If you’re looking for a powerful, customizable PC that meets your specific needs, expandable barebone systems could be the answer. These compact machines offer impressive performance and flexibility, allowing you to tailor them for gaming, content creation, or multitasking. With top-tier processors and ample upgrade options, they stand out in the tech landscape. Curious about which models stand out? Let’s explore the top contenders that could elevate your setup.

MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H

If you’re a power user seeking high performance in a compact form, the MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H is an excellent choice. With its 8-core processor and AMD Radeon 780M graphics, you’ll enjoy performance that rivals GTX 1650, perfect for multitasking and heavy computing. You can expand your setup easily, thanks to dual DDR5 SO-DIMM and M.2 SSD slots, allowing up to 96GB RAM and 4TB storage. Plus, triple display support enhances your productivity, while advanced connectivity options keep you connected at lightning speeds. This mini PC combines versatility with power seamlessly.

Best For: Power users and professionals seeking a compact yet high-performance computing solution for multitasking and heavy applications.

Pros:

• High-performance hardware with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H and Radeon 780M graphics for intensive tasks.
• Expandable storage and memory options allow for customization and future-proofing, supporting up to 96GB RAM and 4TB SSD.
• Triple display capability enhances productivity and multitasking with support for high-resolution outputs.

Cons:

• Limited upgradeability for certain components compared to larger desktop PCs.
• Potential thermal management concerns due to compact design under heavy load.
• Price point may be higher than entry-level mini PCs, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users.

MINISFORUM M1-1295 Mini PC with Intel Core i9-12950HX

For power users seeking a compact yet high-performance solution, the MINISFORUM M1-1295 Mini PC with the Intel Core i9-12950HX stands out as an exceptional choice. With 16 cores and 24 threads, it delivers impressive speeds of up to 5.0GHz, ensuring smooth operation for demanding tasks. You can expand storage easily, thanks to its dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots and 2x DDR4 SO-DIMM slots, accommodating up to 96GB RAM. It also supports 4K@60Hz video playback, connects three 4K displays, and features advanced cooling for peak performance. This mini PC is perfect for gamers and content creators alike.

Best For: Power users, gamers, and content creators looking for a compact yet high-performance mini PC solution.

Pros:

• High-performance Intel Core i9-12950HX processor with 16 cores and 24 threads for smooth multitasking.
• Expandable storage options with dual M.2 slots and up to 96GB RAM for extensive data handling.
• Supports multiple 4K displays and advanced cooling system for enhanced productivity and performance.

Cons:

• Compact design may limit upgrade options beyond specified configurations.
• Higher price point compared to standard mini PCs due to advanced features.
• May generate significant heat during intense workloads, requiring effective cooling management.

MINISFORUM X1-255 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 255

The MINISFORUM X1-255 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 255 is perfect for creative professionals and multitaskers who demand high performance in a compact form. With its 8-core processor, you can effortlessly manage tasks like image editing, programming, and light gaming. Enjoy lightning-fast connectivity through 2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4. The advanced cooling system prevents overheating, ensuring smooth operation. Expandability shines with dual SO-DIMM slots for up to 96GB RAM and M.2 PCIe4.0 SSD options reaching 12TB. Plus, with four video outputs, you can enhance your workspace with multiple displays. It’s a powerhouse in a small package!

Best For: Creative professionals and multitaskers who require high performance in a compact form factor.

Pros:

• Superior performance with the AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor, ideal for demanding tasks such as image editing and programming.
• Extensive connectivity options including 2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast and reliable networking.
• High expandability with the capability to upgrade RAM up to 96GB and storage up to 12TB.

Cons:

• Limited to light gaming performance, may not be suitable for high-end gaming experiences.
• The compact design may limit upgrade options compared to larger desktop PCs.
• Potentially higher heat generation requiring efficient cooling under heavy workloads.

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

Releasing the power of the Intel Core i9-12900HK, the MINISFORUM UN1290 Barebone Mini PC stands out as a top choice for gamers and professionals who demand high performance in a compact form. With 14 cores and Intel Iris Xe Graphics, it handles demanding workloads effortlessly. Enjoy UHD 4K output across three displays, thanks to versatile HDMI and USB-C ports. You can customize memory and storage, supporting dual-channel DDR4 and up to 2TB via SATA. Whether you’re gaming or multitasking, this mini PC delivers superior performance, making it perfect for anyone seeking a powerful yet portable computing solution.

