When you’re looking to run Proxmox effectively, choosing the right mini PC can make all the difference. With various options available, from powerhouse processors to expandable memory, it’s essential to find a model that meets your needs. This guide highlights ten of the best mini PCs that balance power and performance in a compact form. Want to know which ones stand out for your virtualization projects? Let’s explore the top contenders.

GMKtec G3S Mini PC (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)

If you’re looking for a compact and powerful solution for running Proxmox, the GMKtec G3S Mini PC is an excellent choice, especially with its robust 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N95 processor. With 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB M.2 SSD, you’ll enjoy quicker startups and smoother multitasking. This mini PC’s performance boasts a 36% improvement over previous models, making it ideal for office work and home entertainment. Plus, its dual HDMI 2.0 ports support 4K displays, ensuring stunning visuals. With solid connectivity options, it’s ready to handle all your peripherals seamlessly.

Best For: Users seeking a compact and powerful mini PC for office tasks, home entertainment, and multi-display setups.

Pros:

• High performance: Equipped with a 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N95 processor, offering a 36% performance boost over previous models.
• Ample memory and storage: Features 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB M.2 SSD for quick startups and efficient multitasking.
• Dual 4K display support: Includes dual HDMI 2.0 ports for stunning visuals and seamless video playback.

Cons:

• Limited gaming capability: While it supports 4K video playback, the integrated graphics may not be suitable for high-end gaming.
• No WiFi 6 support: Only supports WiFi 5, which may be a drawback for users wanting the latest wireless technology.
• Compact size may limit upgrade options: The mini PC form factor could restrict future hardware upgrades compared to traditional desktop PCs.

TK Two Mini PC – N150 CPU, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD

The TK Two Mini PC is an excellent choice for users looking to run Proxmox VE with a compact yet powerful system. Featuring a 13th Gen Intel N150 CPU with four cores and speeds up to 3.6 GHz, it delivers impressive performance. With 16GB of RAM (upgradable to 32GB) and a 512GB SSD (expandable to 2x 2TB NVMe), you’ll enjoy smooth multitasking and ample storage. Its triple 4K display support and dual-band WiFi enhance connectivity, while energy efficiency keeps your costs low. Plus, it comes preinstalled with Proxmox VE, making setup a breeze.

Best For: Users seeking a compact, energy-efficient mini PC for running Proxmox VE with strong multitasking capabilities and extensive display support.

Pros:

• Compact design makes it easy to fit in small spaces.
• Supports triple 4K displays for enhanced productivity.
• Energy-efficient operation reduces electricity costs.

Cons:

• Limited pre-installed storage may require upgrades for extensive data use.
• RAM upgrade requires additional investment for maximum capacity.
• Cooling system may not be suitable for high-performance tasks over extended periods.

KAMRUI Pinova P2 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 4300U

For users seeking a powerful yet compact solution for running Proxmox, the KAMRUI Pinova P2 Mini PC stands out with its AMD Ryzen 4300U processor. This 4-core, 4-thread CPU boosts performance up to 3.7GHz, effortlessly managing demanding tasks like HD video editing and multitasking. With 16GB DDR4 RAM and a speedy 512GB M.2 SSD, you’ll experience seamless performance and quick file transfers. Plus, it supports triple 4K displays for stunning visuals. Its compact design makes it portable, while robust connectivity options like USB3.2 Gen2 guarantee a productive environment. KAMRUI’s lifetime support adds to your peace of mind.

Best For: Users seeking a powerful compact PC for multitasking, HD video editing, and casual gaming in a portable design.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 4300U processor for efficient handling of demanding applications.
• Supports triple 4K displays for stunning visuals and enhanced productivity.
• Compact design with VESA mount compatibility for versatile installation options.

Cons:

• Limited pre-installed storage with only a 512GB SSD, potentially requiring upgrades for extensive data needs.
• No dedicated graphics card which may limit performance in more demanding gaming or graphic design applications.
• Cooling system may be less effective under sustained heavy loads, potentially leading to throttling.

GMKtec Mini PC with Intel Twin Lake N150 (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)

Looking for a compact yet powerful solution for your Proxmox setup? The GMKtec Mini PC with the Intel Twin Lake N150 processor is a great choice. With 4 cores, 4 threads, and a burst speed of up to 3.6GHz, it handles routine tasks and home entertainment effortlessly. Equipped with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB PCIe SSD, you’ll enjoy quick boot times and smooth multitasking. Its rich connectivity options, including dual HDMI for 4K support and WiFi 6, guarantee compatibility with various devices. Plus, the upgraded cooling keeps it running quietly, making it perfect for your needs.

