Best Gaming Mini PCs for Beginners in 2024

What is the best gaming mini pc for beginners? And why start with a mini pc? For that matter, what IS a mini pc?

You’re going to find out about a rising trend in the gaming world: the Mini PC. Now, what is a Mini PC, you might ask? It’s a compact, space-saving computer that’s fully capable of handling popular games without consuming your desk or living room. They’re ideal for gamers looking to save space while still enjoying a top-notch gaming experience.

gaming mini pc for beginners

A lot is happening very quickly in the world of compact gaming PCs. They’ve become a go-to option because they offer the same power and performance as their larger counterparts but take up a fraction of the space. Before you choose one, though, it’s crucial to look at things like the graphics card, the processor, the available ports, and of course, cooling efficiency.

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Key Takeaways:

  • Consider your budget, the type of games you are interested in, how much future-proofing you’d like, and the style of your gaming setup.
  • Mini PCs come in a variety of configurations that cater to different needs and preferences.
  • The key is to choose something that resonates with you and fits snugly into your gaming lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Mini PC NameDescriptionPrice
BOSGAME Mini PC P1 AMD Ryzen 7 5700UEconomy PickCheck Price On Amazon
GMKtec Gaming PC Windows 11 Pro AMD Ryzen 7 7735HSTop PickCheck Price On Amazon
KAMRUI Mini PC Ryzen 7 7735 HSStarter PickCheck Price On Amazon
ACEMAGICIAN Ryzen Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 7 5700UMinidesktop PickCheck Price On Amazon
Beelink SER7 Ryzen 7 7840HSBest ConnectioonsCheck Price On Amazon

Making Your Decision: Tips on Choosing the Right Gaming Mini PC

Now that we’ve examined some solid contenders for gaming Mini PCs, it’s time to zoom out and reflect on your next move. Choosing the ideal Mini PC for your gaming exploits is no small feat – it’s about matching your personal gaming style with the right machine.

While I’ve listed five picks that cater to a variety of needs and budgets, remember that gaming is a personal experience. Your chosen Mini PC should not only run your favorite games smoothly but also fit seamlessly into your life space and budget. There are some that are better, but cost a bit more here.

Here are a few pointers to ensure you’re making an informed decision:

  • Performance Expectations: Analyze the types of games you play. Are they high-end, graphic-intense titles, or more indie, less resource-demanding ones? Choose a Mini PC that meets the requirements of your most played games.
  • Expandability: Consider the upgrade potential of the Mini PC. As games evolve, so too might your need for more power or memory. A machine with accessible upgrade paths can extend its life significantly.
  • Connectivity Options: Don’t overlook the importance of connectivity. An ample number of USB ports, reliable Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth can all enhance your gaming experience.
  • Price Point: Stay within your budget, but try to get the best components you can afford. Over time, investing a little more initially can save you from needing to upgrade too soon.
  • Brand and Community Support: Choose a brand with good customer support and an active community. This can be invaluable when you need troubleshooting advice or want to learn about optimizing your setup.

And finally, I encourage you to read through customer reviews for any Mini PC you’re considering. Often, the experiences of fellow gamers can highlight the nuances that specs sheets don’t capture.

In Search of the Best Gaming Mini PC For Beginners: Features and Capabilities

This subsection will delve into some top mini PC models specifically designed for gaming. Each of these models brings something unique to the table, catering to the varied needs of gamers looking for a compact yet powerful gaming setup

BOSGAME Mini PC P1 AMD Ryzen 7 5700U

When you’re stepping into the gaming world, financial prudence is as important as choosing a quality machine. That’s where the Bosgame Mini PC P1 comes into play. This compact little powerhouse embodies the essence of a wallet-friendly gaming setup without compromising too much on performance. Let’s break down what makes it the economy pick.

Now, you might be thinking, ‘Will this run my favorite games?’ Well, while you won’t be cranking up the graphics settings to ultra on the latest AAA titles, you can still enjoy a vast array of less demanding games. Think indie hits, older classics, and even some current mid-tier games. The Bosgame Mini PC P1 is perfect for genres like platformers, adventure games, and casual simulation titles.

What’s more, if you’re just getting into game streaming or video editing, the Bosgame has got you covered. It’s a versatile starter pack that opens up the gaming space without demanding a hefty investment. So if you’re on a tight budget but still want to dip your toes into the gaming waters, the Bosgame Mini PC P1 might just be your best starting block.

Our Economy Pick

BOSGAME Mini PC P1 AMD Ryzen 7 5700U

The BOSGAME P1 Mini PC has attracted a mix of feedback from users. While some praise its performance, especially the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and high-quality build, others have experienced serious issues such as defects out of the box, poor support, and difficulty getting refunds. The device is noted for its compact size, easy setup, and suitability for both work-related tasks and gaming, although it might not handle modern AAA titles at high settings. Its quiet operation and capability to run multiple 4K displays are also highlighted positively. Upgradability and the lack of bloatware are other pluses, though some users have faced challenges with driver availability and BIOS settings.

