If you’re on the hunt for a gaming setup that combines performance with customization, barebone PCs might just be what you need. These compact systems allow you to tailor your build, ensuring you get the power and features essential for an exceptional gaming experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 barebone PCs that cater to gamers like you, highlighting what makes each one unique and worth considering. Let’s uncover the options available for your next build.

Reatan X7 AI Oculink Gaming Mini PC

If you’re a gamer or a content creator looking for a compact yet powerful machine, the Reatan X7 AI Oculink Gaming Mini PC is an excellent choice. With an AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor and Radeon 780M graphics, it delivers exceptional performance for gaming and multitasking. You can expand memory up to 96GB and add two SSDs for a total of 4TB storage, perfect for your large files. Its Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and multiple display outputs guarantee you stay connected and productive. Plus, with three cooling modes, you’ll enjoy stable performance, even during intense gaming sessions.

Best For: Gamers and content creators seeking a compact and powerful mini PC with high performance and expandability.

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor and Radeon 780M graphics, ideal for gaming and multitasking.
• Expandable Storage: Supports up to 4TB of SSD storage and 96GB of RAM for handling large files and applications efficiently.
• Advanced Connectivity: Features Wi-Fi 7 and multiple display outputs, ensuring fast connections and the ability to manage quad screens.

Cons:

• Barebone Design: Requires additional components for full setup, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• Potential Heat Management: High-performance modes may lead to increased heat generation, requiring effective cooling solutions.
• Price Point: May be on the higher side compared to standard mini PCs, which could deter budget-conscious buyers.

MINISFORUM 790S7 Mini Gaming PC (Barebone Version)

The MINISFORUM 790S7 Mini Gaming PC (Barebone Version) is an ideal choice for gamers and content creators looking for a powerful, compact solution without the burden of a pre-built system. With an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HX processor featuring 16 cores and a max boost speed of 5.2 GHz, it delivers exceptional performance. The triple video outputs—HDMI, DP, and USB-C—support up to 8K@60Hz, enhancing your gaming and work experience. You’ll find ample connectivity options and storage expandability, including dual DDR5 slots and an M.2 SSD slot. Just remember, the barebone version doesn’t include the WiFi card or RTX 4060 graphics.

Best For: Gamers and content creators seeking a powerful and compact computing solution without the limitations of a pre-built system.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 9 7940HX processor with 16 cores and a max boost speed of 5.2 GHz.
• Triple video outputs supporting up to 8K@60Hz for immersive gaming and efficient multitasking.
• Expandable storage options with dual DDR5 slots and an M.2 SSD slot for enhanced performance.

Cons:

• Barebone version does not include a WiFi card, requiring additional purchase for wireless connectivity.
• Lacks pre-installed RTX 4060 graphics, necessitating a separate GPU purchase for gaming.
• May require technical expertise for assembly and setup compared to pre-built systems.

MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini PC Barebone with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H

Gamers and content creators seeking a compact powerhouse will find the MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini PC Barebone with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H an exceptional choice. Its 8-core processor delivers impressive performance, rivaling GTX 1650 graphics, perfect for heavy multitasking. You can expand storage with up to 96GB DDR5 RAM and 4TB SSDs, ensuring ample space for your projects. With support for triple displays, including 8K resolutions, productivity is enhanced notably. Plus, advanced connectivity options like USB4.0 and Wi-Fi 6E keep you connected and fast. The MINISFORUM UM870 is designed for gamers who need power and flexibility in a slim package.

Best For: Gamers and content creators seeking a compact powerhouse with high performance and multiple connectivity options.

Pros:

• High performance with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H and Radeon 780M graphics, suitable for heavy multitasking and gaming.
• Expandable storage options with up to 96GB DDR5 RAM and 4TB SSD, providing ample space for projects and media files.
• Triple display support with 8K resolution, enhancing productivity and multitasking capabilities.

Cons:

• Barebone design requires additional components like RAM and storage for full functionality, which may increase overall cost.
• Limited upgrade options for graphics performance, as it relies on integrated Radeon 780M graphics.
• Size may not appeal to users who prefer traditional desktop setups with more extensive configurations.

