaded a lot faster with GeForce NOW than it did locally on this mini PC. So if you use this or a similar service you definitely can play your favorite games smoothly on Geekom A6.

After that, I used CrystalDiskMark to evaluate SSD transfer speeds. The Geekom A6 earned a 4,058 MB/s read speed and a 3,157 MB/s write speed, which isn't super speedy but is a very reliable place to be. What these results tell us is that you won't have to wait overly long for the Geekom A6 to save, load, or access data. To follow this up, I also had the A6 transcode a 4K copy of Tears of Steel in Handbrake. The mini PC took 2,767 seconds (~46 minutes) to complete this task. This isn't the fastest we've ever seen, but it is respectable.

Lastly, I used CrossMark to evaluate the A6's overall system performance. The 1,460 score it earned is a bit lower than expected but not horrible. In the end, this mini PC can easily handle basic workloads, making it ideal for school, office, and personal use. Just don't expect to do any graphically demanding tasks locally.

Thermals and fan noise

Even when I had the Geekom A6 running CPU stress testing benchmarks for 20 minutes, my decibel meter only ever showed that the mini PC reached a peak of 59.2 dB. That's a little louder than a quiet office but also quieter than your average conversation. In other words, while you will notice the soft venting from the machine, it never gets overly noisy. If you have the device connected behind your monitor or under your desk, you might not hear it at all.

As with many mini PCs, the Geekom A6 is fanless, which means it doesn't blow heat out as effectively as larger computers. Even so, I found that the device didn't get all that warm. When I whipped out my thermal camera after 20 minutes of CPU stress testing, the hottest area, unsurprisingly, turned out to be the back vents. They peaked at 132 degrees F (~55 degrees C). Meanwhile, the front of the mini PC only got as hot as 90 degrees F (~32 degrees C).

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Geekom A6: Alternatives

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Geekom A6: Score card

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Geekom A6: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a compact computer that doesn't take up a lot of room

The Geekom A6 is only 4.42 x 4.42 x 1.45 inches, which means it can easily lay under a monitor, attach behind a display, or tuck under a desk leaving more room for you to use.

✅You need a reliable mini PC that doesn't cost too much

For less than $500, the Geekom A6 provides you with a computer that can handle web browsing, movie streaming, photo editing, and a little bit of basic gaming.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You want a device that can handle more graphically demanding creative programs and gaming

Most mini PCs on the market do not offer very powerful graphics processors and the same is true of the Geekom A6. If you do want a device that can locally run intensive software, then you'll want to look elsewhere.

❌You need an even more affordable mini PC

The Geekom A6 is a solid compact computer that doesn't cost that much, but there's no denying that there are some cheaper options out there if you're on a strict budget.

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While at CES 2025, I was able to check out the latest hardware from various OEMs (original equipment manufacturers). Usually, at these shows, you'll see a range of laptops, some powerful desktops, graphics cards, and monitors. But nestled between these more common devices, I also came across more mini PCs than usual — and just about all of them featured AI processors.

Mini PCs have obviously been around for a while now, but this increase got me thinking about the newest technologies and SoC (system on a chip) offerings. Because of these latest advances, companies have finally gotten to a place where they can put a greater deal of power within a small form factor, which results in more balanced yet inexpensive computing alternatives to desktops.

So, which devices were shown at CES? Let's dive in and discuss the mini PCs I'm most excited about and what makes them stand out from the crowd.

Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini X and ThinkCentre Neo 50q — The first Snapdragon X SoC mini PCs

First off, Lenovo announced the world's first mini PCs that feature Snapdragon X chips in the form of the IdeaCentre Mini X and ThinkCentre Neo 50q. Both devices feature AI-boosting NPUs (neural processing units) and can output 45 TOPS, which makes them AI PCs ready to handle Copilot+ capabilities. Additionally, since Snapdragon uses Arm architecture and these mini PCs run Windows 11, these are also both Windows on Arm devices.

At this point, neither Lenovo AI mini PC offers a Snapdragon X Elite SoC. But it's possible that such a configuration could launch in the future.

The Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini X releases in April 2025 and will have a starting price of $659.99. Meanwhile, the Lenovo IdeaCentre Tower launches this June and should start at a $699.99 MSRP.

Geekom QS1 — The first Snapdragon X Elite mini PC

Now, we already discussed that Lenovo officially has the world's first mini PC with a Snapdragon X SoC. That said (as noted in our CES 2025 awards), Geekom has revealed that it will later release the world's first-known Snapdragon X Elite-powered mini PC that runs Windows 11 Pro. This, of course, makes it another Windows on Arm AI mini PC.