Best For: Professionals and gamers seeking high-performance computing in a compact mini PC.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with Intel Core i9-12900HK and 14 cores for demanding workloads.
• Versatile Connectivity: Supports UHD 4K output and connects up to three displays with multiple ports.
• Customizable Storage and Memory: Expandable storage options and dual-channel DDR4 memory for optimized multitasking.

Cons:

• Barebone Setup: Requires additional components like RAM and storage to fully operate.
• Potential Overheating: High-performance components may lead to increased heat generation in a compact design.
• Price Point: May be on the higher end compared to other mini PCs with less powerful specifications.

ASUS NUC 15 Pro Tall Barebones Mini PC

Engineered for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike, the ASUS NUC 15 Pro Tall Barebones Mini PC stands out with its robust Intel Series 2 Core Ultra 5 225H processor and integrated Intel Arc 130T graphics. You can expand this powerhouse with up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and dual storage options, ensuring exceptional performance. With Intel Wi-Fi 7, you’ll enjoy up to 2.4X faster transfer rates and enhanced audio quality via Bluetooth 5.4. Plus, you can connect up to four 4K displays through HDMI 2.1 and Thunderbolt 4, making it perfect for multitasking and high-resolution projects.

Best For: Professionals and tech enthusiasts who require high performance and multitasking capabilities in a compact form factor.

Pros:

• High performance with Intel Series 2 Core Ultra 5 225H processor and integrated Intel Arc 130T graphics.
• Expandable memory up to 96GB DDR5 RAM and dual storage options for enhanced versatility.
• Multiple display connections supporting up to four 4K displays via HDMI 2.1 and Thunderbolt 4 for an immersive experience.

Cons:

• Barebones design may require additional components for full functionality.
• Higher price point compared to basic mini PCs, which may not suit all budgets.
• Limited gaming capabilities due to integrated graphics, which may not satisfy hardcore gamers.

MINISFORUM AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX Barebone Mini PC

For professionals and enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance, the MINISFORUM AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX Barebone Mini PC stands out with its powerful 16-core processor. With 32 threads and a maximum clock speed of 5.4 GHz, it excels in multi-threaded tasks like 3D modeling and video rendering. You can expand your setup with up to 96 GB DDR5 RAM and three M.2 NVMe SSD slots, achieving blazing-fast PCIe 4.0 speeds. Plus, its advanced cooling system and connectivity options, including dual 10G Ethernet and HDMI supporting 8K, guarantee peak performance for any demanding application you tackle.

Best For: Professionals and enthusiasts requiring high-performance computing for tasks such as 3D modeling, video rendering, and graphic design.

Pros:

• Exceptional multi-threaded performance with the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX processor, ideal for demanding applications.
• Extensive expansion options with support for up to 96 GB DDR5 RAM and multiple M.2 NVMe SSD slots for high-speed storage.
• Advanced cooling system ensures optimal performance under continuous operation with efficient temperature management.

Cons:

• Barebone configuration requires additional components such as RAM and storage to be fully operational, potentially increasing initial setup costs.
• Size limitations may restrict the installation of larger graphics cards or additional hardware compared to standard desktop PCs.
• High-performance features may be excessive for users with basic computing needs, making it less cost-effective for casual users.

MINISFORUM MS-02 Ultra Workstation Mini PC

The MINISFORUM MS-02 Ultra Workstation Mini PC stands out as an exceptional choice for professionals engaged in high-performance tasks like gaming, 3D rendering, and video editing. With its Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor, capable of reaching up to 5.5 GHz, you’ll enjoy incredible processing power. Its extensive connectivity options, including dual 25G SFP+ ports, guarantee ultra-fast networking. Expandability is a breeze with four DDR5 slots and multiple M.2 SSD slots, allowing for massive storage. Plus, the advanced thermal management keeps things cool and quiet, making it a reliable workhorse that fits perfectly in any workspace.

Best For: Professionals engaged in high-performance tasks such as gaming, 3D rendering, video editing, and teleworking.

Pros:

• Exceptional processing power with Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor up to 5.5 GHz.
• Extensive connectivity options including dual 25G SFP+ ports for ultra-fast networking.
• Excellent expandability with four DDR5 SO-DIMM slots and multiple M.2 SSD slots for massive storage capacity.

Cons:

• May be overkill for casual users or basic computing tasks.
• Higher initial investment compared to standard mini PCs.
• Potentially limited portability due to its design and power requirements.

