There are times when you don't need to build a tower from scratch. If the idea is to handle basic browsing sessions and a bit of multimedia playback, there are capable alternatives that can do both for less than 200 euros, and besides being extremely compact, they consume a fraction of the energy and include an official Windows license. On the other hand, if you want power in a small volume, the best solution comes through Intel NUC Mini PCs. Today we'll explore both paths.
We all enjoy assembling computers, especially when they're for ourselves. In fact, some users have admitted that they prefer building PCs to playing with them (which may sound odd, but it makes sense). Fortunately, components fit almost any budget, which equals more flexibility. However, there's always the possibility that available space works against us, or simply that we don't need a high-performance computer. That's when Mini PCs come in. Some models are so compact that they can be installed on the back of a monitor using VESA mounting holes, or hidden behind furniture thanks to low power consumption and passive cooling.
The Best Mini PCs You Can Buy Today
A common element among current Mini PCs is the use of Intel processors. The vast majority of models use the Atom x5-Z8350, with four cores and a Turbo mode of 1.92 GHz. That's more than enough for office tasks and offline multimedia playback, but when streaming it usually needs a little help (a frequent recommendation is to install h264ify on Chrome and Firefox to improve YouTube performance). The Z8350 will be our baseline, and from there we'll see what we can find without burning a hole in our pockets.
Z83-F Mini PC
Why this Mini PC in particular over all other Z8350 options? Five reasons: It delivers 4 GB of RAM, when some models are limited to 2 GB. It includes 64 GB of storage, which lets us stretch our legs a bit more. The cooling is passive, so its noise level is zero. It comes with VGA video output, ideal for reusing old monitors. And the fifth reason: it includes a Windows 10 Pro license, which costs $200 if purchased separately.
AcePC AK1 Pro
If you've come to the conclusion that the Z8350 isn't enough and you can invest a few extra euros, the next step will take you to the AcePC AK1 Pro. Its storage drops to 32 GB, it loses the VGA port, and the cooling is active, but this Mini PC already qualifies as a NUC by using a Celeron J3455 with four cores and a 2.3 GHz Turbo. It also offers expansion options in 2.5-inch and mSATA, a USB Type-C port, and the ability to choose between standard Windows 10 and the Pro edition for €10 more.
Intel NUC BOXNUC6CAYH
Now, what if you're interested in the Celeron J3455, but would like to control the rest of the configuration a bit more? The answer is to look for an official Intel NUC, in this case the BOXNUC6CAYH (yes, Intel's names are adorable). You'll need to add storage, RAM, and an operating system, but the H at the end indicates support for 2.5-inch drives (a 120 GB SSD costs around €40 on average), and the use of DDR3L memory makes this adventure a bit more economical.
Alfawise Z83V
Alright, let's say you want the cheapest option, you need a couple of ports, and you'd like the Mini PC to be mounted on the back of the monitor/TV. The Alfawise Z83V has what you're looking for. We're back to the Z8350, RAM doesn't exceed 2 GB, and internal storage is 32 GB, but right now it costs less than €100, and the truth is that nothing stops you from experimenting with Linux distros and a bit of Kodi.
Intel NUC BOXNUC7I3BNH
Our list of Mini PCs comes to an end with the Intel NUC BOXNUC7I3BNH. This model is based on the seventh-generation Core i3-7100U, and the use of DDR4 memory gives its performance an extra boost. Once again we stick with the H variant to install 2.5-inch drives. When you're done, the final cost of this Mini PC will be similar to that of a desktop computer, but we're talking about a Core i3 in 11 by 11 by 3.5 centimeters.
Have you bought a Mini PC recently? Do you like how it works and want to share some details? Is there another model that should be included here? Feel free to leave a comment. Good luck!
