What should you know before buying a Mini PC?

We can all agree: with their small size and portability, Mini PCs are impressive machines.

So if you can't wait to get your hands on your next computer, we don't blame you. But before you pull the trigger, make sure you know what you're buying. There are some aspects that may or may not make the transition from a traditional computer to a Mini PC possible.

What are these aspects? This article describes everything you need to make an informed decision.

So let's go down the rabbit hole.

Make sure it is a ready-to-use template

Did you know that there are two main types of Mini-PCs?

On the one hand there is the plug-and-play option, which includes everything that is included. This means that your small computer will have a working motherboard, processor, hard drive and RAM. In practice, plug and play models have everything you need to start using your new computer immediately after purchase.

Many don't realize it, but there is also a Barebone option that requires the user to install the hard drive and RAM. In fact, you need to purchase these components separately, as they do not come with the Mini-PC.

Unfortunately, many people only realize this when the package arrives and the computer won't turn on.

So, before making a purchase, make sure you buy a ready-to-use Mini-PC. If you've never opened a computer, it may be difficult to find supported RAM and install it yourself.

Consider the operating system

An operating system is complex software that allows your computer to do everything it was purchased to do. Windows and Linux are the most popular operating systems.

For most users, Windows is the best option, as it is the operating system of choice for the vast majority of the population. It is easy to use and comes with a multitude of features to make your life more comfortable. The only problem is that many Mini-PCs are not Windows licensed. This means you will have to pay a high licensing fee and go through the hassle of setting everything up yourself.

So, unless you are a technology enthusiast and want to accept the basic Linux interface, you should only buy a Mini-PC with the latest Windows 11 operating system.

It's also worth noting that many software designed for Windows cannot run on Linux, which is especially concerning as the vast majority of software is programmed exclusively for Windows.

Check the doors

At a minimum, you need some USB ports to connect your peripherals and HDMI to connect your monitor/TV screen.

Make sure your Mini-PC is equipped with USB 3.2 ports, otherwise the speed will be too slow. If you want to connect multiple displays, such as a dual-monitor setup for multitasking, you'll need multiple HDMI ports.

Some Mini-PCs also support SD cards, so you can copy data to and from external storage devices without having to purchase an adapter.

Know your needs

This is perhaps the most important aspect to consider when you want to buy a Mini-PC. If you buy an underpowered machine, you'll be stuck in an endless loop of loading screens.

Most Mini-PCs aren't capable of heavy computing tasks like photo editing and gaming. Even streaming high-quality video can be extremely slow if you don't choose the right device.

For this reason it is necessary to pay close attention to the specifications of a Mini-PC before ordering it. The best option is to buy a device with an i5 processor that is no older than a few generations.

In addition to the processor, you need to make sure that your Mini-PC has at least 8GB of DDR4 RAM and an SSD storage option. The SSD drive is important because it greatly reduces the startup and loading time of PC applications. Boot times drop from over a minute to a few seconds after installing an SSD.

The best Mini-PC to consider!

Whether you need a Mini-PC to work at home, edit videos or play games in your free time, the GEEKOM Mini IT8 can handle all this and more.

This branded Mini-PC is equipped with an Intel i5 processor, 8 GB of modern RAM and a 246 GB SSD. It supports up to 4 simultaneous displays, so you can have a great three-monitor setup if you're a power user.

Not only does it have the ports to support this level of multitasking, but it also has enough power under the hood to deliver a smooth experience.

The Mini IT8 is a plug and play 100% Mini-PC that comes with Windows 11 pre-installed by the company. So you can start generating value from your new favorite computer as soon as you receive it.

Be sure to check out the GEEKOM Mini IT8 before the pre-sale Mini-PC discount offer expires.