When considering a custom build in 2026, barebone PCs are an excellent choice for their flexibility and performance. With options featuring the latest processors, expandable memory, and efficient cooling, you can create a setup that meets your specific needs. From gaming to professional work, these systems offer a solid foundation. But which models stand out in this competitive market? Let’s explore the top contenders and what makes them worth your attention.

MINISFORUM 790S7 Mini Gaming PC with AMD Ryzen 9 7940HX

If you’re a gamer or a content creator looking for a powerful, customizable mini PC, the MINISFORUM 790S7 with the AMD Ryzen 9 7940HX is an excellent choice. This compact powerhouse features a 16-core processor that delivers clock speeds from 2.4 GHz to an impressive 5.2 GHz, perfect for demanding applications. With triple video outputs, including HDMI and USB-C, you can enjoy stunning visuals up to 8K at 60Hz. Plus, it offers ample connectivity options and supports up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM. Upgrade it with high-performance graphics to elevate your gaming and content creation experiences.

Best For: Gamers and content creators seeking a high-performance, customizable mini PC for demanding applications.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with a 16-core AMD Ryzen 9 7940HX processor for exceptional multitasking and high-speed performance.
• High-Quality Visuals: Supports impressive video output capabilities, including 8K@60Hz through USB-C, enhancing gaming and media experiences.
• Upgrade Flexibility: Offers expandable storage and RAM options, allowing users to customize their setup according to their needs.

Cons:

• Barebone Version: The package does not include a WiFi card and SSD cooler, requiring additional purchases for full functionality.
• Graphics Card Not Included: Lacks pre-installed high-performance graphics, necessitating an upgrade for optimal gaming performance.
• Compact Design Limitations: While space-saving, the mini form factor may restrict thermal management compared to larger gaming PCs.

MINISFORUM UN1290 Barebone Mini PC with Intel Core i9-12900HK

The MINISFORUM UN1290 Barebone Mini PC, powered by the Intel Core i9-12900HK, is an exceptional choice for gamers and business professionals who demand high performance in a compact form factor. With 14 cores and Intel Iris Xe Graphics, it handles demanding workloads and multitasking effortlessly. You can connect up to three displays thanks to its UHD 4K output capabilities. Plus, the USB-C port simplifies your setup by reducing cable clutter. It supports expandable storage and DDR4 memory, ensuring smooth data access. Whether gaming or working, this mini PC delivers the power you need without sacrificing space.

Best For: The MINISFORUM UN1290 is best for gamers and business professionals seeking high performance in a compact mini PC.

Pros:

• Exceptional processing power with Intel Core i9-12900HK for demanding tasks.
• Supports UHD 4K output and connects up to three displays for enhanced productivity.
• Expandable storage options and DDR4 memory for smooth multitasking.

Cons:

• Barebone configuration may require additional components for full functionality.
• Limited to Intel Iris Xe Graphics, which may not satisfy all gaming enthusiasts.
• Compact size may restrict upgrade options compared to larger desktop PCs.

MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H

For those seeking a compact yet powerful solution for gaming or content creation, the MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini PC with its AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor stands out. This mini PC features 8 cores and 16 threads, reaching speeds up to 4.9GHz, ensuring seamless multitasking. With AMD Radeon 780M graphics, it’s optimized for high-performance tasks. You can connect three independent displays, supporting 8K@60Hz output via HDMI 2.1. Its 2.5G ethernet and WiFi6E provide stable connectivity. Expandable storage options include two DDR5 SODIMM slots and PCIe4.0 SSD slots, making it perfect for your custom build needs.

Best For: Those looking for a compact and high-performance mini PC suited for gaming, content creation, and multitasking.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor and AMD Radeon 780M graphics for seamless multitasking and gaming.
• Multiple Display Support: Supports three independent displays with 8K@60Hz output, enhancing productivity and workspace management.
• Expandable Storage: Offers ample storage options with upgradeable DDR5 SODIMM slots and multiple PCIe4.0 SSD slots.

Cons:

• Limited Upgrade Options: While storage is expandable, the internal components may have restrictions on upgrading beyond certain specifications.
• Compact Size: The small form factor may lead to thermal challenges under heavy load, requiring proper ventilation.
• Price Point: Higher performance and features may come with a steeper price compared to other mini PCs in the market.

