Gone are the days when a gaming PC had to be a massive tower taking up half your desk. Today, the best mini PCs for gaming can fit into spaces no larger than a cable box, offering impressive performance in a compact package. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a powerhouse with desktop graphics, there's a mini PC tailored to your gaming needs.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Mini PCs for Gaming:
Our Top Pick### Asus ROG NUC
22See it at Amazon
### MinisForum Venus Series UM773
14See it at Amazon
### Zotac ZBox Magnus One
12See it at Amazon
### Apple Mac mini M2
8See it at AmazonSee it at Apple
Opting for a mini gaming PC does come with some trade-offs. The smaller size limits the space available for high-end components like graphics cards and CPU coolers, meaning you're less likely to find a mini PC with an RTX 5090 or an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K. Instead, you might come across systems like the GMKTec Evo-X, which uses a powerful APU instead of a discrete graphics card. Manufacturers like Asus and Zotac have devised clever solutions to fit powerful hardware into tiny cases, though these can be pricier and harder to upgrade.
Additional contributions by Kegan Mooney
Asus ROG NUC – Photos
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1. Asus ROG NUC
Best Mini PC for Gaming
Our Top Pick### Asus ROG NUC
22The Asus ROG NUC is the epitome of compact gaming, equipped with a mobile-class RTX 4070. Its design is so sleek and lightweight, it blends seamlessly into any living room setup, resembling a cable box. While it's perfect for a media center, its gaming capabilities are impressive, handling demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong at 1080p. However, when connected to a 4K TV, you might need to adjust settings to maintain a smooth frame rate. Despite its limitations, the ROG NUC outperforms the PS5 and supports DLSS for enhanced 4K gaming. Keep in mind, though, that its mobile-class hardware does cap its potential, and you might consider a gaming laptop as an alternative if space isn't a concern.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core Ultra 7 – Intel Core Ultra 9GPUNvidia GeForce RTX 4060 – Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 (Mobile)RAM16GB – 32GB DDR5Storage512GB – 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSDPorts1 x SD Card Reader, 4 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x 3.5mm Headphone, 1 x Thunderbolt 4, 2 x USB-A 2.0, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x DisplayPort 1.4A, 1 x Ethernet, 1 x PowerPROSThe size of a cable boxEasy to open and upgradeCONSMobile-class hardware can hold it back
MinisForum Venus Series UM773
Best Budget Mini PC for Gaming
### MinisForum Venus Series UM773
14For those seeking an affordable yet capable mini PC, the MinisForum Venus Series UM773 is a standout choice. It boasts an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS and integrated AMD Radeon 680M GPU, making it suitable for esports gaming. Despite lacking a discrete GPU, its performance rivals some entry-level dedicated graphics cards. With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB SSD, this mini PC offers a solid foundation for gaming without breaking the bank.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCPUAMD Ryzen 7 7735HSGPUAMD Radeon 680MRAM32GB DDR5Storage512GB SSDPorts2 x HDMI, 1 x USB4 Type–C,1 x USB 3.2 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.2 Type-A,1 x RJ45,1 x DMIC port, 1 x 3.5mm Combo JackPROSAffordableGood GPU performanceCONSNo discrete GPU
Zotac ZBox Magnus One
Best Mini PC with Desktop Graphics
### Zotac ZBox Magnus One
12If you're after desktop-level graphics in a compact form, the Zotac ZBox Magnus One is your go-to. It's powered by an RTX 3070 GPU, delivering robust 1440p gaming performance. Though the CPU might be older, it's still a strong performer, ensuring the GPU isn't bottlenecked. While the 16GB of RAM may seem modest, it's sufficient for gaming and general use. Priced on the higher end, the Magnus One offers a premium option for gamers who prioritize both performance and space efficiency.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCPUIntel Core i5-10400GPUGeForce RTX 3060 RAM16GB DDR4Storage512GB SSDPorts1 x HDMI 2.1, 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a, Gigabit LAN, Ethernet; 4 x USB 3.1, 4 x USB 3.0 (1 Type-C)PROSDedicated and powerful GPUSmall despite the specsCONSMore RAM for the price would be nice
Mac mini M2
Best Mini PC for Mac
### Apple Mac mini M2
8The Mac mini M2 might not be your first thought for gaming, but it offers impressive performance for its price point. With an eight-core CPU and 10-core GPU, it's well-suited for casual gaming and work. It supports up to two 4K displays at 120Hz and has Thunderbolt ports for potential GPU upgrades. While it may not match the gaming prowess of a dedicated Windows PC, it's a solid choice for Mac users interested in gaming.
See it at AmazonSee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsCPUApple M2 chip (8-core)GPU10-core GPURAMUp to 24GB unified memoryStorageUp to 2TBPorts2 x Thunderbolt 4 with support for DisplayPort, 1 x Thunderbolt 4 , 1 x USB 4, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10Gb/s), 1 x Thunderbolt 2, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DVI, 2 x USB-A, Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5 mm headphone jackPROSVery capable for the pricePerformance increase over the M1CONSLimited to two displays
How to Pick the Best Mini PC for Gaming
Choosing the right mini PC for gaming hinges on your gaming preferences and desired resolution. Mini PCs, while compact, have inherent limitations due to their size. For smooth gameplay, especially with newer titles, a robust GPU like the Nvidia RTX series or AMD Radeon cards is essential. If budget is a concern and you're not chasing the latest releases, a less powerful option could suffice.
A strong CPU is vital for both gaming and overall system performance. Aim for a mid-to-high-end CPU with at least 4 cores, 8 threads, and a clock speed around 4.0GHz or higher. Ensure your mini PC has at least 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD to handle your games efficiently. Don't forget to check for sufficient ports, including HDMI or DisplayPort outputs, and consider Thunderbolt ports for future expansions.
Mini PC FAQ
Are mini PCs good for gaming?
Mini PCs can indeed be good for gaming, depending on your expectations. They might struggle with 4K gaming, but for 1080p and indie games, even models with integrated graphics can deliver a solid experience. As gaming technology evolves, mini PCs are becoming increasingly capable.
What is better: mini PC or PC?
This depends on your needs. A full-sized PC with top-tier components will outperform mini PCs in raw power. However, for those in space-constrained environments, the compactness of a mini PC can outweigh performance differences, especially when paired with a lower-resolution monitor.
What are the downsides to a mini PC?
Mini PCs require compromises in price, performance, or upgradability. High-end mini PCs with desktop components are expensive, while budget-friendly options might only handle gaming at 1080p with medium settings. Upgradability is also limited, though some premium models offer more flexibility at a higher cost.
