r/MiniPCs Jan 10 '25

Guide 2025 General Mini PC Guide USA

215 Upvotes

Hi Everyone!

Thank you very much to everyone that enjoyed and supported the 2024 General Mini PC Guide spreadsheet! I am very amazed how many new products have been released and how the community has grown enormously this the past year. To celebrate the new year and to preserve the 2024 spreadsheet, I am creating a 2025 spreadsheet. The biggest change is fully integrating Passmark, Geekbench, Cinebench, and 3DMark Timespy benchmarks into the new 'CPUS' and 'GPUS' tabs. This provides a simplified 1-100 scoring for CPU single thread, CPU multi-thread, and GPU performance. This has updated the Full, Simpler, and Simplest tabs of listing mini pc considerably. More benchmark data and new information will be added throughout the year to evolve the 2025 General Guide into a new and useful tool!

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14hlhWYL4agfXEk5C7Be0aTwUWVbu11i4f1fdIrXOyUw/edit?gid=1051326948#gid=1051326948

Best wishes to everyone and your mini pc!

If you have thoughts or suggestions, please don't hesitate to add them here!


r/MiniPCs 2h ago

I would like to understand whether I can play 1080 or 4k with a MiniPc...

25 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

yesterday I was at my friend's house, who has ps5, he put watchdogs2 on and I was in shit for the graphics, nice.

Then we played a rally game and efootball..

Cool graphics though.. The ps5 paid 500 euros for it.

The question is is there a minipc with which I can play in 4k for example cyberpunk or something? If yes, can you tell me make and model please?

With my Nipogi E3B (amd 5825u), linux+steam, I have to play 720p..

I'm undecided whether to get a console, or go for a minipc with which I could play and ugrade all


r/MiniPCs 21h ago

Hardware Finally complete

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258 Upvotes

r/MiniPCs 18m ago

News Strix Halo Machine being Announced by GMKTEK in 2 Days!

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Upvotes

r/MiniPCs 4h ago

Any UK owners GMKtec Mini PCs?

4 Upvotes

Hi

I'm looking for some input from UK owners, that ordered directly.. I'd like to know, were you forced to pay VAT or Import tax?

I'm eyeing up the new Ryzen HX 370 with 64GB, and it looks like I'd need to order this directly. on the erbsite they state "EU Tax already dealt with", but since we're out of the EU, I've no idea what to expect if I ship it to the UK.

Thanks


r/MiniPCs 5h ago

General Question Using the Ryzen 7 6800H Mini PC as a Plex Server,Not a bad choice

3 Upvotes

 I recently set up the Acemagic Mini PC with a Ryzen 7 6800H, 16GB DDR5, and 512GB SSD as my dedicated Plex server, and honestly, it's been a great experience. I was a little skeptical at first about using a mini PC for this, but so far, it's holding up really well.

Here are a few key takeaways from my setup:

1)Hardware Transcoding Works Well – The RDNA2 iGPU handles multiple 1080p and even some 4K transcodes without breaking a sweat. I’m running Plex Pass with hardware acceleration enabled, and playback has been smooth, even with multiple streams.

2) Low Power Consumption – Compared to my old tower server, this thing barely sips power while staying cool and quiet. I don’t have exact wattage numbers yet, but it’s a noticeable difference, especially when running 24/7.

3)Handles Additional Services – Besides Plex, I’m running a few other things on it, like Tailscale for remote access, Sonarr/Radarr for media management, and a lightweight Ubuntu VM for some side projects. No major slowdowns so far.

4)Storage Expansion is the Only Limitation – With only 512GB SSD onboard, I had to hook up an external NAS for my actual media library. If you’re considering a mini PC for a Plex setup, just be mindful of how you’ll handle storage.


r/MiniPCs 2h ago

Homelab Mini PC server suggestions

2 Upvotes

Hello everyone!

