Computers have become an integral part of our daily lives, playing a crucial role in various aspects such as communication, work, education, entertainment, and information access. They allow us to stay connected at all times through the internet, enabling us to perform tasks efficiently on the go. However, traditional desktop computers lack portability, limiting our ability to access these benefits.
Fortunately, new options are available in the form of mini computers that offer great specifications without compromising portability. These mini-computers, often called mini PCs or micro PCs, are compact and lightweight, making them highly portable. Just like a desktop computer or laptop, there are a few things that you should know about when you’re buying an alternative to a powerful system such as a Mac.
- CPU: The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is a vital component in any computer, including mini computers. First and foremost, the CPU’s processing power directly influences the speed and responsiveness of a mini-computer. It determines how quickly the computer can execute tasks, launch applications, and respond to user inputs. Apart from that, it is also crucial to know the CPU’s architecture and generation before you purchase.
- Memory & Storage: Having adequate RAM allows the mini computer to run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing significant slowdowns. It ensures that each application has enough space to store and access the required data. The importance of storage in a mini-computer lies in its ability to store the operating system, applications, files, and data for long-term use. The storage capacity determines how much data the mini-computer can store locally, whether it’s documented photos, videos, or software installations.
- Connectivity Options: Connectivity options in a mini-computer are important as they determine the device’s ability to connect to various peripherals, networks, and external devices. The availability and versatility of connectivity options play a significant role in expanding the functionality and usability of a mini-computer.
Today, we will explore a handful of great options we have gathered here for the best Mac mini alternative. As we all know, Mac Mini has always been the go-to option for many productivity-focused applications. But since Mac also has its limitations, you may find trying out a mini PC as an alternative beneficial. On this page, you will find the best Mac mini alternative options and all the necessary details and specifications mentioned alongside the product. You can also check out our “Buying Guide” for the best Mac mini alternatives if you wish to know more about these mini PCs.
Best Mac Mini Alternatives Table
| Mac Mini Alternatives | CPU | RAM/Storage | Connectivity Options | buy now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MINISFORUM Mini PC | Ryzen 9 6900HX | 32 GB DDR5 / 512 GB | Bluetooth, Ethernet, HDMI, Wi Fi, USB | Check On Amazon |
| Beelink Mini PC | Ryzen 7 7735HS | 32 GB DDR5 / 500 GB | Bluetooth, Ethernet, LAN, Wi Fi, USB, HDMI | Check On Amazon |
| GEEK+ Mini PC | i7-1260P | 32 GB DDR4 / 1 TB | Bluetooth, Ethernet, LAN, Wi Fi, USB | Check On Amazon |
| MINISFORUM Mini PC | i9-12900H | 32 GB DDR4 / 1 TB | USB, Wi fi, bluetooth, HDMI | Check On Amazon |
| Intel Mini PC | i9-12900 | 64 GB DDR4 / 2 TB | USB, Wi fi, bluetooth, HDMI, Thunderbolt | Check On Amazon |
Best Mac Mini Alternatives Reviews
1. MINISFORUM UM690 Mini PC
We are starting off our list with the most popular option we could find for a mini PC which can easily replace a Mac mini. Minisforum also has a lot of other models available for a mini PC which are worth checking out.
In the 1st position, we have the MINISFORUM Venus Series UM690 Mini PC . This mini PC offers excellent performance in a compact size. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX processor with 8 cores and 16 threads, this mini PC delivers impressive processing power. It ensures fast and responsive performance with a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz and a boost clock of up to 4.9 GHz. Using 6 nm technology and Zen 3+ architecture further enhances efficiency and power consumption.
The mini PC comes preinstalled with Windows 11 Pro, providing a user-friendly interface and optimized performance. The DDR5 RAM configuration of 32GB (expandable up to 64GB) ensures smooth multitasking, while the 512GB PCIe4.0 SSD offers fast storage access. Including M.2 and support for older generation SATA SSDs or HDDs allows for versatile storage options.
Despite its small size of 5.04 x 5.04 x 1.90 inches, the UM690 mini PC packs a punch. It suits various tasks, including gaming, graphic design, 3D rendering, web surfing, and business or school work. The addition of the AMD Radeon 680M GPU further enhances its graphics capabilities, providing an exceptional visual experience.
