Mini-PCs are the perfect compromise between laptops and tower PCs. They are small and compact and fit easily behind monitors. And if your work doesn't require a powerful, high-speed processor, these mini PCs are the perfect solution. However, Windows Mini PCs are expensive and cost up to $700. But luckily, it's not the end of the road. There are a few good budget Windows Mini PCs under $500.
However, these budget Windows mini PCs come at a cost, and you won't get as much muscle power as some of its expensive or high-end counterparts. As stated earlier, these PCs are suitable for low-demand jobs. The best part is that they take up less space.
Now that that's settled, let's look at the best Windows mini PCs under $500. But before that,
- Here are the best FHD monitors under $500
- Check out these cool mechanical keyboards under $200
1. Chuwi HeroBox Windows 10 Mini Desktop Computer
Processor : Intel Celeron J4125
Chuwi HeroBox Windows 10 Mini Desktop Computer
The Chuwi HeroBox is an entry-level Windows mini PC and features an Intel Celeron J4125 processor that can go up to 2 GHz. Note that Celeron processors are not as fast as their current generation counterparts. But if you're looking for minimal usage, it's a good choice.
The box is thin and light. Plus, the VESA mount gives you the option to mount it on the back of the monitors. At the same time, the ports on the front and back give you the flexibility to add peripherals according to your choice.
For the record, the HeroBox comes with a duo of USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports and a USB-C port. This is in addition to the VGA and HDMI connectors. It should be mentioned that the HeroBox allows you to connect up to two monitors.
But ultimately, the cheap price comes at a cost, and in this case, it's processing power. The Celeron processor can rarely match the power demanded by some applications like Google Chrome (with many tabs). But if you're looking at minimal usage (and to save money), it's worth considering.
2. Zotac ZBOX CI622
Processor : Intel Core i3-10110U
Zotac ZBOX CI622
Zotac offers a range of passively cooled mini PCs, and the ZBox Cl622 is no different. It runs quietly and doesn't make much noise even when playing graphics-intensive games. An Intel Core i3-10110U processor powers this mini PC, and it proves to be quite suitable for everyday tasks and light workloads. It's small and compact and even sports a cool chassis with a honeycomb design at the top.
Note that the ZBox Cl622 is a simple mini PC and you will need to add the RAM yourself. But on the other hand, you have the advantage of choosing a large RAM to leave the PC plenty of space to work.
That said, the Core i3 processor is enough to let you do your daily work with ease. Of course, it will struggle to run very intensive jobs like video editing or photo editing like its Core i5 processors.
One of the main strengths of this mini PC is the number of ports. It comes with 6 USB 3.1 ports, 2 of which are USB-C ports. On top of that, you get your hands on a headphone jack, card reader, and USB 3.0 port. Ports are arranged smartly, making it easy to connect peripherals. It should be mentioned that an SSD slot is missing.
It's not perfect. For one thing, the box gets a little warm when you push it too hard, despite being passively cooled. That said, if you're not looking to perform high-end tasks and want flexibility in your choice of RAM, this Zotac mini PC is a good buy.
3. Beelink SEI8 Mini PC
Processor : 8th Generation Intel i5-8279U
Beelink SEI8 Mini PC
Another affordable Mini PC is from Beelink. The highlight of this PC is the included Iris Plus Graphics 655 GPU which allows you to have a decent gaming experience with good visuals. That aside, an Intel Core i5-8279U processor runs this Beelink PC, and it can go up to 4.10GHz. The GPU also allows you to add two 4K (@ 30Hz) displays to your setup.
Although it does not have a passive cooling system, it includes a fan and an integrated cooling system that helps the system stay cool. Unlike the one above, this isn't a simple PC and it comes with 16GB of RAM. At the same time, you can upgrade the storage with an M.2 SATA SSD.
When it comes to connectors, it's safe to say that it has a respectable number of ports. It includes two HDMI ports, 5 USB 3.0 ports and a Gigabit LAN connector.
So far it has several good reviews and people love the easy setup process. It can perform just about any low-demand task with ease.
4. Minisforum UM700 Mini PC
Processor : Ryzen 7 3750H processor
Mini PC Miniforum UM700
Another budget Windows Mini PC is the Minisforum UM700 Ryzen NUC. It's a versatile system that can easily guide you through daily tasks and casual games with ease. It is compact and can easily be carried in a backpack when needed. An AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor powers this computer and can reach a speed of 4 GHz.
It is a little more expensive than its counterparts above. However, the right amount of power and size makes it a worthy choice. At the same time, setting up this PC is simple and does not require much time.
The port count of this mini PC is also appropriate. You get an HDMI port, a DisplayPort and a pair of USB 3.1 connectors. Plus, there's a USB-C port to add functionality.
The modular sign ensures that you can upgrade the RAM later. The current settings allow you to connect up to 3 monitors, which is a huge advantage, especially if you need larger screens.
Small but big power
Mini PCs may seem small, but the right one lets you do your job like any laptop or tower PC. Although they seem relatively cost-effective, note that adding peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and speakers tends to increase the cost.
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