Best Cheap Mini PC 2022: Top Picks & Reviews
Choosing the best cheap mini PC in 2022 can be a smart move if you're looking for a compact and affordable computing solution. Mini PCs are perfect for various tasks, from basic office work and media streaming to more demanding applications like gaming and content creation. They offer a balance between performance, size, and price, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious users. But with so many options available, how do you pick the best one? In this article, we'll dive into some of the top contenders in the cheap mini PC market, highlighting their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
When you're in the market for a cheap mini PC, it's easy to get lost in the sea of options. The key is to identify what you need the mini PC to do. Are you planning on using it for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and word processing? Or do you need something that can handle more intensive tasks like video editing or gaming? Once you know your requirements, you can start to narrow down your options. Don't be fooled into thinking that cheap means completely underpowered, there are some surprisingly capable mini PCs out there that can offer excellent performance for the price. Consider factors like processor speed, RAM, storage, and connectivity options to ensure that the mini PC meets your needs. Also, think about the operating system. Do you prefer Windows, Linux, or Chrome OS? Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose one that you're comfortable with and that is compatible with the software you plan to use. Finally, read reviews and compare prices to find the best deal. With a little research, you can find a cheap mini PC that offers great value for money.
Top Picks for Best Cheap Mini PC in 2022
Let's explore some of the top picks for the best cheap mini PC you can find in 2022, focusing on what makes them stand out and why they might be the right choice for you. These mini PCs offer a blend of affordability and performance, making them ideal for various uses.
Beelink U59 Mini PC
The Beelink U59 is often praised as one of the best cheap mini PCs for its versatility and performance. This compact machine is powered by an Intel Celeron N5095 processor, which provides enough oomph for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and office work. It typically comes with 8GB or 16GB of RAM and a 256GB or 512GB SSD, ensuring smooth multitasking and quick boot times. One of the standout features of the Beelink U59 is its connectivity. It boasts multiple USB ports, including USB 3.0, HDMI ports for dual display support, and Gigabit Ethernet for reliable internet connectivity. This makes it easy to connect all your peripherals and enjoy a seamless computing experience. The Beelink U59 also supports Wi-Fi 6, ensuring fast and stable wireless connections. For those who need to expand their storage, the Beelink U59 includes a SATA 3.0 slot, allowing you to add a 2.5-inch HDD or SSD. This is a great feature for users who need more space for their files and media. The Beelink U59 runs Windows 11, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. It’s also energy-efficient, making it a great choice for those who want to save on their electricity bills. Overall, the Beelink U59 is a solid option for anyone looking for a cheap mini PC that can handle everyday tasks with ease.
When considering the Beelink U59, it's important to note its limitations. While it can handle basic tasks well, it's not designed for demanding applications like gaming or video editing. The Intel Celeron N5095 processor is a good entry-level option, but it may struggle with more intensive workloads. However, for the price, the Beelink U59 offers excellent value. It's a great choice for students, home users, and small businesses that need a reliable and affordable computing solution. The compact size of the Beelink U59 makes it easy to place on a desk or mount behind a monitor, saving valuable space. Its quiet operation is another plus, ensuring that it won't distract you while you work. The Beelink U59 is also easy to set up and use, making it a great option for those who are not tech-savvy. With its solid performance, ample connectivity options, and affordable price, the Beelink U59 is definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a cheap mini PC.
NiPoGi AK1 Pro Mini PC
The NiPoGi AK1 Pro is another top contender in the cheap mini PC market. Powered by an Intel Alder Lake N95 processor, this mini PC offers a significant performance boost compared to older models. The N95 is a quad-core processor with a boost clock of up to 3.4 GHz, making it suitable for a variety of tasks, including web browsing, office work, and light content creation. The NiPoGi AK1 Pro typically comes with 8GB or 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB or 512GB NVMe SSD, providing fast boot times and smooth multitasking. One of the key advantages of the NiPoGi AK1 Pro is its compact and stylish design. It features a sleek, modern look that will complement any workspace. The mini PC also boasts a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.0 ports, HDMI ports for dual display support, and Gigabit Ethernet. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connections. The NiPoGi AK1 Pro runs Windows 11 Pro, offering advanced features and security for business users. It also supports Linux, giving you the flexibility to choose the operating system that best suits your needs. The NiPoGi AK1 Pro is energy-efficient, making it a great choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Overall, the NiPoGi AK1 Pro is a well-rounded cheap mini PC that offers excellent performance and features for the price.
When evaluating the NiPoGi AK1 Pro, consider its strengths and weaknesses in relation to your specific needs. While the Intel Alder Lake N95 processor is a significant upgrade over older models, it's still not powerful enough for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing. However, for everyday tasks and light content creation, it performs admirably. The NiPoGi AK1 Pro is a great choice for students, home users, and small businesses that need a reliable and affordable computing solution. Its compact size makes it easy to transport and set up in any location. The NiPoGi AK1 Pro also comes with a VESA mount, allowing you to attach it to the back of a monitor for a clean and clutter-free workspace. The mini PC is also easy to upgrade, with access to the RAM and SSD slots. This means you can easily increase the memory or storage capacity as your needs evolve. With its solid performance, ample connectivity options, and attractive design, the NiPoGi AK1 Pro is a cheap mini PC that offers great value for money.