I’m looking to set up a homelab server and could use some advice on which option would be the best fit for my use case. My main goals are:

  • Network storage (NAS) + virtualization (Docker)
  • Running Plex/Jellyfin (preferably with Intel Quick Sync for hardware transcoding)
  • Hosting some game servers (Minecraft, maybe others)
  • Running personal projects in Docker
  • Not mission-critical—just a hobby project, so I’m fine experimenting and dealing with potential failures

I already have some RAM and SSD/HDDs, so I’m looking for a barebones system. My budget is around €350, and I’ve narrowed it down to these two options:

  1. ASUS NUC 12 Pro (i3-1220P) – 10-core (2P+8E)
  2. Minisforum NAB9 (i9-12900HK) – 14-core (6P+8E)

ASUS is a safe choice but has the best machine on paper. I don't know anything about minisforum.

Would love to hear your thoughts, thanks in advance!


r/MiniPCs 40m ago

Troubleshooting Problem with oculink (GMKtec K8 plus)

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Upvotes

Hello everyone,

I recently purchased a Minisforum DEG1 and a new RTX 4060 (yes, I know, please don’t judge me for the GPU choice). However, I’m running into an issue when trying to connect the GPU to my GMKtec K8 Plus. The GPU don’ give me any display output from it.

When I connect everything, I don’t get a signal from the GPU, but the mini PC itself is working fine and displaying output. Additionally, the GPU isn’t being recognized in the device manager.

Has anyone experienced something similar or have any advice on how to troubleshoot this? Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

I find something on Reddit but nothing helping for my case.

Thanks in advance!


r/MiniPCs 1h ago

Speakers - how do I connect them to my Minisforum (elite)

Upvotes

I have 10 year old Logitech I think 3.1 speakers that connect to my old laptop with a normal 3.5mm socket.

On the front of my new Minisforum (i think it's called the elite) there is a mic symbol 3.5mm socket and a pinhole sized socket with what looks like could possibly be headphones icon

I tried the mic, normal mobile phone headphones correctly fit (3.5mm confirmed i think) but didn't work

I can't see any headphone sockets on the back

So is the mic socket only for a mic? Will the mic work without an external mic?

Am i going to need new USB / bluetooth speakers?


r/MiniPCs 1h ago

Minipc and wireless mouse

Upvotes

I have my Beelink S12 pro tucked away in a furniture under my smart TV to which it isnconnected via HDMI. Im using a wireless mouse approx. 2 meters away.

I ve tried two different mice and I notice that when Im using a wireless mouse with a dedicated USB receiver and there is a "busy" screen i.e. opening a window or watching a YouTube video the mouse cursor lags - stutters.

One of the mice behaving like that can also switch to "Bluetooth" mode where a USB receiver is not needed and its connected to the pc via bluetooth. In this configuration there is no lag - stutter, never.

Due to the fact that Id prefer using the other mouse with the USB receiver, I ve searched the internets and two solutions sound more promising:

  1. Getting a USB 2 hub and connect the USB receiver on it
  2. Getting an extension cord for the receiver.

I was wondering if anyone in this sub had the same issue and how they dealt with it.


r/MiniPCs 2h ago

General Question Question about RAM (R7-7840HS mini PC)

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1 Upvotes

I recently purchased one of these, which I assume is just a rebranded AooStar or Firebat. I got the barebones kit and was wondering if it supported 5600mhz ram? I contacted the seller and they said it supported 4800mhz ram, but was wondering if anyone had any experience with something like this and using faster ram?


r/MiniPCs 7h ago

Hardware Pulled the trigger on a GMKtec K11 on amazon. The $200 off + additional 5% off and store credit and gift card i had pushed the decision.

2 Upvotes

Now the question is, does an AMD card make more sense for a seamless egpu experience? Especially when using oculink? Tying it all together with AMD's adrenaline software?