MINISFORUM MS-01-S1260 Mini PC Barebone with Intel Core i5-12600H

Designed for enthusiasts who crave high performance without the bulk, the MINISFORUM MS-01-S1260 Mini PC Barebone with Intel Core i5-12600H stands out with its robust processing capabilities. Featuring a powerful 12-core, 16-thread processor that reaches speeds up to 4.5GHz, it’s perfect for gaming and professional tasks. You’ll appreciate the dual-channel DDR5 support for up to 96GB of RAM and the PCIe 4.0 slot for external GPUs. With storage options for three M.2 NVMe SSDs, you can achieve a massive 24TB capacity. Plus, advanced security features and fast connectivity guarantee you stay protected and connected.

Best For: Enthusiasts and professionals seeking a compact, high-performance mini PC for gaming and demanding applications.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with the Intel Core i5-12600H, delivering up to 4.5GHz speeds and 12 cores for superior multitasking.
• Expandable Memory and Storage: Supports up to 96GB DDR5 RAM and three M.2 NVMe SSDs for extensive storage options and high-speed data transfer.
• Advanced Connectivity: Features dual 10Gbps SFP+ Ethernet ports and dual 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports for exceptional network performance and security.

Cons:

• Barebone Configuration: Requires additional components like RAM and storage drives, which may increase overall cost and complexity for users.
• Limited Integrated Graphics: While capable, the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics may not meet the demands of high-end gaming without an external GPU.
• Size Constraints: Despite being compact, the mini PC may still not fit in every space or setup compared to traditional desktop PCs.

MINISFORUM NAB8 Plus Mini PC Barebone with Intel Core i7-12800H

With its powerful Intel Core i7-12800H processor, the MINISFORUM NAB8 Plus Mini PC Barebone is an ideal choice for creators and professionals who demand high performance. This mini PC boasts 14 cores and 20 threads, ensuring smooth multitasking and HD graphics. You can enhance your gaming experience by connecting an external graphics card through OCuLink, achieving ultra-high frame rates. The device supports triple-screen output for efficient multitasking and includes ample connectivity options like USB4 and Wi-Fi 6E. Plus, with support for up to 4TB SSD and 32GB RAM, it’s designed to handle large data volumes effortlessly.

Best For: The MINISFORUM NAB8 Plus Mini PC is best for creators and professionals who require high performance for multitasking, gaming, and content creation.

Pros:

• Powerful processor with 14 cores and 20 threads for efficient multitasking and smooth performance.
• Triple-screen output support enabling enhanced productivity for video editing and graphic design.
• Ample connectivity options including high-speed USB4 and Wi-Fi 6E for stable and fast data transfer.

Cons:

• Barebone design requires users to purchase additional components like RAM and storage separately.
• Potentially high cost when fully equipped with external graphics and memory upgrades.
• Limited portability due to its mini PC form factor compared to lightweight laptops or tablets.

MINISFORUM AI X1-255 Mini PC Barebone with AMD Ryzen 7 255

The MINISFORUM AI X1-255 Mini PC Barebone, powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 255, is perfect for tech enthusiasts seeking a compact powerhouse for custom builds. With 8 cores and 16 threads, it handles multi-threaded tasks seamlessly. You can upgrade memory to 64 GB DDR5 and utilize dual M.2 slots for up to 8 TB storage. For connectivity, it offers USB4, HDMI, and 2.5G LAN, ensuring lightning-fast connections. The efficient cooling system keeps noise low, even under load. Plus, the option for external GPU support enhances your gaming experience, making it a versatile choice for any project.

Best For: Tech enthusiasts and professionals who seek a compact yet powerful mini PC for multi-threaded computing, gaming, and multimedia editing.

Pros:

• Excellent multi-threaded performance with the AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor and 16 threads.
• High-speed connectivity options including USB4 and 2.5G LAN for seamless data transfer.
• Supports external GPU connectivity for enhanced gaming capabilities.

Cons:

• Does not support hot swapping for OCuLink connections.
• Limited to 45 dB noise level under full load, which may still be noticeable in quiet environments.
• Requires additional components for complete functionality, as it is a barebone system.