MINISFORUM X1-255 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 255

With its powerful AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor, the MINISFORUM X1-255 Mini PC is perfect for creators and professionals who demand performance without sacrificing space. Weighing just 1.32 pounds and measuring 5.04 x 4.96 x 2.05 inches, it fits seamlessly into any setup. You’ll appreciate its expandable storage capabilities, featuring dual SO-DIMM slots for up to 96GB RAM and two M.2 SSD slots for a whopping 12TB. Enjoy stunning visuals with four video outputs and stay connected via Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. Plus, its active cooling system guarantees peak performance during intense tasks.

Best For: Creators and professionals seeking a compact yet powerful mini PC for productivity tasks, image editing, and light gaming.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor that handles demanding applications with ease.
• Expandable storage options allow for significant customization up to 12TB of SSD and 96GB of RAM.
• Multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and four video outputs for versatile setup configurations.

Cons:

• Barebone version may require additional investments in RAM and storage to fully utilize its capabilities.
• Limited weight and size may not be suitable for users needing extensive upgrade options beyond what is included.
• Active cooling system may produce noise during intensive tasks, which could be distracting in quiet environments.

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 stands out as an ideal choice for gamers and professionals seeking top-tier performance in a compact form. With 14 cores and speeds up to 5.4GHz, you’ll experience exceptional processing power. Its support for dual-channel DDR5 memory, expandable up to 96GB, guarantees seamless multitasking. You can also configure up to 24TB of enterprise-class storage, enhancing your data management. Connectivity is robust, featuring multiple high-speed Ethernet ports for stable networking. Plus, Intel vPRO support offers enhanced security, making it a reliable choice for demanding tasks.

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

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: Intel Core i9-13900H with 14 cores and speeds up to 5.4GHz for demanding tasks.
• Expandable Memory: Supports dual-channel DDR5 memory expandable up to 96GB, perfect for multitasking.
• Robust Storage Options: Configurable with up to 24TB of enterprise-class storage, including RAID support for data safety and performance.

Cons:

• Limited GPU Space: While it has a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, the compact design may restrict additional expansion options.
• Higher Power Consumption: The powerful processor may lead to increased power usage compared to lower-end models.
• Price Point: As a high-performance mini PC, it may come at a premium price compared to other mini PCs.

MINISFORUM DeskMini UM870 Slim Mini PC

For power users seeking a compact yet high-performance solution, the MINISFORUM DeskMini UM870 Slim Mini PC stands out with its robust AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor. This powerhouse handles heavy computing tasks effortlessly, complemented by AMD Radeon 780M graphics for gaming and content creation. With support for 8K@60Hz displays and the ability to connect three independent screens, productivity soars. Network connectivity is exceptional, featuring 2.5G Ethernet, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2. Plus, expand your storage with dual DDR5 slots and an additional PCIe 4.0 SSD slot. It’s packaged with essential accessories, making it a perfect choice for customizable performance.

Best For: Power users who require a compact, high-performance mini PC for gaming, content creation, and multitasking.

Pros:

• High-performance hardware: Features an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor and AMD Radeon 780M graphics for demanding tasks.
• Versatile display options: Supports up to three independent displays with 8K@60Hz output, enhancing productivity.
• Expandable storage: Offers multiple upgradeable options with dual DDR5 SODIMM slots and additional PCIe 4.0 SSD slots.

Cons:

• Limited pre-installed storage: May require additional investment for users needing extensive storage capacity.
• Compact design may limit upgradeability: Space constraints could pose challenges for further hardware upgrades.
• Potentially higher price point: Premium features may make it less accessible for casual users or budget-conscious consumers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Barebone PC Expandable

When you’re choosing an expandable barebone PC, consider how the processor performance aligns with your needs. Think about future expandability, storage capacity, and the efficiency of the cooling system as well. Don’t forget to evaluate the connectivity features that you’ll require for your setup.

Processor Performance Considerations

Choosing the right processor is essential for maximizing the performance of your expandable barebone PC. Focus on core and thread counts; higher numbers enable better multitasking, with some models boasting up to 24 cores and 32 threads. Processor speed, measured in GHz, also matters—look for options that can reach up to 5.5 GHz for demanding applications. The architecture, whether it’s Zen 5 or a hybrid design, affects efficiency and performance, allowing better handling of both high-performance and energy-efficient tasks. If you’re into gaming or content creation, consider integrated graphics like AMD Radeon or Intel Iris Xe. Finally, a larger cache size, such as 24MB or 30MB L3 cache, guarantees faster data retrieval and enhances overall system performance.