Best For: Those seeking a compact, efficient mini PC for routine tasks, home entertainment, and lightweight server applications.

Pros:

• High performance: The Intel Twin Lake N150 processor provides excellent speed with burst capabilities up to 3.6GHz.
• Ample memory and storage: Comes with 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB PCIe SSD for quick boot times and smooth multitasking.
• Versatile connectivity: Features dual HDMI ports for 4K display support and WiFi 6 for fast network connectivity.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options: The compact design may restrict hardware upgrades compared to larger PCs.
• Not suitable for heavy gaming: While it supports home entertainment, it may struggle with demanding gaming applications.
• Single-year warranty: The one-year limited warranty may not provide enough coverage for long-term use.

GMKtec Mini PC Intel Core i9 13900HK

Equipped with the powerful Intel Core i9-13900HK CPU, the GMKtec Mini PC stands out as a top choice for professionals seeking robust performance in demanding environments. With 14 cores and 20 threads, it delivers impressive speeds up to 5.4 GHz. You’ll appreciate the 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD, expandable to 12TB for extensive storage needs. Its connectivity options, including 2.5G Ethernet and WiFi 6, guarantee you stay connected. Plus, the ability to support quad-screen 8K displays makes it ideal for high-resolution tasks in business and industrial applications. Enjoy reliable support with a one-year warranty.

Best For: Professionals and businesses requiring powerful computing capabilities for demanding tasks, multitasking, and high-resolution displays.

Pros:

• High Performance: Powered by the Intel Core i9-13900HK CPU with 14 cores, delivering speeds up to 5.4 GHz for efficient processing.
• Expandable Storage: Comes with a 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD, expandable up to 12TB, ideal for extensive data storage needs.
• Versatile Connectivity: Features 2.5G Ethernet, WiFi 6, and multiple USB ports for seamless connection to various devices.

Cons:

• Price Point: The high-end specifications may come at a premium price, which may not suit all budgets.
• Limited Warranty: The 1-year limited warranty may be shorter compared to some competitors offering extended coverage.
• Cooling Requirements: The powerful hardware may require effective cooling solutions to maintain optimal performance during intensive tasks.

GMKtec EVO-T1 AI Mini PC Workstation

The GMKtec EVO-T1 AI Mini PC Workstation stands out with its powerful 16-core processor and Intel AI Boost NPU, making it an excellent choice for professionals who need high-performance computing for tasks like virtualization and data analysis on Proxmox. With up to 5.4 GHz turbo clock speed and a robust Intel Arc 140T GPU, you can tackle demanding applications seamlessly. It supports 64GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, ensuring speedy performance. Plus, enjoy quad-screen 8K display capabilities and advanced connectivity features like Wi-Fi 6, making it the perfect compact powerhouse for your workspace.

Best For: Professionals and enthusiasts seeking a compact, high-performance workstation for demanding tasks like virtualization, data analysis, and gaming.

Pros:

• Supports quad-screen 8K display for enhanced multitasking and visual clarity.
• Equipped with Intel AI Boost NPU for high-speed AI processing capabilities.
• Compact design with robust cooling system, ensuring stable performance in a small form factor.

Cons:

• Limited to a maximum of 12TB storage across M.2 slots, which may not be sufficient for data-heavy applications.
• The compact size may lead to thermal concerns under prolonged heavy usage despite the cooling system.
• Price point may be higher compared to traditional desktop workstations with similar specs.

GEEKOM A8 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS

For professionals seeking a powerful and compact solution for virtualization, the GEEKOM A8 Mini PC with the AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS stands out. With 8 cores and 16 threads, it can reach speeds up to 4.9 GHz, ensuring exceptional performance for demanding tasks. You’ll appreciate the upgrade potential with 32GB DDR5 RAM, expandable to 128GB, and a 1TB NVMe SSD, expandable to 4TB. The device supports multiple operating systems, including Windows 11 Pro and Ubuntu, while its advanced cooling system maintains peak performance. Plus, with a 3-year warranty, you can trust its reliability for your virtualization needs.