AOOSTAR GODY AMD R9 7940HX Mini Gaming PC

For gamers and content creators seeking unparalleled performance in a compact form factor, the AOOSTAR GODY AMD R9 7940HX Mini Gaming PC stands out as a top-tier choice. With its powerful AMD R9 7940HX CPU and Radeon RX 7600XT graphics, it effortlessly handles 8K video editing and gaming at high settings. You can upgrade the memory to 64GB and utilize up to 8TB of fast storage. Its innovative cooling system guarantees stable performance during heavy tasks, while advanced connectivity options support multiple screens and fast networking. Plus, its energy-efficient design helps save on power without compromising performance.

Best For: Gamers and content creators looking for high-performance computing in a compact design.

Pros:

• Powerful hardware: Features the AMD R9 7940HX CPU and Radeon RX 7600XT graphics for superior performance in gaming and video editing.
• Expandable memory and storage: Supports up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and 8TB of NVMe SSD storage for extensive multitasking and file management.
• Advanced cooling system: Innovative cooling design ensures optimal performance with low operating temperatures during demanding workloads.

Cons:

• Compact design may limit upgrade options: Limited internal space can restrict future hardware upgrades beyond memory and storage.
• Higher price point: As a high-performance mini gaming PC, it may be more expensive compared to standard gaming desktops.
• Limited availability of certain ports: While it has many connectivity options, some users may find specific ports lacking for their unique needs.

MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation Core i9-12900H Mini PC

Designed for power users and creative professionals, the MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation Core i9-12900H Mini PC packs impressive performance into a compact form factor. With its Intel Core i9-12900H, you’ll enjoy blazing speeds up to 5.0 GHz and seamless multitasking with 14 cores and 20 threads. Connect up to three ultra HD displays via 4K HDMI and USB4 outputs. Enjoy lightning-fast networking with dual 10G SFP+ ports and two 2.5G RJ45 ports. Plus, expand your storage easily with multiple DDR5 and M.2 slots. This workstation’s compact design doesn’t compromise on power, making it perfect for demanding tasks.

Best For: The MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation is best for power users, creative professionals, and anyone needing high-performance computing in a compact form factor.

Pros:

• High-performance hardware with Intel Core i9-12900H, ideal for gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.
• Multiple connectivity options, including support for three ultra HD displays and fast networking capabilities.
• Expandable storage and memory, accommodating powerful configurations for demanding applications.

Cons:

• Limited graphics expansion capabilities compared to larger workstations, which may restrict some high-end gaming or rendering setups.
• Potentially higher price point for similar performance compared to larger, traditional desktop PCs.
• Compact design may lead to thermal management challenges under heavy workloads.

MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation Core i5-12600H Mini PC

If you’re a professional in fields like 3D rendering, video editing, or scientific calculations, the MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation Core i5-12600H Mini PC is an excellent choice. With its powerful Intel Core i5-12600H, featuring 12 cores and 16 threads, you’ll experience outstanding performance. The built-in Intel Iris Xe Graphics guarantees stunning visuals, perfect for your demanding tasks. You can connect up to three ultra HD displays via HDMI and USB4 outputs, boosting your productivity. Plus, its high-speed networking capabilities and ample storage expandability make it a versatile workstation tailored for your specific needs.

Best For: Professionals in 3D rendering, video editing, and scientific calculations seeking high-performance computing in a compact form factor.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with Intel Core i5-12600H, providing 12 cores and 16 threads for exceptional multitasking capabilities.
• Multiple Display Support: Connects up to three ultra HD displays, enhancing productivity in various professional applications.
• Extensive Storage Options: Features multiple slots for SSDs and supports RAID configurations, allowing for significant storage expandability.

Cons:

• Limited Graphics Card Compatibility: While it supports graphics card expansion, performance may be limited with certain models.
• No Built-in Wi-Fi: Lacks integrated wireless networking, requiring additional hardware for wireless connectivity.
• Compact Design May Limit Cooling: Smaller form factor may lead to thermal constraints under heavy workloads compared to larger workstations.

MSI Cubi 5 Barebones Mini PC (12M-086BUS)

The MSI Cubi 5 Barebones Mini PC (12M-086BUS) is perfect for tech enthusiasts who want a powerful yet compact system for custom builds. Featuring a 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215U, it excels in multi-tasking and productivity. With WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, you’ll enjoy fast connectivity for all your devices. The mini PC offers a variety of ports, including Thunderbolt Type-C, HDMI, and three USB ports, enhancing your flexibility. You can upgrade memory up to 64 GB DDR4 SDRAM and enjoy dual display support with integrated Intel UHD Graphics, all wrapped in a stylish, energy-efficient design.