According to Geekom, this upcoming device reaches up to 45 NUC TOPS, comes with the expected integrated Qualcomm Adreno GPU (graphics processing unit), offers a dual-channel LPDDR5x with up to 64GB, and storage for up to 2 NVME Gen 4 SSDs. As with most Geekom mini PCs, it also features a slew of ports to meet your various connection needs.

The price and expected release date for the Geekom QS1 is currently unknown.

HP Z2 Mini G1a — An extremely powerful mini PC

While there are many mini PCs that come in small, squat casings, the shape of the HP Z2 Mini G1a is more like a compressed desktop. Despite its somewhat large size (for a mini PC), HP has designed it to be mounted behind your monitor or under your desk.

As for the use case, HP's website describes the HP Z2 Mini G1a as a device that can "tackle workflows previously not possible on a mini workstation," such as accelerated render times within 3D creative programs. What this all means is that this should be a rather powerful little computer, if not the most powerful mini PC out there.

To help with this heftier workload, it features an AMD Ryzen AI Max Pro Series processor capable of up to 50 NPU TOPS, with an integrated AMD Radeon graphics card, up to 128GB RAM, and up to 8TB SSD. It also has a healthy range of ports to keep up with your various connection needs.

The HP Z2 Mini G1a is expected to release sometime in Spring 2025 and likely has a hefty price tag.

MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2M — A Copilot+ mini PC

MSI revealed two new mini PCs at CES 2025: the Cubi NUC AI+ 2M and the Cubi NUC AI 1UM. An interesting thing to note is that MSI hasn't made a major push on mini PCs since 2016 (six years ago). So, this marks a pivot point for the company this year. While both MSI mini PCs look good, the former is more intriguing to me.

With more and more AI mini PCs coming to market, it's not too surprising to see that the new MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2M features a Copilot button (and a power button/fingerprint reader) right on the front. Due to that Copilot button and the Lunar Lake Intel Core Ultra 258V processor within it, this mini PC technically meets the necessary requirements to be labeled as a Copilot+ PC, or rather a Copilot+ mini PC. According to MSI, the Cubi NUC AI+ 2M can reach up to 115 NPU TOPS.

What's more, this mini PC features a built-in D-Mic and speaker as well as two Thunderbolt 4 ports, dual 2.5G LAN ports, and support for up to three displays. The release date and pricing are yet unknown.

Acer Revo Box AI — An AI mini PC with an easy-access fingerprint reader

Acer is yet another company that has jumped back into mini PCs with its latest Revo Box AI. This small AI computer stands out with its white casing, where most competitors are silver or black. But one of the things I like most about this design is that the fingerprint reader is on the top of the device and easier to reach than options with a power button/fingerprint reader on the front.

It's packed with an Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processor with an NPU that can reach up to 48 TOPS, and an integrated Intel Arc graphics card. Otherwise, it features up to 32GB LPDDR5X, and up to 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. Expansion-wise, it has one M.2 2230 WLAN slot and two M.2 2280 SSD slots. It also offers Wi-Fi 7 and a decent range of ports, although it would be better if it had more than one USB-C connection.

An Acer rep clarified that it has been 10 years since the company pushed a mini PC, once more adding to the narrative that these pint-sized computers are a bigger deal this year.

This mini PC is expected to launch sometime in Q2 2025 with a starting price of $799.99.

Several AI mini PCs to choose from this year

Mini PCs have been around for a long time but have quietly been gaining in popularity over the last few years. This is partially evident by at least a couple of OEMs revealing their first new mini PCs in years at CES 2025.

With both AI and non-AI options releasing over the next few months, these compact computers are decently powerful alternatives to the full desktops and laptops competing for consumer attention. If you want something less expensive that can hide away for a more minimalist look in 2025, then mini PCs might just be the answer for you this year.

It's finally happening! Snapdragon X powered mini PCs are going to take over in 2025, and Lenovo is joining the fray with its new IdeaCentre Mini X and ThinkCentre Neo 50q, designed for both consumer and commercial customers respectively.

Both devices will be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X or Snapdragon X Plus SoC, which both feature an NPU that can output 45 TOPS of power and makes them eligible for Copilot+ features. Unfortunately, Lenovo doesn't appear be offering these mini PCs with a Snapdragon X Elite SoC, at least not yet.

