Cheapest Mini PC: Affordable Computing Solutions

Note: We have researched 13 mini PCs for you.

By Gregor Krambs

Last updated on 28.06.24 um 11:18

Pictured Cheapest Mini PC: iProda Mini PC with Intel Alder

Pictured: iProda Mini PC with Intel Alder

In the world of computing, staying within budget doesn't mean you have to compromise on performance or functionality. With advancements in technology, the market is now flooded with compact solutions that offer a significant punch without punching a hole in your wallet.

The allure of mini PCs lies in their versatility and affordability, catering to both casual users and dedicated tech enthusiasts. We've scoured the landscape to bring you a selection of small-form-factor PCs that are not just cost-effective, but also reliable and powerful enough to handle everyday tasks with ease.

To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.

Pictured: iProda Mini PC with Intel Alder

What to Look for in Cheapest Mini PCs

Important criteria

Affordable price
Compact size
Low power consumption
Sufficient processing power for intended use
Reliable cooling system
Ease of setup and use

1.) Hardware Specifications

When purchasing the cheapest Mini PC, evaluate the processor performance, as this impacts the overall speed of the system. Look into the RAM size, where at least 4GB is recommended for basic tasks, but 8GB or more is beneficial for multitasking and smoother operation. Additionally, check the storage options, where SSDs are preferred over HDDs for faster boot times and data access. Verify the availability of enough USB ports and whether it includes other necessary connections like HDMI or Ethernet ports. Lastly, consider the upgradeability of components to ensure the Mini PC remains useful as your needs evolve.

2.) Build Quality and Design

The build quality should be robust to withstand constant use, especially if the Mini PC is to be transported often. A compact and lightweight design is preferable for ease of installation and mobility. Check if the unit has proper ventilation to prevent overheating, which can be a concern in smaller devices. Ensure the aesthetics match your environment, especially if the Mini PC will be placed in a visible location. Some Mini PCs offer VESA mount compatibility, providing options for discreet placements behind monitors or under desks.

3.) Pre-installed Software and Operating System

Consider which operating system is pre-installed as it should meet your compatibility needs for applications you plan to use. Some Mini PCs come with a full version of Windows, while others might have Linux distributions or no operating system at all. Factor in any additional costs for purchasing or licensing an operating system if not included. Also, be aware of the bloatware that may come pre-installed; it can take up valuable storage space and potentially slow down the system.

4.) Support and Warranty

Investigate the manufacturer's customer support reputation and the warranty period offered with the Mini PC. A longer warranty period is generally indicative of the manufacturer's confidence in their product's reliability. It's crucial to have access to good customer support for troubleshooting and assistance in case of issues. Some brands may also offer additional services such as extended warranties for purchase, which can be worth considering for added peace of mind.

The Cheapest Mini PCs of our Choice

Our Pick

PELADN WI-4 Mini PC

Model: WI-4 Type/Color: Black Size: 16GB+512GB/Intel Celeron N5095

Features

Powerful 11th Gen Intel Processor for improved performance.
Ideal for light office work, 4K video playback, online education, and design.
Large storage capacity with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD.
SSD and RAM upgrade options available for increased storage.
Dual HDMI ports for connecting to dual 4K@60Hz displays.
Includes VESA mount for an all-in-one PC setup.
Multiple connections with Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band WiFi, and Bluetooth 4.2.
Built-in fan cooling for multitasking without overheating.
Preinstalled Win 11 Pro and supports Linux and Ubuntu.
Fast and smooth performance for productivity, entertainment, and business.

$ 189.99 *

View

on Amazon

GMKtec Desktop Mini PC Windows 11 Pro

Type/Color: Blue / Black Steel Size: Intel N100 12GB+512GB

Features

12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N100 mini pc
4 Core 4 Threads 6MB cache
Base frequency burst speed up to 3.4GHz
More powerful performance than J4125/N5095/N5100/N5105/N95
Ideal for routine tasks, office work, home entertainment
12GB DDR5 RAM 512GB SSD Mini Computer
DDR5 MAX 4800 MT/s, Built-in 512GB M.2 2242 SSD
Boots up in seconds, works on multiple apps
Multiple connections: USB 3.2*3, HDMI(4K@60Hz)×2
Supports WiFi 6, 2*Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 1000M
4K Triple Screen Display: Intel UHD Graphics(max 750MHz)
Supports 4K video playback, AV1 decoding, projector connectivity
Two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DP V1.4 port
WiFi6 & Fast BT5.2: 802.11ax speeds up to 600Mbps
Built-in Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless device connections
Features Wake On LAN, PXE Boot, RTC Wake, Auto Power On

