You'll have more uses for your Mini PC than you thought possible!

Many people are misled by the word "mini" into thinking that mini PCs are too weak to meet their computing needs. Actually, mini PCs can do almost everything that a full-fledged desktop computer can do.

Below we want to look at some of the most popular uses.

1. Digital signage

Mini PCs have many advantages over larger computer systems, including support for 4K video and multiple displays, which makes them ideal for digital signage might.

If you have a large billboard or other type of display, you can use a mini PC to display the digital content. These devices are generally quiet and cost less than $400.

Additionally, these small computers use less energy than other types of computers, which is great for any business that relies on their equipment running all day.

2. Home theater enthusiasts

A mini PC can be a great way to upgrade your home theater. It's similar to a TV streaming device, but much smaller. These systems don't take up much desk space and can be stored behind your monitor.

You can even choose a mini PC that is smaller than your soundbar and then combine it with a soundbar to create a inconspicuous home cinema system to accomplish.

3. Play

Is a mini PC suitable for gaming? After all, gaming is the main use for a PC. In fact, today's small desktop computers are more powerful than ever.

Some mini PCs are now a suitable option for gaming. You can upgrade the storage to 32GB if you need more performance.

4. As TV boxes

TV boxes are another example of mini PC devices. They can run on Android or even Linux or Windows. The best thing about these TV boxes is that you can use your computer while watching TV.

In fact, Mini PCs can be used for almost any TV-related task. In addition to being able to watch high-resolution YouTube videos, these devices are great for running media servers like Plex, Kodi, and MediaPortal. You can even use these mini PCs to use Skype on your TV!

5. Medical facilities

Hospitals are already using mini PCs for their patients. The compact size and efficiency of mini computers allow medical staff to work more efficiently without cluttering the workspace.

Nurses need highly mobile devices, and mini PCs are ideal because they can be easily placed on a mobile patient transport table. Additionally, they can be configured with WiFi and Bluetooth communications, making them an excellent choice for telemedicine applications.

6. Home office

Many people choose to purchase a laptop for their home office. However, there are equally useful alternatives, including a mini PC. These are small, compact and quiet and even fit in the palm of your hand.

If you want to work productively at home, you should consider a mini PC. Not only can you use it for email, web browsing, spreadsheets, presentations and more, but you can also customize it to suit your individual needs.

7. Multimedia center

Many consumers today choose a mini PC as a media center. You used to need a desktop PC or notebook to set up your media center, but now these small computers have everything you need for a modern media center.

8. Small and medium-sized businesses

Using a mini PC offers many benefits to your business. Unlike traditional desktop computers, these devices are quiet and use less power than an average PC, saving your business money in the long run.

Space is often at a premium for small businesses. The Mini PC offers the space-saving features that a traditional desktop computer cannot, without sacrificing productivity or creativity.

9. As a second PC

Mini PCs can be a very good alternative to a traditional second PC because they have all the processing power of a regular PC, but in a smaller package.

These devices are also cheaper than desktop PCs. Another big advantage is that the mini PC is compact enough to leave plenty of space for your desktop computer.

10. School

They are also very quiet, allowing teachers and students to concentrate on learning and teaching instead of constantly listening to the computer fan. They are also popular in libraries and laboratories due to their small size and quiet operation.

11. Industry and Internet of Things

Mini PCs offer a wide range of uses, including IoT applications. Whether you want to build a network of connected devices or manage them remotely, there will always be a product to suit your needs.

12. Portable workstation

As a portable workstation, mini PCs can be easily transported from one place to another. These portable workstations are a great alternative to laptops in many ways, especially for people who travel a lot.

13. Kiosks

A mini PC is the best building block for digital kiosks.

Unlike traditional desktop computers, some mini PCs can be configured directly for kiosk use without the need to install additional software. Due to its powerful processor, it can be used in kiosks as a standalone computer or with a network of peripheral devices.

14. Use as a server

You've probably heard about the new trend of using mini PCs as servers. They offer a compact design and are high performance.

Mini PCs offer a wide range of uses, and these above are just a few of them. Hopefully these tips will help you decide which computer is best for your needs.

And don't forget to check out the other articles in this series. We will be adding more to the list very soon! We hope you enjoy reading!

One of the most confusing aspects of buying a new computer is choosing from the sheer number of options available, especially when it comes to the processor that will power your potential PC.

This is especially true when it comes to cheaper PCs. Two of the most popular CPU options for low-cost desktops are Intel's Celeron and Pentium Silver processors.

Which is the better option? We will examine this question in detail in today's article.

The basics

Intel's Celeron and Pentium Silver CPUs have many similarities. They are both included in the Jasper Lake product line, which is Intel's hallmark for its affordable and powerful processors.

Jasper Lake processors will provide enough processing power for the vast majority of users without breaking the bank, and tend to be "Goldilocks" chips for the average consumer: they offer the right balance of processing power, power consumption and heat output.