The Snapdragon X is the latest PC SoC from Qualcomm, and is the most entry-level chip yet. It's designed to bring the cost of Snapdragon PCs down to the $600 price range, which should be good news for anyone looking to pay similar prices to an Apple Mac Mini M4, but powered by Windows and with Snapdragon.

Lenovo says these PCs are aimed at professionals, creatives, and developers, and may even be a good alternative to Qualcomm's own canceled Developer Kit. The IdeaCentre Mini can be configured with up to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage, and the ThinkCentre Neo 50q can be configured with 16GB RAM and has two replaceable M.2 storage slots.

Most people will want to buy the IdeaCentre Mini for the best experience, as the ThinkCentre is designed primarily for commercial customers and is generally not as nice looking as the IdeaCentre. The IdeaCentre also has better connectivity, with Wi-Fi 7 support over the ThinkCentre's Wi-Fi 6E.

"The introduction of Snapdragon X Series Platforms into mini-PCs marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of personal computing" says Peter Burns, senior director of product marketing at Lenovo. "With a mini-PC powered by Snapdragon, you’re not just investing in a powerful device; you’re choosing a computing experience that delivers responsive performance, incredible power efficiency and next-level intelligence. Whether for professional use or personal enjoyment, mini-PCs powered by Snapdragon are set to revolutionize the way we think about desktops, offering an unrivaled experience that is more powerful."

The IdeaCentre Mini will be available for purchase in April for a starting price of around $659.99. The ThinkCentre Neo 50q will be available for purchase a couple of months later in June for $699.99. These are quite affordable for their price, and while they might not match Apple's Mac Mini M4 when it comes to raw performance, it's good to see the Windows space have something that competes relatively well with great performance at an affordable price point.

It's been less than eight months since Microsoft and Qualcomm teamed up to unveil the first Copilot+ PCs, and Acer has further expanded the lineup with a host of new PCs announced at CES 2025.

However, instead of running on Qualcomm's ARM-based Snapdragon X chips, all of Acer's newly announced Copilot+ hardware has either Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) or AMD Ryzen AI 300 processors inside. Acer has eight new Copilot+ PCs in all, but the one that piqued my interest the most is the new Revo Box AI mini PC.

Acer's Revo Box AI brings Copilot+ tools to a mini PC

The standout announcement from Acer is the Revo Box AI, a mini PC powered by Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 chips with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for local AI acceleration.

Mini PCs had a big year in 2024, but there wasn't any crossover in terms of Copilot+ tools. Qualcomm canceled its Snapdragon X Elite devkit days after it launched, and a leak involving a Geekom mini PC with X Elite chip came about in December.

Here now is the Revo Box AI, a tiny PC with a 0.75-liter chassis weighing in at 1.1 pounds (0.5kg). It's available in a black or white finish, and Acer has jazzed up the top of the PC with intersecting lines, an embedded fingerprint reader for Windows Hello, and an AI activity indicator that first made an appearance in 2024 on some of Acer's first AI laptops.

It's one of the most attractive pieces of hardware that Acer has produced in recent memory, but it's more than just looks. Acer lists Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) mobile AI processors as the centerpiece for the mini PC, though it remains unclear exactly which chips it's selected. In any case, you can expect 48 TOPS of NPU power for the AI tools available through Copilot+.

Intel's Series 2 GPUs received a considerable performance boost compared to the Series 1 chips, and you should have no issues with lighter games should you want to have some fun. Acer is offering up to 32GB of soldered LPDDR5x RAM in support, as well as up to a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD from the factory. The mini PC has three accessible M.2 slots inside for easier upgrades: two 2230 slots and one full-size 2280 slot.

Acer states the Revo Box AI will be available with up to Wi-Fi 6E for wireless networking, and it also has dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for strong wired communication.

It's hard not to draw comparisons to Apple's latest M4 Mac mini, which has its own AI working behind the scenes with Apple Intelligence. There are a few spots where I can see Acer coming out ahead. Storage upgrades should be a much easier process in the Windows system; there are two 2.5G Ethernet ports as standard (the Mac mini has one 1G Ethernet port that can be upgraded to 10G), and there's a more varied selection of ports.

The Revo Box AI comes with a USB4 port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and two USB-A 3.2 ports on the front, with another two USB-A on the back. DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 are present for native video output, and there are the two aforementioned Ethernet hookups.

The Revo Box AI mini PC is expected to launch in Q2 2025, starting at $799.99.

