If you’re looking to set up a home server, choosing the right barebone PC is essential. You want something that offers versatility, expandability, and solid performance. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 barebone PCs that can help you create an efficient home server tailored to your needs. Let’s break down the features that make these systems stand out and how they can enhance your setup.

GMKtec M6 Ultra Gaming Mini PC

If you’re looking for a powerful and compact option for your home server needs, the GMKtec M6 Ultra Gaming Mini PC stands out with its impressive AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS processor. With six Zen 4 cores and a turbo boost of up to 5.0 GHz, it delivers exceptional performance. You’ll enjoy 32GB of DDR5 RAM, expandable to 128GB, alongside a 1TB SSD that can be upgraded to 8TB. The Radeon 760M iGPU enables moderate gaming and supports multiple 4K displays. Plus, with lightning-fast connectivity options, it’s built for speed. You’ll appreciate the one-year warranty and reliable after-sales support.

Best For: The GMKtec M6 Ultra Gaming Mini PC is best for gamers and professionals seeking a powerful, compact computing solution for gaming, content creation, or home server applications.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS processor with turbo boost capabilities, ensuring fast and efficient processing.
• Expandable memory and storage options with up to 128GB of RAM and 8TB SSD capability, allowing for extensive multitasking and large file storage.
• Multiple display support, including triple 4K outputs, making it ideal for immersive gaming and professional visual work.

Cons:

• Limited dedicated graphics performance compared to high-end gaming PCs, which may affect heavy gaming or graphics-intensive applications.
• Compact design may limit cooling options, potentially affecting performance during prolonged use under load.
• One-year warranty period may be shorter compared to some competitors, which could be a concern for long-term users.

KAMRUI Pinova P2 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 4300U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD

The KAMRUI Pinova P2 Mini PC is an ideal choice for home server enthusiasts who need a powerful yet compact solution. With its AMD Ryzen 4300U processor, you’ll experience impressive performance for multitasking, HD video editing, and casual gaming. The 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD guarantee fast startups and smooth application switching. Plus, it supports triple 4K displays, enhancing your visual experience. Connectivity options include USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C, Gigabit LAN, WiFi, and Bluetooth. Its compact size and quiet cooling system make it perfect for any setup. Enjoy lifetime technical support and a 12-month satisfaction guarantee with your purchase.

Best For: Home server enthusiasts and users seeking a powerful yet compact mini PC for multitasking and HD video editing.

Pros:

• High performance with AMD Ryzen 4300U processor, ideal for demanding applications.
• Supports triple 4K displays, enhancing visual experiences for multitasking and entertainment.
• Compact and portable design with a quiet cooling system, suitable for various setups.

Cons:

• Limited built-in storage of 512GB, may require additional purchases for larger capacity.
• Integrated graphics may not handle high-end gaming as effectively as dedicated GPUs.
• Potential upgrade costs for maximum RAM and storage capacity might be higher for some users.

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

For professionals seeking a compact yet powerful workstation, the MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation powered by the Intel Core i5-12600H is an ideal choice. With 12 cores and 16 threads, it delivers high performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. Its video output capabilities allow for connections to three ultra HD displays, enhancing your workflow considerably. Networking features include dual 10G SFP+ ports for rapid data transfer. Plus, with ample storage expandability, you can customize it to fit your needs. This mini PC packs a punch, making it perfect for any home server setup.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who require a compact yet powerful workstation for high-performance tasks such as gaming, video editing, and data processing.

Pros:

• High-performance: Equipped with Intel Core i5-12600H, providing 12 cores and 16 threads for demanding applications.
• Multiple display support: Can connect to three ultra HD displays for enhanced productivity across various fields.
• Flexible storage options: Features multiple slots for SSD expansion and supports RAID configurations for improved performance and redundancy.

Cons:

• Limited graphics options: While it supports a dedicated GPU, the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics may not meet the needs of high-end gaming or intensive graphic tasks.
• Compact design limitations: The mini workstation’s small size may restrict some advanced cooling solutions or larger hardware components.
• Potential compatibility concerns: Users must ensure that any additional components, such as SSDs and GPUs, are compatible with the mini PC’s specifications.