Both the Celeron and Pentium Silver families will be able to handle most home and office workloads. You can easily handle word processing, email, web browsing, and simple to complex spreadsheets. They even have enough power to handle some basic photo editing and casual gaming.

In short, Celeron and Pentium Silver CPUs are great options for Computers built to handle everyday tasks, and they are available at an affordable price.

Let's take a closer look at one option in each family. We compare that Intel Celeron N5095 with the Intel Pentium Silver N6000.

similarities

Celeron N5095 and Pentium Silver N6000 have a lot in common. Both are quad-core CPUs without hyperthreading.

Both have 1.5MB L2 cache and 4MB L3 cache. Both are manufactured on the 10nm Tremont architecture. Both support up to 16 GB of DDR4 or LPDDR4x RAM at 2933 MHz in dual channel. Both are capable of outputting true 4K video (4096 x 2160) at 60Hz. The list goes on.

In summary, the Celeron N5095 and Pentium Silver N6000 share many of the same features that most consumers care about. Both options are enough to handle common workloads and can even handle heavier tasks like streaming media.

However, there are two key differences between the Celeron N5095 and the Pentium Silver N6000. Let's look at these now.

differences

The first big difference between the two Jasper Lake CPUs is one of the defining characteristics of any processor: the clock speed. The Pentium Silver N6000 has a base clock of 1.1 GHz with a boost clock of up to 3.3 GHz. The Celeron N5095 has a base clock of 2 GHz and can boost up to 2.9 GHz.

While the N6000 appears to be the faster of the two chips at first glance, there is a caveat: each CPU's advertised boost clock speeds can only be achieved on a single core. Since multi-core workloads don't benefit as much from high single-core boosts, there are some nuances here.

It should also be noted that the N6000 has a significantly lower base clock than the N5095 (1.1GHz vs. 2GHz). This means that if thermal limits are reached and the CPU is forced to retreat, the N6000 will have to go significantly further down in terms of throttling.

What we should expect is that the N6000 comes out ahead in short single-threaded tests, but struggles to keep up in longer runs or multi-core dependent workloads. To give a little spoiler, that's exactly what the benchmarks confirm.

The other main difference between the two silicon options is their TDP or thermal design profiles. TDP essentially indicates how much power a CPU can draw and is a relative indicator of heat output and power consumption. In general, a higher TDP can mean higher performance at the expense of higher thermal performance.

The N6000 is designed as a “low-power processor”. As a consequence, it has a fairly low TDP of 6 watts. This means we should expect the N6000 to hit its thermal limits at just 6 watts, which isn't a lot of headroom. At this point it is likely that the CPU will back off to stay within its TDP.

The N6000 is designed as a low-power processor. As a result, it has a fairly low TDP of 6 watts. This means we should expect the N6000 to hit its thermal limits at just 6 watts, which isn't a lot of headroom. At this point it is likely that the CPU will back off to stay within its TDP.

The biggest downside to the N5095 is that it requires a proper cooling system to really get going. Passively cooled machines will have a hard time taking full advantage of the N5095.

Benchmarks

So let's look back at our original question: which CPU is better? One of the best ways to compare the performance of two processors is to run benchmarks and compare their performance in these tests.

If you look at the benchmarks from Notebookcheck.net, the Pentium Silver N6000 and Celeron N5095 are on par in most tests. However, there are some important conclusions that can be drawn from our analysis.

For one thing, the N6000 appears to be about 10 % faster in single-core benchmarks like Cinebench R23 and Geekbench 5.0. However, the Celeron N5095 is significantly faster in multi-core benchmarks, routinely performing 10-25 % better than the N6000.

As we mentioned above, this is likely due to the N5095's higher TDP, which allows all cores to operate at higher clock speeds and a higher base clock for longer periods of time.

On average, the N5095 outperforms the N6000 by 10%.

Conclusion

So which CPU is better? When it comes to overall performance, the Intel Celeron N5095 is the better option. It offers superior multicore and (surprisingly) graphics performance.

However, we have one final note. This overall better performance comes at the expense of higher heating output and higher energy consumption. If power consumption is a concern for you, this is something you should seriously consider. Maybe one would be Small form factor PC and low power consumption is a good choice.

If you're looking for a solid Intel Celeron N5095 computer that won't break the bank, check out the GEEKOM MiniAir 11. This fits almost anywhere, at an affordable price.

Computers are becoming smaller and more powerful every year. These are the same devices that used to take up the space of an entire room, but today we carry them around in our laptop bags with ease.

But why stop there? Why not something even more compact?

These are the questions that the makers of mini PCs asked themselves years ago. So if you don't know what a mini PC is or what benefits it offers, then you're in luck because this post will tell you everything you need to know.

What exactly is a Mini PC?

As the “Mini” in the name suggests, a Mini PC is a revolutionary form factor that frees our computers from all the bulk and turns them into a tiny device that we can take with us anywhere.