Acer's Copilot+ initiative extends to its all-in-one PCs

The Revo Box AI is far from the only new Copilot+ hardware announced by Acer at CES 2025, and it's not just laptops. Acer's new Aspire S AI and Aspire C AI all-in-one (AIO) PCs are each available in 24- and 27-inch configurations, with a fresh design that's among the most modern that I've ever seen from Acer.

Ultra-slim bezels, pop-up webcams, and space-saving stands are immediately noticeable in the C series, while the S series takes a more utilitarian approach with a chunkier stand and webcam in the thicker top bezel. Acer is using Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 chips for the Aspire S AI, and it's using AMD Ryzen AI 300 chips for the Aspire C AI.

As for Copilot+ laptops, there are new Aspire 14 AI and Swift Go 14/16 devices on the way. The former laptop is expected to come with up to Intel's Core Ultra 7 (Series 2) CPU with an NPU capable of 48 TOPS, as well as up to 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD.

Prices are expected to start at $799.99 when the Aspire 14 AI launches in February, and you'll have the option to upgrade to an OLED panel for deeper color and contrast.

The Swift Go lineup will receive up to an AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 CPU with an NPU at 50 TOPS, as well as your choice of 14- or 16-inch display. With up to a 3K resolution and an OLED panel, the $899.99 starting price doesn't seem unreasonable. The 14-inch model is expected to launch in May, with the 16-inch model following up in April.

Over the years, I've been able to test and use several different mini PCs; some of them are fantastic, and others I advise people to stay away from. That said, Geekom mini PCs have regularly impressed me in regard to performance, design, and ports.

Right now, the powerful Geekom GT13 Pro is on sale when you use our special WINDOWSGTI9 coupon code at Amazon or Geekom. This code drops the price from $899.00 to just $719 at Amazon (US) or, if you're in the UK, down to ￡719 at Geekom (UK). You can get it with a solid Intel i9 processor accompanied by an integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics card, 32GB RAM, and 2TB SSD. Altogether, this makes for a powerful little device that can handle streaming, creative programs like Adobe Photoshop, and even some light gaming.

Note: The code also works on the i7-13620H configuration, bringing the cost down from $649.00 to $519.00 at Geekom (US).

A small PC with plenty of power and ports for my needs

Over the years, we at Windows Central have repeatedly been impressed by Geekom's mini PCs. They are reliable, well-built, and offer tons of ports.

Now, I'll be the first to tell you that certain mini PCs aren't worth your time. You can find several selling really cheap at Amazon, but some of these aren't very powerful and some even come loaded with malware. As such, I always advise people to stick with trusted brands like Geekom, Beelink, ASUS, Intel, and Lenovo. It's also best to purchase from a first-party seller to avoid getting a mini PC that has been tampered with.

Something I really like about the Geekom GT13 Pro is that its processors can handle a lot of different tasks. It comes with either a 13th Gen Intel i7-13620H or an i9-13900H CPU (central processing unit). Neither of these is top-of-the-line, but they are both steady and reliable enough to handle streaming, browsing the internet, and working in various programs.

More specifically, purchasing the i7 configuration gives you an Intel UHD Graphics GPU (graphics processing unit), 32GB DDR4 RAM, and 1TB SSD. Meanwhile, the i9 configuration gives you a slightly more powerful Intel Iris Xe GPU, 32GB DDR4 RAM, and 2TB SSD. Regardless of the configuration, you also get Windows 11 Pro as your operating system.

RELATED: Windows 11 Home vs Pro: What's the difference?

Both configurations are capable of handling photo editing in programs like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. They can even be used for light gaming, but they don't have the graphics cards necessary for more intensive gaming or rendering software.

In addition to being used as a work, school, or home computer, the small size of this mini PC makes it ideal for enthusiast tech projects. Some people give them dedicated tasks such as running servers or working as a NAS (network attached storage). Others like to tuck them away in their living room, attach them to their TVs, and use them as part of their media center setup. There are tons of ways to use them.

Geekom GT13 Pro — What's in the box? This mini PC comes with everything you need to connect to a monitor and start using it. This includes a manual, an HDMI cable, a power adapter, and a VESA mount (in case you want to attach it to the back of a compatible monitor or under a desk).

Unlike some other mini PCs out there, this one has an extremely healthy amount of ports despite its small frame. As such, you won't have to worry about being able to connect it to your monitor, PC accessories, or various other devices. It also has Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, which easily facilitates wireless connections.