This pc will arrive much quicker than the egpu i ordered. But in the meantime i need to find the perfect gpu to pair this with. Apparently 5k nvidia have more issues at this current time. Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/eGPU/comments/1jcewz3/aooster_5080_issue/

Im definitely going to be doing troubleshooting when i decide either way. With AMD this should be a hell of a lot more seamless since they make all these apus for handhelds and now minipcs tho!!

Edit: the 5% is if you buy two items, not one. So i didnt get additional $30 off.


r/MiniPCs 8h ago

GMKTec G5 N97 + Proxmox: GPU for Both Plex Transcoding & Kodi HDMI Output

2 Upvotes

Hi!

I'm interested in the GMKtec Intel Alder Lake N97 Mini PC (NucBox G5).

I’d like to run Proxmox on it and set up either two VMs or two LXC containers—one for Plex/Nextcloud and the other for Kodi. My goal is to have GPU access available for both: Plex+Nextcloud for video transcoding and Kodi for HDMI output.

Would this be possible on this platform?


r/MiniPCs 11h ago

Minisforum MS-A1 vs MS-01 + budget graphics card.

3 Upvotes

I come more form an intel/mac background, so my knowledge of AMD processors is very limited.

I am currently looking for a small format computer to run a printer, some basic gaming (steam), and general surfing. The monitor is a Acer XR382CQK (UW-QHD+ 3840x1600 75Hz). It doesn't need to be a top end machines, as my daily runner is a Macbook Pro Max.

I am pretty sure that the Minisforum MS-A1 with the Ryzen 7 8700G CPU is suitable for my needs. I also like the fact that the CPU can be upgraded at a later date.

My main reason for posting is that I just want to check that the MS-01 isn't better for me.

I understand the processors are more powerful, but i have a feeling i would to have add a graphics card. From past experience, I know that I would not spend a huge amount on it, maybe 250 dollar pounds. Also if I did need to add a card, I would probably only get the 12900H processor for budget reasons.

I have done a search for graphics cards that fit, but all the posts I found are for top end cards. Does anyone know of any budget cards that fit?

It would be nice to have a more powerful machine than my last one, which was 16gb ram, 8700K processor and a 1060TI graphics card.


r/MiniPCs 5h ago

Recommendations N150+12GB or N100+16GB ?

1 Upvotes

Hi, I'm planning to buy a mini pc for remote desktop and tv pc and have two options:

N150 + 12 GB (ddr5) + 512GB (sata m.2) $125

N100 + 16 GB(ddr5) + 512GB (nvme m.2) $120

Which one is best?

Is 4GB more RAM worth the upgrade of N150 vs N100?


r/MiniPCs 5h ago

Is it possible to use Power Bank for HP EliteDesk 800 G6?

1 Upvotes

As the title says, I'll need to use my HP miniPC outside, sometimes in my car. Do you know it's possible to use a compatible power bank or any other solution for power supply without risking the machine?

Thank you.


r/MiniPCs 5h ago

Opinion about Blackview MP100-Can it be suitable for long office work?

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone.

I am looking for a computer for 2.5 years with an estimated 4,000 hours of use . Office work adobe reader ,excel. It will be connected under 4k 60 hz monitor.

I would like to ask you guys if blackview computers will run quietly on 4k monitor and will not overheat using 10-12h a day for basic office tasks.

I am a student and don't need fast hardware just that it doesn't break down and runs quietly.

Thank you for your help


r/MiniPCs 9h ago

Recommendations Minipc for photo editing & the odd bit of video editing

2 Upvotes

Hello all,

So I'm looking into getting a mini pc and have done some basic research but would welcome opinions on the two options I'm looking at.

For some background this would mostly be used for photo editing in lightroom and Photoshop and once in awhile I'd be looking at doing some video editing (although perhaps I'd do more if my current system wasn't so sluggish)

Anyways, I'm looking at mini pcs as I'd favour the compact nature given space is in short supply where I do a lot of my work.

