Mini PCs are increasingly becoming a staple in homes and workspaces. Consumers are drawn to their compact size, lower energy consumption, and sufficient computing power for everyday tasks. While they may not pack the punch of a high-end desktop or laptop, their affordability and versatility make them an attractive option for budget-conscious users. Here are our picks for the best affordable mini PCs for under $150.
Opting for a mini PC doesn’t mean sacrificing performance. Manufacturers have found innovative ways to equip these small devices with the capabilities of their bulkier counterparts. Whether it’s for handling office work, media consumption, or even light gaming, there’s a mini PC out there that won’t put a dent in your wallet.
The five mini PCs I’m about to review are a testament to just how far the technology has come. All priced under $150, these machines are not just about getting the job done; they’re about integrating seamlessly into the modern tech landscape, where value and functionality go hand in hand.
| Mini PC | Description | Price |
| GMKtec Mini PC | Tiny form factor but still supports dual 4K displays, 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage with additional storage available in microSD card 3 USB, a USB-C, and Bluetooth for peripheral support | Check Amazon |
| BMax B1 Pro | This is lightweight but so is the price. storage limited to 128 GB but expandable to up to 1 TB Two fast USB (3.0) and two slow USB (2.0) single HDMI display support, gigabit ethernet and a microSD card slot | Check Amazon |
| PELADN WI-4 | Small but not the tiniest of them, it checks all of the boxes with decent performance, enough memory and disk (8GB RAM and 256 GB storage), support for dual 4k HDMI monitors, gigabit ethernet, four high speed USB (3.0) connections can expand storage to 2 TB | Check Amazon |
| Beelink Mini-S | The performance matches the others, and there are two models with more disk and/or memory if this isn’t enough like the others it supports dual 4K displays, gigabit ethernet, 4 high speed USB (3.0) ports. This is one of the better selling models, so people seem to like their support and the product line itself. | Check Amazon |
| AIOEXPC S5 | This is a stick. It’s not the least expensive of all of the options here but it is the smallest. It is less feature rich, supporting only WIndows 10, one 4K display, only wifi. It also has less storage, only 64 GB out of the box, but one can purchase a 64 GB TF card for a few dollars to increase it. It also supports auto-on after power failure. | Check Amazon |
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Diving Into Features: What to Expect from Sub-$150 Mini PCs
When considering a mini PC within a budget-friendly range, you should be aware of the core features that the best affordable mini PCs offer. For under $150, there are certain specifications you can expect, which provide a decent user experience for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption.
The heart of any computer is its processor. At this price, you’re looking at CPUs that offer basic to moderate performance – enough to handle daily productivity tasks but not designed for intense gaming or video editing. Intel’s N series, like the N4000 and N5105, are common in this range, providing energy efficiency and competent processing power for their size and cost.
RAM, or random access memory, is crucial for multitasking. Mini PCs at this price usually come with 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for running several applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns.
As for storage, solid-state drives (SSD) are standard, offering faster data access times compared to traditional hard drives. You’ll find mini PCs with storage options starting at 128GB, giving you enough space for the operating system and essential applications, with some models boasting a more generous 256GB.
Bluetooth support is important for such things as wireless speakers, keyboards, and mouse/trackpads. Most of these support Bluetooth 4.0 which should be adequate for most applications, but some devices may require Bluetooth 5.
Our Picks for the Best Affordable Mini PCs in 2024 Under $150: Detailed Reviews
I’ve personally reviewed five standout models that promise to deliver both functionality and value. Collecting data from deep manufacturer specification analysis provides me with enough information to guide any user in the right direction.
One thing to keep in mind is that these are all low-end budget mini PCs.
None of them have support for 8K displays or have a dedicated GPU for gamers. But they all come with a graphics card that supports 4K.
None of them support high speed WiFi 6e, but they all support 2.4G and 5G.
They all support bluetooth, but not the latest Bluetooth 5.2.
You won’t find a mac mini among them; the starter model is at least triple the price.
What you will find are small footprint, computers for single use or light tasking.
They mostly support Windows 11 or Linux except the PC Stick that only supports WIndows 10.
GMKtec Mini PC
Homing in on the Windows 11 experience and Intel N5105 performance
The GMKtec Mini PC, sports an Intel Celeron N5105 processor coupled with 8 GB RAM and a 128 GB hard drive. This combination offers impressive capability in handling everyday tasks.
Its compatibility with Windows 11 ensures users have access to the latest software, making it a cost-effective choice for those wanting a modern operating system without stretching their budget. Earlier versions are not advisable as Windows 10 is being end of lifed by Microsoft next year.
It also comes with support for dual 4K displays which allows one to use this as a desktop replacement.
The three fast USB connections and one USB-C will give you lots of ports to hook peripherals up to. It also supports Bluetooth. Not the latest and fastest version, but I believe most Bluetooth devices will work with Bluetooth 4.2
Pros and Cons
BMax B1 Pro
The benefits of a fanless design and efficiency of the N4000 processor
Fanless designs are gaining traction, and the Bmax B1 Pro Mini PC showcases why. Featuring an N4000 processor and 8GB RAM, it’s designed to operate silently. The 128 GB of storage is ample for basic office work, and its quiet operation makes it a perfect match for noise-sensitive environments like libraries or open-plan offices.