We highly recommend this Geekom GT13 Pro, so if you're interested, make sure to enter the special 20% off WINDOWSGTI9 coupon code to reduce this device to just $719 at Amazon (US) or else ￡719 at Geekom (UK). Remember, this deal only lasts from December 16, 2024 to December 20, 2024.

Full-on desktops can take up a lot of room, so it's no wonder that some people prefer to go with mini PCs, which are far more compact.

We've tested quite a few different mini PCs here at Windows Central, but one mini PC brand we've been really impressed with is Geekom. As such, I was interested in checking out one of their latest devices.

For the last two weeks, I've been using the Geekom GT1 Mega, a powerful PC with a small form factor, as my main work computer. Over the last 14 days, I've used it to work in Adobe Photoshop, multitask between multiple programs, write up articles, and stream shows. It's a very impressive device that is hard not to recommend.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Geekom. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Geekom GT1 Mega: Pricing and availability

Price & specifications highlights

• This mini PC is packed with excellent processors, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD.
• It is an AI PC because it features an Intel Core Ultra processor with an AI-boosted NPU.
• While the Geekom GT1 Mega is pricier than some other mini PCs, it also offers some powerful specs and is well-priced.
• Price rating: 5/5

I'll be the first to say that you should always be careful when buying a mini PC. There are dozens of options on Amazon that are cheap but can come loaded with malware. As such, it's always best to stick with trusted mini PC companies like Lenovo, ASUS, Dell, Beelink, and Geekom.

As far as mini PCs go, Geekom produces some of the most impressive and reliable devices we've ever seen, and the GT1 Mega is no exception. It comes loaded with an Intel Core Ultra 100S AI CPU (central processing unit) paired with Intel Arc Graphics to create a solid PC. It's also an AI PC because the processor has an AI-boosted NPU (neural processing unit).

Meanwhile, it boasts 32GB DDR5 RAM and up to 2TB PCIe SSD. Due to its small form factor, upgradeability is limited, but you can have up to 64GB RAM. Since it comes with Windows 11 Pro, the latest Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4, you can connect the latest devices and accessories very easily.

Now, some mini PCs are budget options, while others are more premium. The GT1 Mega is the latter and makes for an ideal work or home computer. It has an MSRP of $1,299.00, but I've seen it on sale for $989.00 at Amazon. All in all, it's somewhat pricey but at a good price point for its specs and size.

Despite its great specs and a healthy amount of ports, the mini PC is very small and can easily sit below your monitor. If desired, you could even put this small device in a bag and take it with you on trips.

Geekom GT1 Mega — What's in the box?

In addition to the mini PC itself, the Geekom GT1 Mega comes with a VESA mount, VESA mount screws, an HDMI cable, a power adapter/cable, and a manual. With all of this, you'll have everything you need to connect it to a monitor and get started.

Recommended configuration

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Geekom GT1 Mega: Design

Build quality and design highlights

• Thanks to its small form factor, the GT1 Mega easily fits under monitors.
• The included VESA mount also allows it to be mounted behind monitors or under desks.
• It has an aluminum metal casing that looks good and feels durable, too.
• Design rating: 5/5

The three words that best describe the Geekom GT1 Mega are "durable," "pragmatic," and "efficient." This little computer might not take up a bunch of room, but it can handle a wide range of tasks and looks good while doing it.

There are some other mini PCs out there that look a bit more flashy or are covered in RGB, but Geekom's devices are more elegant and refined-looking. It's surrounded by a classy metal casing that isn't meant to draw attention to itself, which allows it to look good in work, school, or home settings.

The underside of the GT1 Mega has rubber feet to prevent it from sliding around on your desk. If you remove these rubber feet, you'll find screws underneath, and if you remove these, you'll be able to open the mini PC. As with any computer in a compact casing, the GT1 Mega has somewhat limited upgradeability, but it does have dual-channel DDR5 5600MHZ memory slots that can hold up to 64GB RAM. So, if you need more RAM, this can accommodate that.

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Geekom GT1 Mega: Ports and connectivity

Ports and connectivity highlights

• Even with its small frame, there are plenty of ports to meet your various accessory or monitor needs.
• Four USB-A ports and a headphone jack are on the front for easy access.
• Since it offers Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, it has fantastic wireless connectivity, too.
• Connectivity rating: 5/5

Something I love about Geekom mini PCs, including the GT1 Mega, is that they always have a lot of helpful ports on them despite being such small devices. Plus, this one comes with a VESA mount, so you can connect it to the backside of compatible monitors for a clean, out-of-sight setup if desired.