Best Features:
- It is powered by the Ryzen 9 6900HX CPU
- It has 32 GB RAM capacity
- It has a 512 GB SSD for storage
- Bluetooth, Ethernet, HDMI, Wi Fi, USB connectivity options are available
Pros:
- Most popular choice for a mini PC
- Coming from a reliable brand
- It supports 8K output at 60 Hz refresh rate
Cons:
- More USB ports should have been provided
2. Beelink Mini PC
If you are looking for a budget option which can replace a Mac mini, stop right here. This mini PC from Beelink is certainly the best choice for you, especially since this is a mini gaming PC.
Our 2nd choice for the best Mac mini alternatives also happens to the most affordable option that you can find on this list today. The Beelink SER6 Pro Mini PC is now the cheapest option for a mini high-performance PC. But, it still features the AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor to deliver impressive performance for both design and gaming applications. With a multi-core score of 4315 and a single-core score of 528 on Cinebench R20, it ensures smooth operation even under demanding tasks.
Equipped with 32GB DDR5 4800 MHz memory, the PC offers flexible expansion options. It can be configured with up to 32GB of memory on a single card or up to 64GB with dual cards. The mini PC also provides ample storage with a 500GB capacity, featuring a read speed of up to 3500 MB/s and the ability to scale up to 2TB. It also supports 4K triple display output with its USB 4 port, which has a 40 Gbps transfer speed and allows up to 8K resolution output at 60 Hz. This lets users connect multiple monitors simultaneously, enhancing productivity and saving time.
Best Features:
- It is powered by the Ryzen 7 7735HS CPU
- It has 32 GB RAM capacity
- It has a 500 GB SSD for storage
- Bluetooth, Ethernet, LAN, Wi Fi, USB, HDMI connectivity options are available
Pros:
- Most affordable choice for a mini PC
- This is one of the few gaming mini PCs
- FCC, RoHS, and CE certification
Cons:
- It does not have a dedicated graphics card
3. GEEK+ Mini PC
Intel is one of the most experienced brands on the globe right now when it comes to PC components, especially CPUs. Therefore, getting a pre-built mini PC from Intel would make a lot of sense if you are looking for a reliable choice.
The 3rd choice on our list of the best MAC mini alternatives today comes from a wide range of options from the Intel NUC mini computers. The NUC12WSHi7 mini PC boasts the latest 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1260P processor, delivering powerful performance with 12 processor cores (4 Performance + 8 Efficiency) and 16 threads. Intel Iris Xe Graphics complements it and features Turbo speeds of up to 4.7 GHz for cores and 3.3 GHz for E-Cores. With 18 MB Intel Smart Cache and a 35 W TDP, it offers efficient and capable computing.
The mini PC comes equipped with 32 GB dual-channel DDR4 SODIMMs, providing a powerful capacity for multitasking and memory-intensive applications. It also supports expansion up to a maximum of 64 GB of memory capacity in case you are considering upgrading the RAM. Storage options are flexible, with a 1 TB M.2 22×80 PCIe x4 Gen 4 NVMe SSD pre-installed. The M.2 22×42 key B slot allows for further expansion with PCIe x1 Gen 3, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and SATA SSD options that you can buy separately for extended storage.
With a rich selection of interfaces, the NUC12WSHi7 offers versatility and connectivity options. It includes front and rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-A ports, rear type-A port, and internal USB 2.0 headers. Each USB port has individual power control. The mini PC also features a 3.5 mm front stereo headset jack and supports up to 7.1 multichannel digital audio through HDMI.
Best Features:
- It is powered by the Intel i7-1260P CPU
- It has 32 GB RAM capacity
- It has a 1 TB SSD for storage
- Bluetooth, Ethernet, LAN, Wi-Fi, USB connectivity options are available
Pros:
- Most reliable brand for mini PC units
- One of the budget choices from Intel
- Storage and RAM upgradability is pretty good
Cons:
- A bit on the expensive side considering the specifications
4. MINISFORUM NAD9 Mini PC
We have one more budget choice to offer you from MINISFORUM. Like our last pick, this mini PC from MINISFORUM also offers a balanced specification list perfect for routine applications.