Best For: Tech enthusiasts seeking a powerful and compact system for custom builds and enhanced productivity.

Pros:

• Compact design makes it ideal for small spaces while still delivering powerful performance.
• WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 ensure fast and reliable connectivity for multiple devices.
• Upgradable memory supports up to 64 GB DDR4 SDRAM, allowing for extensive multitasking capabilities.

Cons:

• Barebones system means additional components (like RAM and storage) need to be purchased separately.
• Integrated graphics may not meet the demands of high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications.
• Limited number of USB ports may require additional adapters for connecting multiple peripherals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Barebone PC with Motherboard

When choosing a barebone PC with a motherboard, it’s essential to reflect on performance specifications to guarantee it meets your needs. You’ll also want to look at connectivity options, as they can greatly affect your setup. Finally, think about upgradeability and cooling solutions, which can impact both performance and longevity.

Performance Specifications Importance

Choosing the right barebone PC hinges on understanding performance specifications, especially since they directly impact how well your system can handle demanding tasks. The processor type, clock speed, and the number of cores and threads are essential; they determine your PC’s efficiency in multitasking and running multi-threaded applications like gaming and content creation. Integrated graphics are fundamental for smooth video playback and basic gaming if you don’t plan to add a dedicated graphics card. Memory support, including DDR4 vs. DDR5 and maximum capacity, influences overall speed and multitasking capability. Finally, consider storage expandability options like M.2 and SATA slots to customize your system for higher speed and capacity, critical for data-intensive applications.

Connectivity Options Available

While selecting a barebone PC, it’s crucial to assess the variety and number of connectivity options available, as these will directly affect how easily you can connect peripherals and displays. Look for multiple ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, USB Type-C, and USB Type-A for versatile connections. If you need to boost productivity, opt for models that support multiple display outputs. Modern standards like USB 3.2 Gen2 guarantee high-speed data transfer, while 2.5G or 10G Ethernet options can enhance network performance. Don’t overlook Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E capabilities for better wireless connectivity and reduced latency. Finally, check for ports that allow external graphics card connections to elevate your graphics performance considerably.

Upgradeability and Expansion Potential

Considering the future of your barebone PC, upgradeability and expansion potential are essential factors that can greatly impact its longevity and performance. Start by checking the number of RAM slots and the maximum supported memory; this guarantees you’ll be able to implement dual-channel DDR5 configurations for better performance. Look for M.2 slots to accommodate NVMe SSDs, enabling fast storage options and RAID setups for improved speed and redundancy. Also, assess PCIe slots for compatibility with external graphics cards, greatly boosting your gaming and graphics capabilities. Don’t overlook additional connectivity, like USB ports and Thunderbolt support, which enhance versatility. Finally, verify the motherboard accommodates the latest generation of CPUs, paving the way for future processor upgrades.

Cooling Solutions and Efficiency

Effective cooling solutions are essential for maintaining your barebone PC’s performance, especially during demanding tasks. You’ll want to look for systems that incorporate large-area heat spreaders and multiple fans to efficiently dissipate heat, preventing thermal throttling of your CPU and GPU. Innovative designs, such as heat pipes and targeted cooling fans for specific components like memory modules, can greatly enhance thermal management. Don’t overlook the noise level either; aim for cooling systems that keep operational noise below 45dB, even under full load. Finally, consider energy efficiency. Modern cooling architectures often save 5%-20% more energy compared to older designs, leading to lower power consumption and better overall performance. Choose wisely to guarantee longevity and efficiency in your build.

Size and Design Considerations

When choosing a barebone PC, you should prioritize size and design to confirm it meets your specific needs. Consider the form factor; compact designs fit limited spaces, while larger cases allow for more components and improved cooling. Make sure the design enables easy access to internal components for hassle-free upgrades and maintenance. Pay attention to the motherboard layout, as it impacts airflow, cooling efficiency, and aesthetics. The dimensions of your barebone system should suit your intended use, whether for portability or a robust gaming setup. Finally, evaluate the organization of ports and expansion slots to ascertain compatibility with your peripherals and future upgrades, maximizing your barebone PC’s potential.