The GT1 Mega specifically has a total of two USB-C 4.0 ports, two HDMI 2.0 ports, five USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a USB-A 2.0 port, an SD card reader, two RJ45 ports, and a headphone jack. With all of these options, I didn't have any issues connecting my various accessories, displays, or other devices to this compact computer. Four of the USB-A ports and the headphone jack are located on the front of the min PC for easy access.

You don't need to worry about network connectivity issues either since the GT1 Mega provides the latest Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. Whether wired or wireless, you'll be able to connect anything you need with this mini PC.

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Geekom GT1 Mega: Performance

Performance & thermals highlights

• While not the most powerful computer on the market, the GT1 Mega offers solid performance for work, school, or home.
• The Intel Arc graphics card is perfect for streaming shows, browsing the internet, editing photos, and even some light gaming.
• Just don't expect this mini PC to handle more graphically demanding creative programs or games.
• Performance rating: 5/5

To get a feel for the Geekom GT1 Mega's capabilities, I worked on a few projects in Adobe Photoshop, used several tabs while browsing the internet, streamed shows, and even did some light gaming. Overall, this compact computer did a fantastic job keeping up with all of the tasks I put to it, to the point that I often forgot I was using a mini PC rather than a full desktop.

Just for fun, I even installed Cyberpunk 2077 on it and ran a few benchmarks. It was able to run the game, but it was very choppy, only reaching an average 13 FPS on low graphics defaults. As such, it can handle some gaming but definitely isn't ideal for more intensive games.

In order to get a clearer read on its performance, I also ran the GT1 Mega through several different benchmark tests. I started things off by analyzing the Intel Core UItra 9 185H CPU with Geekbench 6. It earned a very good 13,610 multi-core score and a 2,412 single-core score, both of which were higher scores than many of the other Ultra 9 devices we tested. I further analyzed the CPU by running Cinebench R24 to check its rendering capabilities. With a multi-core score of 906 and a single-core score of 104, these results weren't the best, but they were respectable overall. In other words, the GT1 Mega offers very good processing power.

Since the Intel Core Ultra is an AI CPU, I also ran a couple of Procyon tests to analyze the processor's AI-boosting NPU (neural processing unit). It got a score of 110 in the Windows ML float 32 test and a score of 282 in the OpenVINO float 16 test. In both instances, these were higher results than average and show that this compact device is capable of handling AI tasks very efficiently.

Next, I jumped into 3DMark and ran the Time Spy test to check the Intel Arc's graphics performance. It earned a score of 4,060, which is very much in line with where other Intel Arc devices have scored. While it cannot handle intensive gaming and graphically demanding programs, this processor is heartier than the Intel Iris Xe (or the AMD 780M equivalent), and as such, it's perfect for streaming, browsing, photo editing, and even some video editing.

To test the SSD, I ran the CrystalDiskMark sequential read test and found that the SSD measured at a read speed of 5,049 MB/s and a write speed of 4,369 MB/s. These results won't blow you away, but they are very respectable and show that this mini PC can save data or load data files quickly. On a similar note, I had the mini PC transcode a 4K file of Tears of Steal in Handbrake, and it was able to do so within 2.292 seconds, which is relatively quick.

Finally, I ran CrossMark to check the GT1 Mega's overall system performance. The mini PC earned a score of 1,996, which is relatively high. As such, this tells us that it is very responsive. All in all, the Geekom GT1 Mega is a fantastic device with an absolutely solid performance that you can rely on regardless of what tasks you put to it.

Thermals and fan noise

While the mini PC was running a CPU stress test for 20 minutes, I pulled out my thermal camera and took some readings. The hottest area, unsurprisingly, is the back vent, which peaked at 103 degrees Fahrenheit (F) (~39 degrees Celsius (C)). Meanwhile, the top and front of the mini PC only got as hot as 73 degrees F (~23 degrees C). This really isn't that hot overall, and it helps the device work efficiently.

It's really not that loud of a device, either. The fans can get going with little provocation, reaching a peak of 57.6 dB during stress testing. From where I was sitting, the sound only measured at 43.9 dB near my ear, which isn't very loud at all. If you tuck the mini PC behind your monitor or under the desk, you might not even notice the fans.

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Geekom GT1 Mega: Alternatives

You don't have to look outside of Geekom to find more of the best mini PCs. For starters, you might want to take a look at my colleague, Harish Jonnalagadda's Geekom A8/A7 review. These mini PC models are powerful enough to easily handle creative projects in Photoshop, multitasking between multiple browser tabs, streaming shows, and running everyday programs. The Geekom A8 sells for $849.00 at Amazon.