Up next, we have one more option from the great selection offered by MINISFORUM. The MINISFORUM Neptune Series NAD9 Mini PC also brings the benefit of its powerful CPU with its Intel Core i9-12900H processor. With 14 cores and 20 threads, and a maximum clock speed of 5.0 GHz, it provides powerful processing capabilities. The hybrid architecture and “7nm SuperFin” process ensure efficient performance, making it suitable for high-performance gaming, 3D rendering, video editing, and teleworking. The built-in Intel Iris Xe Graphics with Xe architecture further enhances its graphics capabilities.
The NAD9 Mini PC supports 4K quad-screen output, featuring 2x HDMI with 4K 60Hz output and 2x USB-C ports with identical display output parameters. This allows for connection to ultra HD screens, enabling the use of four displays simultaneously. It increases work efficiency by expanding multiple workspaces, making it ideal for applications such as video wall systems, digital signage, professional AV systems, and security fields.
With DDR4 32 GB memory and M.2 2280 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD storage, the mini PC offers a large and expandable capacity for RAM and storage. Additionally, it includes two 2.5-inch SATA HDD slots allowing for ample storage space for movies and other entertainment content.
Best Features:
- It is powered by the Intel i9-12900H
- It has 32 GB RAM capacity
- It has a 1 TB SSD for storage
- USB, WiFi, Bluetooth, and HDMI connectivity options are available
Pros:
- One of the budget choices from MINISFORUM
- Multiple connectivity options are provided
- Display output options are pretty good
Cons:
- Overall form factor is slightly different compared to other options
5. Intel Mini PC
If you have not found the specifications that you are looking for on a mini PC yet, worry not. We can assure you that our last pick from Intel will certainly be the perfect option for those who want the ultimate level of performance.
For the last position, we have reserved the most premium and powerful option available right now for a mini PC. Compared to other options, the Intel 2023 NUC 12 Extreme is undoubtedly the perfect replacement for a mac Mini, or even a highly-powerful workstation computer. The mini PC is equipped with the latest 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12900 processor to top the performance charts for single and multi-score results. With up to 5.1 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost Technology, 30 MB Smart cache, 16 cores, and 24 threads, it provides impressive processing capabilities. The customization options allow for hardware and software upgrades, enabling enhanced performance. Upgrades include 64GB DDR4 3200MHz RAM and a 2TB M.2 Solid State Drive for storage.
However, this option stands out from many others since it comes with the NVIDIA GeForce 3070 Ti graphics card with 8GB dedicated GDDR6 memory. It incorporates the 2nd Gen RTX Ray tracing Ampere structure, enhanced Ray Tracing Cores, Tensor Cores, and high-speed G6 memory. It offers excellent graphics performance with support for up to 4 monitors through display ports and HDMI. With that, you can easily perform the heaviest of operations or play the latest games on this system without a sweat.
Connectivity options for this mini PC include Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210 802.11AX for high-speed wireless capabilities and Bluetooth 5 Combo. It also includes Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet for reliable wired connections. The front ports feature 2 x USB 3.2 (Gen 2) Type A, while the rear ports include 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (through USB-C), 6 x USB 3.2 (Gen 2) Type-A, 1 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x mini-DisplayPort, and 1 x RJ45 LAN port. With these many options, you can connect all your essential peripherals to the system without running into connectivity issues.
Best Features:
- It is powered by the Intel i9-12900 CPU
- It has 64 GB RAM capacity
- It has a 2 TB SSD for storage
- USB, WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, and Thunderbolt connectivity options are available
Pros:
- Most powerful option for a mini PC
- Reliable power supply unit
- It has a dedicated GPU
Cons:
- It costs almost ten folds compared to a budget mini PC
Buying Guide For The Best Mac Mini Alternatives
Buying an alternative for a Mac mini is certainly easier said than done. When you are looking for a mini PC option that is supposed to replace a Mac mini, you will have to carefully choose an option that not only brings the portability of a Mac mini but also matches its capabilities and compatibility.