In other categories

Rank 15 of 20 in Most Powerful Mini PC

$ 229.99 *

View

on Amazon

KAMRUI Mini PC Windows 11

Model: AK1PRO Type/Color: Black Size: 12GB+256GB/Intel Celeron N5105

Features

Small size: 5.04 x 5.04 x 2.05-Inch.
Powered by Intel Celeron Jasper Lake N5105.
Fast and smooth performance without lagging or jumping.
12GB DDR4 memory and 256GB M.2 2280 solid-state drive storage.
Empty expansion bay for adding 2.5-inch SSD or HDD.
Two HDMI ports for dual monitor setup.
VESA mount for easy hiding behind a monitor or HDTV.
Ready to use with Modern light feature.
Intel UHD Graphics 800 MHz supporting 4K UHD.
802.11ac Dual Band 2.4 & 5GHz Wi-Fi.
Multiple rich interfaces for connecting devices.
Convenient connections with USB ports, HDMI ports, Ethernet port, and more.
Cool Fan for maximum heat dissipation.
Supports Auto Power On, RTC Wake Settings, and Wake On LAN.

In other categories

Rank 2 of 20 in Most Powerful Mini PC
Rank 14 of 20 in Most Powerful Mini Computer

$ 189.99 *

View

on Amazon

on Ebay

wowe Wo-We Mini PC with Intel Celeron N4020 Processor

Type/Color: Black

Features

Faster CPU performance than N4000, J3455, Atom z8350, z8500.
High quality 4K graphics and portability with Intel UHD Graphics 600.
Ultra-fast web browsing with Dual-band wifi 5 design 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
Faster data transmission with USB3.1 Gen 1, Type-C, VGA, HDMI 2.0.
Dual Screen Support with 2*HDMI and Type C.
Power-Saving with fanless design and quiet working environment.
Expandable Storage to store all your files and multimedia.
4GB DDR4 built-in memory and 128GB eMMC system storage.
Support for M.2 SATA 2280 SSD of up to 1TB.
Compatibility with external 2.5'' SDD/Hard Drive of up to 2TB.
Enhance storage capacity with a Mirco SD card up to 128GB.

$ 99.90 *

View

on Amazon

Price Pick

HP ProDesk 600 G1 Mini Business Desktop PC

Type/Color: Black

Features

Certified Refurbished product tested to look new
Refurbishing includes testing, cleaning, inspection, repackaging
Ships with accessories, 90-day warranty, generic box
Select high-performance sellers offer Certified Refurbished products
HP ProDesk 600 G1 mini Business Desktop PC
Intel Core Quad i5 4590T up to 3.0GHz
8GB DDR3, 500GB, WIFI, BT
Includes: Computer; Power Cord; USB Keyboard; USB Mouse
Warranty Instruction
Ports: USB 3.0, USB 2.0, RJ-45, VGA, DisplayPort
LAN, PS/2, Line-in (stereo/microphone), Line-out (headphone/speaker)
Operating System: Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Multi-language supports English/Spanish/French

$ 68.00 *

View

on Amazon

on Ebay

Bmax B1 Pro Mini PC Fanless

Model: B1 Pro Type/Color: Black Size: 8GB+128GB

Features

Ultra High-efficiency Processor: Intel Celeron N4000.
Base frequency 1.1 GHz, burst mode up to 2.6GHz.
Pre-installed OS, supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, LAN 1000Mbps.
Large Expandable Storage: 8GB RAM+128GB eMMC, expandable via M.2_2280 SATA SSD (up to 1TB) and USB3.0 interface.
Dual Display & Intel HD graphic: Supports 4K content.
HDMI/VGA Port for dual monitors.
Energy Efficient & Quiet: Fanless, draws under 6 watts.
Warranty and Support: 30-day return, 12-month warranty.

In other categories

Rank 5 of 20 in Most Powerful Mini Computer

$ 106.99 *

View

on Amazon

JMZZPC MAP02 Mini PC Windows 11 Preinstalled

Model: MAP02 Type/Color: 8GB+256GB Black Size: 8GB+256GB

Features

Expandable Storage Support with up to 32GB RAM.
4k Triple Displays Support with Intel UHD Graphics.
Reliable Security with antiflaming plastic material.
Widely Used & Compatible with Windows and other OSs.
Compact size & Ample connections for various uses.

