What are /r/MiniPCs' favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

It's Windows 8.1 with bing, which means you don't pay for it.

>Windows 8.1 with Bing costs $0 for computer manufacturers to include on their laptops and tablets.

http://www.howtogeek.com/195934/what-exactly-is-windows-8.1-with-bing-do-i-have-to-use-bing/

Perhaps a prebuilt NUC? Here’s one on Amazon but I’d wait for the i3 version to be back in stock for your light duties. Sorry for the long link; on my phone.

https://www.amazon.com/Intel-mini-NUC7i5BNK-Core-version/dp/B01N4EP1N0/ref=pd_aw_lpo_147_bs_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=GVYK3VSREQT0WC5V48W8&th=1

Are you using the standard VESA mount to mount your monitor? Some of the main PC manufacturers have VESA adapters for their stands as an optional accessory, assuming you are using the normal monitor stand.

But I really think you are looking for something like this: https://www.amazon.com/HumanCentric-Mounting-Compatible-Extension-Computer/dp/B07KB4YWQS/

I used one of these to mount Asrock Deskmini behind monitor. It is plenty heavy enough to mount sffpc, holes are standard VESA pattern. I don't see where monitor size would matter very much.

https://www.amazon.com/HumanCentric-Mounting-Compatible-Extension-Computer/dp/B07KB4YWQS

If by "Yvonne" you meant "you run" (I'm guessing it's an auto-incorrect thing)...

I've been watching a listing on Amazon for months. The had it listed as out of stock for a long time, but a few weeks ago it changed to in stock on May 1st...and the price was around $400 (instead of the crazy $1000-$1500 prices I've been seeing on NewEgg). So, I decided to order it, and within 24 hours got a notice that it was going to be here on May 18th.

Looking now, it's back to being listed as unavailable. :(

What the heck is with this user spreading referral link spam? Here's the actual amazon listing: https://www.amazon.com/Intel-BOXNUC8i3CYSM1-Home-Mini-Windows/dp/B07HHB2YLG

This is NOT a black friday deal and is purely made by a bot(?) to generate referral link revenue through facebook, bypassing Reddit filters.

Reported.

I'm wondering if the Intel quality build will be enough reason to spend $40 more for an identical spec device : http://www.dx.com/p/meegopad-t01-quad-core-android-4-4-windows-8-hdmi-google-tv-player-w-2gb-ram-32gb-rom-eu-plug-361931

There are non-streaming video players available, they're pretty much card readers with a media player built-in. I'm guessing they're similar to the one below, where you picked one of: movie, music, photo and it presented those types to you (UI at 2:46):-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpFnIQJuU7g

At 9:13 there claims to be an Auto Play option in the Settings menu.

These are available on Aliexpress:- https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Mini-1080P-Full-HD-H-264-Multi-Media-Player-MP3-AVI-RMVB-MPEG-Player-supports-Ypbpr/32720017577.html?

So it seems like the sort of thing you want is available but being drowned out by Kodi boxes.

I get that you are going to do minimal CAD work, but that is definitely the most intense application that you want to use this machine for. Are you thinking 2D or 3D CAD? Which application(s) would you be looking at running?

The reason I ask this is it's the one application that may be difficult to run on integrated graphics, which is what most Mini PC's have (Intel UHD / Iris graphics, or AMD Vega graphics).

If you are looking at running something like FreeCAD I could install it here and give you an idea of it runs okay on my system.

Everything else should be okay on many Mini PC's. Honestly, at that point, I would think more about what you would want to spend on a Mini PC to find something that would offer the best price / performance ratio.

There is very rarely a good reason for buying a new NUC-sized mini, when a slightly larger off-lease business mini will be more robust, more powerful, and usually cheaper.

Anything new in the $200-300 range is going to have a celeron or pentium processor. Meanwhile, you can get an i5 from a couple generations back for the same kind of money, and that will run rings around the low-end "new" chips in the cheap Chinese minis.

I've used a Chromecast and an nVidia Shield TV with my projector. Game consoles too! They've all worked well.

This is the projector I bought: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KZC4W8K

I can't recommend any stick PCs though. I have no experience with them.

I just had a lengthy and somewhat in-depth discussion with another poster about why most Mini-PC's aren't really all that suitable for video editing (especially 4K videos, or videos that you need to do things like color grading on, or use a bunch of effects, cuts, shaders, etc.).

Animation wise, I think a good Mini-PC can handle it reasonably well. The tweening could be a bit hard on the CPU but should be okay, however if you are going to use any shaders, particle effects, etc. (basically anything that's going to be GPU bound) then you might want to look somewhere else. What software do you typically use for animation?

Art wise, you might do pretty well on a Mini-PC (I do some artwork / photo editing, and haven't had too many problems). The one thing that might be an issue is if you use a lot of filters on your images... There are some that can be very slow without enough CPU or GPU.

Here's the conversation I had in here over the last couple of days. You might be able to work with a Mini-PC depending on what you do for you animations and/or video editing, but I would suggest that $200-$400 might be a little tight for a budget. Also, a portable monitor is typically pretty expensive...especially something that will have good color accuracy (which I am assuming you will want for artwork). One example I just found is this ViewSonic is going to be somewhere between $220 and $350...

Define low power, less then 20 watt ?

this http://www.gearbest.com/tv-box-mini-pc/pp_343636.html

it has GB ethernet, 1 usb 3.0 (which you can plug in to a hub) costs 86 bucks and runs on around 12 watt at full load.

Yes, sorry it was a mistake. NEO Z64 has got 2 USB ports while the PIPO X7 has got 4 usb ports. You can read this interesting question on stackoverflow to understand differences between nand and emmc. http://superuser.com/questions/594357/ssd-sd-emmc-raw-nand-what-are-the-differences

Thank you so much for reporting me the mistake.

