How to Choose a Mini PC Under $500?
Look for processors like Intel Celeron, Core i3, or AMD Ryzen 3/5, 8GB RAM, and SSD storage (128GB–512GB). Prioritize ports (USB-C, HDMI), Wi-Fi 6 support, and compact designs. Brands like Beelink, MINISFORUM, and HP offer reliable options. Avoid overspending on unnecessary features like dedicated GPUs unless needed for light gaming or multitasking.
Can Mini PCs Handle Video Editing and Graphic Design? A Comprehensive Review
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 |
When selecting a processor, consider your workload. AMD’s Ryzen 5 5500U outperforms Intel’s i3-1115G4 in multitasking due to its 6 cores, while Intel chips often have better single-thread performance for basic tasks. For RAM, 8GB is the sweet spot for Windows 11 and light productivity, but prioritize models with an empty SODIMM slot for future upgrades. Storage-wise, 256GB NVMe SSDs provide ample space for essential apps, though some mini PCs include a 2.5-inch bay for adding a secondary HDD. Connectivity is crucial—aim for at least two USB 3.2 ports, HDMI 2.0, and dual-band Wi-Fi to handle peripherals and dual monitors efficiently.
| Processor | Cores/Threads | PassMark Score | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryzen 5 5500U | 6/12 | 13,500 | $320 |
| Intel i3-1115G4 | 2/4 | 8,200 | $280 |
| Ryzen 3 5300U | 4/8 | 10,100 | $250 |
Are Budget Mini PCs Energy-Efficient?
Most use 10–25W TDP processors, consuming 70% less power than desktop CPUs. For example, the Intel N100 draws only 6W, making mini PCs ideal for 24/7 use as home servers. Energy Star-certified models further reduce costs, saving $20–$40 annually on electricity.
Can You Put a Graphics Card in a NUC? A Comprehensive Guide to Upgrading Your Intel NUC
Energy efficiency varies significantly between architectures. Intel’s Alder Lake-N series (N95/N100) excels in low-power scenarios, idling at 3W compared to AMD’s Ryzen 5000U chips that average 8W. For always-on applications like Plex servers, a mini PC with 10W TDP consumes ~88 kWh yearly—costing $10.50 at $0.12/kWh. In contrast, a 65W desktop would cost $68 annually. Some models like the Beelink U59 Pro include smart fan controls that reduce power draw during light usage. Look for 80 PLUS certification on power adapters and models supporting Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) states for granular energy management.
| Model | TDP | Idle Power | Annual Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intel N100 | 6W | 3W | $7.20 |
| Ryzen 5 5500U | 15W | 8W | $19.20 |
| Intel i3-1115G4 | 15W | 5W | $14.40 |
*Based on 24/7 operation at $0.12/kWh
FAQ
- Q: Can I run Windows 11 on budget mini PCs?
- A: Yes, if they have TPM 2.0 (most post-2020 models), 4GB+ RAM, and 64GB+ storage. Check Microsoft’s compatibility list.
- Q: Do mini PCs under $500 support 4K output?
- A: Select models with HDMI 2.0/DisplayPort 1.4, like the MINISFORUM TH50 (Intel Iris Xe), can handle 4K at 60Hz.
- Q: Are refurbished mini PCs a good deal?
- A: Yes—enterprise-grade refurbished units (e.g., HP EliteDesk) often include warranties and outperform new budget models in durability.