Therefore, we have only picked up the most powerful and popular options for a mini PC, which can replace a Mac mini perfectly. You can also check out our buying guide here if you want detailed information about the most important parameters of a mini PC. Here, we will compare the importance of these parameters and also try to explain how these aspects can affect the performance of compatibility of the min PC in your case.
1. CPU
The CPU is crucial in determining the mini computer’s overall capabilities. It affects the device’s ability to handle complex calculations, process large amounts of data, and run resource-intensive applications such as video editing software, 3D modeling programs, or virtual machines. A powerful CPU ensures the mini-computer can handle these tasks efficiently without slowdowns or performance bottlenecks. The choice of the CPU also impacts the energy efficiency of a mini-computer. Modern CPUs often incorporate power-saving features and technologies to optimize energy consumption. This is particularly important in portable devices like mini-computers, where battery life is critical.
Moreover, the CPU’s compatibility with software and operating systems is essential. Mini computers typically run popular operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux, along with various applications. A compatible and well-supported CPU ensures smooth operation and compatibility with the software ecosystem, enabling users to take full advantage of available applications and services.
2. RAM / Storage
A sufficient amount of RAM is crucial for tasks that involve heavy data processing, such as video editing, 3D rendering, or running virtual machines. These tasks often require the mini computer to hold large amounts of data in memory to perform calculations and manipulations quickly. Insufficient RAM can lead to performance bottlenecks, as the system may need to rely on slower storage devices to retrieve and store data, resulting in slower processing times and reduced productivity.
In addition to capacity, the speed of the storage device also impacts the mini computer’s performance. Solid-state drives (SSDs) have become the preferred choice due to their significantly faster data transfer speeds than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). SSDs allow for quicker boot times, faster application loading, and faster file transfers. This enhances the overall responsiveness and user experience of the mini-computer.
3. Connectivity and I/O ports
One crucial connectivity option in a mini-computer is networking capabilities. Most mini-computers come equipped with built-in Ethernet ports and/or Wi-Fi capabilities. These networking options allow the mini computer to connect to the internet and local networks, enabling users to browse the web, access online services, and communicate with others. This is important for email, video conferencing, online collaboration, and accessing cloud-based applications and storage.
In addition to networking, USB ports are vital connectivity options found in minicomputers. USB ports allow users to connect a wide range of peripherals such as keyboards, mice, external hard drives, printers, scanners, and cameras. This flexibility allows users to customize their setup and expand the functionality of their mini-computer according to their specific needs. USB ports also support data transfer, allowing for quick and easy file sharing between the mini computer and external devices.
4. Form Factor & OS
The form factor and operating system (OS) of a mini-computer are important factors that significantly influence its usability, functionality, and overall user experience. The form factor refers to the physical design and size of a computer. In the case of a mini-computer, the form factor is typically small and compact, allowing for easy placement and portability. A small form factor makes a mini-computer suitable for various environments and uses cases. It can easily fit into tight spaces, such as on a desk, in a living room entertainment setup, or even be mounted on the back of a display using VESA mounts. The compact size also makes mini-computers highly portable, allowing users to carry them easily when traveling or working in different locations.
The OS determines the user experience and the features available on the mini-computer. Different operating systems offer different interfaces, workflows, and capabilities. For example, macOS, Windows, and Linux are popular operating systems used in minicomputers, each with its strengths and advantages. Choosing an OS that aligns with the user’s preferences and requirements is essential to ensure a seamless and enjoyable computing experience.
5. CPU Cores & Threads
CPU cores are individual processing units within a central processing unit (CPU) that can independently execute instructions and perform calculations. The more CPU cores a mini-computer has, the more tasks it can handle simultaneously. This is particularly important for multitasking scenarios where multiple applications or processes run concurrently. Multiple CPU cores allow for parallel processing, where each core can handle a separate task independently. This results in improved performance and responsiveness, as the workload is distributed across multiple cores.