Hey. Definitely a good option for a HTPC. I've been testing it for a while. Review and videos: http://hometheatrelife.com/pipo-x7-review/

In terms of a remote, I've become quite fond of the Rikomagic MK705 - keyboard is nice, IR learning, built-in CTRL+ALT+DEL button. Testing it atm: http://www.gearbest.com/mice-keyboards/pp_104418.html

Gaming I'd go for a Logitech F710, Xbox 360 or possibly the Tronsmart Mars G01. I love the F710 as it also supports DInput for all of those ancient games ;)

Looks like they have couple of older models for less than $100 (in the spirit of this subreddit :)). All of them run their customized version Linux, not sure what it is based off of. But I'm pretty sure they can be massaged to run one of the mainstream distributions.

Edit: Low end models are based on Amlogic S805, while higher end ones are Intel Celeron (detailed specs are on their shop link)

All good suggestions. But also try LibreElec (or Openelec), which are Kodi specific minimal distributions, that are very very frugal on resources. But you can't do anything else on that machine, pretty much.

Could you please try https://www.netflix.com/title/70136810 and tell me the resulting resolution? I have have tried a few boxes and none of them do HD netflix. Also what country are you in? What is the actual box/dongle you have?

Thanks

Check out the Orange Pi One Plus: http://www.orangepi.org/OrangePiOneplus/

They have an image for Android 9.0 for it. Orange doesn't have the best support, but this is a $20 board and runs the latest Android, so it might be a good starting point with a low cost of entry.

Glad you mentioned that, I see after googling you're not the only person to have that problem... Seems like the dev is unable to do it according to this forum post.

Question -- why not go the usual route of one cheap box (either mini-PC or streaming media device or stick computer) attached to your television for Kodi and Netflix, while having another box -- a more traditional desktop or laptop computer -- in another room for your regular computing needs, like programming, spreadsheets, tax, etc.?

Reasonably priced desktops are all over the place -- check out Slickdeals desktop roundup, look at the black friday / cyber monday deals on the local fliers for Office Depot/Staples/Best Buy. Also, look at Frys website and even Costco and Sams Club (you can usually get a free one-day pass to Costco or Sams Club to make your computer purchase if you're not a member) stores and websites, check out the Dell/Lenovo/Acer/Asus/MSI websites.... And don't forget to look for promo/discount codes once you find a model you like. Also, see if your work offers some sort of employee discount pricing, like through PlumBenefits / EBG.

u/AnyoneButWe and u/s0rce are on the right track with this: a Mini business PC is appropriate for this scenario.

I'll toss in another system to consider: HP Prodesk 600 G3, it's a better processor that should be a bit better at handling things. Make certain when you order something that it has the ports you need...For example, some of these systems don't always have two display outputs (the on in this listing has 2 Display Ports, a Thunderbolt port, and USB-C port -- so you should be covered) as it is optional when the machine was ordered from Lenovo / HP / Dell / etc.

Most of these systems are fairly quiet, given that they are designed for use in multiple scenarios, from offices to POS systems, and others. However, if you want to make it a bit quieter, see if you can get a VESA mount for it and put it on the back of one of your monitor.s

Well, I just did a quick search for something that would get the job done. And that system will do it, and will run better overall than the VCS... If I wanted to spend a bit more (less than $50) I could go for HP EliteDesk 800 G2, with 16G DDR4.

The original commented suggested a 3 year (or older) Mini PC, typically those will be use... In this case it's actually renewed, which is a bit better as it's typically done by the OEM, instead of some random person.

Larger? Nope - these systems are about 7"x7"x1.5", versus the VCS being 11.5"x6"x2". Looks? Okay...that's one point. But, IMO, I don't see where looks are worth an extra $100-$200.

Look, there are plenty of Mini PC's that have 4th or 5th Gen Core i5's which are quad core processors, 8 or 16gig of RAM, and Windows 10 for under $300 (like this HP Elite 800G1 Ultra Small Desktop PC for only $215). At this kind of pricing you can still buy a couple of controllers, and still be under $350.

Try this, but be careful to only use it for power, and make sure you set it to 12v.

Edit: I'm waiting for parts to make my own that connects on the PC side instead of the power adaptor/bank side. The linked device works with the GMK NucBox which has the same crappy USB-C connector and 12v/2a requirement.

MeLE Fanless ($240 - $20 coupon = $220)

• https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LYRQZ59/
• Intel Celeron J4125
• 8G RAM
• 128G Storage with Windows 10 Pro
• 2.4G/5GHz AC Dual Band WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2
• 4K video playback.
• Micro SD Card Slot

Couple of options on Amazon that are around the budget. https://www.amazon.com/Pentium-Processor-1000Mbps-Bluetooth-Support/dp/B06XSDQPB1 https://www.amazon.com/industrial-computer-computers-Qotom-Q190N-multimedia/dp/B012Z2376Y/

Do you have a budget in mind?

For what you'd like to do with old emulated gaming, the emphasis is really on reliable graphics support. Given how cheap they are, you might do well to get a Pi 3 B+ to game on and something else for less graphically-intensive but multi-task-heavy operations. I've been eyeballing the Libre Renegade SBCs for just such a purpose, and they fit in the Pi's footprint, so you could probably rig a neat little stack. Those ones even accept an eMMC module, which is dang neat, but the kicker is the USB 3.0 and Gigabit Ethernet. They're like $80 US on Amazon if you're looking for that sweet, sweet 4GB RAM. I plan on picking one up soon because I want to monkey with Android on it and Pi Android support is pretty weak.

