If you want a desktop PC for your work or learn at home. Or, if you do not plan to play high-end games, and wish to select your displays and other accessories, then you can consider a mini PC rather than a full-size desktop computer. Mini PCs are fast enough to play high-end gaming. Unlike some laptops, they comprise all the ports you need to attach numerous monitors and your favorite keyboard and mouse.
The old Mac Mini used to be the most suitable MacOS based machine that one could buy. However, Apple has incorporated the Apple M1 chip with the new Mac Mini. It comprises 8 CPU cores and 8 GPU cores. You are leaving the competitors in the dust. But if you still want to get a mini PC, Apple is providing you explore five rival mini PC options to go against the Apple Mac Mini.
Mac Mini – Apple
The Mac Mini is a tiny desktop computer made by Apple. And that’s all it is. The Mac mini is transported without a supplementary screen, keyboard or mouse. As Apple likes to say, it is “BYODKM” which means Bring Your Own Display, Keyboard, and Mouse. It may seem odd at first, but the Mac mini is frequently used to power up another device, making it more of a malleable purchase.
For example, if you already have a display, keyboard, and mouse, you can couple these with the Mac mini instead of buying new ones. Unexpectedly, the Mac mini has been around since 2005. It was launched at the same time as the iPod shuffle. However, as with everything Apple does, its scheme and functionality have changed entirely since then.
List of Mac Mini Alternatives
Mac Mini is being considered as a prototype for buying a mini-computer. Because of its specs and features. There are many Mac Mini alternatives in the market that you can purchase and enjoy their features as present in the Mac Mini. Here, we brought you up with a complete list of the best mac mini alternatives which will entertain you with their incredible features.
1. Apple Mac Mini with M1
The Apple M1 chip is the first system for Mac. Packed with an impressive 16 billion transistors, it integrates the CPU, GPU, I/O, and every other significant component and controller onto a single tiny chip. Designed by Apple, M1 brings incredible performance, custom technologies, and unparalleled power efficiency to the Mac. With an 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, M1 on Mac mini brings up to 3x faster CPU performance¹ and up to 6x quicker graphics than the earlier generation.
Specifications
- Contains 8GB of Memory
- It has a Storage of 1256GB
- The price is $699
- ChipApple M1 chip
2. Intel NUC BOXDC3217BY
It is a single-panel computer, and it is from the old Apple product store. The past is the key to the future through these devices, which are similar to Raspberry Pi and Gigabyte Brix. Some people say these devices are the beginning of the new modular processor era. It is essentially a tiny microcomputer with a single board. The thunderbolt as an addition makes it exciting. These become the new norm as time develops, perhaps used in combination with other hubs and external graphics cards. It is worth checking out.
Specifications
- 8 GHz Intel Core i3-3217U Processor
- Intel HD Graphics 4000
- 3 x USB 2.0 Ports
- 1 x HDMI Port
3. Dell CFC5C OptiPlex 3050
DELL CFC5C OptiPlex 3050 is now utilizing 60% less surface area while still maintaining all the consistency you have come to expect. It has an innovative design with several custom-designed rising solutions, counting the New OptiPlex Micro All-in-one Stand with cable cover. You can modernize your computer system from desktop clutter, maxing out on your productivity possible in a visually attractive workspace setup. It has native support for dual display and is designed to pack business-class presentations into the most miniature possible format.
Specifications
- 4 GHz Intel Core i5-7500 Quad-Core
- 8GB of 2400 MHz DDR4 RAM
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics 630
4. MSI Wind Box DC110
The Wind Box DC110 offers one HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) and one VGA out, allowing the units to be connected to a second screen. They support dual-screen display and can also output the screen to a more significant display device, such as a projector or a large-screen LCD TV, making the DC110 more adaptable and effective. DC110 also offers SPDIF that can support 5.1 channel audio. Based on the utilities I/O ports, DC110 can be the best choice for Home Theater PC.
Specifications
- 4 in 1 card reader (SD, MS, MMC, XD)
- USB size is 2.0 x4
- Headphone out / Mic-in
- Rear I/O
- VGA out / HDMI-out
5. Samsung Series 3 Chromebox
Even though most people have little attention to Google’s Chrome OS, the Samsung Chromebox is a rationally priced budget PC for its hardware. The 1.9GHz Intel Celeron B840 is the latest dual-core budget CPU. 4GB of system memory is also appropriate for this price range. File storage is a well-known weakness of Chrome-based PCs, and the Chromebox’s 16GB of local storage capability is well below the 500GB drives you will find in most traditional budget PCs. Then again, all other systems use typical mechanical hard drives. The Chromebox comes with a solid-state drive. So it is very secure to use it in your office or home.