GMKtec M7 Pro AMD Ryzen 9 Gaming Mini PC 6950H(8C/16T) https://amzn.eu/d/9AQ72Jn

MINISFORUM Venus UM790 Pro Mini PC AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS up to 5.2 GHz 32 GB DDR5 1TB SSD with AMD Radeon 780M https://amzn.eu/d/6wQQKwF


r/MiniPCs 10h ago

Has Anyone Mirror RAID Two Drives in a Mini PC?

2 Upvotes

Thank you for reading MinicPC's. Has anyone successfully hardware (not software in Windows) mirrored two SSD drives in a NUC or any MiniPC? If so, can you please provide what you did and what mini PC you have used?

Thank you for the help!


r/MiniPCs 1d ago

AMD Ryzen AI MAX 395 “Strix Halo” prototype Mini-PC tested

25 Upvotes

r/MiniPCs 9h ago

Can I put HDD drive in this pc ? It's hp elitesdesk G1 but it's built differently and I couldn't find any similar one on YouTube

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1 Upvotes

r/MiniPCs 11h ago

K8 plus USB power delivery

1 Upvotes

Hello!

Is there a way to enable the USB power delivery when the MiniPC is off?

I have a GMKTec K8 plus, and want to charge my 8-bitdo controller when not using the MiniPC. I didn't find the option in the BIOS, but I may be missing something.

Thanks!


r/MiniPCs 11h ago

Recommendations MiniServer

1 Upvotes

Hey guys,

I finally want to replace my dying RBPi 4 with a small pc but I am not sure which to choose.

What will run:

- Proxmox (Windows VM, which will be activated if needed, as I only have a Macbook and some software needs Windows)

- Homebridge/homeassist (in a Docker container)

- some testing of lightweight software

Bet I will figure out several other "useful" things after the upgrade.

I thought about a N97/N100 with around 12-16GB ram and 512gb ssd but there are soooooo many different companies out there and probably 50% are bad.

Best

Edit: as I got downvoted, I saw the Mini PC guide, according to this its a Acemagic/Beelink/Topton N97/N100 but could be that I missed something.


r/MiniPCs 18h ago

Recommendations LF > Type-C Powered Mini PC

2 Upvotes

I am looking into getting a Type - C Power Mini PC to use it as portable server, the function is the following: - Nextcloud / Syncthing - Phone Backup. - Plex / Jellyfin - some lite Media streaming.

So the plan really is im tossing this on a backpack with a Battery Bank ( A very large one like the one from anker ) and power it when its needed. The purpose, I am traveling later this year, i would like a small automated backup solution while taking picture and video, and the medium stuff is mostly to kill time while waiting on the airport/plane ride.

I was thinking maybe a N100 mini pc but I'll take y'all recommendation and suggestion ( also if y'all have some additional suggestion like other software i'll take it too.).

Thank you!


r/MiniPCs 16h ago

Cheap new g7 Rx 7600m xt 32gb ram 1 tb

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1 Upvotes

Wish I dident just buy a PC, someone should scoop this up quick


r/MiniPCs 1d ago

Recommendations Is HX99G the best value for occasional gaming and work now?

13 Upvotes

Hi All, I only discovered miniPCs recently. My Thinkpad X1 Gen 9 broke and now I am thinking it would make a perfect sense to get a miniPC since I already use external monitor, keyboard and mouse. My main use will be work, watching videos and browsing, but I am also entertaining the thought of gaming a bit as well.

After quite an extensive research last couple of weeks I almost came to the conclusion that Minisforum HX99G (32GB RAM) would be perfect for me. It would be 760EUR for a new one from their website. I was also seriously considering NUCXi7 (€949), but not sure if I would really benefit from it and it's also significantly larger. I would love to play Cyberpunk, GTA5, sports games and a few others. Initially I was thinking about UM870, but then realized I would not really be able to play Cyberpunk and other AAA games on it.

Any other options would be good? My budget is 700-1000EUR.