Earlier today it said that it would be back in stock on September 20th. Now it's saying that it's currently unavailable. This is the listing for it though: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0868WSTXH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_nCexFbNB9T8YB

I don't know, but its more powerful than any of the Raspberry Pi models. You'd need to find out if OBS has Windows support...

> amazon.com/dp/B08796NB62/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Z4stFbDQWWS3V

Depends on what you mean by 'runs better'. Do you want this to be a dedicated machine for OBS?

What about this?

amazon.com/dp/B08796NB62/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Z4stFbDQWWS3V

"8GB DDR4/128GB SSD Mini Computer Windows 10 with Intel Celeron N3450 (up to 2.2GHz), Support 4K Dual Display, HDMI x2, USB x4, Dual-Band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, Gigabit Ethernet"

they are usually very easy to add even if the TV is mounted.

The most important things:

- CPU in combination with a "real" SSD and not eMMC memory is sufficient for a smooth operation.

- Full HD 60 FPS playback from Youtube, Netflix or VLC Media Player works without problems

- antoher 1x M.2 NVMe SSD (PCIe x2) and 1x 2.5" SSD/HDD can be installed

- Windows 10 Home 1909 is installed, but several updates were still missing. It took about an hour.

- WLAN and Bluetooh is handled by an Intel Dualband Wireless-AC 3165, no no-name stuff (yay!)

- SSD is from Foresee ... never heard of it, but speed is satisfying, better than other cheap SSDs from well known manufacturers like the Kingston A400 or WD Green SSD

In the BIOS there is a TDP Unlocker, which can provide the CPU with 15W instead of only 6W.

I did that, gave a small performance jump and the cooling can easily handle it. Even in prime95 below 80°C. In normal operation the system is silent despite active cooling.

I also played around a bit with emulators, older systems like the SNES and even N64 (Project64) ran at full speed without problems. With the 3DS (Citra) I had no real success, at about 80% speed it's no fun to play :D

So as an small multimedia or office system its completely sufficient, I will probably now slap it behind the TV and replace the "smart" functions with it.

I was unable to find this model on the manufacturer website, so here is the Amazon listing: https://www.amazon.com/Windows-AWOW-Desktop-Computer-Ethernet/dp/B08F6SWV7V/

Wonder if an $80 tablet would work.

https://www.amazon.com/NuVision-8-inch-Touchscreen-Quad-Core-Processor/dp/B01H3B17R8

I've been using this for a couple of years for mobile development work. Charges via micro-usb, consumes about 300mA max with screen on. Not sure if it can charge while you're using the USB port for peripherals though.

Try halancher https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.i.akihiro.halauncher&hl=en&referrer=utm_source%3Dgoogle%26utm_medium%3Dorganic%26utm_term%3Dhalauncher&pcampaignid=APPU_1_7nOIVdrxPMqxsASs_oPACA

There's the BIG Launcher, though it's not exactly meant for TVs in any way, but it sure is huge and should theoretically support arrow keys. I haven't tried it on my MK908II though.

I use Nova Launcher Prime on mine, and the most recent release does support arrow keys... but not inside the app drawer :|. Only if you have stuff on your home screen(s).

There's also the actual Android TV Leanback Launcher, but it's of course listed as incompatible with my stick through Google Play and I haven't bothered seeing if it does really require Lollipop/Android TV. Guess I'm just happy with Nova for what I want.

EDIT: Can confirm that Leanback is only supported on 4.4+ which is officially available for most RK3188+AP6210 sticks. I just never flashed it on mine because I guess 4.2 just works.

Maybe something like this?

https://smile.amazon.com/X5-Z8350-Computer-Windows-Bluetooth-Business/dp/B09RGMZG6Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_15_sspa?crid=16O1VAYM02NIU&keywords=dell+stick+computer&qid=1671772457&sprefix=dell+stick+computer+%2Caps%2C111&sr=8-15-spons&ufe=...

Or just get a Google TV or Apple TV device and cast/airplay an actual computer or video stream.

I run a minecraft server on a MeLE Quieter3Q and it runs well. I haven't had more than 2 people on it at a time, however.

I totally understand if you want a much more powerful machine than the little one I'm using, but you may not need it all just for minecraft.

interesting observation, you actually might be correct it's sata ii, but i have it connected on other PC, when it's directly connected to PSU and SATA cable, it works fine. what was the reason for the 5 to 15 mins delay? also the difference here is that b550 is powering the SATA drive from mobo using this cable https://www.amazon.com/BMAX-MaxMini-Compatible-4-76-inch-12-1cm/dp/B089GJCDHQ

You can buy a small, light, very portable KB/track like mine: https://www.lenovo.com/ca/en/p/accessories-and-software/keyboards-and-mice/keyboards/4y40x49493

And also a portable monitor can help for your setup sometimes: https://www.amazon.ca/Portable-InnoView-External-Computer-Mountable/dp/B0BD77WX37

(I have a very small 7" touchscreen portable HDMI/USB-C monitor, it's small but it works)

ASRock J5040 ITX SoC MB.

That one is $200 with the coupon.

This one is same specs for $154 with coupon:

https://www.amazon.com/KAMRUI-AK1-Computers-Computer-Business/dp/B0B8BQ42DB/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3XMOWG5JNEBR&keywords=mini+N5105&qid=1670618927&sprefix=mini+n5105%2Caps%2C77&sr=8-3&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.fa474cd8-6dfc-4bad-a280-890...