Don't let the word miniature mislead you. A mini PC has all the components you find in traditional desktop computers. A modern motherboard, processor, RAM, hard drive and plenty of connectivity ports are all included.

When it comes to everyday use, these tiny 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 handle intensive applications like Photoshop, SonyVegas and even be able to run some video games!

Is a 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 even run the latest games!

While they lack the customization features and power of a desktop, they make up for it in other ways. However, you should make sure you have other peripherals ready so you can enjoy the benefits of your new device.

The advantages of a mini PC

If you buy a mini PC but you're not sure if you should, consider the following benefits of moving to this smallest form factor:

Small and portable

Let's start with the obvious advantage. If you love the small size of a laptop, you'll love the tiny dimensions of a mini PC.

Forget about buying a bag to carry your laptop when you walk around all day. The right mini PC is so small that it fits right in your pocket. The GEEKOM Mini IT8, for example, fits easily into a jacket pocket.

As long as you have a replacement display, be it the monitor in your friend's office or the flat screen in your living room, you can get your mini PC up and running with ease. Just connect it to the screen and you're ready to go.

Compare that to a laptop. You have to carry around a keyboard, a trackpad, a battery, and a whole screen all day long. But with a mini PC, you only need to carry the essential components.

Low energy consumption

With small size comes lower energy consumption. Mini PCs can dramatically reduce your power consumption. This is especially true for heavy users who run intensive applications for nearly a dozen hours every day, such as video editors and eSports professionals.

Even if you are not interested in saving a few units on your electricity bill, you should not underestimate the importance of this low power consumption.

Imagine a disruption in your local power grid striking out of nowhere. You have no way to work because your desktop computer won't run on a UPS system for long, and that's only if you have a UPS system.

However, with a mini PC, you can easily have a small backup battery and use it to meet your computing needs for a long time. This can be a lifesaver for working professionals, especially those who enjoy working from home.

Payable

One would think that such a revolutionary form factor would cost more than conventional computers. But the truth is that a mini PC is often much cheaper than its bulkier counterparts.

This is possible because the smaller size means savings in materials and labor. Plus, the companies that make these modern devices often have advanced manufacturing systems in place to maximize savings and pass them on to consumers like you.

So if you want elite computing power without an elite price, then a branded mini PC is your best choice.

Lots of performance

Many people think that mini PCs are too weak to meet their computing needs. And they are right. Most models can't support more than light browsing and word processing.

It's not all bad news, however. You can buy an advanced mini PC like the GEEKOM Mini IT8 to run some of the most intensive applications on the market. This Intel i5-powered mini PC has enough power to help you edit photos and videos, stream 4K videos, open dozens of browser tabs, and even play some video games!

In other words, a quality mini PC gives you plenty of power to get your work done and have fun too.

Is a mini PC suitable for gaming?

Traditionally, most mini PCs are not specifically designed for gaming, and while you can play many games at a reasonable frame rate, their performance is not at the level to support modern games.

With advances in PC technology, tiny form factor PCs are actually capable of producing incredible graphics and some mini PCs are now a viable option for gaming. You can upgrade the storage to 32GB if you need more performance.

Windows 10 is no longer the latest version of Windows. Microsoft already gave us a new version of Windows, Windows 11, in November 2021. It comes with new features including a new immersive display and memory management to optimize the applications running in the foreground.

If you update your current version of Windows to Windows 11, or Reinstall Windows 11 on your device If you want to, this post is just right for you.

Microsoft has promised to offer free upgrade offers to its users with "existing and eligible PCs by mid-2022." So if your computer is compatible with all Windows 11 OS requirements, you can just wait for the free upgrade offer to finally upgrade your OS to Windows 11.

However, if you don't want to wait for your upgrade offer, you can read on to find out how Windows 11 Install Wizard gives you the best alternative to get Windows 11 today. We will in this article the easiest and most preferred methods to get Windows 11 running on your system.

Here is the step by step guide on how to download and install Windows 11 on your computer now.

Step One: Preparing Your Computer for Installation

Before you can start the installation process, you should make sure that your computer supports Windows 11.

Remember to back up all your data to an external hard drive or online storage system so that you don't lose anything if something goes wrong during this process.

To check compatibility with Windows 11, you can Microsoft PC Health Check app Download and run so that Windows can check whether your system is compatible with the is compatible with basic Windows 11 device specifications:

• System firmware: UEFI and Secure Boot enabled
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module 2.0
• processor: 8th generation Intel CPU or newer
• graphic card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with the WDDM 2.0 driver
• R.A.M.: 4GB or more
• Storage: 64GB or larger storage device
• display: An HD display with a diagonal of 9 inches or larger, and a resolution of at least 720p.

In 2016, Microsoft required all computer manufacturers to install TPM 2.0 and “Secure Boot” in their motherboards. These features must be enabled in your UEFI/BIOS setup utility in order for your device to pass the Windows compatibility check. Here's how to enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.

