Mini PCs are so small that it’s understandable why some people think they’re an entirely different proposition to their standard-sized desktop cousins. I did for a while after I bought my mini PC. The reality, though, is that apart from the obvious difference in size they aren’t all that different. Here we look at some of the common misconceptions people have about mini PCs and why they’re just plain wrong.
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Table of Contents
1. Mini PCs are too underpowered for proper gaming
This is a common myth that you see people perpetuating on forums, but the truth is that mini PCs are comparable to desktop PCs for everyday gaming performance. CPU-wise these mini machines usually sport impressive base clock speeds. I’m talking about speeds up to 5.0GHz.
The main difference between mini PCs for gaming and standard desktop gaming PCs is the lack of a discrete GPU in some models and the reliance on integrated graphics like AMD Radeon or Intel Iris Xe instead. There are the rare exceptions to that rule, as with the GPU-sporting Asus ROG NUC 970 mini PC, and these are highly sought after.
While it’s true that models lacking discrete GPUs are effectively limited to lighter graphics and gaming, it’s also true that some models support eGPUs to dock a video card externally, and can reach frame rates close to desktop PCs. In such cases, it’s not uncommon for mini PCs to clock upwards of 70 frames-per-second in first-person shooters. The GMKtec gaming mini PC, for example, supports an eGPU via its Oculink interface.
2. Mini PCs are noisy and get hot
Many people believe that mini PCs are noisy and suffer from cooling issues due to their compact size. But the truth is that a number of technological advancements have made mini PCs both quiet and efficient.
One of the reasons mini PCs can stay cool and quiet is that they utilize low-power components. These compact devices usually consume much less power than a standard desktop computer, typically between 10 to 30 watts compared to 200 watts or more. The GMKtec G5 mini PC, for example, consumes only 12 to 15 watts of power.
Looking specifically at noise, it differs considerably between different models. While it’s true that under heavy loads some models might activate fans that are audible, it’s also true that some mini PCs like the MeLe Quieter 4C N150 sport fanless designs, which contradicts the idea that all mini PCs are noisy. It makes sense then, to read product reviews before buying a mini PC and to avoid generalizations about noise.
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3. Mini PCs don’t last as long as desktop PCs
Reliability and longevity are big priorities for most people who obviously want to get value for money out of the products they’ve bought. But the idea that mini PCs don’t last as long as desktop PCs or laptops doesn’t have any weight to it.
Mini PCs like Intel’s NUCs have shown to be extremely reliable with minimal failure rates over the years. Most mini PCs come with quality components like RAM and SSD preinstalled and also come with manufacturer’s warranties that protect you in the rare event that something does go wrong with the device. It’s important to note that occasional drive and power supply failures do occur, but these aren’t exclusive to mini PCs.
4. Mini PCs have poor connectivity
The connectivity options in any PC play an important role in the PC’s functionality, allowing devices to connect and be used. Modern mini PCs have very good connectivity with most coming equipped with a variety of ports, including multiple USB-A and/or USB-C ports, HDMI outputs, and ethernet ports. The Asus’ ROG NUCs like the Asus ROG NUC 970 even have multiple ports on the backside and frontside. These features ensure you can connect vital peripherals and enjoy high-quality video output without any hassle.
The inclusion of the latest standards of Wi-Fi — Wi-Fi 6 or 7 in some models enhances their versatility, offering faster internet speeds and improved reliability for wireless connections. Many mini PCs also support Bluetooth, further expanding the user’s options and allowing them to connect a wide range of devices, from keyboards to speakers.
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