Actually, this is a good question. In search of a mini-PC. Something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/AWOW-Celeron-Computer-Windows-Ethernet/dp/B086VZD6L4

BUT is has to be "not made in China". There have been many stipulations placed recently due to export / import restrictions, and I need a mini made ANYWHERE else. It's ok if some of the components are Chinese, but not for the overall unit. Already tried contacting some of the vendors in that Thomasnet link above, but most are custom made, industrial / military type units, and the ones that do carry standard minis, yep, made in China. So, any leads?

Got it that’s interesting. Is there anything that fits that mold (even if it’s expensive) Or am I looking for something that doesn’t exist?

How is this one: https://www.amazon.com/Kinupute-Desktop-Computer-i9-9900KF-3-6-5-0GHz/dp/B0BG452VM3/ref=sr_1_6?crid=1RFMZLR203AT1&keywords=mini%2Bpc%2Bi9%2B64gb%2Bram&qid=1669916929&s=electronics&sprefix=mini%2Bpc%2Bi9%2B64gb%2Bram%2Celectronics%2...

Think jabber could be onto something there regarding static or surging.

Obviously not normal that one should unplug the power and restart it just to get usb ports to work but since you did that and it worked it does sound something surge or static related almost.

Maybe you have a device connected to one of the usb ports that is causing it, maybe try 1 device at a time to see if it improves things.

If it is that case above then perhaps try a separate usb hub if you have one or better an usb hub with static surge protection like this one.

I have seen usb detection issues time to time across multiple computer systems, sometimes devices need to be re-plugged into their socket or placed in an different slot or power being switched on and off to get it to trigger again, its a usb glitch I call it but it certainly should not occur daily or weekly and once you find a good usb port its usually more rock solid and stable.

Always worth having your main power adaptor to the mini pc or pc also connected to a good quality surge adaptor or multi plug strip bar with surge protection built in also.

Worth updating the latest bios/firmware and drivers as always, but as a precaution I would open a dialog with miniforum or retailer and let them know of the fault this way while you are testing things out you are still within the return window in case it really is faulty.

Confirmed it's a micro JST 1.25mm 4 pin header. I bought these off amazon and fits perfectly. Now I have 19 extra leads, lol

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09DYLY95R?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1

No games?

If not i'd say go with anything with zen 3 or zen+ (5625u/5650u) or intel i5-1235u. They'd all do the job fine.

This is Beelink SER5 is on sale for $310 right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Beelink-SER5-Processor-Computer-Support/dp/B0B2943QSJ

Having a budget number might help. On the cheap end they will all do what you ask (I had something like this) , but if you want something better you can look at Intel's NUC or a AMD version like a Beelink GTR5. The cheaper ones you want to be careful with too much multi-tasking because they will feel a bit sluggish though.

I saw this one, and not sure if this is a good deal.

MINISFORUM UM560 Ryzen 5625U DDR4 8GB RAM 256GB NVMe, $342+tax

Thanks.

I think the GK41 went up $20 overnight.

So I ended up pulling the trigger on a <strong>Beelink SER Ryzen</strong>

Maybe a little bit overkill for what I need but only $20 more than the GK41.

There are two things to keep in mind.

1) Minipcs are niche. They need small form factor cooling solutions and are often special spec. Generally, they cost more than a comparable regular work office PC.

2) Dusty environment. If you want the PC to last awhile, it would probably be better to get a fanless PC. Otherwise you'd be opening it up and cleaning it all of the time. If it's fanless all you'd need to do is wipe or blow off the dust, and maybe aim a random fan at it on hot days, and possibly have protectors or tape (like painter's tape) on unused ports to keep the dust out. Unfortunately fanless PCs are another niche so that bumps the price up.

Actually this might be perfect for you lol.

Looking at the specs atom & celeron CPU have come a long way. Just make sure to check the model and specs before buying it. Also, don't be afraid to use built in wifi. I got a minipc from Minisforum and the wifi strength is nearly identical to the full sized PC I had with an external gaming style wifi antenna. So unless the spot you want to put it has really bad wifi, you should be good.

Either way, I think you can find what you want. Just make sure to triple check the specs of it and the programs you want to use, and also make sure it's fanless.

Might not be enough power available at the USB C port when the system is under load.
Try an inline USB power meter like this. I can't vouch for this one. It's just an example. https://www.amazon.com/Eversame-Multimeter-Voltmeter-Indicator-DC3-6-30V/dp/B07JYVPLLJ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=14IRIR5I6M0HR&amp;keywords=usb+c+inline+power+meter&amp;qid=1668784138&amp;sprefix=inline+usb-c+%2Caps%2C107&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;sp_cs...

Also recently having a problem with a 9 year old mini PC intermittently not booting. Fixed it by replacing the 90watt power brick, with a 150 watt one and it's running perfect.

Hopefully this might help you figure it out.

It is not. It's for $639.20 delivered between Dec 3-5 (to me in NY).

Betters deals for the same machine,

• Here for $599 after an $80 coupon, delivered Nov 19 (to NY)
• Here for $599 after a $100 coupon, delivered Nov 19 (to NY)

(From Nov. 17, 00:01 PST to Nov. 20, 23:59, PST)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BGHWPW69

List price: $299

10% discount: 10ROD1ZO

https://www.gmktec.com/products/intel-pentium-silver-11th-n6005-mini-pc-nucbox-7

List price: $299.79

$45 off code: ETAKB7 (Check out, apply the code, and last for a week)

Final price: $254.79

I'm in the same situation as you. I've done a little research, and I think the hx90g is only PCIe 3.0, so I wouldn't spend extra on a 4.0 drive unless you have another reason. I've been looking at the Samsung 980 1TB because it's at a sweet spot for me personally. What I'd like to know is if a heatsink is needed and if so, what will even fit in the case.

I'd find a good budget model running ryzen 5xxx or the cheaper new intel one.