Your computer is now ready to install Windows 11. Let's get started.

Step two: Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11

This is the easiest way to install Windows if you meet all compatibility standards. You can check whether the Windows 11 upgrade has been made available for your computer by navigating to the Windows Update Settings page using these simple steps:

• Open the Windows Start menu and search for Settings or press the Windows + Ibutton to open the Settings page.
• Select in the menu Settings Updates and security, Windows Update and then check for updates.

You have the option to download and install Windows if Microsoft has provided you with the free upgrade offer. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 11. Easy, right? However, if you haven't received an upgrade offer, continue to the next section.

Step three: How to install Windows 11 using the installation wizard

To update your system to Windows 11, visit the Download website from Microsoft Windows 11 and click the “ button in the Windows 11 installation wizardDownload now“ to download and launch the file and then the installation process will begin.

The PC installer will automatically download, verify the downloaded file, and finally install Windows 11 without making you sweat. The installation process may take less than an hour depending on your computer speed and internet speed. During this time, you can have a cup of tea or use your computer while the installation runs in the background.

After installing Windows 11, click the “Restart Now” button or wait for the PC to restart automatically within 30 minutes. Your computer will restart to complete the update process. After that, you will be greeted with a Windows login page. Simply log into your computer for Windows to finally be transported to the new incredible world of Windows 11.

What if you encountered problems during the installation process? Or what if you want to do a clean install on your computer without taking the time to upgrade from Windows 10 to 11? Don’t worry – we have a solution for that too.

Method 2: Reinstall Windows 11 from bootable USB

With a bootable USB drive, you can perform a clean install of Windows and have a backup copy of Windows 11 files nearby to update Windows on other computers without having to recreate another bootable USB drive.

You need a USB flash drive larger than 8GB and access to a PC to create a bootable USB drive. Make sure you back up your data as this process will delete everything.

To create a bootable USB stick with Windows 11 files, go to Microsoft Windows 11 download website and download the file in the “Create Windows 11 installation media” section and launch the file to start the Windows setup process. Agree to the Windows license terms and change the language if necessary.

Select “Media to use” from the menu Select “USB flash drive”. Make sure the USB drive is connected and click "refresh the drive list" to select the flash drive you want to use, then click "Next."

The process takes a few minutes, during which you can do other things. The installer will download and create Windows 11 media, and your USB drive is ready.

How to install Windows 11 via a bootable USB stick

To perform a clean install of Windows 11, you need to navigate to the BIOS by clicking the Start button under Advanced > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Restart Now. In the “Choose Option” window, click “Troubleshoot UEFI Firmware settings” under “Advanced Option” and click the “Restart” button to load the system into BIOS.

Alternatively, you can insert the bootable USB stick into the USB port of your new PC and turn it on. Most of the time, the computer boots directly into the Windows 11 installation window. If you don't have UEFI firmware settings, turn the computer off and on again. As your computer boots up, quickly press the Boot button on your screen to enter the BIOS utility.

Notice: Startup keys are often written at the bottom of the screen when the computer boots up. This can be any key depending on which computer you are using. This can be any function key, Del key or ESC key. In our case it is the Delete key.

In the boot menu, navigate to the “Boot Override” section, then select the USB flash drive you created and boot it.

The computer loads the Windows 11 installer. Choose your default language and click “Next” and “Install now“.

If you have a product key, enter it now or click Click on “I don’t have a product key”,around Activate Windows 11 later.

Select the Windows 11 version, preferably Windows 11 Pro, agree to the Windows license terms and click Next. Go with that custom installation option in the window that appears to delete everything and do a clean install. Select the drive where you want to install Windows and click Next.

Windows Setup will take over and then guide you through setting up Windows 11. After a few restarts, Windows will ask you to sign in or add your Microsoft account. You can customize Windows 11 according to your preferences. That's it. The computer will take you to the Windows 11 desktop.

From this guide, you have seen that you do not need a technical expert to install Windows 11 on your device as long as it meets the requirements. Installing Windows 11 on your PC is a great way to improve display and performance. But what if you want to purchase a new device that can run Windows 11?

Introducing the Geekom Mini IT8 PC – 8th Gen Intel Core i5, ready for Windows 11

If you are looking for a device that can run Windows 11 natively, look no further than Geekom Mini IT8 PC. On this mini PC is Windows 11 Pro preinstalled. You don't need to follow any of the above steps to install Windows 11 on your computer. Find out here Find out more about the device specifications and everything that the Mini IT8 has in store for you.

Hello GFANS!

We have a lot of questions about Mini IT8 receive. That's why we've created a short question and answer list for you and hope that we can address some of your concerns and answer most of your questions.