Specifications
- Processor Intel Celeron B840
- RAM 4 GB
- Hard Drive 16GB
- Intel HD Graphics
- Google Chrome OS
6. ACEPC T11
The device itself has a 32GB memory in eMMC format, which permits it to be silent in terms of interpretation of data and occupy the least possible size. Furthermore, it can install hard disks using 2.5″ data with a maximum size of up to 2TB. It is also likely to expand storage through three USB 2.0 connections, a USB 3.0 connection, via microSD cards, or the OTG linking. As it is a very compact product, its power supply is external to permit the equipment to have the minutest conceivable size. The power supply itself has an input of 100-240V AC50 / 60Hz and an output of DC5V-4A.
Specifications
- The brand is ACEPC
- T11is its Model
- It is a Mini PC
- Windows 10 system
- Intel processor Atom X5-Z8350
- CPU Intel Atom X5-Z8350
7. Asus EeeBox PC EB1505
ASUS computers reproduce a practice of premium quality, innovation, and durability. Based on the PCWorld USA 2012 reader review of tech approval, consistency, and service. Users ranked ASUS as a foremost choice for desktop PCs, citing high support with their value, connectivity, ease of use, and dependability. The survey also found ASUS desktop PCs were one of the most likely to be suggested to others.
Specifications
- Operating System is Windows 8
- Intel® Celeron® 847
- Intel® HM70
- Intel® HD Graphics 5500
8. Acer Revo RL80-UR318
The DT.SM4AA.001 RL80 Desktop PC from Acer comes with a summarized form factor permitting you to incorporate this PC into a diversity of desktop and home theater configurations. Whether utilizing the RL80 as a computer or multimedia device, you can benefit from the multitasking power brought to you by the Intel Core i3-2377M processor.
Specifications
- 5GHz Intel Core i3-2377M Processor
- 4GB DDR3 SDRAM
- 500GB 5400rpm Hard Drive
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics
9. ASRock VisionX 321B
For many people, the name ASRock is identical to motherboards, and there can be little doubt that ASRock has created great strides in that market. However, ASRock makes many products containing complete PCs. Today, you can look at one of those PCs designed to provide fans that need an insignificant form-factor PC for everyday use or as a basic HTPC. The ASRock VisionX line has been around for some time, and the 321B HTPC model on the desk is an excellent example of why ASRock has rapidly climbed up through the hearts and minds of fans worldwide.
Specifications
- Intel® Core™ i5-3210M Mobile Ivy Bridge Processor
- 8GB DDR3-1600MHz (2x4GB)
- Mobile Intel® HM77 Express chipset. – Supports Intel® Rapid Start Technology
- Smart Connect Technology
- AMD Radeon™ HD7850M Graphics (with 1GB GDDR5 VRAM)
10. Azulle Access3
The Access3 is burdened with Windows 10 Pro, a 64-bit Operating System so that you can bring your work inside your pocket. It is compatible with HD-enabled TVs, monitors, and projectors. This thing is making it great for dorm rooms, classrooms, traveling, conference rooms, offices, and home use.
This device is equipped with Dual-band WiFi and Gigabit Ethernet port for launching applications, high-speed downloading, and streaming. It can give power to your video conferences, digital signage, kiosks, and more. You can enjoy 4K quality without buffering while surfing the web or running applications like YouTube, Amazon Prime Netflix, and more. Use the Access3 as your adaptable business solution.
Specifications
- Intel Celeron J4105 quad-core 2.6GHz CPU
- Intel UHD Graphics 600
- 4GB LPDDR4 RAM
- 32GB eMMC Storage
- Ports 2 x USB 3.0, micro USB, audio jack, Gigabit LAN, microSD
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 Connectivity
- 128 x 49 x 18mm Size
11. Intel Hades Canyon NUC
Here is an Intel NUC 8 VR Machine Mini PC Kit NUC8i7HVK. It is 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8809G with Radeon RX Vega M GH visuals. It includes integrated Wireless, like Intel Wireless-AC 8265 plus Bluetooth 4.2. Now, you can get completely immersive VR and unified gaming with the performance-optimized Intel NUC 8 VR machine. No doubt it is compelling.