These would be good options I think:

• Beelink SER5 5560u / 16gb / 500gb- $337 after coupon
• Minisforum UM560

Beelink seems like the better deal at the moment

https://www.amazon.com/USB-Adapters-Set-Power-Plug/dp/B09KT1QH84/ref=sr_1_3?crid=36HTCXIKXI0OX&amp;keywords=usb+c+barrel&amp;qid=1667746646&amp;sprefix=usb+c+barrel%2Caps%2C227&amp;sr=8-3

https://www.amazon.com/USB-Adapters-Set-Power-Plug/dp/B09KT1QH84/ref=sr_1_3?crid=36HTCXIKXI0OX&amp;keywords=usb+c+barrel&amp;qid=1667746646&amp;sprefix=usb+c+barrel%2Caps%2C227&amp;sr=8-3

for my plex server i use hdd bays

https://www.amazon.com/Mediasonic-PROBOX-SATA-Drive-Enclosure/dp/B09WPPJHSS

https://www.amazon.com/ORICO-Enclosure-Magnetic-Tool-Free-Expansion/dp/B0734G79FW

the orico had to be hard reset a few times when on boot up none of the drives loaded. simple on and off fix it though.

ETA PRIME on YT did a review on this LarkBox Pro particular MiniPC

You can buy it from Amazon, but damn it is expensive for what is it. I have been thinking about buying a spare or two just in case for my two mini pcs.

https://www.amazon.com/BMAX-MaxMini-Compatible-4-76-inch-12-1cm/dp/B089GJCDHQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=1VM2WECNY17KJ&amp;keywords=mini+sata+cable&amp;qid=1666821488&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiIzLjA2IiwicXNhIjoiMS45MCIsInFzcCI6IjEuNTAifQ%3D%3D&amp;sprefix=mini+sa...

Just to update you because you helped me. I found these and just ordered them. It's 3200mhz and dual rank. Seems to have decent reviews for the price so I'm sending it.

https://www.amazon.com/Timetec-DDR4-3200-PC4-25600-Unbuffered-Notebook/dp/B098TYN671?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&amp;ref_=fplfs&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A23AD5LOJUVSEP

Your needs are rather modest. A mini PC costing less than $400 (after coupon) should be more than enough for your needs. Below are two examples.

Beelink SEi11 https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-Computers-Equipped-PC-Fall-Zoom-etc/dp/B0B82HR81B/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?crid=C4U5VDAQYRQ4&amp;keywords=i5-11320h+mini+pc&amp;qid=1666570706&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiIzLjUwIiwicXNhIjoiMi43MiIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&amp;sprefix=i5-...

Beelink SER5 https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-Versatile-Computer-Desktop-Display/dp/B0B1DBVXY1/ref=sxin_20_pa_sp_phone_search_thematic_sspa?content-id=amzn1.sym.77dac24a-c610-44ff-baa2-0568e043a731%3Aamzn1.sym.77dac24a-c610-44ff-baa2-0568e043a731&amp;crid=3HXUGX...

https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-Processor-Desktop-Computers-Ethernet/dp/B0B2RL15VG/ref=asc\_df\_B0B2RL15VG/?tag=hyprod-20&amp;linkCode=df0&amp;hvadid=598250021259&amp;hvpos=&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=4764763174080172532&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hv...

I'm really happy with that exact machine, however I was able to get it for $299 USD. Poke around, you may be able to find it cheaper.

Exact link I used: here

i just got a few beelinks that might work for you. Im using them as mini servers but they might do what you need:

Beelink MiniS Mini Pc with 11th... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZLBDVZD?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Amazon still sell the AtomicPi:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B08CGFM2B1

The large breakout board is optional. There are mini breakout boards that just have a barrel jack (the APi lacks a standard power connector).

It runs on 5V but I don't know whether it has a sleep mode. How would I check? I'm still a novice at Linux.

I have received this kit and the 4pin connector works perfectly for me.
For the pinouts, I've used the same color scheme than my Noctua Fan, Black - Ground (the first pin on the left, next to data HDD power connector, next to the "V" on the board), Yellow - 12V (second pin from the left), Green - RPM Signal (3rd pin form the left) and Blue - PWM (last pin completely on the right, next to the screw).

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(1 Pitch Connectors and Pre-Crimped Cables Compatible with Molex PicoBlade for Pixhawk Silicone 15cm Wire )

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07S18D3RN/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_asin\_title\_o01\_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I got a MeLE Quieter3Q earlier this year and I've been playing with Docker on it. I expect Kubernetes would work equally as well. It comes with Windows 11 installed, but I replaced it with Alpine Linux and it runs great. It is tiny and its power draw is very low. Also the Intel Celeron N5105 is a newer chip that delivers great performance for its power draw and it is fanless so it is silent.

The best part is it is on sale for $212 again and that is a great deal for this tiny machine.

Mine has a shitload of line noise whether i go from the 3.5mm headphone jack in the front, or USB to a dac, or through a HDMI audio extractor.

I recommend going from the 3.5mm jack i front and using an isolator if you get the noise https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0171PQLB8/

That one? https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mini-Windows-Pro-Processor-available/dp/B09SZ75J2G/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?crid=2KBHJLJ5NGEV1&amp;keywords=aerofara+aero+2+pro&amp;qid=1664304456&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjY3IiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&amp;sprefix=aerof... ?