A compact powerhouse, this mini PC is built with gaming in mind. Its processing is not the fastest but is the less expensive of all of our picks, featuring AMD’s Ryzen 7 processor. In spite of its price it sports 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB SSD for high-speed gaming performance. It also supports up to three 4K displays.

Product Pros

  • Impressive performance and specifications, including AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor and 32GB DDR5 RAM.
  • Compact design that is praised for its space-saving qualities and portability
  • Ease of setup and use, with several reviews mentioning trivial initial configuration.
  • Good for gaming and multitasking, capable of running games and heavy-duty applications.
  • High build quality and reliable cooling system, often noted as superior to other mini PCs.

Product Cons

  • Reports of quality control issues including loose screws and SSD failures right out of the box.
  • Reports of poor customer support and problematic refund process causing frustration for some buyers.
  • Challenges with the BIOS and driver availability, complicating upgrades and installation.
  • Stability issues with Windows 11 and the need for extensive updates upon initial setup.
  • A few users have reported subpar GPU performance with no clear upgrade path for better gaming capability

GMKtec Gaming PC Windows 11 Pro AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS

I’m going to highlight what makes the GMKTec Gaming PC a powerhouse in a petite package. It’s got some of the most impressive hardware you’ll find in mini PCs right now. We’re talking about an AMD Ryzen™ processor with enough pep to handle the latest games without breaking a sweat.

You’ll find out about why this machine is not just powerful, but also versatile. With a robust cooling system, this PC ensures peak performance even during marathon gaming sessions. I’m here to help you understand the nuances that set it apart from other picks on this list.

If you want to push your gaming experience to the limit, this GMKTec model is your go-to. It doesn’t just look good; it plays hard. What’s that mean for you? Smooth, uninterrupted gameplay with graphics settings cranked up. This isn’t just about loading times or frame rates; it’s also about a seamless gaming journey from start to finish.

Choose something that resonates with you, sure, but don’t overlook sheer performance. In my opinion, this pick might stretch your budget compared to entry-level options, but it’s a solid investment for a more intense gaming journey. With the top pick, you’re not just buying a device; you’re buying an experience that’ll hold up as games get even more demanding.

You can always adjust your approach down the road, but with the GMKTec Gaming PC, you’re setting yourself up for success from the get-go. A lot is happening very quickly in the gaming world, and this mini PC will keep you in the fast lane.

Our TOP Pick

GMKtec Gaming PC Windows 11 Pro AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS

Customers have mixed feelings about this mini PC. A number of users praise its compact size, swift performance, and suitability for gaming and multitasking. It’s appreciated for its quiet operation, quick setup, and powerful specifications, particularly for its small size. However, some customers have experienced issues such as the PC suddenly stopping to work or having a loud fan. There are also comments about poor customer service and issues with running specific games.

This model comes equipped with the latest Windows 11 Pro, 32 GB of RAM, 1 TB SSD and the AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS, offering a balance of power and efficiency for gamers. This has the most features and seems to be the best for the price, but isn’t an economy PC.

Product Pros

  • Fast and responsive performance for various tasks
  • Compact size and space-saving design
  • Quiet operation and efficient cooling
  • Ease of setup and use, with Windows 11 Pro
  • Good customer support and service

Product Cons

  • Loud fan noise disrupting the user experience
  • Trade-off between compact size and performance
  • Issues with running certain high-end games
  • A few people have reported early failure or stopping to work within months of use
  • A few people have reported poor customer service and long wait for refunds

KAMRUI Mini PC Ryzen 7 7735 HS

This is our lowest price option but in spite of its’ small price and form, it still has the memory, speed and dual displays for a good gaming experience. The mini pc gamer has a compact size of only 12x12x4cm, with a brushed texture design that showcases its uniqueness and quality. Kamrui mini desktop pc comes with a VESA bracket for mounting behind a monitor, on the back of a table, or on a wall, saving desktop space.

Our STARTER Pick

KAMRUI Mini PC Ryzen 7 7735 HS

The mini PC has received mixed reviews with notable concerns about compatibility issues and hardware reliability, yet praised for its compactness, functionality for basic computing, and customer service responsiveness. It serves well for light gaming and day-to-day tasks, but it encounters performance limitations with high-resolution video and more demanding gaming requirements.

Another contender in the gaming sphere, the KAMRUI Mini PC boasts the Ryzen 7 7735, 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD. It is known for its exceptional processing power in a compact form. It is not the most powerful but it is inexpensive and may be suitable as a starting gaming setup.

Product Pros

  • Compact and easily fits in small spaces or mounted behind monitors.
  • Sufficient for basic computing, light gaming (e.g., Roblox, Minecraft), and running business software.
  • Customer service is responsive and helpful with issues.
  • Streams 1080p content well and comes with a variety of ports for connectivity.
  • Expandable storage and memory add to its flexibility.

