How Powerful Are Mini PCs?

Purchasing a mini PC as opposed to a normal sized PC may make you sceptical at first and question whether you are doing the right thing. You may be reluctant since you are unsure as to what a mini PC is capable of. Alternatively, you may like the small stature but believe it’s not as powerful as a normal PC. However, they have a variety of functions and their portability allows you to access your PC from anywhere.

So, what are mini PCs actually capable of? Not only are they able to be used for day-to-day activities: using various Microsoft office applications and browsing the internet but they can also be used as a security surveillance system at home. Some Mini PCs like the Intel NUC are able to power 3 screens with optional remote management and flexible storage. Along with the 4K capabilities of an Intel HD Graphics 5500 you will be able to see vibrant ultra HD images. Furthermore, with the space for an M.2 SSD or a 2.5inch HDD you will be able to store your files locally whilst knowing your content is safe even if the drive fails

Additionally, Shuttle’s DH110 and NS02A mini PC are catered for digital signage focusing on 4K vertical markets. Due to the Shuttle’s size, the PC can be easily hidden away keeping the display looking classy. These PCs can be used to power digital signage from either a small display at a local coffee shop or even huge displays at an international airport helping you to directly connect with your customers. With their external power buttons, the PCs are able to be powered on and off through a remote line feature, allowing you to make the PC even more discrete.

Contrary to some beliefs, some mini PCs has the capabilities to allow you to game. The Gigabyte BNi7HG4-950 and the Intel NUC6i7KYK are prime examples of gaming mini PCs due to their ultra HD 4K video and a HDMI 2.0 port which enables unrivalled graphics and it even allows you to play at 60fps. Both models are equipped with an Intel i7 Core Processor to ensure that the PCs have a maximised performance for intense gameplay and it also results in higher resolution along with faster frame rates.

Mini PCs can also be used in the office. Not only will they be used for everyday use such as browsing the internet, creating documents and checking emails, they can also be used for wireless conferencing. Whether your clients are a few streets or way or halfway across the world. With the graphics capabilities (as seen from the mini PC’s ability to game) accompanied with a low-acoustic footprint, ensures that the meeting will be fully focused on your business.

After seeing what the mini PCs are able to do they also have other advantages over a normal PC. The main benefit of using a mini PC is its size. This is great for saving space in an office, which allows for more desk space but also it enables the PC to be portable meaning you can move from your home to your office with the same configured PC along with all your files. Furthermore, mini PCs are significantly quieter than regular PCs helping you to reduce your institution’s noise pollution creating a more tranquil environment which could increase productivity. Not only can they increase productivity, they can also reduce the amount of power your PC requires thus having the possibility to save you money.

(The secure dock helps to save even more desk space)

There may be some arguments to suggest that mini PCs face various problems compared to a normal PC. However, these can be overlooked with some simple solutions. Individuals may question the fact that mini PCs do not have an optical drive built into the PC, in hindsight you could buy an external optical drive. This is a similar solution for people’s perception that there is insufficient storage space on a mini PC. To counter this you can always buy an external hard drive which can contain more than enough storage. Additionally, there have been claims that the hardware may be slower when trying to game or use photoshop. With PC’s like the Gigabyte BNi7HG4-950 and the NUC7i7BNH this can be disproved and with technology advancing, it’s only a matter of time before mini PCs are able to meet all of your needs.

Overall, by seeing what mini PCs are capable of, there is no doubt that they are a solid addition to your arsenal of technology. Whether you want to use them for everyday use or for a digital signage display in an airport, mini PCs can meet your demands. Although some people may challenge the ability of mini PCs, there is no denying the fact that they can be beneficial to almost any home or institution.