Best For: Professionals seeking a powerful and compact solution for virtualization and demanding tasks.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS, featuring 8 cores and 16 threads for multitasking.
• Upgradeable RAM and storage options, allowing for customization to meet specific needs.
• Advanced cooling system ensures efficient performance during intensive workloads.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to entry-level mini PCs.
• Limited availability of DDR5 RAM due to industry shortages, potentially affecting upgrades.
• Compact design may lead to thermal constraints under extended heavy use without adequate ventilation.

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 6800U

With its powerful AMD Ryzen 7 6800U processor, the Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC is an ideal choice for tech enthusiasts and professionals looking to run Proxmox effectively. You’ll appreciate the speed of its 8 cores and 16 threads, reaching up to 4.7 GHz, paired with 24GB LPDDR5 RAM for efficient multitasking. The 500GB M.2 SSD provides ample storage, expandable to 8TB, while the dual HDMI and DisplayPort support enhances your multi-screen setup. With WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4, you’ll enjoy fast connectivity, and the advanced cooling system guarantees your mini PC runs smoothly during demanding tasks.

Best For: Tech enthusiasts and professionals looking for a powerful, compact solution for multitasking, gaming, and efficient server management.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 7 6800U processor with 8 cores and 16 threads for efficient multitasking.
• Supports 4K video playback and multi-screen setups for enhanced productivity.
• Equipped with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast and reliable connectivity.

Cons:

• Limited built-in storage of 500GB may require additional investment for expansion.
• Higher initial cost compared to basic mini PCs.
• May generate noticeable heat during intensive tasks, requiring effective cooling solutions.

GMKtec Mini PC Computer G10 Ryzen 5 3500U

Powered by the Ryzen 5 3500U processor, the GMKtec Mini PC G10 stands out as an ideal choice for users seeking robust performance in a compact form factor. With a base frequency of 2.1 GHz and a boost frequency of 3.7 GHz, it delivers a remarkable 35% performance increase over Intel’s N-Series. Equipped with 16GB dual-channel DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, you can easily expand memory up to 64GB. The integrated Radeon Vega 8 GPU supports triple display, while 2.5GbE Ethernet guarantees fast connectivity. Plus, its portability makes it perfect for mobile setups.

Best For: Users seeking a compact, high-performance mini PC for gaming, office tasks, or multimedia applications.

Pros:

• High performance with Ryzen 5 3500U, offering a significant boost over Intel N-Series.
• Expandable memory and storage with support for up to 64GB RAM and 16TB SSD.
• Triple display support through HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and USB Type-C for enhanced productivity.

Cons:

• Limited graphics power for demanding gaming compared to dedicated graphics cards.
• Cooling system may be less effective under heavy loads due to compact design.
• Warranty coverage is only for 1 year, which may be shorter than some competitors.

GMKtec Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U

The GMKtec Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U stands out as an excellent choice for users seeking a compact yet powerful solution for Proxmox virtualization. With its 64-bit quad-core Ryzen 5 3500U processor, this mini PC delivers impressive performance, boasting a base frequency of 2.1 GHz and a boost of 3.7 GHz. You’ll appreciate the 16GB DDR4 RAM, expandable up to 64GB, and a speedy 1TB NVMe SSD. It supports triple displays and offers robust connectivity options, including 2.5GbE Ethernet and WiFi 5. With a solid warranty and support, this mini PC is a reliable choice for your virtualization needs.

Best For: Users looking for a compact and powerful mini PC for virtualization and multitasking needs.

Pros:

• Impressive performance with Ryzen 5 3500U processor and expandable RAM up to 64GB.
• Fast data transmission through 2.5GbE Ethernet and robust wireless connectivity options.
• Triple display support for enhanced multitasking capabilities.

Cons:

• Limited warranty of only 1 year may not be sufficient for some users.
• No dedicated graphics card may limit performance for graphics-intensive applications.
• Potential noise from fans during heavy usage, which may be a concern for quiet environments.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mini PC for Proxmox

When choosing a mini PC for Proxmox, you’ll want to take into account several key factors. Processor performance, memory capacity, and storage options can greatly impact your setup’s efficiency. Additionally, make sure you evaluate connectivity and cooling solutions to keep your system running smoothly.