The reseller is in "just launched" state and the reviews read a bit canned. It's also a picture of an aerofora bit a different brand name over the images.... The other one https://www.amazon.co.uk/Windows-processor-LPDDR4-Desktop-Display/dp/B09K78FR4J/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=aerofara+aero+2+pro&amp;qid=1664304594&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjY3IiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&amp;sr=8-3 at least has ratings and isn't just launched. But it's 230£.

ok thanks for your detailed answer. do you think i can use such an adapter? https://www.amazon.de/CERRXIAN-Riser-Adapter-Converter-Mining/dp/B09JC2JG75

If i wait, can I just replace the old apu later?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09CGXBL8L/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09Q15YPZV/

I saw the deskmeet b660 website updated their coolers list to include that cooler, one of the reviews said "I originally bought the Noctua NH-L9i-17xx for my AsRock Deskmini B660 computer. The Deskmini supports up to 47mm CPU cooler. The Noctua is thinner, made with aluminum, and it doesn't cool quite as well. I bought this Thermalright Full Copper low profile CPU cooler, and WOW! It performs MUCH better than the Noctua. I went from idling around 40 degrees Celsius to 32-35 degrees. I did swap out the Thermalright fan with a Noctua black fan, and I have the perfect setup now! I'm glad I switched to a copper cooler!"

i wouldn't

https://store.minisforum.com/collections/all-product/products/minisforum-nucxi5-nucxi7

https://www.amazon.com/Intel-NUC-Performance-G-Kit-NUC8i7HVK/dp/B07BR5GK1V?th=1

really depends on your use case

How about this ? Spare mounts for ur pn51

https://www.amazon.sg/WALI-Monitor-Adjustable-Capacity-M004/dp/B00H07NHEM/ref=asc_df_B00H07NHEM/?tag=sgsmrtphshopg-22&amp;linkCode=df0&amp;hvadid=404126563405&amp;hvpos=&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=7738087183932212636&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hvqmt...

I ordered this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B2943QSJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1 clipped a coupon for 85$ off which brings it down to 310. I -think- this is the best deal atm, but i also made a post looking for suggestions. https://youtu.be/rRiQyx4whKo?t=707 video showing the 4800u with wow, granted this is the beginning zones and I know later expansion get more graphically intense. So not sure how it will fare then.

A great wireless keyboard with trackpad will be your best friend for a HTPC, especially if you want to webbrowse. I really like the Logitech K700. Amazon Link

Never done a linux HTPC but there is info about them Here

I recommend the Beelink SER5 with a Ryzen 5600H for $350 after you apply the $70 coupon.

https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-SER5-Windows-Computer-Display/dp/B0B2JX2QY7/ref=sr\_1\_9?keywords=beelink+ser4&amp;qid=1663029531&amp;sr=8-9

Here's a better price for the 4700U, $354 with coupon and prime, and it's shipped by Amazon to eliminate the issue of slow shipping by Beelink

https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-Versatile-Windows-Computer-Desktop/dp/B0B3XT4V1G?ref_=ast_sto_dp&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1#prime-modal

The Beelink SER4 witha Ryzen 4700u can be purchased for $340. It has pretty good performance for the price. It has 16GB RAM and 500GB SSD. You can search YouTube for a video review, however, all reviews are for the more expensive version with the Ryzen 4800u. The difference in gaming performance should be small though. I recommend reviews by ETA Prime and Retro Games Corp.

https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-Windows-Computer-1000Mbps-Graphics/dp/B09WVGVCNK/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2766GVXOB57Q1&amp;keywords=beelink+ser4&amp;qid=1662936546&amp;sprefix=beelink+ser4%2Caps%2C416&amp;sr=8-3

I basically use it to play Star Trek Online and Skyrim Legendary Edition. I also have Skyrim Special Edition installed, but I can't transfer the save from Skyrim LE to Skyrim SE because of mods used for that older saved game.

I installed the original version of the Mass Effect Trilogy installed. ME1 has problems starting (need to research), but ME2 and ME3 runs fine.

Just bought one.

$199 - $40 coupon = $159

https://www.amazon.com/Computer-Windows-Generation-Processors-TRIGKEY/dp/B0B3LP73JD/ref=sr\_1\_1\_sspa?crid=3TCWASHPB4IBB&amp;keywords=trigkey+green+g3&amp;qid=1662747771&amp;sprefix=trigkey%2Caps%2C166&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlw...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XD8M43P

Do you think this heatsink would work for the back of mobo NVMe problem you were talking about, or is it best to go gen 3 for that slot with no heatsink?

I have this Mini PC, I also recommend using different RAM.

I don't know if the RAM you're using is in the compatibility list.

This is the RAM I bought. Even when it's not directly in the compatibility list, it's the brand that someone else here reported that was working for them, and it's working for me.

Good luck

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CM

You can buy something a little less expensive for your mother since her needs aren't that great. A Beelkink SER4 with the Ryzen 4700u should be much more than enough for her. There is no bare bones version, but it is currently selling for $339 with a $30 coupon.

https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-SER4-4700U-Computer-Graphics/dp/B0B5XJ5RQB/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2Q2WS0VFCIQCC&amp;keywords=beelink+ser4+4700u&amp;qid=1661864379&amp;sprefix=beelink+ser4+4700u%2Caps%2C206&amp;sr=8-3

I purchased it about a month ago. It will eventually be used as a file server, but for now I am using it to play some old games (generally from 2000 thru 2014) as well as encoding some videos. It runs pretty quiet though most of the time, but when encoding videos the fan is somewhat audible in a quiet room.

I haven't done extensive testing yet though... only encoding for maybe upto 30 minutes. The 4700u does get pretty hot reaching 95c when encoding videos. There's a program that can limit the max turbo core clockspeed to help lower temps, but I forgot what it is called.

