• September 24, 2024

Are There Good Options for Gaming with a MiniPC?

In the world of gaming, MiniPCs are increasingly becoming a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking compact solutions without sacrificing performance. With advancements in technology, many MiniPCs now offer powerful specifications that rival traditional desktops. In this article, we explore some of the best MiniPC options for gaming, examining their features and performance to help you make an informed choice.

1. Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT

Overview

The Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT stands out for its exceptional gaming capabilities. Equipped with a discrete RX 7600M XT GPU, it provides gamers with the power needed for a smooth 1080p gaming experience.

2024 Best 5 Mini PCs Under $500

Best Mini PCs Under $500 Description Amazon URL

Beelink S12 Pro Mini PC

Sponsored Ad - Beelink SEi14 Mini PC, Intel Ultra 5 125H (up to 4.5GHz) 14C/18T, Mini Computer 32GB DDR5 5600MHz 1TB PCIe...
Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake-N100, 16GB RAM, 500GB SSD, supports 4K dual display. View on Amazon

ACEMAGICIAN Mini Gaming PC

KAMRUI Mini PC with AMD Ryzen7 5800U 8C/16T Processor Up to 4.4Ghz, 16GB DDR4 512GB SSD,Small Form Factor Desktop Compute...
AMD Ryzen 7 5800U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, supports 4K triple display. View on Amazon

GMKtec Mini PC M5 Plus

GMKtec Mini PC NucBox G5, Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake N97 (up to 3.6GHz), 12GB RAM 256GB M.2 SSD, Home, Business, Office Min...
AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, features WiFi 6E and dual LAN. View on Amazon

Maxtang ALN50 Mini PC

Maxtang Ryzen 7 7735HS Mini PC [8C/16T up to 4.75GHz] Windows 11 Home Supported 32GB DDR5 Ram 1TB PCIe4.0 Nvme SSD WIFI6 BT5.2 Mini Desktop Gaming Computer
Intel Core i3-N305, up to 32GB RAM, compact design with multiple connectivity options. View on Amazon

MINISFORUM Venus UM773 Lite

MINISFORUM Venus Series UM773 Lite Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS up to 4.75GHz 32GB DDR5 1TB PCIe4.0 SSD AMD Radeon 680M Mini...
Ryzen 7 7735HS, up to 32GB RAM, supports dual displays and has solid performance. View on Amazon

Performance

Powered by an eight-core, 16-thread Zen 4 processor, this MiniPC excels in both gaming and productivity tasks. Its architecture allows for efficient multitasking, making it suitable for those who also need to run resource-intensive applications alongside gaming.

Customization

One of the most appealing features of the AtomMan G7 PT is its barebones configuration. Users can select their own RAM and storage options, tailoring the system to meet their specific gaming needs. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for gamers who want to optimize performance.

2. Minisforum Venus UM970 Pro

Overview

For budget-conscious gamers, the Minisforum Venus UM970 Pro offers impressive value. This MiniPC is designed to deliver solid 1080p gaming performance at medium settings, making it a great entry point for new gamers.

Specifications

Powered by an AMD Ryzen processor with integrated graphics, the UM970 Pro provides a reliable gaming experience without breaking the bank. Its affordability and performance make it a compelling choice for casual gaming.

3. Asus ROG NUC

Overview

The Asus ROG NUC is renowned for its powerful gaming capabilities. This MiniPC combines mobile computing components with a discrete GPU, allowing it to handle demanding games effectively.

Performance

The ROG NUC is built for gamers who desire high-performance graphics in a compact form factor. Its robust specifications enable it to run the latest titles smoothly, ensuring an immersive gaming experience.

4. Zotac ZBox Magnus One

Overview

For those seeking a MiniPC that can deliver 1440p gaming, the Zotac ZBox Magnus One is an excellent option. It features a dedicated RTX 3070 GPU, making it one of the most powerful MiniPCs on the market.

Specifications

While it may come with a higher price tag, the Magnus One justifies its cost with superior graphics performance and a compact design. This MiniPC is perfect for gamers who want high-quality visuals without the bulk of a traditional desktop.

5. MINISFORUM Venus Series UM773

Overview

Another budget-friendly option is the MINISFORUM Venus Series UM773. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS and integrated Radeon graphics, it provides adequate performance for casual gaming.

Performance

While it lacks a discrete GPU, the UM773 can still handle many esports titles effectively. This makes it an ideal choice for casual gamers looking for an affordable yet capable system.

Key Considerations for Gaming with MiniPCs

When selecting a MiniPC for gaming, several factors should guide your decision:

Graphics Performance

The graphics card is critical for gaming. Models with discrete GPUs, such as the RX 7600M XT or RTX 3070, will provide significantly better performance than those with integrated graphics.

Processor Capabilities

A powerful processor is essential for a smooth gaming experience. Look for MiniPCs with multi-core processors to handle multitasking and demanding games efficiently.

Upgrade Options

Consider whether the MiniPC allows for future upgrades. Systems that let you expand RAM and storage can extend the lifespan of your device and enhance its performance.

Cooling Solutions

Effective cooling is vital in compact systems to prevent thermal throttling during intensive gaming sessions. Look for MiniPCs designed with robust cooling mechanisms to maintain performance under load.

Conclusion

MiniPCs have emerged as viable gaming options, combining space-saving designs with impressive performance. Models like the Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT and Asus ROG NUC offer powerful gaming capabilities, while budget-friendly options like the Venus UM970 Pro provide solid value for casual gamers. When choosing a MiniPC for gaming, carefully consider factors like graphics performance, processor power, and upgrade options to ensure it meets your gaming needs. With the right MiniPC, you can enjoy a fantastic gaming experience without the bulk of a traditional desktop.