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

Engineered for those who demand high performance in a compact form, the MINISFORUM UN1290 Barebone Mini PC with Intel Core i9-12900HK stands out with its powerful 14-core processor and advanced Intel Iris Xe Graphics. You’ll enjoy seamless multitasking, UHD 4K output, and the ability to connect up to three displays. With support for DDR4 memory and expandable storage options, you can customize it to fit your needs. Whether you’re gaming or handling demanding workloads, the UN1290 guarantees smooth performance. Plus, its compact design makes it perfect for any workspace, proving that power can come in small packages.

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

Pros:

• High-performance Intel Core i9-12900HK processor with 14 cores and 20 threads for exceptional multitasking.
• Supports UHD 4K output and can connect up to three displays for an enhanced visual experience.
• Expandable storage options with M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD and additional 2.5 SATA HDD/SSD slot for increased data capacity.

Cons:

• Barebone design may require additional components like RAM and storage to be fully operational.
• Limited upgradeability compared to larger desktop PCs, which might restrict future enhancements.
• Potentially higher price point due to the advanced specifications and compact design.

MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini PC Barebone with Intel Core i9-12900H

Looking for a powerful mini PC that can handle both gaming and demanding workloads? The MINISFORUM MS-01, equipped with an Intel Core i9-12900H processor, offers impressive performance with 14 cores and speeds up to 5.0GHz. It supports dual-channel DDR5 memory, expandable up to 96GB, and accommodates three M.2 NVMe SSDs for a massive 24TB storage capacity. With dual 10Gbps SFP+ Ethernet ports, connectivity is exceptional, ensuring high-speed data transfer. Plus, Intel vPRO technology enhances security and virtualization capabilities. This mini PC is perfect for anyone looking to build a robust home server setup.

Best For: The MINISFORUM MS-01 is best for gamers and professionals seeking a compact yet powerful mini PC capable of handling demanding tasks and high-performance gaming.

Pros:

• Exceptional processing power with Intel Core i9-12900H, featuring 14 cores and speeds up to 5.0GHz.
• Massive storage capacity of up to 24TB with support for multiple M.2 NVMe SSDs and RAID configurations.
• High-speed connectivity through dual 10Gbps SFP+ Ethernet ports and standard 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports for reliable network performance.

Cons:

• Limited upgradability for integrated components, as it primarily supports external GPUs and additional storage.
• Potential overheating under heavy loads due to compact design, which may require additional cooling solutions.
• Higher price point compared to entry-level mini PCs, which may not be justified for casual users.

MINISFORUM MS-02 Ultra Workstation Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM MS-02 Ultra Workstation Barebone Mini PC stands out as an ideal choice for professionals who demand uncompromising performance in gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering. With an Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor and built-in Intel Graphics, you’ll experience seamless multitasking. Its robust network connectivity features, like two 25G SFP+ ports, guarantee ultra-fast data transfer. Expandability is superb, supporting up to 256GB of DDR5 RAM and four M.2 SSDs. Plus, with multiple video outputs, you can boost your productivity across several monitors. Designed for quiet operation, it’s perfect for any workspace, combining power and efficiency effortlessly.

Best For: Professionals and creatives seeking high-performance computing for gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.

Pros:

• High-performance Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor with built-in graphics for seamless multitasking and demanding applications.
• Excellent expandability with support for up to 256GB of DDR5 RAM and four M.2 SSDs, allowing for extensive storage and speed.
• Quiet operation at just 36 dB, making it suitable for any workspace without disruptive noise.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to standard mini PCs due to premium features and specifications.
• Limited graphics options since it relies on integrated Intel Graphics, which may not satisfy users requiring dedicated GPUs for intensive tasks.
• Potentially complex setup for those unfamiliar with configuring RAID and advanced networking features.

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

For professionals who demand top-tier performance in a compact form factor, the MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation with an Intel Core i9-12900H is an ideal choice. With its 14 cores and 20 threads, reaching speeds up to 5.0 GHz, this mini PC excels in high-performance tasks like gaming, 3D rendering, and video editing. You can connect up to three ultra HD displays thanks to its impressive video output capabilities. Networking is robust with dual 10G SFP+ and 2.5G RJ45 ports. Plus, expand your storage easily with multiple SSD slots, ensuring you have all the power you need for demanding applications.

Best For: Professionals seeking a high-performance mini PC for gaming, 3D rendering, video editing, and teleworking.

Pros:

• Compact design allows for space-saving placement without sacrificing performance.
• Supports multiple high-resolution displays, enhancing productivity for multitasking.
• Extensive storage expandability options cater to demanding application needs.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to standard mini PCs may not fit all budgets.
• May require additional cooling solutions for intensive workloads.
• Limited upgrade options for integrated graphics compared to dedicated GPU setups.