I plan on replacing the thermal and limiting the max clockspeed to perhaps around 3.5Ghz to lit the APU temp to 85c. However, I preferva max of 80c so maybe that means limiting max clockspeed to something like 3.0GHz. The 4700u can reach a max clockspeed 4.1GHz.

https://www.amazon.com/Libre-Computer-Heatsink-AML-S905X-CC-ALL-H3-CC/dp/B078MCFM62/

Make sure it's balanced over the SoC. The heatsink is directional.

I picked up this BeeLink mini PC when it was on sale for $381: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HJQN9RH?psc=1&amp;ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details but even at $449 it's a great computer. It comes loaded with Windows 11 Pro, 16GB RAM and half a TB SSD. I've been running it nonstop for the past month for daily work (from home) tasks, hosting meetings, and even playing Microsoft xCloud games. You never hear the fan and it's never caused me a single problem.

re: storage - I suspect you mean Terabytes instead of Gigabytes ?

Although an individual SSD will certainly run cooler than a single spinning drive You could get 3 of a large standard drive and run them in Snapraid with stablebit. Two drives for data storage and one drive for parity.

This would give you the ease of windows with some level of failure protection without the complexity of traditional raid.

There are drives that idle @ ~ 5 W with a max power usage of ~ 10 W

Sounds like you have enough room for a mini ITX build and most Mini ITX boards have 4 sata headers and an m.2 slot so that would be enough for your storage drives and OS. Of course you would have to select a case large enough to fit a large Heatsink Fan (HSF) combination. Bigger heatsink needs less airflow, larger fans move more air more quietly more efficiently at lower speeds than smaller fans.

Alternatively you could modify a Small Form Factor (SFF) like a Beelink SER4800U and use a m.2 to sata adapter to get the number of drive connections that you want.

All of these solutions have trade offs. Keep in mind that you can configure the system to go to sleep when you do so if you can tolerate some fan noise during the day while you are using it then sleep or hibernate it when everyone is sleeping.

The Beelink SER4 with an 8 core Ryzen 4700u currently selling for $359.

It uses relatively low power compared to a desktop PC. The power supply is 19v x 3a = 57w. Here's a review of the more powerful SER4 with Ryzen 4800u (it has SMP or "HyperThreading"); it mostly focused on gaming.

Here is a link to a $250 Beelink SEi8 mini PC with an i3-8109u, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD which is currently on sale. This is typically the of a mini PC that has the lower end Celeron N5095 CPU.

While bee-link and others have some great machines I like how the small and cheaper machines can be used as dedicated low power servers. There is an interesting price vs performance curve where you get more performance per dollar as you consider more powerful machines up to a point.

I got a MeLE Quieter3Q for $212 and I only use it to run Docker and a few services that let me play with server administration and things like SQL and other databases. I like it is silent with no fans and has a very low power draw so I run it 24/7. Compare its processor to what the ASUS PN62S has here.

I guess what I'm getting at is you may consider getting one machine for desktop and gaming and a second even smaller machine for hosting services like databases and Plex. That way neither machine has to be too beefy. Just as long as the performance-per-dollar-ratio is in the right ballpark you're good.

That's too bad; in France I only know trigkey's 1035G1 series, with a big discount. There is a 100 euro discount, the original price of 539-100 = 439, the aftermarket is not bad.1035G1

As far as I know Beelink SER4 4700U is doing a promotion, you can buy the product by paying only $359; www.amazon.com/dp/B0B3RRMHZB[4700U 20% off](http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B3RRMHZB)

You can use one of the codes "6CBJ-E3DYLC-7PSYAE

6CM3-9HJKMD-L5LZA9

6CQG-AMLDWM-MW6EAB

6CF9-U85ZVB-KAAQA8

6CB9-XMWSNQ-F7KKAJ

"Used to obtain a 15% discount on the Beelink SER4 4800U.4800U 15% off

I recommend the following Beelink U59 mini pc with a celeron n5095 for $190. It only has 8GB of RAM installed, but since it has two RAM slots you can install a 2nd 8GB RAM stick. You can do a YouTube search for a video review. I am almost certain that ETA Prime did a review of this mini pc. He generally tests 4k streaming as well console games emulation. Note that r egardless of how powerful the CPU and iGPU is, it seems there are always some initial dropped frames when streaming 4k video.

https://www.amazon.com/Generation-Processor-Beelink-Computer-Supports/dp/B09MQKNHR2/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?crid=AZMMMFGEPVY5&amp;keywords=beelink+u59+mini+pc+windows+11+pro&amp;qid=1659994649&amp;sprefix=beelink+u59+%2Caps%2C639&amp;sr=8-5

Installing a 2nd 8GB RAM can improve iGPU performance and decrease initial dropped frames a bit.

The 3 games you listed have system requirements that are much higher than what the Mele Quieter3 has.

Within your budget range, the following Beelink SER3 with a Ryzen 3750H for $271 (after a $40 coupon) will offer the best performance. It's processor and iGPU performance will be much higher than the Quieter3...there is no comparison. It probably will not be quiet because it has a fan. I have the SER4 with a Ryzen 4700u which I find to be quiet enough. Although I am contemplating returning it for the SER5 with a Ryzen 5600H that was released while the SER4 was being delivered.

https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-Windows-Display-Support-Performance/dp/B09XTVVP3L/ref=mp_s_a_1_127_sspa?crid=354XA5X0G9LVX&amp;keywords=ryzen+3750h+mini+pc&amp;qid=1659913880&amp;sprefix=ryzen+3750h+mini+pc%2Caps%2C166&amp;sr=8-127-spons&amp;psc=1&...

