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Mini PCs are a great alternative to the classic big, bulky desktop computers.
If you think that sounds a lot like a laptop, you wouldn’t be wrong.
So why not buy a laptop instead?
Joe Fedewa / How-To Geek
Well, you don’t have to!
It’s pretty easy to use a laptop in the same way that you would use a mini PC.
Simply plug in a monitor, connect your keyboard and mouse, and you’re ready to go.
Joe Fedewa / How-To Geek
Alaptop docking stationorstandcan make it even easier, but you might not even need them.
In the photo above, I have my laptop plugged into power and anultrawide monitor.
Mymouse and keyboardconnect over Bluetooth.
Joe Fedewa / How-To Geek
You don’t have to give them up just because you’re using a laptop.
You don’t always have to keep it strapped down to your desk.
A laptop can go with you.
Hannah Stryker / How-To Geek Hannah Stryker / Review Geek Hannah Stryker / LifeSavvy
This is the ultimate reason why a laptop is the best mini PC.
you’ve got the option to pop a laptop into a bag and take it with you.
Are you going to pack up your mini PC, monitor, keyboard, and mouse?
A laptop can free two birds with one key.
Even if you don’t often need a portable computer, it’s nice to have the option.
Flexibility is a nice thing to have.
Mini PCs Use Laptop Parts
Let’s get down and dirty and talk about specifications.
Mini PCs are able to be mini by using smaller components than desktop PCs.
Often times, that means CPUs, RAM, power supplies, and other components designed for laptops.
it’s also common for mini PCs to lack dedicated GPUs and fans.
Essentially, you might have a mini PC that is literally just laptop parts inside a smaller case.
It seems like needlessly restricting yourself.
Of course, not all mini PCs use low-powered laptop parts.
That being said, you’re able to get a laptop with desktop-class components too.
There area lot of reasons to like mini PCs, butlaptopsshare many of those same reasons.
I don’t see why you might’t have your cake and eat it too.
Sounds like the perfect mini PC, right?