Processor Performance Requirements

Choosing a mini PC for Proxmox goes beyond just picking a compact device; you’ll need to focus on processor performance to guarantee smooth virtualization. Look for processors with multiple cores and threads, as they enhance multitasking and allow you to run multiple VMs efficiently. A CPU with a burst frequency above 3.5 GHz will perform better under peak loads. Make sure the processor supports virtualization technologies like Intel VT-x or AMD-V for effective resource management. A cache size of 6MB or more is essential for improving data access speed. Finally, consider the CPU’s power efficiency; lower TDP ratings can reduce energy consumption and heat output, benefiting your long-term server operation.

Memory Capacity and Upgradeability

Processor performance sets the stage for running virtual machines, but memory capacity and upgradeability are just as important in ensuring your Proxmox environment runs smoothly. You’ll want at least 16GB of RAM for basic workloads, while 32GB or more is ideal for heavier usage. Look for mini PCs that support dual-channel configurations, as this can enhance performance by using two RAM sticks. Expandable memory slots are a must, allowing you to increase RAM as your needs grow—some systems can support up to 64GB or more. Also, consider higher RAM speeds like DDR4 or DDR5, as they can greatly impact performance in memory-intensive tasks. Choosing the right memory setup will future-proof your Proxmox installation.

Storage Options and Speed

While you might prioritize RAM and CPU performance when selecting a mini PC for Proxmox, storage options and speed are equally essential for optimizing your virtual environment. Opt for SSD storage, as it greatly boosts boot times and data access compared to traditional HDDs. Consider mini PCs that support NVMe SSDs, offering data transfer speeds up to 32 Gbps, which can enhance your virtualization tasks. Look for models with dual M.2 slots to allow extensive storage expansion, accommodating up to 4TB or more for multiple virtual machines. Make sure your mini PC has at least 16GB of RAM alongside the SSD for smooth multitasking. Finally, check for RAID support to improve data redundancy and speed, guaranteeing reliable virtualized systems.

Connectivity and Ports Variety

When setting up a mini PC for Proxmox, you’ll want to prioritize connectivity and port variety to guarantee seamless integration with your existing infrastructure. Look for models with multiple USB ports, especially USB 3.2, for efficient connections to external devices and peripherals. HDMI and DisplayPort outputs are essential if you plan on using a multi-monitor setup to enhance virtual machine management. Consider mini PCs equipped with 2.5GbE Ethernet ports for superior network performance, fundamental in high-speed data environments. WiFi 6 support is also beneficial for faster wireless connectivity, particularly for remote management. Finally, having options like USB-C and audio jacks allows you to accommodate various peripherals, enhancing your overall functionality.

Cooling Solutions for Efficiency

Choosing the right cooling solution is essential for maintaining peak performance in your mini PC running Proxmox, as effective cooling prevents overheating that can lead to throttling. Advanced technologies like vapor chamber cooling and larger heatsinks can greatly enhance thermal management in compact systems. It’s also important to maintain a quiet operation; some systems can operate at noise levels as low as 35dB under load, ensuring a peaceful environment. Proper airflow design, including multiple fan configurations and strategic vent placements, is crucial for effective heat dissipation. Finally, regular maintenance, such as cleaning dust filters and ensuring unobstructed airflow, will prolong your mini PC’s lifespan and efficiency, helping you get the most out of your Proxmox setup.

Power Consumption Considerations

Power consumption is an essential factor to keep in mind as you select a mini PC for Proxmox, especially if you’re looking to optimize operational costs. Focus on energy efficiency; lower consumption can lead to significant savings, particularly in a virtualized environment with multiple instances. Aim for mini PCs that consume less than 1 kWh/day for a more energy-efficient design. Additionally, check the thermal design power (TDP) ratings of processors—lower TDP values usually mean reduced power consumption and heat generation. Systems with advanced cooling solutions can maintain efficient operation, which is vital for 24/7 setups. Finally, consider the power supply rating and if the system includes power-saving features like sleep or hibernation modes to minimize energy usage when idle.

Warranty and Support Services

One key factor to contemplate when selecting a mini PC for Proxmox is the warranty and support services offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty can give you peace of mind against defects during setup and initial use. Look for manufacturers that provide extensive support services, including technical assistance, which can be vital for troubleshooting installation or configuration issues. Prioritize a warranty that covers both hardware defects and workmanship, ensuring protection against various potential problems. A professional after-sales support team can enhance your experience by guiding you in optimizing Proxmox configurations and addressing performance concerns. Additionally, consider the availability of lifetime technical support, as ongoing assistance can be invaluable for maintaining and upgrading your Proxmox environment over time.