$ 116.90 *

View

on Amazon

on Ebay

iProda Mini PC with Intel Alder

Type/Color: Gray

Features

Powerful 12th gen Intel Alder Lake N97 processor
48% improved performance compared to predecessors N100/N95/N5105/N5095
CPU N97 has better graphics and turbo frequency
Stable connectivity with WiFi6, Bluetooth5.2, LAN gigabit port
Modern, space-saving design with expandable storage options
Enhanced visual experience with Intel UHD Graphics GPU
Convenient connectivity with USB variety, HDMI, VESA mount

$ 169.99 *

View

on Amazon

DreamQuest N100 Mini Pc Windows 11 Pro Preinstalled

Type/Color: Black Size: N100-16GB+512GB

Features

Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, supports Linux Ubuntu.
12th Intel N100 Mini pc powered by Alder Lake-N100.
Expandable Storage up to 2TB, SATA3.0 interface.
16GB DDR4 Memory, expandable up to 32GB.
One-year warranty support service available.
Versatile Connectivity with USB ports, HDMI outputs, Ethernet, audio jack.
Supports 4K 60Fps 3 Screens Display, Intel UHD Graphics.

$ 199.99 *

View

on Amazon

UXX Mini PC Support 512GB M.2 SSD

Model: X20 Size: 6GB+64GB N3350

Features

Upgraded mini desktop pc with slimmer, lighter body.
Compact size and lightweight, ideal for business travel.
Powered by latest Apollo Lake celeron N3350 processor.
Supports Bluetooth 4.2 and dual band WiFi for multiple connections.
Allows direct audio output and quick enjoyment of media.
Fast and smooth performance with efficient heat dissipation.
Expandable storage options with M.2 SSD and external drives.
USB 3.0 ports for fast file transfer.
10 multifunctional ports, including HD and VGA for dual screen display setup.

$ 89.99 *

View

on Amazon

Beelink Mini PC, Mini S12 Pro

Type/Color: Blue Size: N100 16+500GB

Features

Intel 12th Alder Lake-N100 processor with UHD Graphics.
16GB DDR4 RAM + 500GB SSD for multitasking.
Supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 connections.
2 HDMI ports for dual screen display.
4 x USB3.2 Gen2 ports for fast data transfer.
RJ45 1000M port for stable wired connection.
Lifetime technical support and online service available.
FCC, CE, ROSH certified mini PC.
Small size, measures 4.5x4x1.6 inches.
VESA mount for tidy desktop setup.

$ 199.00 *

View

on Amazon

on Ebay

Fodenn Mini PC Windows 11 Pro,16GB RAM 512GB M.2 SSD

Type/Color: Black Size: 16GB+512GB

Features

Intel 12th Gen processor Alder Lake-N95.
Compact size design 4.53x3.98x1.58 inches.
16GB DDR4 RAM 512GB M.2 SATA SSD.
Supports add a 2TB 2.5" HDD for storage.
UHD 4K Dual Screens Display Support.
2* HDMI design allows dual monitors.
Includes VESA mount for easy installation.
Stable Wifi 5 & BT4.2 for connectivity.
Gigabit Ethernet, 2.4G+5.0G dual-band WiFi.
Ports: USB 3.2, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, HDMI.
Connect multiple devices simultaneously.
5G+2.4G Dual Band WiFi, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth.

$ 198.98 *

View

on Amazon

on Ebay

GMKtec Mini PC Preinstalled Windows 11 Pro Intel N5105

Model: KB5 Type/Color: Black Size: 8+128GB N5105

Features

Powerful Intel 11th Gen N5105 CPU
8GB RAM + 128GB M.2 SSD
Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi & Giga Ethernet
Immersive 4K UHD Graphics
Small & Delicate design

In other categories

Rank 13 of 20 in Most Powerful Mini PC

$ 139.99 *

View

on Amazon

* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.

Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Mini PCs in 2023

Budget-Conscious Shoppers

Perfect for those who want a compact computer without breaking the bank. Ideal for everyday tasks, these options balance cost and performance.

Students and Educators

These mini PCs are great for homework and online learning. They're affordable, easy to set up, and don't take up much space.

Home Entertainment Enthusiasts

Looking for a way to stream and enjoy media without the high cost? Check out these mini PCs that offer great value.

Remote Workers

If you're working from home and need a reliable, yet affordable mini PC, these selections might just suit your needs.

Questions You Might Ask

Key factors include the mini PC's processor performance, RAM and storage capacity, available ports and connectivity options, size and form factor, build quality, and price point. It is also important to consider the intended use, such as gaming, general productivity, or media consumption, to ensure the mini PC meets your requirements.

Upgradability varies by model. Some mini PCs allow for RAM and storage upgrades, while others have soldered components and are not upgradable. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for upgradability options before making a purchase.