Kamrui Mini PC AM02
The Kamrui Mini PC AM02 is a powerful and versatile cheap mini PC that stands out due to its AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor. This processor offers impressive performance, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks, including gaming, content creation, and demanding office applications. The Kamrui Mini PC AM02 typically comes with 16GB or 32GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB or 1TB NVMe SSD, providing ample memory and storage for most users. One of the standout features of the Kamrui Mini PC AM02 is its integrated AMD Radeon Graphics. This allows you to play many games at medium settings, making it a great choice for casual gamers. The mini PC also supports dual display output via HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing you to connect multiple monitors for increased productivity. The Kamrui Mini PC AM02 boasts a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.0 ports, USB 2.0 ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6. It also features Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connectivity. The Kamrui Mini PC AM02 runs Windows 11, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. It’s also easy to upgrade, with access to the RAM and SSD slots. This means you can easily increase the memory or storage capacity as your needs evolve. Overall, the Kamrui Mini PC AM02 is a cheap mini PC that offers exceptional performance and features for the price.
When considering the Kamrui Mini PC AM02, it's important to note that while it's more powerful than many other cheap mini PCs, it's still not a replacement for a high-end gaming PC or workstation. However, for the price, it offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability. The Kamrui Mini PC AM02 is a great choice for students, home users, and small businesses that need a versatile and powerful computing solution. Its compact size makes it easy to place on a desk or mount behind a monitor. The Kamrui Mini PC AM02 also features a quiet cooling system, ensuring that it won't distract you while you work or play. The mini PC is also easy to set up and use, making it a great option for those who are not tech-savvy. With its impressive performance, ample connectivity options, and affordable price, the Kamrui Mini PC AM02 is definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a cheap mini PC.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Cheap Mini PC
Before you rush out and buy the first cheap mini PC you see, there are several factors you should consider. Making an informed decision will ensure you get the best value for your money and a device that meets your needs.
Performance
Performance is arguably the most critical factor to consider when buying a cheap mini PC. The processor, RAM, and storage type all play a significant role in determining how well the mini PC will perform. For basic tasks like web browsing and office work, an Intel Celeron or AMD Athlon processor with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD should suffice. However, if you plan on doing more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, you'll need a more powerful processor like an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, along with 16GB or 32GB of RAM and a larger SSD. It's also important to consider the graphics card. Integrated graphics are fine for basic tasks, but if you want to play games or do content creation, you'll need a mini PC with a dedicated graphics card. Keep in mind that cheap mini PCs with dedicated graphics cards are rare, so you may have to compromise on other features.
When evaluating the performance of a cheap mini PC, pay attention to the processor's clock speed and core count. Higher clock speeds generally translate to faster performance, while more cores allow the processor to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Also, look for a mini PC with DDR4 RAM or faster, as this will improve overall system responsiveness. The type of storage is also important. SSDs are much faster than traditional hard drives, so they're essential for quick boot times and fast application loading. NVMe SSDs are even faster than SATA SSDs, but they're also more expensive. If you're on a tight budget, a SATA SSD will still provide a significant performance boost compared to a hard drive. Finally, read reviews and benchmarks to get an idea of how the mini PC performs in real-world scenarios. This will help you avoid buying a mini PC that doesn't live up to your expectations. By carefully considering the performance specifications, you can find a cheap mini PC that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Connectivity
Connectivity is another essential factor to consider when buying a cheap mini PC. You'll want to make sure the mini PC has enough ports to connect all your peripherals, such as a keyboard, mouse, monitor, and external storage devices. Look for a mini PC with multiple USB 3.0 ports, as these offer faster data transfer speeds than USB 2.0 ports. HDMI ports are also essential for connecting to a monitor or TV. If you plan on using multiple displays, make sure the mini PC has multiple HDMI ports or DisplayPort. Gigabit Ethernet is important for a stable and reliable internet connection, especially if you plan on streaming video or playing online games. Wi-Fi is also convenient for wireless connectivity, but make sure the mini PC supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6, for the fastest speeds. Bluetooth is useful for connecting wireless peripherals like keyboards, mice, and headphones.
When evaluating the connectivity options of a cheap mini PC, consider your specific needs. If you have a lot of USB devices, make sure the mini PC has enough USB ports. If you need to connect to an older monitor, look for a mini PC with a VGA port. If you want to use a wired keyboard and mouse, make sure the mini PC has PS/2 ports. Some cheap mini PCs also include features like SD card readers, which can be useful for transferring files from cameras or other devices. It's also important to consider the placement of the ports. Make sure they're easily accessible and won't interfere with each other. For example, if the USB ports are too close together, you may have trouble plugging in multiple large USB devices. By carefully considering the connectivity options, you can find a cheap mini PC that meets your needs and provides a seamless computing experience.
Size and Design
The size and design of a cheap mini PC are important factors to consider, especially if you have limited desk space or want a device that's easy to transport. Mini PCs are designed to be compact and space-saving, but some are smaller than others. Consider the dimensions of the mini PC and make sure it will fit in your desired location. The design is also important. Some mini PCs have a sleek and modern look, while others are more utilitarian. Choose a design that complements your workspace and personal style. Some cheap mini PCs also come with VESA mounts, allowing you to attach them to the back of a monitor for a clean and clutter-free setup.
When evaluating the size and design of a cheap mini PC, think about how you plan to use it. If you're going to be moving it around frequently, look for a mini PC that's lightweight and easy to carry. If you're going to be using it in a public place, choose a design that's durable and resistant to damage. If you're going to be using it in a home theater setup, look for a mini PC with a quiet cooling system. The size and design can also affect the mini PC's performance. Smaller mini PCs may have limited cooling capabilities, which can lead to overheating and reduced performance. By carefully considering the size and design, you can find a cheap mini PC that meets your needs and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Conclusion
Finding the best cheap mini PC in 2022 involves carefully balancing your needs with the available options. By considering factors like performance, connectivity, and design, you can make an informed decision and choose a mini PC that offers great value for money. Whether you need a compact machine for basic tasks or a more powerful device for gaming and content creation, there's a cheap mini PC out there that's perfect for you. So, do your research, compare prices, and choose wisely!