AOOSTAR GODY AMD R9 7940HX Mini Gaming PC

For those seeking a powerful yet compact gaming solution, the AOOSTAR GODY AMD R9 7940HX Mini Gaming PC stands out with its impressive AMD R9 7940HX processor and Radeon RX 7600XT graphics card. You’ll enjoy seamless 1080p and 1440p gaming, with the ability to tackle 8K video editing effortlessly. With support for up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM and 8TB storage, it’s built for speed. Its innovative cooling system keeps temperatures low during intense sessions, while the latest Wi-Fi 7 and dual Ethernet ports guarantee quick connectivity. Plus, Bluetooth 5.2 enhances your overall experience with improved audio.

Best For: Gamers and content creators looking for a compact yet high-performance PC that can handle demanding applications and multitasking.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with a high-end AMD R9 7940HX processor and Radeon RX 7600XT graphics, enabling smooth gaming and efficient video editing.
• Expandable Memory and Storage: Supports up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM and 8TB of SSD storage, offering ample space for games and files.
• Innovative Cooling System: Features advanced cooling technology to maintain low temperatures during intensive tasks, ensuring stable performance.

Cons:

• Compact Design Limitations: The mini form factor may result in limited upgrade options compared to larger PCs.
• Potential Noise Levels: Dual turbo fans and independent cooling may generate noise during peak performance, which could be distracting.
• Price Point: High-performance components may lead to a higher price tag, making it less accessible for budget-conscious consumers.

wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 3550H Gaming Mini PC

If you’re looking for a compact and versatile gaming solution, the wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 3550H Gaming Mini PC stands out with its powerful processor and efficient design. Featuring a 4-core Ryzen 5 processor and Radeon Vega 8 graphics, it handles casual gaming and multimedia tasks with ease. With 16GB of upgradable RAM and a 512GB M.2 NVMe SSD, multitasking is seamless. Enjoy stunning visuals with triple-screen support through dual HDMI and USB-C ports. Its wall-mountable design and silent cooling system make it perfect for any space. Plus, you’ll appreciate the 24/7 customer support for any issues.

Best For: The wo-we P6 AMD Ryzen 5 3550H Gaming Mini PC is best for home office users, students, and casual gamers seeking a compact and efficient computing solution.

Pros:

• Compact design allows for easy placement and wall-mounting.
• Supports triple-screen displays for enhanced multitasking and media viewing.
• Upgradable RAM and high-speed SSD ensure smooth performance and ample storage.

Cons:

• Limited to casual gaming; may not handle high-end gaming requirements.
• Cooling system may not be sufficient for prolonged intensive tasks.
• Some users may prefer a more traditional desktop form factor over a mini PC design.

KAMRUI Hyper H2 Mini Gaming PC

The KAMRUI Hyper H2 Mini Gaming PC stands out as the ideal choice for power users who demand high performance in a compact design. With an Intel Core i7-13620H processor, this mini PC excels in multitasking, outperforming competitors. You’ll appreciate the 32GB DDR RAM and 1TB NVMe SSD, both expandable for your growing needs. Triple 4K UHD display support via HDMI and USB4 guarantees stunning visuals. Plus, Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5GbE LAN provide lightning-fast connectivity. Its effective cooling system keeps it silent and efficient, while compact dimensions allow for versatile placement. Enjoy lifetime technical support and a 3-year service guarantee.

Best For: Power users and gamers seeking a high-performance, compact gaming PC with excellent multitasking capabilities and stunning visuals.

Pros:

• High Performance: Outperforms competitors with its Intel Core i7-13620H processor, making it ideal for multitasking and high-load applications.
• Expandable Memory and Storage: Comes with 32GB DDR RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD, both of which can be expanded to meet future needs.
• Triple 4K Display Support: Provides stunning visuals with support for three 4K UHD displays, perfect for gamers and creators.

Cons:

• Limited Upgradability: While RAM and storage are expandable, other components may have limited upgrade options due to the compact design.
• Potential Overheating in High Loads: Although it has an effective cooling system, high-load usage might still risk thermal performance in compact setups.
• Price Point: It may be pricier than some traditional gaming PCs, which could deter budget-conscious users.

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

Designed for gamers and creative professionals alike, the MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation Core i9-12900H Mini PC packs impressive performance into a compact form factor. With its 14-core Intel Core i9-12900H, it delivers speeds up to 5.0 GHz, perfect for gaming and demanding tasks like video editing. The mini PC supports three ultra HD displays, making multitasking seamless. Its networking features include dual 10G SFP+ ports for blazing-fast transfers. Plus, you can expand storage easily, with multiple slots for SSDs. The package even includes everything you need to get started, making it an excellent choice for your next build.

