Mini PC vs. Desktop: Which one to use?

Over the years, since the invention of the regular desktop computer, there has been a constant trend for computers to become smaller and smaller. To fully understand the difference between a regular desktop computer and a mini PC, below is some information on what exactly a Mini PC is.

What is a mini PC?

First of all, it is worth explaining what a mini PC actually is. Essentially, a mini PC is an extremely small and compact desktop computer. It works almost entirely like a regular desktop computer, but the main difference is that these compact desktop PCs are significantly smaller in size.

You can use a mini PC both at home and in the office and for various tasks, ranging from browsing the Internet and sending emails to gaming and video editing.

There are almost no noticeable differences compared to a normal desktop computer, although mini PCs generally have a slower speed. However, there are upgrade options for the RAM and SSD.

Design-wise, the mini desktop PC is much more elegant, compact and attractive than a regular desktop.

How is a mini PC made up?

The internal components are completely similar to those of a normal desktop or laptop computer. Except for the screen and keyboard, for logical reasons.

To be more concrete, a mini PC has the same processor as a normal desktop, it has the same components such as the CPU and RAM and, above all, it has the same internal power, speed and capacity.

All this is possible because a small desktop PC has a built-in motherboard, just like a desktop, and the entire functioning of the mini PC depends on that motherboard. As a result, a small desktop computer imitates a regular desktop very well.

Advantages of the mini PC

Now that it is clear what mini PCs are, it is useful to underline the main advantages associated with this type of device.

1. Ability to save space

As mentioned, mini PCs are incredibly compact. As a result, the biggest advantage associated with mini desktop computers is that they tend not to take up much space. Because these devices are so compact, they can easily be placed behind other objects, such as a television or monitor.

As a result, a small desktop computer fits perfectly on your desk, even when you don't have much space available. Plus, thanks to its small size, a compact desktop PC is barely noticeable!

2. Versatility

One of the biggest advantages of mini PCs is their extreme versatility. For starters, they can offer a huge amount of important functions and features, such as webcam, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module. But that's not all: they can be used for many different activities.

For example, a mini PC is suitable for checking email, for professional purposes, to play games, to edit photos and videos, to advertise and the list continues. In practice, with a mini PC you can do almost everything you would normally do with a normal desktop.

Finally, today they are available on the market different types of mini PCs. For this reason, you can choose a mini PC that fits your personal preferences as much as possible.

3. Cost moderation

Another important advantage that you get by purchasing a mini PC is that this type of computer has a relatively low price, especially if you compare its cost with that of a normal desktop or laptop computer.

Of course, this also means that you won't have access to some of the fancier performance that a desktop can offer, but you'll still be able to get the quality you need. Overall, a mini PC is very cheap, to put it mildly.

4. Energy saving ability

Additionally, a mini PC can contribute to your energy saving goal. Compared to a normal desktop computer, mini PCs are remarkably cheap and they consume less energy than regular desktop computers, even when at full capacity. When a small desktop computer is at its maximum power consumption level, it only consumes 65 watts at most, and that's a good thing to keep in mind.

The reason behind this power-saving ability is that mini PCs are primarily designed to be used when traveling. For this reason, these devices are manufactured in such a way as to ensure long battery life. In turn, the most effective way to achieve this is to be very economical.

5. Easy to carry

Additionally, mini PCs are very easy to transport, making them perfect to take with you when you need to get to certain places. So, if you have to rush to an important meeting or appointment, you won't have to worry about this aspect at all.

Furthermore, you will always have everything you need available! So, when it comes to convenience and practicality, a mini PC is definitely a great choice.

6. Silence

Last but not least, if silence is one of your goals when you decide to buy a computer, you should definitely consider purchasing a mini PC.

In other words, mini desktop computers predominantly run on passive cooling rather than a fan, which has significantly less impact on the noise they produce. Therefore, you will be able to enjoy the extensive features and functions of a mini PC while still being able to work in peaceful silence!

Conclusions

It must be said that both regular desktops and mini PCs have their respective advantages and disadvantages. However, if you are looking for a cheaper alternative to the standard desktop without compromising on performance and quality, you should definitely consider purchasing a Mini PC. The differences will barely be noticeable, at least not where it matters!