Answer: Ubuntu, Chrome OS, and Windows 11 offer distinct experiences on Mini PCs. Ubuntu excels in customization and open-source flexibility, Chrome OS prioritizes simplicity and cloud integration, while Windows 11 provides broad software compatibility. Performance varies: Ubuntu and Chrome OS run efficiently on low-end hardware, whereas Windows 11 demands more resources. Choose based on your needs: productivity (Windows), affordability (Chrome OS), or control (Ubuntu).
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Table of Contents
Top 5 Mini PCs in 2025
| Rank | Model | Processor | RAM | Storage | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GEEKOM Mini IT12 (Best Performance) | Intel i5-12450H (8C/12T) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD | $379.00 | Check Price |
| 2 | GMKtec N150 (1TB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD | $191.99 | Check Price |
| 3 | KAMRUI GK3Plus (Budget Pick) | Intel N95 (3.4GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB M.2 SSD | $169.99 | Check Price |
| 4 | ACEMAGICIAN N150 (Cheapest 16GB) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $139.99 | Check Price |
| 5 | GMKtec N150 (512GB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe SSD | $168.99 | Check Price |
How Do Ubuntu, Chrome OS, and Windows 11 Perform on Mini PC Hardware?
Ubuntu and Chrome OS are lightweight, making them ideal for low-power Mini PCs with limited RAM (4GB or less). Windows 11 requires at least 8GB RAM and a modern CPU for smooth operation. Ubuntu handles multitasking efficiently via its minimal background processes, while Chrome OS relies on web apps. Windows 11 struggles on budget hardware but supports demanding applications like Photoshop.
For users with older Mini PCs, Ubuntu’s ability to run on 32-bit systems provides extended hardware compatibility. Chrome OS Flex further optimizes performance for aging devices by stripping unnecessary background services. In contrast, Windows 11’s reliance on TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot locks out many legacy systems. Benchmarks show Ubuntu consuming 40% less memory than Windows 11 during basic tasks, while Chrome OS boots 3x faster due to its read-only OS design. However, Windows 11’s DirectStorage technology gives it an edge for NVMe-equipped Mini PCs in gaming scenarios.
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What Software and App Ecosystems Do These OSes Offer?
Windows 11 dominates with native support for Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, and gaming platforms. Chrome OS focuses on web apps (Google Workspace) and Android apps via the Play Store. Ubuntu offers open-source alternatives (LibreOffice, GIMP) and supports Linux-native software, but lacks mainstream app compatibility. All three now support progressive web apps (PWAs), bridging gaps in functionality.
Developers working on Mini PCs will find Ubuntu’s native Docker and Kubernetes support unparalleled, while Windows 11’s WSL2 bridges the gap for Linux toolchains. Chrome OS’s Linux container (Crostini) offers basic development capabilities but lacks GPU acceleration. For creative professionals, Windows remains the only option with full Adobe Premiere Pro support, though Ubuntu’s DaVinci Resolve Studio compatibility is improving. Chrome OS’s recent integration with LumaFusion brings mobile-first video editing to the platform, creating new possibilities for content creators on budget hardware.
| OS | Minimum CPU | RAM | Storage | Architecture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubuntu | 2GHz dual-core | 4GB | 25GB | ARM/x86 |
| Chrome OS | 1.5GHz | 4GB | 16GB | ARM/x86 |
| Windows 11 | 1GHz (64-bit) | 8GB | 64GB | x64 only |
Which OS Provides the Best Security for Mini PCs?
Chrome OS leads with automatic updates and sandboxed apps, minimizing malware risks. Ubuntu’s security relies on user-managed firewalls and repositories but benefits from fewer targeted attacks. Windows 11 has improved defenses (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot) but remains a frequent target for exploits. For sensitive tasks, Chrome OS’s verified boot and Ubuntu’s encryption tools are recommended.
How Customizable Are Ubuntu, Chrome OS, and Windows 11?
Ubuntu is highly customizable, allowing kernel tweaks, desktop environments (GNOME, KDE), and open-source modifications. Chrome OS offers limited personalization (themes, Android app layouts) and requires developer mode for deeper changes. Windows 11 supports UI adjustments (Start menu, taskbar) and registry edits but restricts system-level customization. Developers and tinkerers prefer Ubuntu for full control over the OS.
What Are the Hardware Requirements for Each OS?
Ubuntu: 2GHz dual-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 25GB storage. Chrome OS: 1.5GHz processor, 4GB RAM, 16GB storage. Windows 11: 64-bit 1GHz CPU, 8GB RAM, 64GB storage, TPM 2.0. Ubuntu and Chrome OS run on ARM/x86 architectures; Windows 11 requires newer x64 chips. Older Mini PCs may need BIOS updates for Windows 11 compatibility.
Expert Views
“Ubuntu’s edge lies in its adaptability—it’s the only OS that can function as a desktop, server, and IoT hub on the same device. Chrome OS dominates in education due to foolproof management consoles, while Windows 11’s strength is its legacy software backbone. The future will see more convergence, like Linux VMs on Chrome OS or Windows Subsystem for Linux bridging ecosystems.” — Mini PC Industry Analyst
Conclusion
Choosing between Ubuntu, Chrome OS, and Windows 11 for Mini PCs hinges on performance needs, software requirements, and budget. Ubuntu suits tech-savvy users and developers, Chrome OS excels in simplicity and cloud workflows, and Windows 11 remains the gateway to mainstream productivity tools. Evaluate hardware compatibility and long-term use cases before deciding.
FAQ
- Can I Dual-Boot These OSes on a Mini PC?
- Yes. Ubuntu supports dual-booting with Windows 11 or Chrome OS (via Brunch Toolkit). Ensure sufficient storage (256GB+ SSD) and backup data before partitioning.
- Does Chrome OS Support Linux Apps?
- Yes. Enable Linux (Beta) in settings to run Debian-based apps. Performance varies on low-end hardware.
- Is Ubuntu Suitable for Non-Technical Users?
- Partially. Ubuntu’s LTS versions offer stability, but troubleshooting often requires terminal commands. Consider Chrome OS for a hassle-free experience.
- Which OS Updates Most Frequently?
- Chrome OS updates every 4 weeks; Ubuntu LTS every 2 years (with interim releases); Windows 11 follows a semi-annual feature update cycle.