Best For: The MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation is best for gamers and creative professionals seeking a powerful and compact computing solution.

Pros:

• High-performance Intel Core i9-12900H processor with 14 cores for efficient multitasking.
• Supports up to three ultra HD displays for enhanced productivity and immersive gaming experiences.
• Easy storage expandability with multiple SSD slots and RAID configuration options.

Cons:

• Limited internal space due to compact design may restrict extensive hardware upgrades.
• Potentially high heat output during demanding tasks could require efficient cooling solutions.
• Higher price point compared to traditional desktop PCs with similar specifications.

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

For gamers and professionals craving top-tier performance in a compact form, the MINISFORUM UN1290 Barebone Mini PC is a standout choice. With its Intel Core i9-12900HK processor featuring 14 cores and 20 threads, you’ll experience lightning-fast speeds up to 5.0 GHz. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics guarantees smooth multitasking and stunning visuals, including UHD 4K output across three displays. Plus, the dual-channel DDR4 memory and M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD support deliver rapid data access. This mini PC is perfect for anyone needing powerful performance without sacrificing space, making it an ideal option for your gaming or business needs.

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 and 14 cores/20 threads.
• Supports UHD 4K output and up to three displays for enhanced productivity and immersive gaming.
• Customizable options available for business buyers to meet specific needs.

Cons:

• Barebone design may require additional components for full functionality (e.g., memory and storage).
• Higher price point compared to standard mini PCs without the same level of performance.
• Limited upgrade options due to compact size constraints.

ACEMAGICIAN Kron Mini K1 Mini PC with Ryzen 7 7730U, 16GB DDR4, 512GB SSD

Looking for a compact yet powerful mini PC for your gaming needs? The ACEMAGICIAN Kron Mini K1 packs an AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor that boosts your performance by up to 35% compared to previous models. With 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, you’ll enjoy smooth multitasking and ample storage. Its Radeon RX Vega graphics handle light gaming effortlessly, supporting titles like PUBG and GTA5. Plus, you can connect up to three 4K displays through HDMI, DisplayPort, and Type-C. With fast networking options, this mini PC is perfect for work, gaming, and everything in between.

Best For: Those seeking a compact and high-performance mini PC for gaming, multitasking, and work-related tasks.

Pros:

• High performance: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor, offering a significant boost in CPU and GPU performance.
• Versatile connectivity: Supports triple 4K display output through multiple ports for enhanced visual experience.
• Upgrade potential: Memory can be expanded up to 2TB SSD, allowing for greater storage capacity as needed.

Cons:

• Limited heavy gaming: While suitable for light gaming, it may not handle more demanding games optimally.
• Compact design limitations: The small form factor might restrict upgrade options compared to larger PCs.
• Cooling efficiency: The compact design could lead to potential thermal throttling during prolonged heavy usage.

KAMRUI E3B Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 5 7430U

The KAMRUI E3B Mini PC, powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 7430U, stands out as an ideal choice for gamers seeking a compact yet powerful system. With a 6-core, 12-thread processor, it delivers impressive performance, boosting up to 4.3GHz. You’ll enjoy smooth multitasking with 16GB DDR4 RAM, expandable to 64GB, and dual M.2 SSD slots for up to 4TB of storage. The AMD Radeon RX Vega 7 GPU supports triple 4K displays, enhancing your gaming experience. Plus, with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, you’ll have lightning-fast connectivity for all your devices. This mini PC truly packs a punch!

Best For: Gamers and professionals seeking a compact yet powerful mini PC for multitasking and high-performance applications.

Pros:

• Impressive performance: The AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor with 6 cores and 12 threads delivers high speeds up to 4.3GHz.
• Expandable memory and storage: Comes with 16GB RAM, expandable to 64GB, and dual M.2 SSD slots for a total of up to 4TB storage.
• Triple 4K display support: The AMD Radeon RX Vega 7 GPU allows for efficient multitasking with support for three 4K displays.

Cons:

• Limited graphics capabilities for high-end gaming: While capable, the integrated Radeon RX Vega 7 may not handle the latest AAA games at ultra settings effectively.
• Potential thermal limitations: The 15W TDP could lead to thermal throttling under heavy loads, affecting sustained performance.
• No dedicated GPU option: Users looking for superior graphics performance may need to look for a system with a dedicated GPU.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Barebone PC for Gaming Build

When you’re choosing a barebone PC for your gaming build, there are several key factors to keep in mind. You’ll want to assess the processor performance, graphics capabilities, and memory options to guarantee your system meets your gaming needs. Don’t forget to take into account connectivity, cooling solutions, and overall design to create the perfect setup.