MINISFORUM Mini PC MS-01-S1390 with Intel Core i9-13900H

Equipped with the powerful Intel Core i9-13900H, the MINISFORUM Mini PC MS-01-S1390 is an excellent choice for tech enthusiasts and professionals who demand top-tier performance in a compact form factor. With 14 cores and 20 threads, it reaches impressive speeds of up to 5.4GHz, making it perfect for intensive tasks. You can expand the memory to 96GB using DDR5, and storage can support up to 24TB with RAID options for added safety. High-speed networking features, including dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports, guarantee stable connections, while Intel vPRO support enhances security for your virtualized environments.

Best For: Tech enthusiasts and professionals seeking high-performance computing in a compact mini PC.

Pros:

• Exceptional processing power with Intel Core i9-13900H, ideal for demanding applications.
• Extensive memory and storage options, supporting up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and 24TB of total storage.
• High-speed networking capabilities with dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports for reliable connectivity.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to standard mini PCs due to premium components.
• Potential overkill for casual users who do not require extensive computing power.
• Limited portability due to size and need for additional peripherals for full functionality.

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

Looking for a powerhouse that can handle both gaming and professional applications? The MINISFORUM MS-01-S1260 Mini PC, featuring the Intel Core i5-12600H, delivers impressive performance with 12 cores and 16 threads, reaching speeds up to 4.5GHz. You can expand your system with dual channel DDR5 memory, supporting up to 96GB, and leverage PCIe 4.0 for external GPUs. With storage options for three M.2 NVMe SSDs, you can achieve a maximum of 24TB. Plus, its dual 10Gbps Ethernet ports guarantee fast, stable connectivity, making this mini PC an excellent choice for your home server setup.

Best For: Professionals and gamers seeking a compact yet powerful computing solution with high performance and extensive expansion options.

Pros:

• Supports dual channel DDR5 memory up to 96GB for enhanced multitasking capabilities.
• Offers multiple high-speed storage options with up to 24TB capacity and RAID configurations for data safety and performance.
• Includes dual 10Gbps Ethernet ports for superior connectivity and network stability.

Cons:

• May require additional investment for memory, storage, and peripherals as it is a barebone system.
• Limited integrated graphics performance for high-end gaming compared to dedicated GPUs.
• Size may be a constraint for those looking for ultra-compact solutions, despite being a mini PC.

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

The MINISFORUM AI X1-255 Mini PC Barebone with AMD Ryzen 7 255 stands out as an ideal choice for power users who need robust performance without sacrificing space. With its 8-core processor and Radeon 780M graphics, you can tackle heavy office tasks and light gaming seamlessly. You’ll enjoy lightning-fast data processing through dual M.2 PCIe slots and support for up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory. Connectivity options like USB4, HDMI, and Wi-Fi 7 guarantee low-latency connections. Plus, the efficient cooling system keeps noise levels down, allowing you to focus on your work without distractions.

Best For: Power users seeking a compact yet powerful mini PC for heavy office tasks, light gaming, and multimedia editing.

Pros:

• Excellent multi-threaded performance with AMD Ryzen 7 255 and Radeon 780M graphics.
• Supports high-speed dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSDs and up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory for efficient data processing.
• Versatile connectivity options including USB4, HDMI, and Wi-Fi 7 for low-latency connections.

Cons:

• Does not support hot swapping for external devices.
• Requires specific hardware for eGPU connection via OCuLink port.
• Full-load noise level may reach 45dB, which could be distracting in quiet environments.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Barebone PC for Home Server

When choosing a barebone PC for your home server, you need to evaluate several key factors. Think about your processor performance requirements, memory capacity, and how much storage you’ll need. Additionally, don’t overlook networking features and whether you require strong graphics capability for your specific tasks.

Processor Performance Requirements

Choosing the right processor for your barebone PC home server is vital, especially since it directly impacts performance and efficiency. Look for processors with multiple cores and threads—aim for at least 12 cores and 16 threads—to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Higher clock speeds are important too; aim for over 4.5 GHz for smooth performance during demanding tasks like media streaming. Consider newer CPU architectures, like Zen 4 or Intel’s 12th/13th generation, which offer better performance and energy efficiency. Integrated graphics that support multiple 4K displays can also enhance server management without needing a separate graphics card. Finally, confirm the processor has a thermal design power (TDP) rating of 45W to 60W to maintain stability under heavy loads.

