Answer: The best mini PCs of 2017 included the Intel NUC7i7BNH, Zotac ZBOX MAGNUS EN1080, and Gigabyte Brix Gaming VR. These models excelled in performance, compact design, and versatility for gaming, productivity, and media streaming. Key factors were processor power (Intel Core i7), GPU capabilities (NVIDIA GTX 1080), and connectivity options like USB-C and Thunderbolt 3.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a 2017 Mini PC?
Critical factors include processing power (e.g., Intel i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen), GPU for gaming/editing, RAM (8GB+), storage type (SSD vs. HDD), and ports (USB 3.1, HDMI 2.0). Thermal design and upgradability also matter. For example, the Intel NUC7i7BNH supported dual storage drives, while the Zotac EN1080 allowed GPU upgrades.
When evaluating storage, SSDs provided faster boot times and application loading compared to HDDs. For instance, systems with NVMe SSDs achieved read speeds up to 2,500 MB/s, while traditional HDDs capped at 160 MB/s. Port selection was equally critical—Thunderbolt 3 enabled external GPU enclosures for gaming upgrades, and HDMI 2.0 ensured 4K@60Hz output for content creators. Budget models often sacrificed port variety, but mid-range devices like the Minix Neo Z83-4 included four USB 3.0 ports for peripherals.
| Component | Minimum Recommendation | Ideal Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 8GB DDR4 | 16GB DDR4 |
| Storage | 500GB HDD | 512GB SSD + 1TB HDD |
| USB Ports | 3x USB 3.0 | 2x Thunderbolt 3 + 4x USB 3.1 |
How Did Connectivity Options Evolve in 2017 Mini PCs?
2017 models prioritized USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 for 40Gbps data transfers and dual 4K display support. The Minix Neo Z83-4 included 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless peripherals. Some systems like the HP Elite Slice offered modular add-ons like Bang & Olufsen audio or extra storage bays.
The adoption of Thunderbolt 3 revolutionized peripheral connectivity, allowing users to daisy-chain up to six devices through a single port. This was particularly useful for video editors needing external storage and high-resolution monitors. Wireless capabilities also saw improvements—802.11ac Wi-Fi provided 1.3Gbps speeds, triple the throughput of 2016’s 802.11n standard. Enterprise-focused models like the Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny integrated vPro technology for remote management, appealing to IT departments.
| Feature | 2016 Models | 2017 Models |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C Adoption | 15% | 68% |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11n | 802.11ac |
| Display Outputs | HDMI 1.4 | HDMI 2.0 + DisplayPort 1.4 |
Which Mini PCs Were Best for Gaming in 2017?
The Zotac ZBOX MAGNUS EN1080 dominated with an NVIDIA GTX 1080 GPU, delivering 1440p/60fps gaming. The Gigabyte Brix Gaming VR featured a GTX 1060 and VR-ready specs. Both systems offered desktop-grade performance in sub-5-liter designs, outperforming consoles like the PS4 Pro in frame rates and ray tracing.
Why Are Budget Mini PCs Like the ASUS VivoMini Worth Mentioning?
The ASUS VivoMini UN45H priced under $400 provided a dual-core Intel Celeron, 8GB RAM, and 1TB HDD. It consumed only 15W power, making it 40% more efficient than competitors. Despite lower specs, it handled 1080p streaming and light office tasks, appealing to cost-conscious users.
What Were the Most Common Thermal Challenges in 2017 Models?
High-end mini PCs like the Zotac EN1080 faced thermal throttling under load, hitting 85°C. Manufacturers addressed this with vapor chambers (e.g., Gigabyte Brix) and dual-fan designs. The Intel NUC7i7BNH used a “laminar flow” system to reduce CPU temps by 12°C compared to prior NUCs.
“2017 was a turning point for mini PCs. The integration of desktop GPUs like NVIDIA’s Pascal architecture into sub-5-liter chassis redefined compact gaming. However, thermal limitations persisted—only systems with hybrid cooling could sustain peak performance. Brands that prioritized upgradability, like Zotac and Gigabyte, remained relevant years later.” – Industry Hardware Analyst
Conclusion
The best 2017 mini PCs balanced raw power (Intel Core i7, GTX 1080) with innovative cooling and connectivity. While newer models have since emerged, these systems laid the groundwork for today’s ultra-compact workstations. For retro builders or budget users, 2017-era devices like the NUC7i7BNH still offer value in secondary setups.
FAQ
- Can 2017 Mini PCs Run Windows 11?
- Most 2017 mini PCs lack TPM 2.0 chips, a Windows 11 requirement. Exceptions include the Intel NUC7i7BNH, which can be firmware-upgraded for partial compatibility.
- Are 2017 Mini PCs Good for 4K Video Editing?
- Only high-end models like the Zotac EN1080 with GTX 1080 GPUs can handle 4K editing smoothly. Lower-tier systems struggle with timeline rendering in apps like Premiere Pro.
- How Long Do 2017 Mini PCs Last?
- With SSD upgrades and RAM expansions, 2017 models remain functional for basic tasks. Gaming systems may require GPU replacements by 2024 for modern titles.