It is super fast and efficient. Also, it is tiny as well. Radeon RX Vega M GH visuals, 1063 MHz – 1090 MHz, and 4GB of High Bandwidth Memory. It can chain up to 6 displays with significant growth and connectivity; front and rear HDMI ports, two mini Display Ports, two Thunderbolt 3 ports, and seven USB ports.
Specifications
- Series BOXNUC8I7HVK1
- CPU Model Intel Core i7
- CPU Manufacturer Intel
- TrackPoint pointing device Human Interface Input
- Graphics Coprocessor Radeon™ RX Vega M GH Graphic
12. HP 600 G2 Micro Computer
Qualified users have professionally reviewed, tested, and cleaned this product. There are no visible enhancing imperfections when held at arm’s length. The product with batteries can exceed up to 80% capacity compared to new. These accessories may not be unique but can be compatible and entirely functional. This product is highly remarkable. Go and purchase it immediately.
Specifications
- Mini PC Personal computer
- Can be used for business purposes
- Hp Prodesk 600 g2 Series
- Ram Memory Installed Size 8 GB
- Operating System Windows 10
- CPU Model Core i5
13. MINIX NEO N42C-4
NEO N42C-4 Plus brings all the power and functionality of a desktop computer in one compact product. It has a stylish chassis. It achieves premium, ultra-responsive performance and the ability to accomplish your productivity needs. NEO N42C-4 Plus comprises 64GB eMMC internal storage and 4GB of DDR3L, while a 2280 M.2 slot
[SATA 6.0Gbps]
and a pair of SODIMM slots
[dual channel support]
propose the flexibility to expand the storage and RAM to meet user’s requirements. The 2280 M.2 slot
[SATA 6.0Gbps]
offers storage extension up to 512GB, and the pair of SODIMM spaces support up to 8GB of DDR3L memory each.
Specifications
- Processor Intel Pentium N4200 (64-bit)
- Intel HD Graphics 505 GPU
- 4GB DDR3L Memory
- Memory Slot 2 x SODIMM slot, dual-channel support
[each support up to 8GB]
- Built-in 32GB eMMC 5.1 (MLC) Storage
- Storage Expansion 1 x 2280 M.2 slot (SATA 6.0Gbps)
[support up to 512GB]
14. Intel NUC 8 Mainstream Kit
The first Intel NUC with 8th Generation Intel Core processors and Radeon 540X discrete illustrations for all your gaming and entertainment requirements. This product can accelerate your performance with Intel Optane memory combined with a high capacity HDD to load the next game level up to 4.7×3 4 5 earlier, or get efficient reliability with an SSD with no moving parts. So, bumps and drops would not harm your drive. You can play casual games, binge-watch the latest series or your favorite shows, or you can stream music and melodies like never before with a quad-core processor that brings you 2x faster performance. So choose an Intel NUC that is right for you.
Specifications
- 8th Generation Intel Core i7/i5 processor
- AMD Radeon 540X discrete graphics, 2 GB GDDR5 graphics memory
- 8 GB dual-channel LPDDR3-1866
- 16 GB Intel Optane memory 1 TB SATA3 HDD
- HDMI 2.0b and Mini DisplayPort 1.2
15. ASUS CHROMEBOX 3-N017U
The chromebox 3-N017U features an Intel Celeron 3865U Processor having 4GB DDR4 Memory, Gigabit LAN, 802.11AC WiFi, and 32GB M.2 SATA SSD. It can completely support Android applications from Google Play on Chrome OS. Integrated Intel 4K UHD illustrations support 2x screens using HDMI and DisplayPort over Type C for compatibility with legacy display networks like VGA and DVI. You can share files or stream your preferred media with Intel 802.11AC WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2, and USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A & Type C ports. Its power over Type C reduces cable clutter and brings energy to projectors, monitors, and mobile devices.
Specifications
- CPU / Processor Intel Celeron 3865U
- Memory / RAM 4GB 2133MHz DDR4 memory
- 32G M.2 SATA SSD Storage
- Intel HD Graphics 610 Graphics
Final Words
Although the Mac Mini is an efficient device of its time, now many such products contain more specs and features than the Mac Mini. These Mac Mini Alternatives are from the 8th generation, which means they are much more efficient than Mac Mini. You can purchase them after reading their specs and features. These devices are much more efficient and have a great capacity for graphics and illustration of data. You can stream your favorite music very quickly. You can use the mini-computers as your personal game stations. These devices provide you with heavy cache memory and RAM as well.