Outside of Geekom, we also love Beelink mini PCs. You can check out our recent Beelink EQR6 review to learn more about the many AMD Ryzen GPU configurations it's offered in. It offers great performance, has easily upgradable RAM and storage, and features dual LAN ports. This mini PC has a starting price of $395.00 at Amazon.

If you're specifically looking for a mini PC that can handle gaming, then I suggest you take a look at my ASUS ROG NUC 970 review. This relatively compact device manages to house a 14th Gen Intel Core Ultra 9 185H AI CPU, an RTX 4070 L GPU, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 1TB NVMe SSD. It comes with a stand, so you can have it rest under your monitor or prop it upright to save you some desk space. You'll find it selling for $1,800.00 at B&H.

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Geekom GT1 Mega: Scorecard

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Geekom GT1 Mega: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if..

• You want a compact mini PC that offers powerful and reliable performance.
• You need a computer that is good for multitasking between programs or working in simple creative software.
• You'd prefer a trusted mini PC with plenty of ports.

❌ You shouldn't buy this if..

• You're looking for a computer that can handle graphically intensive programs or intensive gaming.
• You'd prefer something larger that has room to upgrade more internal parts.

Some mini PCs feel limited and slow, but the Geekom GT1 Mega is a powerful little device that can handle just about any everyday work task. The processors offer solid performance that can handle everything from having multiple tabs open for web browsing to photo editing in Adobe Photoshop.

The small form factor means that it doesn't take up a lot of room on your desk. Plus, it comes with a VESA mount, so you could attach it to the back of a compatible monitor or tuck it away under a desk if you want a minimal computer setup. Despite its small shape, it still offers plenty of ports so you can connect the accessories and monitors you need.

The one and only area where it lacks is upgradeability, but this is the case with all mini PCs. That said, there is room to upgrade the RAM to 64GB if desired. All in all, this is a fantastic mini PC that offers reliable performance without requiring a ton of space.

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The demand for mini PCs has increased this year along the same line as the demand for quality AI laptops, and Lenovo has arrived at an intersection between the two categories with its business-oriented ThinkCentre neo Ultra.

It's a 3.6L mini PC that makes good use of its above-average size — at least compared to the more mainstream mini PCs — to offer discrete desktop-class NVIDIA RTX graphics performance, desktop-class Intel vPro processors (CPU), more than enough upgradeable RAM and storage, and an optional Kinara Ara-2 discrete Neural Processing Unit (NPU) card with 40 TOPS specifically made for acceleration in AI tasks.

Lenovo imagines the PC on the desks of busy professionals who often leverage AI to boost productivity and creativity; it's not exactly cheap, at least at full price, but it belongs to a thin slice of the mini PC market pie thanks to the discrete GPU and NPU inside. Is it worth your money? Let's take a look.

Lenovo supplied Windows Central with a temporary review unit of the ThinkCentre neo Ultra. It had no input on the contents of this review.

Lenovo ThinkCentre neo Ultra: Price, availability, and specs

The best place to shop for the ThinkCentre neo Ultra is at Lenovo's official website, where you'll find deep configuration options and, at least at the time of writing, some massive discounts.

Lenovo has a couple of pre-configured models for sale, but the custom configurator allows you to dial in the exact specs you need. At the time of writing, configurable models start at about $1,653, down from the regular $3,179 price. That price includes an Intel Core i7-14700 vPro CPU, NVIDIA RTX 4060 GPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe OPAL SSD.

This massive reduction isn't uncommon at Lenovo, especially for its business PCs. Prices are often sky-high, with massive discounts available at practically any time. Bottom line? If you're buying this PC, wait for it to be hit by a big sale.

Lenovo's pre-configured models don't list the NPU as included hardware, so I recommend anyone who needs the extra AI acceleration check out the custom model. There, you can add up to an Intel Core i9-14900 vPro CPU, discrete NPU (which costs $125), 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and dual 2TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs; the RTX 4060 comes with all models by default.

Going all-out in the custom configurator bumps the price up to $5,579, but again, it's cut nearly in half to $2,901 with a running discount.

My exact review unit, with Windows 11 Pro, an Intel Core i7-14700, NVIDIA RTX 4060 GPU, discrete NPU card, 32GB of DDR5-5200MHz RAM, 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD, and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity costs about $3,909 without discounts. At the time of writing, it's down to $2,032.68 at Lenovo.