Questions and answers about Mini-IT8

1. What is the capacity of the GEEKOM MINI IT8? How do I expand to 2TB?

The GEEKOM Mini IT8 features dual-channel DDR4 SODIMM memory that supports expansion from 8GB to 32GB RAM and SSD from 256GB to 1TB. Additionally, you can add a 2.5-inch (7mm) hard drive to upgrade your storage from 128GB to 2TB.

2. Can the Windows11pro used by GEEKOM MINI IT8 be downgraded to Windows10 pro?

Yes, IT8 supports you in reinstalling the required Windows system. You can download the installation package via the support center on our website.

3. Does IT8 support Linux system? Does it support dual system operation?

Yes, it supports Linux system. As long as you install Windows first and then install Ubuntu, you can use dual system operation.

4. What scenarios is the Mini IT8 suitable for?

The MINI IT8 is ideal for this Use at home, in the office, for online meetings, voice calls, etc. It can meet most of the needs you have in a PC.

5. Can the Mini IT8 be disassembled and reassembled?

Yes, you can “disassemble” the device to install RAM and SSD. However, we strongly advise against removing any other parts, as once damage occurs you will lose your warranty.

6. What Bluetooth version is it?

The GEEKOM Mini IT8 uses Bluetooth 4.2.

7. Does the GEEKOM Mini IT8 use WLAN 5 or 6?

The IT8 uses dual-band WIFI (2.4G+5G: wireless router that works in the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz frequency bands simultaneously). Compared with the traditional single frequency wireless router, it has higher wireless transmission rate, stronger anti-interference, stronger wireless signal, higher stability and not easy to lose connection.

8. What ports are supported for the four displays?

The Mini IT8 supports 4K UHD video output and enables up to four displays via HDMI 2.0, Mini DP and USB-C port. It's great for design, gaming, home theater, office work and more, with incredible clarity and maximum productivity.

9. Which key can I use to enter BIOS?

Press “F7”/“ESC”/“DEL” on the keyboard to enter the BIOS setup interface.

Since the first desktop computers appeared in the 1980s, they have enjoyed great popularity. One driver of this success was modularity. Hard drives, CPU, RAM and other things could be exchanged for more powerful models. Due to ever smaller production technology, there are now a variety of different computer models and designs, such as the thin client or the all-in-one PC. In this guide we cover the special features of Mini PCs and show you how to choose the best Mini PC.

What is a Mini PC?

There is no exact definition of what a Mini PC is. In colloquial terms, this is more likely to mean a PC that has a motherboard size smaller than ATX. Other features include a design that is as compact as possible. The volume of the tower is between one and thirty liters. Many manufacturers offer a large selection of these.

The agony of choice

There are now many manufacturers of such small computers. For example, Apple has now released the eighth generation of the Mac Mini. This PC does not require an optical drive. The housing of the computer, which weighs just 1.2 kilograms, was made entirely of aluminum. In terms of hardware, Intel Core i models are used as the CPU. The manufacturer also relies on Intel as the GPU. OS X is installed as the operating system, although Windows can also be installed in dual boot. However, Mac Minis are quite expensive.

Another manufacturer is Intel with its NUC series. This manufacturer also uses passive cooling, so the noise is extremely low. Of course, Intel relies on its own hardware. Intel Core I processors are used, which are combined with an Intel GPU. Windows 10 or 11 is used as the operating system.

Geekom is still a new manufacturer of desktop mini PCs. The Geekom Mini IT8 relies on high-quality hardware from Intel and delivers it mini pc with Windows 11 Pro out of. The cube housing appears to be of extremely high quality. The PC also impresses with its connectivity. There are ports for USB-C, SD card readers, HDMI ports and DisplayPort. Thanks to the VESA mount, the computer can also be mounted particularly easily. So if you're looking for an Office mini PC, you should take a look there.

Other manufacturers include Beelink with the Sei8 or Minisforum with the EliteMini TH50. These are compact mini office PCs with powerful features. Both manufacturers offer many different models at affordable prices.

Stress test etc. Why is this so important?

In addition to the hardware, the software also plays a particularly important role. On the one hand, it is important to have an up-to-date operating system, which is also regularly provided with updates. Nobody wants to buy a new computer whose hardware and software is already completely outdated. This is even more true with desktop mini PCs, as not just one computer is ordered, but ten or more. Such computers are also exposed to different stresses than your home gaming computer.

Therefore, the operating system is precisely tailored to the hardware and the entire mini pc office is subjected to a stress test. This places the computer's main processor under heavy strain. For this purpose, the CPU runs at maximum speed and every core is used. This test takes about an hour. The temperature of the CPU is measured and its behavior is analyzed. If the test is satisfactory, the computer can be sold.

The advantages and disadvantages of the compact design

This type of computer offers various advantages and disadvantages. Such models boast low purchase costs and low power consumption. Such models are usually fanless, so noises don't bother you either. A big advantage of these PCs is the small space they require while also being lightweight.