Processor Performance Requirements

Choosing the right processor for your barebone PC gaming build can make all the difference in your overall experience. Start by considering the core and thread count; higher counts, like 16 cores and 32 threads, excel at multitasking, enhancing your gaming and heavy application performance. Don’t overlook clock speed; processors that boost up to 5.2 GHz handle demanding tasks more smoothly. The architecture matters too—whether it’s Zen 4 or Intel’s hybrid design, it can greatly improve efficiency. Integrated graphics performance is vital, with options like AMD Radeon supporting modern gaming at higher settings. Finally, verify your processor is compatible with newer technologies, like PCIe 4.0 and DDR5 memory, to maximize your system’s performance.

Graphics Capabilities and Support

Graphics capabilities play an essential role in your barebone PC gaming build, directly influencing your gaming experience. Start by considering the integrated graphics of the processor, like AMD’s Radeon or Intel’s Iris Xe, which can handle basic gaming. However, for enhanced performance, verify your system supports dedicated graphics cards with available PCIe slots. Check the maximum resolution and refresh rate supported by outputs like HDMI and DisplayPort; aim for configurations that support 4K at 60Hz for an immersive experience. Multiple video output options are a plus, allowing you to connect multiple monitors for multitasking. Finally, look for support for advanced graphics technologies like ray tracing and DLSS, which enhance visual fidelity and performance in modern games.

Memory and Storage Options

How do you guarantee your barebone PC can handle the demands of modern gaming? Start by ensuring it has multiple RAM slots, allowing for easy upgrades. Look for support for high-speed DDR4 or DDR5 memory, ideally expandable up to 64GB or more. For storage, opt for systems with dual M.2 slots, enabling high-capacity SSDs of up to 4TB for your game files and media. Additionally, choose a barebone PC that supports PCIe 4.0 or higher, which boosts data transfer rates for improved performance. Don’t overlook cooling capabilities, as efficient cooling is vital for maintaining peak performance during intense sessions. Finally, check compatibility with the latest Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6 or 7 for stable online gaming experiences.

Connectivity and Ports Availability

Guaranteeing your barebone PC can handle modern gaming isn’t just about memory and storage; connectivity plays a significant role too. Look for multiple video output options like HDMI and DisplayPort to support high-resolution displays, enhancing your gaming experience. You’ll also want USB ports that include USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen2 for faster data transfers, which can benefit your gaming peripherals and storage devices. Consider Ethernet ports with 2.5G or higher speeds for improved network performance during online sessions. Don’t forget adequate audio ports, including a 3.5mm jack and possibly optical audio out, to guarantee high-quality sound. Finally, make sure your barebone PC supports Wi-Fi 6 or newer for lag-free online gaming.

Cooling Solutions and Design

When selecting a barebone PC for your gaming build, effective cooling solutions play an essential role in maintaining peak performance. Inadequate cooling can lead to thermal throttling, greatly affecting your gameplay. Look for designs that feature multiple cooling methods, such as dual copper heat pipes and dedicated cooling fans, to enhance airflow and heat dissipation. An all-metal chassis can also improve thermal conductivity and durability, aiding in heat management. Innovative features like large-area VC heat spreaders and finned heatsinks can optimize heat distribution, ensuring stable performance during intensive gaming sessions. Additionally, adjustable performance modes, like silent and performance modes, allow you to balance cooling effectiveness with noise levels, tailoring the experience to your gaming environment.

Budget and Upgrade Potential

As you plunge into selecting a barebone PC for your gaming build, it’s crucial to balance your budget with the upgrade potential of the system. Start by evaluating the initial investment for the base unit and include costs for critical components like memory, storage, and graphics cards. This way, you’ll stay within your budget.

Next, consider the upgrade potential by looking at maximum supported RAM and available expansion slots. Opt for systems compatible with the latest hardware standards, like PCIe 4.0 or 5.0, for better performance. Don’t overlook cooling options, as they’re important for maintaining peak performance. Finally, research warranty and support options to save time and money on troubleshooting—especially significant for reliable gaming performance.