Product Cons

  • Performance may not meet expectations for serious gaming or heavy-duty tasks.
  • System reliability concerns including failure to power on after a brief period of use.
  • Lacks certain desirable ports such as USB-C and SD card slots.
  • Struggles with higher resolutions, experiencing stutter at 2k and unable to handle 4k.
  • A few people have reported issues with wireless device interference and audio problems when playing videos

ACEMAGICIAN Ryzen Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 7 5700U

This gaming Compact PC provides three different lighting modes for you to choose, you can choose your favorite lighting effect according to your mood. This Mini PC has a cooling module made from a blend of high tech copper alloy for efficient heat dissipation. This is backed up with a super high speed cooling fan.  At around 6″x6″x2 1/2 “, this is a mini desktop but takes up little space and at around 3 1/2 pounds is as portable as its’ smaller form factor cousins.

Our MiniDESKTOP Gamer Pick

ACEMAGICIAN Ryzen Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 7 5700U

The computer has received mixed reviews, with concerns about reliability, performance, and technical issues. Positive feedback highlights its compact size, ease of use, and suitability for casual applications, while emphasizing its value for the price. Customers have reported problems with the computer’s durability, WiFi connectivity, and compatibility with gaming and certain software. Some praise customer service for addressing issues, and there is a mix of satisfaction and dissatisfaction regarding the machine’s gaming capabilities and additional features like lighting.

Designed for gamers who need both performance and portability, It has 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, WiFi 6, BT 5.2 and supports dual 4K displays, one of which at up to 4K@120Hz display. This mini PC is a great option for high-intensity gaming sessions. Note that there are 3 models that are more expensive and more powerful than this. Also note that Amazon has reported that this is a frequently returned item but has a lot more reviews than the others with a solid, though not very high rating.

Product Pros

  • Good value for the price
  • Handles certain games well
  • Satisfactory performance for casual use
  • Compact and efficient design
  • Responsive customer service

Product Cons

  • Issues with reliability and longevity
  • Unable to meet advertised gaming performance
  • Problems with WiFi connectivity
  • Technical glitches and hardware failures
  • Incompatibility and setup difficulties

Support connect quad displays simultaneously via HDMI 2.1(Max 4K 144Hz), dual USB4(40Gbps), and DP 1.4(Max 4K 144Hz).  Equipped with 2.5Gbps LAN port, the measured read and write speed is 2.5 times than the traditional Gigabit network. WiFi 6(802.11AX), transmission speed up to 2.4Gbps, faster and more stable. Bluetooth 5.2, high-speed wireless connection makes you step ahead.

Our Pick FOR BEST CONNECTIONS

Beelink SER7 Ryzen 7 7840HS

The reviews for this computer product are mixed, with numerous customers experiencing technical issues or expressing dissatisfaction with customer support, while others appreciate its performance for specific applications and tasks.

Beelink’s offering in the gaming category comes with the Ryzen 7 7840HS, a processor that promises to handle the most demanding games with ease. This is their most expensive offering of this model, and in spite of the cons it seems like it is well-received. It handles up to a quad 4K display and has 2 USB 4 connections.

Product Pros

  • Fast and efficient performance for certain applications and light gaming
  • Upgradeable memory and storage options
  • Compact size fits well in various settings such as a TV cabinet
  • Runs Windows 11 smoothly
  • A few people have reported that ultra-low power consumption ideal for continuous use

Product Cons

  • Early hardware failures and issues such as corrupt motherboards and faulty USB ports
  • Poor customer support and lack of timely response to inquiries
  • System software and BIOS issues leading to problems starting up
  • Misleading product descriptions and issues with advertised specifications
  • Some machines arrived with pre-installed passwords or missing components

Choosing A Gaming Mini PC For Beginners: Where to go from here?

Don’t worry too much about making the ‘perfect’ choice; even your first gaming Mini PC is a learning step into the vibrant world of PC gaming. Embrace the process and have fun with it – after all, that’s what gaming is all about.

Whether you decide to go with the economy Bosgame Mini PC P1, the top-notch GMKTec Gaming PC, the beginner-friendly Kamrui Mini PC, the balanced ACE MAGICIAN Gaming PC, or the Beelink SER 7 with its superior connections, you’re on the right path to many thrilling gaming adventures. I really hope that this guide aids you well in your quest for the perfect gaming setup.

Mini PC NameDescriptionPrice
BOSGAME Mini PC P1 AMD Ryzen 7 5700UEconomy PickCheck Price On Amazon
GMKtec Gaming PC Windows 11 Pro AMD Ryzen 7 7735HSTop PickCheck Price On Amazon
KAMRUI Mini PC Ryzen 7 7735 HSStarter PickCheck Price On Amazon
ACEMAGICIAN Ryzen Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 7 5700UMinidesktop PickCheck Price On Amazon
Beelink SER7 Ryzen 7 7840HSBest ConnectioonsCheck Price On Amazon

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