Want something small and cheap to use as a server or dedicated emulation machine?
A mini PC might be just what you’re looking for.
What Is a Mini PC?
Hannah Stryker / How-To Geek
Mini PCs generally use smaller components than a standard desktop would.
The specification typically uses barebones kits that include a case, motherboard, power supply, and CPU.
Though NUC refers specifically to Intel’s specification, similar form factors are now available with AMD processors too.
Intel
They’re the perfect machines for general computing if you find yourself limited by available space.
This also means that you might introduce a computer into spaces that have limited room.
You could clip one to a projector and use it as a source for video or gaming.
Apple
In retail and office options, mini PCs have become popular for their small footprints and relatively low costs.
Since they’re light on both power and space, they fit in cars and motorhomes too.
Unlike a laptop, most will fit into a large pocket.
A mini PC built on an Intel 12th-generation Core i5 processor (4 performance, 8 efficiency cores), Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 16GB of RAM and a 256GB PCIe SSD.
Thunderbolt 4 and 10Gb Ethernet make it ideal for accessing source video both locally and across the web link.
Want to replace an old laptop that sat on a desk for its entire life?
For example, theZOTAC ZBOX CI667 nano barebonesmini PC supports triple-monitor setups out of the box.
With the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, you can create all kinds of fun projects, and upgrade gadgets around your home. Alternatively, install a full desktop OS and use it like a regular computer.
By comparison, the cheapest MacBook Air is $999.
Related:Can’t Find a Raspberry Pi?
Alternatively,turn your mini PC into a home file server with FreeNAS.
Effectively an AMD equivalent of Intel’s NUC specification, this Ryzen 5-powered mini PC has 16GB of DDR4 RAM, a 512GB SSD, and comes with Windows 11 Pro but lacks the dedicated GPU necessary for impressive gaming performance.
But there’s also an argument to be made for a dedicated emulation machine.
Set everything up the way you like it, and it’s ready whenever you need it.
Install a Linux distribution likeBatoceraorLakkafor a ready-to-go gaming-focused Linux mini PC experience.
you might have performance in a nano form factor if you’re willing to pay for it.
If macOS fits the bill, you might do a lot worse than an M2 orM2 Pro Mac mini.
For Windows users, platforms like the Intel NUC and similar AMD Ryzen-powered machines exist, offering great performance.
Intel NUC 12 Pro kits like theNUC12WHSi5come with 12th-gen Core i5 12-core processors and Intel Iris Xe graphics.
Alternatively, install a full desktop OS and use it like a regular computer.
Related:Can You Upgrade a Prebuilt PC?
Unfortunately, macOS is far from the ideal gaming operating system.
You might pay a bit more, but it’ll be worth it.
If you don’t already have a display in mind, you’ll need a monitor.
For a living room PC, a lapboard might be appropriate.
If you’re putting together something for emulating retro titles, agood retro controlleris a must.
Aiming to run Windows?
Don’t forget about Windows licensing.
It can make the value proposition disappear entirely, considering a laptop is a truly portable workstation.