In terms of performance, you don't have to sacrifice much. Although they are not large gaming computers, these computers still have good performance. WLAN and Bluetooth are usually already integrated. The disadvantages, however, are partly due to the compact design. These computers have little expandability. In addition, this type of computer sometimes lacks a DVD drive.

Mini PC versus thin client

Both terms are sometimes used synonymously, but both are separate groups. While the small computers can also be used as a thin client, the other way around is not possible. Thin clients are also based on compact shapes, but only have a fraction of the performance. Otherwise, thin clients are also fanless and do not require optical drives. In addition, they do not have as much connectivity as a small computer.

The advantage of thin clients is the even lower power consumption, with even fewer upgrade options. With thin clients, only the RAM and hard drive can be changed. The hard drive consists of a compact CF card with only a small amount of memory. In addition, the CPU is also very compact and is usually designed as a single core CPU.

However, thin clients do not require any powerful hardware because they are based on the client-server principle. The operating system and all important programs are located on a powerful server. The thin clients, on the other hand, connect to the server and mirror the server's operating system. All entries made are transmitted from the client to the server. The advantage of such a solution is the low maintenance effort, as only the server needs to be maintained. However, if you need greater flexibility, the compact computer is preferable.

Conclusion

There are a variety of manufacturers of small PCs. Which one is the right choice also depends on the user. If the user wants to have an exclusive PC, they should take the Apple Mac Mini. If you don't care, you have free rein. While Intel is already a long-standing manufacturer with its NUC series where you are guaranteed not to go wrong, other manufacturers also have their advantages.

Geekom, for example, is still quite young, but relies on the latest technology and has high quality standards. The whole thing is then combined with a reasonable price. The other manufacturers such as Beelink or Minisforum also have their advantages, as they have a particularly large selection of cheap mini PCs.

In principle it can therefore be stated. If you are looking for a computer for office work and simple applications, a mini computer is a good choice. However, if you want to use your computer to play complex games or edit images, you should choose a classic desktop PC.

Are you thinking about purchasing a mini PC? There's a lot you can do to make sure your computer runs fast. Today you can free yourself from the daily grind with a mini PC.

It is generally known, that mini PCs were designed to replace traditional desktop computers. These devices may be small, but they are extremely powerful. A mini PC comes with various customizable hardware specifications that perform well and can handle a variety of tasks.

There are numerous options to choose from to choose the best mini PC. We'll introduce you to three ways to get a mini PC and help you save a lot of time and effort. Let's get into the topic.

Build your own mini PC

Building your own mini PC from scratch is a challenging process, especially for beginners, and choosing the right hardware components you need to build a powerful computer is even more complicated.

No worries! We will try to simplify the process for you.

Here's what you need

Building your own mini PC is no different than the traditional computer you can build yourself - it's just smaller, lighter, and has fewer components. Depending on your PC build/preference - i.e. whether you want to use it for gaming, video editing or productivity - you should carefully select the right hardware components and carefully adjust their compatibility

Here's a quick overview of the basic components needed to build a mini PC, regardless of your experience level:

• A small form factor motherboard for connecting your computer components. The most commonly used motherboard is the Mini-ITX.

• An ARM-based CPU: It is small and power efficient and performs data-based operations.

• Heatsink or fan: to cool your CPU.
• Memory: There are two types of memory for storing data: read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM).
• Flash memory for storing information.
• Power supply: Supply your mini PC with power, e.g. B. with an ATX or SFX power supply.

If you have the necessary hardware components, You can find step-by-step instructions from Bitwit here, which gives you tips on how to build your own PC.

The great advantage of assembling your Mini PC hardware is that you will learn to understand its mechanisms and how they work. You can also choose the components that best suit your needs, including the operating system and software of your choice. It also allows you to assemble a powerful computer that can handle heavy processing tasks.

The only downside to this method is that no one really knows how to build your mini PC. Unless you know exactly what hardware you are using.

So if you are not a DIY enthusiast and therefore prefer to opt for a ready-made mini PC, we should go directly to the next option.

Buy a barebones PC kit

A barebones PC is a kit you can buy that consists of a motherboard and a processor. That's all. Occasionally you may come across a kit from a retailer that also offers memory or RAM. If not, you can get all the other parts you need - like memory, RAM hardware, etc. - through third-party stores. Of course, you'll also need an operating system and should consider Install the latest Windows 11 operating system on your computer.

Why is a barebones mini PC a good choice?

Aside from saving you space and money, the barebones PC is one of the easiest ways to get a mini PC. Not only is the PC kit customizable, but you only pay for what you actually need.

Here are some of the benefits of a barebones PC kit:

• Compared to purchasing individual hardware components separately, the costs are lower.

• It is a space-saving mini PC with a small form factor.

• There are now a whole range of options to choose from, from high-end to entry-level kits.

• User-friendly OS compatibility.

• There aren't many technical requirements that you need to consider when building a barebones PC kit.

