Top 10 Best Mini PCs for Gaming (Apple, Acer, and More)

As you go through these mini PCs for gaming, you should focus on the PC's specs, its size, and the ports. We used the buying guide along with the corresponding reviews for these products to pick the best mini PCs available on the market!

When you look into a good mini PC for gaming, you should think about the specs, size, and ports, so we want to discuss these points with you.

Mini PCs vary when comparing their data space, RAM, and processor speeds, so let's discuss the benefits of each one!

Since games need lots of data, you should pick one with plenty of disc space. Games are usually megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB), so you’ll want a mini PC with hundreds of GB. Some games can be as small as 200 MB while others can take up 100 GB.

Most modern PCs have at least 128 GB of storage, but if you plan to play lots of high-graphic games, you should get at least 256 GB. For example, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt takes up dozens of GB like other modern games.

Random-access memory (RAM) refers to the amount of storage a computer has for temporary or instant memory. A PC with more RAM can handle more temporary data at once and run games at higher framerates to make them smoother.

Most modern games require you to have 8 GB of RAM, but you can get by with 4 GB for older games. For example, a game like Psychonauts can easily run without that much RAM. You can also find PCs with 16 GB of RAM if you want to play modern games on the highest settings.

While RAM controls how much data a computer can store in the short term, processors control how quickly the PC can go through that information. On top of that, some processors have threads that function as digital cores to increase the speed even further.

Processor cores are inside the computer and handle tasks to improve efficiency. Since many video games perform multiple tasks while you play them, you need to have multiple cores. Two cores can work for older games or ones with lower-end graphics, but you may want four or more for modern games.

You should strive for a device with the most gigahertz (processing speed) and cores as possible, though anything above 3.5 GHz and eight cores are great. However, if you plan to play older games or low-graphic ones, you can get by with 1.5 GHz and four cores.

Mini PCs will vary in their dimensions, so you should review the sizes available. While most mini PCs will be under 12 inches for their length and width, they should only be a few inches in height.

Some of them will be much smaller, with dimensions under six inches, so they take up less desk space. This also makes them more portable, but they tend to have weaker processors and less storage space.

While the bigger ones take up more physical space, they make up for it by offering more power for your gaming needs. You can go with a smaller size to take advantage of the portability, or choose a bigger one if you plan to keep it in one place.

As you look at mini PCs, you should make sure they have HDMI, USB, and headphone ports, so we want to explain why each one matters! Even if you can connect some devices through Bluetooth, you may find some of these ports useful.

Your mini PC needs to have at least one HDMI port so you can connect a computer screen. The majority of screens connect to computers through HDMI ports, although you may find a few that use USB or USB-C. 

HDMI ports also work great for people who want to use TVs as their computer screens. If you plan to connect two screens to your mini PC, you should get one with at least two HDMI ports.

Mini PCs also have headphone ports to send audio directly to your earbuds or headphones. If you like to play games at night or around others, you may want one with a headphone port. Headphone ports also allow you to plug supported speakers into them if you want to share the audio.

A gamer will usually have a keyboard, mouse, and controller for their gaming setups. Most PCs should have at least two USB ports to connect a keyboard and mouse.

A third port could be useful for people who want to connect their keyboard, mouse, and controller. USB devices have a limited range, but they maintain a consistent connection and don't need batteries.

Some mini PCs have Bluetooth to connect wireless controllers, computer mouses, and keyboards. Bluetooth gaming accessories can run out of batteries, but they're easy to connect and don't require wires.

Your mini PC needs a way to connect to the Internet. Some will include an Ethernet port on them, others may use Wi-Fi, and most will offer both options.

Ethernet is a wire that plugs into your PC and the back of the router to give you a direct connection to the Internet. It requires you to be close enough to the router to connect, but it offers a stronger internet connection.

Wi-Fi allows you to connect to your internet wirelessly once you put in a password. While Wi-Fi lets you connect to the Internet from anywhere, you may have a slower connection. If you plan to play online games where you need to minimize your internet lag, you may want to go with an Ethernet cord. However, Wi-Fi can be an excellent option if you just want to download games occasionally.

Now that you found a mini PC, you should make sure you have the equipment needed to enjoy some games. These links will send you to more lists containing various accessories to help you enjoy your gaming experience!

If you're still looking for more options, consider what's selling well on Amazon! You may even see a few of our choices on the list.

Author: Garrett Garcia

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