Expandability for Future Needs

As you think about your long-term needs, expandability plays an important role in selecting the right barebone PC. Look for systems that support dual or multiple SO-DIMM slots, allowing you to upgrade RAM to 96GB or more as performance demands increase. Consider barebone PCs with multiple M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots for storage expansion, giving you the option to add up to 8TB or more. Confirm compatibility with the latest DDR5 memory for faster speeds as software evolves. Additionally, multiple video output options, like HDMI and DisplayPort, will help you create multi-monitor setups for enhanced productivity. Finally, robust cooling solutions and power delivery are vital for supporting future upgrades without overheating.

Storage Capacity Options

Storage capacity is an essential factor to take into account in a barebone PC, and you’ll want to focus on several key features that can enhance your setup. First, check the number of M.2 SSD slots; models with multiple slots can boost your total storage capacity to 8TB or more. Look for systems that support the PCIe 4.0 interface for faster data transfer speeds, ensuring smooth performance for demanding applications. Evaluate RAM expandability, with options for up to 96GB of DDR4 or DDR5 memory, which aids multitasking. Also, consider RAID support for data redundancy and improved read/write speeds. Finally, check the types of storage drives supported, like U.2 or SATA HDDs, for greater flexibility in your storage solutions.

Cooling System Efficiency

When it comes to barebone PCs, an efficient cooling system is essential for maintaining ideal performance and longevity. Look for models equipped with multiple heat pipes and advanced airflow channels to effectively dissipate heat from high-performance components. Incorporating phase-change thermal materials can considerably boost heat transfer efficiency, keeping temperatures stable during peak loads. Active cooling mechanisms, like turbo-accelerated fans, can increase airflow by up to 30%, vital for compact designs with limited ventilation. A well-designed system also minimizes noise, operating as quietly as 36 dB, making it suitable for quiet environments. Finally, prioritize continuous operation capabilities, ensuring your barebone PC can run efficiently 24/7 without overheating, especially during demanding tasks like rendering or server applications.

Connectivity Features Required

Choosing the right connectivity features is essential for maximizing the performance of your expandable barebone PC. Start by ensuring it offers multiple I/O interfaces like USB ports, HDMI, and DisplayPort. These options will help you connect various peripherals and displays effortlessly. Advanced networking features, such as 2.5GbE Ethernet or Wi-Fi 6E, are vital for high-speed wired and wireless connections, enhancing your online experience. Check the number of display outputs too; support for multiple monitors boosts productivity by letting you run several applications simultaneously. USB4 compatibility is another must-have, providing high data transfer speeds and the ability to connect external GPUs. Finally, consider Bluetooth technology for easy pairing with wireless devices, adding convenience to your compact setup.

Graphics Capabilities and Needs

Graphics capabilities play an essential role in determining the performance of your expandable barebone PC, especially if you’re into gaming, content creation, or graphic design. Look for systems with dedicated graphics processing units (GPUs) or integrated solutions tailored to your needs. Make sure the barebone PC supports high-resolution output, including options for 4K or even 8K displays, to meet your visual demands. Evaluate the architecture of the graphics solution, like RDNA or Intel Iris Xe, as this can affect performance in tasks such as video editing. Additionally, check for multiple display outputs—HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C—so you can connect multiple monitors. Finally, consider upgrade options, like PCIe slots, for adding dedicated GPUs to enhance performance for demanding applications.

Size and Form Factor

The size and form factor of a barebone PC can greatly influence your overall experience, especially regarding portability and functionality. Mini PCs, typically measuring 5 to 6 inches in height and width, are perfect for tight desk spaces or travel. Compact designs can enhance space efficiency, occupying only 7% of a standard desktop while still delivering powerful performance. However, a smaller form factor might limit expansion slots and connectivity options, so think about how many peripherals and upgrades you’ll need. Additionally, component layout affects cooling efficiency; designs with larger airflow channels usually perform better thermally. Opting for a modular design makes upgrades and replacements easier, especially for memory and storage, which are essential for boosting performance.

Price vs. Performance Ratio

Finding the right balance between price and performance is vital when selecting an expandable barebone PC. Higher-priced models often boast advanced processors, more cores, and enhanced graphics capabilities that can elevate performance for demanding applications. Pay attention to the number of cores and threads; a 16-core processor, for instance, excels in multitasking and multi-threaded tasks. Expandability is essential too—look for systems supporting up to 96GB of RAM and multiple SSD slots for future upgrades. High-speed connectivity options like PCIe 4.0 and advanced networking features can greatly enhance usability. Finally, check benchmarks and user reviews to see if the performance gains justify the higher price tag compared to more budget-friendly alternatives.