Many mini PCs come with an operating system like Windows or Linux pre-installed. However, some models are sold as 'barebones' systems without an OS, allowing you to install an OS of your choice. Make sure to verify this information before purchasing.

While mini PCs are compact and convenient, most are not designed for high-end gaming due to their smaller size limiting the graphics hardware. However, there are gaming-specific mini PCs with more powerful GPUs for gaming. Always check the GPU and hardware specifications if you intend to use it for gaming.

The performance of a mini PC can vary widely, from low-power processors suitable for basic tasks to more powerful CPUs that can compete with full-size desktops. Generally, though, mini PCs compromise on performance for the sake of size and power efficiency. They are best suited for general computing tasks rather than for heavy-duty processing or gaming.

Currently Active Poll

How to Choose the Cheapest Mini PC: A Buyer's Guide

Cheapest Mini PC unserer Wahl: PELADN WI-4 Mini PC

Our Pick: PELADN WI-4 Mini PC

Hunting for an affordable mini PC that offers value without breaking the bank? With so many options out there, it's essential to know what to look for to strike that perfect balance between cost and performance. This guide will navigate you through key factors to consider, ensuring you make a well-informed decision that meets your needs and budget.

Understanding Mini PC Basics

Mini PCs, known for their compact size and efficiency, are the go-to choice for those looking to save space without sacrificing computer functionalities. Despite their diminutive stature, they can pack a substantial punch, catering to a variety of tasks from basic computing to media streaming.

When shopping for a mini PC, you must consider the core components, such as the processor, RAM, and storage. Depending on your needs - be it casual web browsing, office work, or media consumption - ensure the specifications align with the tasks you plan to undertake.

Don't forget the operating system. Most mini PCs come with pre-installed OS, but some may offer just the hardware, leaving you the freedom to install an OS of your choice. Evaluate the compatibility of your preferred software with the device's OS to avoid any disappointments.

Set Your Budget

Before diving into the ocean of possibilities, establish a clear budget. Cheapest doesn't always mean cheap, and prices can vary significantly. Decide how much you're willing to invest in a mini PC and what compromises you can accept in terms of features and capabilities.

Keep in mind, the absolute cheapest option may come with limitations that might not suit your requirements. Generally, investing a bit more can lead to better performance and longevity, eliminating the need for early replacements or upgrades.

Consider the cost beyond the purchase price. Check for potential extra expenses like accessories, additional storage, or software licenses, as these can add up and affect the total cost of ownership.

Performance and Usage Scenarios

Assess your usage scenario to determine the necessary performance. If you're after something for general web activities and document editing, a basic mini PC with a modest CPU and 4GB of RAM might suffice.

For more demanding tasks such as photo editing or multitasking, aim for a higher-spec machine, perhaps with an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor and at least 8GB of RAM. While these may not fit into the cheapest category, they offer a smoother experience for rigorous usage.

If you're looking to run specific applications, check the recommended hardware requirements. This ensures the mini PC you choose can handle the tasks without lag or slowdowns, which could impede your productivity or entertainment.

Connectivity and Expansion

Considering a mini PC's connectivity is crucial. Evaluate the number and type of USB ports, video outputs (HDMI, DisplayPort), and whether it includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. These factors determine how well the mini PC will fit into your existing setup.

Think about future needs too. Opting for a model with expandable storage or upgradeable RAM might save you from buying an entirely new unit sooner than anticipated. Though they might cost more upfront, these features provide flexibility and longer-term savings.

Don't overlook other features such as memory card readers, audio jacks, and Ethernet ports. While not essential for everyone, they add value for those who need them, potentially reducing the need for additional adapters or dongles.

Brand Reliability and Support

In the pursuit of the cheapest mini PC, one should not forget about the manufacturer's reputation. Renowned brands might command higher prices but often come with the assurance of quality, reliable support, and warranty services.

Researching customer reviews, support forums, and post-purchase assistance options can save you from headaches down the line. If you encounter issues, knowing that you have dependable support can make all the difference in resolving them swiftly and efficiently.

Consider the warranty provided with the mini PC. A more extended warranty period might hint at the manufacturer's confidence in their product, providing an extra layer of security for your investment. Sometimes, a slightly more expensive choice with a robust warranty is a smarter buy in the long run.

Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards

The following sections provide a carefully curated list of resources for those in search of the most affordable mini PCs. Our selections are comprised of various types of content, which include comprehensive test reports, insightful forum discussions, engaging Reddit threads, and informative videos. We've organized these resources into four distinct categories to facilitate easier navigation and to assist you in finding the most relevant information on cheap mini PCs.