Are there any disadvantages to buying a barebones PC kit?

Yes. Although this PC kit offers several benefits, your choice of components also depends on the retailer.

• You need to find a good supplier for the motherboard and processor.

• It's difficult to say whether the components you're using are compatible or not, especially for NVidia and some AMD systems. Make sure you research the specifications of the components you purchase.

• Sometimes it takes longer to assemble your PC than other options.

It's important to do enough research before choosing a barebones mini PC. Regardless, the benefits of using this mini PC far outweigh any negative aspects you might encounter while doing it.

Buy a ready-to-use mini PC

This is the easiest and most convenient way to get a mini PC, especially for beginners and those who want to use the PC as it is. They may be small, but they have enough power to do everything from web surfing, content creation, video editing, and gaming.

They are factory prepared and can be set up in minutes without the hassle of building or customizing. All you need to do is plug in the power cord and you're ready to go. These mini PCs come with pre-installed software including Windows 11 OS.

Advantages of the ready-to-use mini PC:

• You can buy them at a wide range of prices that suit your budget.
• They're easy to use, and you don't have to do any extra work to get them working.
• They are portable and lightweight.

There are also some disadvantages:

• You do not have complete control over the hardware components and/or software configuration of the device.
• They are typically more expensive, but the price depends on their hardware components, configuration, and shipping costs.

If you're looking for a PC that's ready to use right out of the box, you should definitely consider the Geekom Mini PC Geekom Mini IT8 Mini PC take into consideration. It features a powerful 8th Generation Intel Core i5 that gives you unparalleled performance to run the most popular applications, allowing you to simultaneously multitask at home or at work, simple entertainment, audio and video playback, etc.

Why should you buy Mini IT8?

• Multiple connection options
• Significant expansion capacity
• Has Windows 11 Pro preinstalled
• Sophisticated design and affordable price (€399.00).

Conclusion

Purchasing a mini PC is a good investment as you get a powerful system that will make your computing experience remarkable and is very portable and affordable. However, good advice is to do a lot of research before buying and never jump into the market unprepared and hasty without looking for a better deal or doing your research if you are a beginner when it comes to PCs.

Using a small form factor personal computer as a home server is becoming increasingly popular as the technologies behind these computers continue to evolve. Whether you're looking for a central location to archive all your files or a place to host your own website, a mini PC that runs stable, quiet and uses very little power could be the perfect solution.

The possible uses of a home server

A small home server can be used for many different purposes, but the most common use cases are as follows:

Central storage for shared data

The problem in every household is that data is scattered across different computers and external storage devices. By storing it on a home server, all family members can easily access the shared data and the files are better protected. However, if you choose to store all of your data on a personal home server drive, you must have a solid backup plan. PCs with multiple drives tend to work better than those with just one because you can keep a copy of important files on another drive in case the shared drive fails.

You can even convert your private file server into cloud storage so you can access your data from anywhere in the world. A home cloud server offers many of the same features as open cloud solutions like Google Drive and One Drive, but with more privacy and security because it relies on your own storage.

Home media server

Storing media files on a small home server is not only more convenient for the whole family, but it also takes the load off your main work PC. You can stream the TV shows and movies stored on the home media server from a mobile phone, tablet, smart TV or computer as long as these devices are on the same network. If there are children in the house, parents can also use encryption to control what content they can access.

Central backup solution

It is important that you regularly back up important data. Hard drives can break, files can be accidentally deleted, and malware can encrypt our folders. These are everyday things that can happen to anyone. Software can be reinstalled, movies and series can be redownloaded, but family photos and videos cannot be restored.

Creating backup copies doesn't have to be a manual task. If you have a private home server, you can automate the regular backup of your files using software like BackupPC or UrBackup.

Home security system

A home server system can be used to host your own home security system as long as you have some nice security cameras installed. You can set up your own security system using free software, and you can also integrate paid services from companies like Ubiquiti and Blue Iris into your home network.

Hosting your own website

You can also use a home server to host your own blog or website. Hosting a small website from home can be relatively easy for people with sufficient IT knowledge, but for newbies we recommend reading some guides. Also remember that you need a good internet connection to run a website. If your internet speed is too slow, you should improve it first.

surveillance

A home server also gives you the perfect way to monitor your network or smart home. There is a free version of PRTG Network Monitor software that helps you keep an eye on bandwidth usage, CPU/memory usage, free disk space, etc.

In addition to the home network, you can also use the server to monitor the house or apartment. Some smart home sensors can monitor things like temperature, oxygen levels, humidity, and power usage. You can even get a dashboard that shows the data in real time.

Transforming a Mini PC into a home server

Any PC can be turned into a home server, be it an old laptop or a new DIY desktop PC, but for something that needs to run 24/7, a Mini PC can be an ideal solution. Before purchasing, you should consider the following things:

Performance

How much power you need to build your home server depends on what you want to do with it. If you want a home media server, a Mini PC with an entry-level processor and a small amount of memory will suffice. However, if you want to host your own website from home, you should consider a higher configuration Mini PC.