Last month I decided to buy a Minisforum TH50 mini pc mostly just to have a new piece of hardware to toy around with, but also to play older / less demanding games. It has an i5-11320H with the Iris Xe (96 EUs) iGPU which currently the most powerful iGPU in mini pcs.... But that will change whenever AMD Ryzen 6000 series APUs start to appear in mini pcs.

The Radeon 680m and 660m are the two most powerful iGPUs in the Ryzen 6000 series which AMD only just recently released. Unknown when they will be offered in mini pcs since mini pcs with Ryzen 5000 series were released recently.

The i5-11320h is a 35w TDP CPU (combined for for CPU and iGPU) but you can limit the clockspeeds or disable Turbo Boost to lower power consumption. Unfortunately, it appears the BIOS prevents undervolting the CPU. The max base clockspeed of 3.2GHz means it around be fine for heavy browsing so you can disable Turbo Boost if you wish; max of 4.5GHz.

The TH50 sells for about $420 on Amazon. It has a very good price to performance ratio which is why I bought it.

https://www.amazon.com/MINISFORUM-EliteMini-TH50-Thunderbolt-Outputs%EF%BC%8C2x2-5G/dp/B09ZTX23ZG/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?crid=1Z4G95IFX6PZP&amp;keywords=i5-11320h+mini+pc&amp;qid=1658967300&amp;sprefix=+i5-11320h+mini+pc%2Caps%2C359&amp;sr=8-5

I am not exactly sure how well or rather poorly the celeron n5105 stacks up against the Ryzen 3200u since I am responding on my phone.

The Ryzen 3200u primary competitor is actually an 8th gen core i3 CPU like the i3-8140u. In terms of CPU performance, the n5105 generally does not perform as well even though it has 4 cores and the core i3 / Ryzen only has two cores.

As for graphics performance, the n5105 will definitely perform worse than the core i3 while the Ryzen 3200u will perform a little better than the core i3.

If you are looking for a relatively inexpensive mini pc with good performance, then consider the Beelink SEI8 with a core i3-8109u for $230 after applying the $50 coupon. Unlike most other 8th gen Intel CPUs which has the Intel UHD 620 or 630 graphics core, the i3-8109u has an Intel Iris 655 graphics core. It is weak compared to a mainstream dedicated graphics card released 5 years ago, but it is definitely more powerful than the adeon Vega 3 graphics core in the Ryzen 3200u.

https://www.amazon.com/Beelink-8109U-Computer-Support-Display/dp/B09M6LCFNT/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=1LUTGSSA6MLTZ&amp;keywords=i3-8109u+mini+pc&amp;qid=1658880184&amp;sprefix=i3-8109u+mini+pc%2Caps%2C319&amp;sr=8-4

I have a Minisforum TH50 withban 11th gen quad core i5-11300h that I am pretty happy with so far. I have been using to to encode some videos which is pretty CPU intensive. With all 4 cores running at 4.3GHz the max temp is 65c and TH50 remains pretty quiet. The current monitor I am using does not allow the TH50 to be mounted to the back of the monitor so it simply sits between the monitor and keyboard.

It currently sells for either $420 (256GB SSD) or $440 (512Gb SSD). However, the 16GB of RAM is soldered and cannot be upgraded so if you need more RAM for your simulations and data analysis, then do not buy it. As your professors if 16GB of RAM is sufficient.

https://www.amazon.com/DeskMini-TH50-i5-11320H-Computer-Thunderbolt/dp/B09ZTTKLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=ZQWXJ17FLDLS&amp;keywords=minisforum+th50&amp;qid=1658163597&amp;sprefix=minisforum+th50%2Caps%2C389&amp;sr=8-4

You can buy a Minisforum um350 for $325 (with $60 coupon). It is the least expensive mini pc that meets your needs as far as I can see. It has a quad core Ryzen 3550h APU that competes against 8th gen Intel CPUs.

https://www.amazon.com/UM250-Windows-Computer-Output-Graphics/dp/B08QZHGG4T/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2QMW0K9HNNJF&amp;keywords=minisforum+um350&amp;qid=1658100054&amp;sprefix=minisforum+%2Caps%2C328&amp;sr=8-3

> Or this one. > > https://smile.amazon.com/DMAF5-Windows-Desktop-Computer-Graphics/dp/B08ND39CVZ/ref=sxts_rp_s_1_0?th=1 > > Be aware that if you buy it barebones (no RAM or storage) then it does not come with a Windows license.

I've ran these for this purpose before. Actually for many purposes. They perform well and are on Prime Day sale today. I'd definitely grab one if I were in the market for another.

One might be tempted to go with the 3750h which is more money, but the performance difference/cost ratio leans towards the 3550h

Or this one.

https://smile.amazon.com/DMAF5-Windows-Desktop-Computer-Graphics/dp/B08ND39CVZ/ref=sxts_rp_s_1_0?th=1

Be aware that if you buy it barebones (no RAM or storage) then it does not come with a Windows license.

The j4125 is too weak for 4k video and has a very weak iGPU as well. I recommend at least a n5095 with two RAM sticks for dual channel mode. Though the n5105 would be better for games since it has a slightly more powerful iGPU, but still considered weak.

Below is a link to a mini pc with a ryzen 3750h for $320 after rebate. The Vega 10 iGPU is definitely a lot more powerful than in the other processors mention. However, the 3750h draws a lot more power; 35w if I am not mistaken. I think the j4125 is rated at 6w and the n5015 at 15w.

https://www.amazon.com/Desktop-256G-TRIGKEY-S3-Graphics/dp/B09JC6DYFW/ref=mp_s_a_1_60_sspa?keywords=ryzen+mini+pc&amp;qid=1657584434&amp;sr=8-60-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFFMlhGVUw3RFg5VTQmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAzMjEyMzI0MFJFQ...