Memory Capacity and Expandability

Memory capacity and expandability are vital factors in selecting a barebone PC for your home server. Aim for at least 16GB of RAM, with the option to expand up to 128GB or more to efficiently handle multiple tasks and applications. Look for systems that support dual-channel memory, enhancing data bandwidth for demanding applications. Multiple SO-DIMM slots are important, allowing you to upgrade RAM easily as your server’s needs grow. Opt for models supporting the latest DDR5 memory technology, which offers higher speeds and lower power consumption. Finally, consider the maximum supported memory speed, with some systems reaching up to 5600 MT/s, ensuring ideal performance for high-speed data processing.

Storage Options and Speed

Storage options and speed play a significant role in the performance of your home server. When choosing a barebone PC, check for the number of M.2 slots; some models support up to three M.2 NVMe SSDs, each offering 2TB or more. Opt for systems with PCIe 4.0 to achieve transfer speeds of up to 7000MB/s, ensuring swift data access for bandwidth-heavy applications. Expandability is vital—look for RAID configurations to enhance data safety with RAID1 or boost storage with RAID0. Also, consider memory compatibility; some barebone PCs support up to 256GB of DDR5 RAM, improving multitasking. Don’t forget effective cooling solutions, as they’re essential for maintaining performance under heavy loads.

Networking and Connectivity Features

When setting up your home server, robust networking and connectivity features are vital for ideal performance. Look for barebone PCs that offer multiple high-speed networking ports, like 10Gbps SFP+ or 2.5Gbps RJ45, to guarantee efficient data transmission. Models supporting Wi-Fi 6 or later will give you ultra-fast, low-latency wireless connections, enhancing your server’s performance. Dual NIC capabilities are significant for redundancy and load balancing, improving network reliability. Additionally, consider systems with advanced features like link aggregation to combine multiple connections for increased bandwidth and stability. Finally, check for USB4 ports, which support high data transfer speeds for peripherals and external storage devices, further enhancing your server’s connectivity options.

Graphics Capability Needs

Having a powerful networking setup is just one piece of the puzzle for your home server; graphics capability is equally important, especially if you plan to tackle demanding tasks. You’ll want a robust integrated or dedicated graphics solution, especially for video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming. Integrated graphics like AMD Radeon or Intel Iris Xe can handle casual gaming and HD video playback. However, for high-performance applications, a dedicated GPU is essential. Look for systems that support multiple 4K display outputs, such as HDMI 2.0 or USB4, for flexibility. Also, advanced decoding capabilities like AV1 support can enhance streaming performance. Finally, a higher core and thread count in the APU or GPU will improve multitasking efficiency, ensuring smoother performance.

Cooling and Noise Management

To guarantee your barebone PC for a home server runs smoothly, paying attention to cooling and noise management is vital. Efficient cooling systems, like large silent fans and heat pipes, help maintain stable performance and prevent overheating. Aim for systems that keep noise levels at or below 45dB for a quieter environment. Active cooling solutions with dedicated airflow channels effectively dissipate heat, ensuring ideal performance during demanding tasks. A well-designed thermal management system extends component longevity by reducing wear from excessive heat, which is essential for a constantly running server. Regularly monitoring temperature and fan speeds allows you to enhance cooling strategies, keeping your system quiet while efficiently managing heat during high workloads.

Size and Form Factor

Effective cooling and noise management are just part of the equation for a successful home server setup. The size and form factor of your barebone PC play a significant role in where you can place it. If you’re tight on space, a mini PC measuring around 5 inches on each side can easily fit into small areas or be mounted out of sight. Low-profile designs often operate quieter, thanks to smaller fans generating less noise. Many models support VESA mounting, allowing you to save desk space and keep things organized. Just remember, larger cases typically offer more expansion slots for upgrades, so consider your server’s future needs when making your selection.

Price and Warranty Considerations

When you’re choosing a barebone PC for your home server, comparing prices across different models can help you find the best value for your needs. Pay attention to the warranty period; a longer warranty can offer peace of mind, protecting you from defects during initial use. Don’t overlook the importance of professional after-sales support, as it can be invaluable for troubleshooting and maintenance within the warranty timeframe. Also, consider potential upgrade costs for RAM, storage, or peripherals, as these can considerably affect your budget. Finally, research the manufacturer’s reputation concerning warranty claims and customer service, as this can greatly influence your long-term satisfaction with your purchase.