Reviewed configuration

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Lenovo ThinkCentre neo Ultra: Design and internal layout

Lenovo doesn't specifically call out the ThinkCentre neo Ultra as a "mini PC" in any documentation — instead, it refers to it as an ultra-small form factor — but it's small enough that I'd consider it under the umbrella.

It weighs about 7.72 pounds (3.5kg) and measures 7.68 x 7.52 x 4.25 inches. That's considerably larger and heavier than something like the Beelink EQR6 favorably reviewed by Senior Editor Zac Bowden, but of course, there's a lot more hardware here.

The neo Ultra is more in line with the ASUS ROG NUC 970 reviewed by Editor Rebecca Spear, which makes sense considering the ASUS PC also has a discrete GPU inside. The big difference here is that the neo Ultra relies on desktop-class CPUs and GPU, whereas the mentioned alternatives run laptop hardware that can't manage quite as much power.

Even on my desk, crowded by a docking station and ultrawide monitor, there's ample space to fit the neo Ultra. However, if you're looking for a PC that you can mount, say, to the back of a monitor, this isn't it.

The PC's chassis has rounded corners and a sleek Luna Gray finish that shouldn't clash with the rest of the hardware on your desk. It's built from a mixture of recycled aluminum and plastic that feels truly solid.

The top panel is separated ever so slightly from the rest of the body to provide air for the GPU and system fans, adding a nice accent all the way around the PC in the process.

Hidden along the back of the PC is a cutout for ports and exhaust venting. The little PC manages to fit four DisplayPort 1.4, dual HDMI 2.1, four USB-A (two 5Gbps and two 10Gbps), 2.5GbE LAN, and two extra punch-out slots should you want to add some extra connections at checkout. They can be configured with VGA, USB-C, LAN, Serial, DisplayPort, and HDMI depending on your needs. It's a nice touch that'll no doubt come in handy for some professionals.

All these video ports come together to offer support for up to eight external displays running on a mixture of onboard and GPU ports. You'll still get support for six displays if you opt not to fill the punch-out slots when configuring. Not bad at all.

The front of the PC houses a power button, USB-C (20Gbps), two USB-A (10Gbps), and a 3.5mm audio jack. Unfortunately, there's no USB4 or Thunderbolt 4. As for the bottom of the PC, there's some perimeter venting and four rubber feet. This is also where you can gain access to the internals for upgrades or servicing.

The bottom panel of the PC can be removed with nothing more than a screwdriver and a pry tool. The rubber feet pads spin and click out without issue, revealing four screws. Once removed, the panel pulls off easily. This unveils the PC's two SODIMM RAM slots as well as the two M.2 PCIe slots; you don't have to dig any further to upgrade memory or storage.

Lenovo has a bunch of handy video guides on disassembling the PC, and I used them to gain access. I'm always fascinated with how much hardware can be packed into such a small space, especially when a discrete GPU is involved. The PC's cover can be completely removed, and you can see clearly how the hardware is installed in the image gallery above.

Even the PSU is contained inside of the PC, reducing clutter in your office. The only complaint I have in that arena is how short the power cable is that comes with the neo Ultra.

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Lenovo ThinkCentre neo Ultra: Performance and AI

The ThinkCentre neo Ultra has something inside that I’ve never seen before. Alongside the desktop-class Intel CPU and NVIDIA GPU, there’s a Kinsara Ara-2 discrete Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with 40 TOPS of power designed specifically for AI acceleration. Eager to test it out, I set up the usual AI benchmarks we use for AI PCs. I quickly ran into an issue large enough to warrant its own article, but I’ll recap here.

Despite being recognized in the Windows 11 Device Manager, I couldn’t get the discrete NPU to show up anywhere else. Even Lenovo’s Vantage app, which is tuned specifically for its PCs, had no idea that an NPU was lurking inside. No tests seemed to reflect the fact that I was enabling and disabling the NPU in Device Manager. Assuming it was an issue with the benchmarking software or my own lack of knowledge, I reached out to Lenovo for support.

The reply wasn’t what I was expecting. As it turns out, the NPU can’t be utilized by anything until Lenovo provides a software update. However, there’s no date set for when that software update might arrive, so anyone who spends the extra $125 on the discrete NPU will have to wait. OK, we’re still in the “Wild West” period of AI PCs, with software and hardware at a mismatch as both try to keep up with the frantic pace of AI model progress.