NUC and mini PCs are small desktop computers, from barebone kits to ready-to-use systems and the Mac mini, suited to home offices, business desks and media setups. Our range of over 500 models includes ASUS, Apple, MSI and HP, with further options from ASRock, Acer and Lenovo.
How to choose a mini PC
Processor. Intel dominates our range, with Core 3, Core 5 and Core 7 as well as Core Ultra 5, 7 and 9 models, plus a few with AMD, Qualcomm or Nvidia chips. Core 3 or Core Ultra 5 is enough for office work, browsing and video calls, while Core Ultra 7 or 9 makes more sense for photo editing, several monitors or many applications open at once.
Memory and storage. Check the maximum supported memory, which in our range runs from 8 GB to 128 GB, with 64 GB and 96 GB common among the models listed. Many mini PCs are sold as barebone kits without RAM or an SSD, so confirm what is included before you order, or you may need to buy those parts separately.
Ports and displays. Count your monitors first: most models with listed specifications have two HDMI ports, some have one, and a few have none and rely on other video outputs. USB-A ports also vary, and some models have no USB 3.2 Type-A ports at all, so a keyboard, mouse, webcam and external drive may need a hub or adapters.
Operating system. Windows 11 Pro is the most frequent installed system in our listed specifications, followed by Windows 11 Home, with some ChromeOS, FreeDOS and no-OS models. Pro adds business features such as BitLocker drive encryption and domain join, and a machine without an operating system needs a licence or a Linux installation.
Mini PC brands we carry
- ASUS: took over the NUC line from Intel, so many of our NUC models carry the ASUS name.
- Apple: the Mac mini runs macOS on Apple silicon and is a common choice for creative work and software development.
- MSI: known for its Cubi series of small office desktops, alongside its gaming hardware.
- HP: its business-oriented Mini desktops are designed for managed office fleets and come with Windows Pro options.
- ASRock: makes compact DeskMini barebone systems that suit buyers who want to choose their own memory and storage.
- Acer: offers the Revo range of small desktops for home and office use.
- Lenovo: the ThinkCentre Tiny series is a staple in business deployments.
- Shuttle: a long-standing maker of small form factor barebone PCs, including fanless designs.
- Zotac: its ZBOX mini PCs sit alongside its better-known graphics cards.
Also in our range: TAROX and TERRA.
Mini PC FAQ
What is the difference between a NUC and a mini PC?
NUC is the name Intel gave to its small-form-factor computers, and the line is now continued by ASUS. Mini PC is the general term for any small desktop, whether it is a NUC, a Mac mini or a business model from another maker. In practice they work the same way and connect to a monitor, keyboard and mouse like any desktop.
Can a mini PC replace a normal desktop?
Yes, for most office, study and home use a mini PC can replace a tower desktop. Models with Core Ultra 7 or 9 processors and enough memory handle editing and multitasking too. The main limits are fewer upgrade options and, on most models, no space for a full-size graphics card.
How much RAM do I need in a mini PC?
16 GB is a sensible starting point for everyday work with Windows 11, and 32 GB suits heavier multitasking, virtual machines or editing. Models in our range support anything from 8 GB to 128 GB at most. Check that the memory is upgradeable if you may need more later.
Does a mini PC come with Windows installed?
Some do and some do not. In our range, models are available with Windows 11 Pro, Windows 11 Home, ChromeOS or FreeDOS, and some come with no operating system at all. Barebone kits usually leave the operating system to the buyer, so check the specification before ordering.
