Compact and Powerful Small Form Factor PCs

In today’s fast-paced digital world, compact and powerful small form factor (SFF) PCs have gained immense popularity. These systems provide exceptional performance while occupying minimal space, making them ideal for a range of applications—from home offices to professional environments. This article explores some of the top SFF PCs available in 2023, highlighting their specifications, features, and unique advantages.

1. Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini (2023)

Processor and Performance

The Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini is powered by the Intel Core i7-13700H processor, offering substantial computational power. This multi-core processor is capable of handling demanding applications and multitasking with ease.

2024 Best 5 Mini PCs Under $500

Best Mini PCs Under $500	Description	Amazon URL
Beelink S12 Pro Mini PC	Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake-N100, 16GB RAM, 500GB SSD, supports 4K dual display.	View on Amazon
ACEMAGICIAN Mini Gaming PC	AMD Ryzen 7 5800U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, supports 4K triple display.	View on Amazon
GMKtec Mini PC M5 Plus	AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, features WiFi 6E and dual LAN.	View on Amazon
Maxtang ALN50 Mini PC	Intel Core i3-N305, up to 32GB RAM, compact design with multiple connectivity options.	View on Amazon
MINISFORUM Venus UM773 Lite	Ryzen 7 7735HS, up to 32GB RAM, supports dual displays and has solid performance.	View on Amazon

Memory and Storage

With 16GB of RAM and a generous 1TB SSD, this mini PC ensures fast performance and ample storage for applications, files, and media. The SSD significantly improves boot and load times, enhancing overall efficiency.

Key Features

Multi-monitor support allows users to expand their workspace for increased productivity.
Thunderbolt 4 connectivity enables high-speed data transfer and versatile connections with peripherals.

Price

Starting around $600 with a tested configuration priced at $909, the Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini offers excellent value for those seeking a reliable workhorse.

2. MSI Cubi 5 12M

Processor and Performance

The MSI Cubi 5 12M features the Intel Core i3-1215U, with options available for higher models. This processor delivers a balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for a variety of tasks.

Memory and Storage

This mini PC supports up to 64GB DDR4 RAM and offers M.2 SSD options, providing flexibility in both memory and storage configurations. This versatility allows it to cater to both productivity tasks and light gaming.

Key Features

Designed with a small footprint, perfect for home entertainment setups and office productivity.
Supports dual displays, enhancing the user experience with more screen real estate.

Price

The MSI Cubi 5 is priced at approximately $500, making it a cost-effective solution for users needing a capable mini PC.

3. HP Z2 Mini G9

Processor and Performance

The HP Z2 Mini G9 is available with Intel Core i7 or i9 configurations, offering workstation-grade performance. This makes it an excellent choice for users with demanding computational needs, such as CAD and video editing professionals.

Memory and Storage Options

With the capability to support up to 64GB of RAM and multiple storage configurations, including SSD options, this mini PC can handle resource-intensive applications without breaking a sweat.

Key Features

Offers extensive port selection, including Thunderbolt and USB-C, facilitating seamless connectivity with various peripherals.
Built to provide robust performance in a compact design, making it ideal for professional applications.

Price Range

Starting at around $2,099, the HP Z2 Mini G9 is positioned as a premium option, catering to professionals requiring high performance.

4. Minisforum UM790 Pro

Processor and Performance

The Minisforum UM790 Pro is equipped with the AMD Ryzen 9 processor, providing performance comparable to Intel’s offerings. This makes it a formidable choice for users who require significant processing power for multitasking and heavy workloads.

Memory and Storage

With support for up to 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, the UM790 Pro is designed to handle everything from office tasks to gaming, ensuring smooth operation under various loads.

Key Features

Features robust cooling solutions, allowing it to maintain performance even during intensive tasks.
Compact size makes it suitable for various environments, from home offices to gaming setups.

Price

At approximately $447.90 (discounted from $629.90), this mini PC provides excellent value, especially for users looking for high performance in a small package.

5. ECS Liva Z5 Plus

Processor Options

The ECS Liva Z5 Plus offers various processor options, including Intel Celeron or Pentium processors, making it a versatile choice for basic computing tasks.

Memory and Storage

Supporting up to 16GB of RAM with SSD options available, this mini PC delivers reliable performance for everyday applications and light media consumption.

Key Features

Its extremely compact design allows for VESA mounting, making it an excellent choice for digital signage or space-constrained environments.
Capable of supporting up to four monitors, providing flexibility for multi-display setups.

Price Range

Generally budget-friendly, the ECS Liva Z5 Plus is priced around $300 to $400, depending on the configuration chosen, making it a great entry-level option.

Conclusion: Finding the Right SFF PC for Your Needs

When it comes to compact and powerful small form factor PCs, there are plenty of options to choose from, each tailored to specific needs and use cases. Whether you require high-end processing power for professional tasks, a versatile solution for home entertainment, or a budget-friendly option for basic computing, there’s a mini PC that can meet your requirements effectively.