Storage space

Storage space is essential for most use cases. We recommend you buy a Mini PC with at least two drives to build your home server. If the mini PC you choose can only accommodate an internal drive, be sure to purchase an external drive to back up all your important files.

Connectivity

Since most of a home server's applications are network-based, both your household's bandwidth and the Mini PC's connectivity are very important factors. For a home media server, you should choose a Mini PC with at least a Gigabit Ethernet jack or dual-band WiFi 5. To host a website, you should purchase a model with 2.5 Gbps or 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity.

Energy efficiency

Mini PCs are generally more energy efficient than full-sized desktop PCs because they use less power-hungry hardware. Some of the latest Mini PCs only use less than 5W when idle, so leaving them running 24/7 won't significantly increase your family's electricity bill.

Noise

For a computer that is constantly in use, you should ensure that it makes as little noise as possible. Most Mini PCs are equipped with one or two small fans that don't make much noise even at full speed. There are also completely fanless Mini PCs that are perfect for those who only need the basic features of a home server, such as: B. as a central storage for shared files.

Our recommendations

If you are thinking about setting up a home server for your family, we recommend you take a look at the GEEKOM Mini PCs. They are all equipped with powerful and efficient Intel Core processors and support two internal drives.

The GEEKOM Mini IT8 SE is perfect for use as a home file server thanks to its affordable price, good power efficiency and ability to host up to 3TB of internal storage. The Mini IT11, on the other hand, offers enough power and features for hosting a small website. Some might argue that it lacks high-speed Ethernet ports, but there are two USB4 ports onboard with a bandwidth of 40Gbps. With the right hub, you can easily convert them to 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports.

Conclusion

Building your own small home server with a Mini PC is fun, affordable and offers a lot of advantages. In addition to the benefits discussed in this article, there are others, but many of them won't become apparent until you get your server up and running, so why not get started now?

The world of technology is constantly changing and one of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the rapid growth of a range of computing devices known as "Mini PCs“ can be referred to. These devices are small but very powerful in terms of specs, and many are wondering if they can be a viable alternative to a traditional laptop.

Laptops have dominated the PC domain for decades, and even as smartphones and tablets came along, there were still some tasks that just weren't as smooth or intuitive as on a laptop. Mini PCs are able to shake up this situation due to their unique feature set and form factor. They could be the very thing that will undermine the laptop's dominance.

So in this article, we'll explore some of the key benefits of a mini PC and whether it can replace your laptop today for your personal and business needs.

Full specifications.

• Mini PCs have come a long way since they first hit the market, and today's versions are more than capable of matching their laptop and laptop counterparts in terms of specs Desktop-To stand shoulder to shoulder with counterparts. The top models include enough RAM, storage, and processing power to handle almost anything you can throw at it, so you don't have to worry about whether its capabilities will be overwhelmed. Mini PCs can punch above their weight.

Small ecological footprint.

• Of course, one of the main advantages of a mini PC is the small form factor, which makes better use of the space in your office or home. Aesthetically, it blends easily into its surroundings and the interaction becomes one where you don't even notice the technology. This is a big plus in office scenarios where you can place the device under a desk or behind a monitor and achieve the minimalist and uncluttered feel we all want in a modern workspace.

Large selection of possible combinations.

• A Mini PC can be complemented and enhanced by a variety of different devices and interfaces, allowing you to create a personalized work scenario that perfectly suits your needs. Unlike a laptop, which has natural limitations due to form factor and design, a mini PC can connect to almost anything, leveraging its numerous ports to create an infinitely configurable setup.

Fast boot up.

• Mini PCs are known for their light weight and lightning-fast startup speeds. This makes your computing experience much more efficient when it comes to getting things done. These precious seconds add up over time to significant time savings that you can now use for more important tasks.

Easily connect to 4K displays.

• Top-end laptops these days offer great screens, but so can mini PCs when connected to external 4K displays. With just a single tiny device, you can connect to multiple monitors that show your work in crystal clear clarity - far exceeding the standard laptop screen real estate. Simply plug it in and you're ready to go - without much fuss.

Conclusion

These are just some of the advantages of a mini PC and as you can see, it represents a very compelling alternative to the laptop. Mini PCs show that the status quo of relying on a laptop for everything and anything is at its best The way is to change. Harnessing the power of these mini devices allows you to accomplish everything you need at a fraction of the cost while saving lots of valuable space.

If you are looking for one great mini PC If you're looking for something, don't hesitate to take a look at what we have to offer here at Geekom. Our flagship product has helped customers of all kinds redefine what a personal computing experience is all about. We firmly believe that this is the future of computing, and we'd love for you to join us!

Be a part of the future and consider integrating a mini PC into your workflow.