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Computers are getting smaller and more powerful with each passing year. These are the same devices that once took up the space of an entire room, while today we easily carry them with us in our bags.
But why stop here? Why not have something even more compact?
These are the questions that the creators of mini PCs tried to answer years ago. If you don't know what a mini PC is or what benefits it offers, you're in luck. This post will provide you with everything you need to know.
What is a mini PC?
As the name “mini” suggests, the mini PC is a revolutionary form factor that eliminates all the bulk of a PC and turns it into a tiny device that we can take anywhere we want.
Don't let the word "mini" fool you. A mini PC comes with all the components found in traditional desktop computers. A modern motherboard, processor, RAM, hard drive, and many connectivity ports are included.
As far as everyday use goes, these little computers are just as good as their bulkier cousins. In fact, some advanced models like the GEEKOM Mini IT8 are so powerful that they can run intensive applications like Photoshop, Sony Vegas and even some video games!
How do mini PCs work?
Like other computers, a mini PC has a CPU and memory, which means it actually works like a regular computer.
The CPU executes instructions by retrieving them from memory, using the ALU to perform an operation and storing the result in memory.
Do mini PCs use mobile chips?
In the past, mini PCs typically used mobile chips. This is because they were designed for use in mobile devices such as laptops.
However, the latest mini PCs they started using desktop chips. This is because mini PCs are now used more as desktop replacements.
Is the mini PC worth it?
Because mini PCs are smaller, they were once derided for their limited upgradeability and performance. But recent advances have changed this perception: some mini PCs can now run even the latest games!
While they don't have the customization features and power of a desktop, they make up for it in other ways. However, you need to make sure you have other peripherals ready to take advantage of the new device.
The advantages of a mini PC
If you wish buy a mini PC but you're not sure if you should, consider the following benefits of switching to this smaller form factor:
Small and portable
Let's start with the most obvious benefit. If you love the small size of a laptop, you'll love the tiny size of a mini PC.
Forget about buying a bag to carry your laptop around all day. A mini PC will be small enough to fit in your pocket. For example, the GEEKOM Mini IT8 can easily fit into a jacket pocket.
If you have a spare screen, be it the office monitor, a friend's monitor or the flat screen in your living room, you can get your mini PC up and running without any effort. Just connect it to the screen and you're done.
Compare with a laptop. You have to carry a keyboard, a trackpad, a battery, and an entire screen with you all day. With a mini PC, however, you will only have to bring the essential components with you.
Low energy consumption
The small size leads to lower energy consumption. Mini PCs can drastically reduce electricity consumption. This is especially true for demanding users who run intensive applications for nearly a dozen hours a day, such as video editors and eSports professionals.
Even if you are not interested in saving a few euros on your electricity bill, you should not underestimate the importance of these low energy consumptions.
Imagine that a power outage occurs suddenly. You will have no chance to work because your desktop computer will not be able to run on a UPS system for long. And this is considering that the UPS system is already in operation.
With a mini PC, however, you can easily have a small backup battery and use it to power your computing needs for a long time. This can be a help for professionals, especially those who enjoy the freedom of remote working.
Cheap
You might think that such a revolutionary form factor should cost more than traditional computers. But the truth is that a mini PC is often much more affordable than its bulkier counterpart.
This is possible because the small size allows you to save on materials and labor. Additionally, the companies that produce these modern devices often have advanced manufacturing systems to maximize savings and pass them on to consumers like you.
So, if you want elite computing performance without an elite price, a branded mini PC is your best bet.
Power in abundance
Many think that mini PCs are too underpowered to meet their computing needs. And they are right. Most models can't support anything more than light browsing and word processing.
However, all is not lost. You can purchase an advanced mini PC like the GEEKOM Mini IT8 to run some of your most intensive applications. This mini PC with Intel i5 processor has enough power to allow photo and video editing, 4K video streaming, opening dozens of browser tabs, and even running some video games!
In other words, a quality mini PC will give you all the power you need to work and have fun.
What is a mini PC for?
Thanks to their small size and low price, mini PCs are becoming increasingly popular. But what exactly can you do with a mini PC?
A mini PC can be used in many different environments, from powering a digital signage system to acting as an HTPC, to functioning as a game console - here are some of the most popular uses of mini PCs.
Is a mini PC suitable for gaming?
Traditionally, most mini PCs are not designed specifically for gaming. While many games can be played at a reasonable frame rate, their performance isn't up to par with modern games.
In fact, thanks to advances in PC technology, small PCs are capable of delivering incredible graphics. Some mini PCs are now a suitable option for gaming, and you can choose to upgrade your RAM memory up to 32GB if you want more performance.