A mini-computer can better utilise its CPU resources by utilising more threads, improving efficiency and responsiveness. In applications optimized for multithreading, such as video editing software or scientific simulations, a higher number of threads can significantly reduce processing times and enhance productivity. It’s worth noting that the performance benefits of additional CPU cores and threads may vary depending on the specific applications and tasks being performed. Some applications are designed to take advantage of multiple cores and threads, while others may not be as optimized. Therefore, it’s important to consider the requirements of the specific tasks or applications that will be used on the mini-computer when checking a CPU’s core and thread count.
Best Mac Mini Alternatives – FAQS
Ans: Officially, macOS is designed to run exclusively on Apple hardware, including Mac computers such as the Mac Mini. Apple tightly controls and optimizes macOS to work specifically with its hardware configurations. As a result, macOS is not officially supported or licensed for installation on non-Apple hardware. But, projects such as Hackintosh, involve modifying and customizing the hardware and using specialized software to create a compatible environment for macOS.
Ans: Yes, alternative mini-computers in the market offer similar design aesthetics to the Mac Mini. While they may not be identical in design, they often feature sleek and compact form factors emphasising minimalist aesthetics. It’s important to note that while these alternatives may offer similar design aesthetics, their internal specifications and performance capabilities may vary.
Ans: Many Mac Mini alternatives offer multiple display connectivity options, allowing you to connect multiple monitors for extended desktop or mirrored display setups. The specific number and types of display connections available may vary depending on the model and manufacturer of the mini-computer. Usually, you can connect multiple display units to your mini PC via the HDMI, DisplayPort, or the USB-C port which now supports display output.
Ans: The ability to upgrade the operating system on Mac Mini alternatives depends on the specific model and current operating system installed on the unit. Most Mac Mini alternatives are generally designed to run popular operating systems such as Windows, Linux, or Chrome OS. These operating systems typically receive regular updates from their respective developers, allowing users to upgrade to newer versions when they become available.
Conclusion
Today, we discussed the importance of various components and features in a mini-computer. Right now, there are many options available for mini computers that offer great specifications without compromising the system’s portability. However, choosing the right option for a mini PC is difficult as it should be powerful enough to replace a Mac mini but also small enough to allow the portability you get with a Mac mini. Therefore, we have gathered the best options available on the market for a Mac mini alternative that fits perfectly into this criteria. You can find all the necessary information about these choices in our guide today, along with a few pros and cons to easily understand which options suit your needs the most. If you can’t make up your mind, we suggest checking out our top recommendations and seeing if any of these options are right for you.
- As we all know, Mac Mini is quite a premium system. So if you’re looking for a budget alternative that can somewhat compete with it in terms of performance, we will suggest going with the Beelink SER6 Pro Mini Computer. Unlike most compact computers, this option is a dedicated gaming PC powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor that offers 8 cores and 16 threads. Apart from that, you will also get blazing fast 32 GB 4800 MHz RAM on this system and a 500 GB NVMe SSD which can be upgraded up to 2 TB in the future. This highly compact system supports 3 4K displays simultaneously and up to 60 Hz output at 8K resolution.
- But if you are not willing to compromise on the performance at any point, then the Intel 2023 NUC 12 Extreme Mini PC is probably the ideal option for you. As the name suggests, this Extreme mini PC is more powerful than the majority of systems you see at professional desks. This mini PC is equipped with a Core i9-12900 CPU and a dedicated Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti graphics card that manages to deliver desktop-level performance in terms of processing power as well as graphics. It also has 64 GB of DDR4 RAM and 2 TB of NVMe SSD, eliminating the need for any system upgrades for a very long time. Considering the specifications, the system itself only measures about 14.06 x 4.72 x 7.44 inches in size, making it the most powerful option in the portable category.
- Lastly, we will suggest the MINISFORUM UM690 Mini PC as this is a tried and tested option which is the currency being used by hundreds of users. It is powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX CPU which brings the benefit of 8 cores and 16 threads, which are not only highly capable but also power efficient. You will also find a 512 GB NVMe SSD for onboard storage along with multiple connectivity options such as a dual HDMI port, 6 USB port, and WiFi/Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. This is also one of the most compact choices that we could find today, measuring only 7.91 x 7.87 x 4.49 inches in size.
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