The BMax is the lowest-priced item in this category, so you are trading some of the performance for price. One such difference is that it supports two monitors, but only one HDMI where the other is VGA which is lower resolution. But it does come with 4 USB ports for peripherals like speakers, keyboard and trackpad, an ethernet connection for a more stable network than Wi-Fi if needed, and a Micro SD card slot.
You can also expand it yourself with an M.2 SATA SSD, up to an additional 1 TB.
Pros and Cons
PELADN WI-4
How extra storage and the N5095 CPU stands out in this segment
PELADN WI-4’s entry grabs attention with a slightly more powerful Celeron N5095 processor and a generous and fast M.2 256 GB SSD, distinguishing itself from its counterparts. The increased storage capacity paves the way for more applications and data, which is a real bonus for those who like to keep their resources at hand without relying solely on cloud solutions.
The gigabit ethernet connector gives you the option of a more stable network connection. The dual 4K HDMI outputs make it a great desktop computer replacement.
Pros and Cons
Beelink 4 Cores N5095 Mini-S
Assessing the balance between portability and power
The Beelink 4 Cores Celeron N5095 Mini-S presents a well-rounded selection of features. It mirrors the PELADN’s processor and halves the storage but compensates with a robust build and energy efficiency. Its 128 GB SSD still provides sufficient space for most general users, and its performance is neatly packaged in a compact, sleek design. It also comes with a gigabit ethernet connector to allow direct connection to a network with an increase in reliability and stability that brings. The dual 4K HDMI outputs make it a great desktop pc replacement.
Pros and Cons
AIOEXPC S5 Intel PC Stick
The unique form factor and convenience of PC stick computing
The AIOEXPC Intel PC Stick offers something a little different. It’s not your typical mini PC; it’s the size of a large USB stick.
It checks all of the boxes for basic functionality with Bluetooth, dual USB ports, and an HDMI Port with support for a single 4K display. Where it is a challenge is it only supports Windows 10. Windows 10 updates are going to go on through October 2025, but that could change as Microsoft has extended deadlines in the past.
The portability is unparalleled, and with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, plus an Atom Z8350 processor, it doesn’t skimp on functionality. It is lighter on storage than the others, but it makes up for that in its’ portability. The file storage is limited to 64 GB, but by adding an inexpensive TF card you can add another 64GB. It’s best suited for those after the utmost convenience and who do light computing work on the go.
Pros and Cons
Making the Smart Choice: How to Pick the Best Affordable Mini PC for You
Choosing the best affordable mini PC demands a careful balance between your needs and your budget. You don’t need to spend a fortune to secure a device that manages everyday tasks with ease. Each mini PC reviewed offers unique advantages, and your final decision should hinge on how you plan to use the device.
Consider what tasks you’ll tackle most often. If it’s web browsing, document editing, or light media consumption, even the most modestly specced mini PC can suffice. For more demanding applications, like photo editing or multitasking, look for higher RAM and a robust processor.
Budget mini PCs come with trade-offs, and it’s crucial to recognize them. While they offer exceptional value, their compact size can mean limited upgrade options and connectivity. Before making a purchase, review the number of USB ports, check for expandable storage, and inquire about the cooling system to ensure it meets your expectations.
| Mini PC | Description | Price |
| GMKtec Mini PC | Tiny form factor but still supports dual 4K displays, 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage with additional storage available in microSD card 3 USB, a USB-C, and Bluetooth for peripheral support | Check Amazon |
| BMax B1 Pro | This is lightweight but so is the price. storage limited to 128 GB but expandable to up to 1 TB Two fast USB (3.0) and two slow USB (2.0) single HDMI display support, gigabit ethernet and a microSD card slot | Check Amazon |
| PELADN WI-4 | Small but not the tiniest of them, it checks all of the boxes with decent performance, enough memory and disk (8GB RAM and 256 GB storage), support for dual 4k HDMI monitors, gigabit ethernet, four high speed USB (3.0) connections can expand storage to 2 TB | Check Amazon |
| Beelink Mini-S | The performance matches the others, and there are two models with more disk and/or memory if this isn’t enough like the others it supports dual 4K displays, gigabit ethernet, 4 high speed USB (3.0) ports. This is one of the better selling models, so people seem to like their support and the product line itself. | Check Amazon |
| AIOEXPC S5 | This is a stick. It’s not the least expensive of all of the options here but it is the smallest. It is less feature rich, supporting only WIndows 10, one 4K display, only wifi. It also has less storage, only 64 GB out of the box, but one can purchase a 64 GB TF card for a few dollars to increase it. It also supports auto-on after power failure. | Check Amazon |
For future-proofing, consider a mini PC with a bit of headroom in terms of specs. Technology evolves rapidly, and a little extra power or the option to expand storage can extend the lifespan of your investment. Furthermore, investigate the manufacturer’s support policies and community forums for any potential concerns.
Finally, when you’re ready to buy, reputable retailers or direct purchases from the manufacturer are your safest bet. Look for warranties, read customer reviews, and don’t forget to consider the cost of any additional accessories you might need.
In the world of mini PCs, there’s a surprising amount of power in these small packages, and the best choice for you is the one that aligns with your requirements without straining your wallet. Armed with the knowledge from this guide, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision and enjoy the mighty performance of a mini PC.
I am a retired software engineer with experience in a multitude of areas including managing AWS and VMWare development environments. I bought a relative a mini-PC a year ago and have become passionate about the technology and its potential to change how we deploy software.