As you explore the best mini PCs for ZFS storage in 2026, you’ll find a variety of options that promise efficiency and performance. Each model has unique features tailored to meet your storage needs, but not all will suit your specific requirements. From powerful processors to expandable storage, the choices can be overwhelming. Let’s break down the top contenders that could enhance your ZFS experience.

KAMRUI AM21 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS

If you’re seeking a powerful and compact solution for ZFS storage, the KAMRUI AM21 Mini PC with the AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS is an excellent choice. This mini PC boasts an impressive 8 cores and 16 threads, reaching speeds up to 4.9GHz, making it 18% faster than the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H. With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD, you can easily expand storage to suit your needs. Dual Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6 guarantee stable connectivity, while AMD Radeon 780M graphics support smooth 1080p gaming. Plus, KAMRUI’s customer support is always ready to assist.

Best For: Those seeking a high-performance mini PC for gaming, content creation, and multitasking with robust storage capabilities.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Features an AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor with 8 cores and 16 threads, ensuring fast and efficient multitasking.
• Expandable Memory and Storage: Comes with 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD, expandable up to 96GB RAM and 4TB storage for future needs.
• Versatile Connectivity: Includes dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 6, and multiple USB ports for a clutter-free and versatile workstation setup.

Cons:

• Size Limitations: As a mini PC, it may not have the same upgrade flexibility as a full-sized desktop.
• Potential Overheating: High-performance components may generate more heat, requiring adequate cooling solutions.
• Price Point: Compared to entry-level PCs, it may be priced higher due to its advanced specifications and capabilities.

ACEMAGICIAN Kron Mini K1 Mini PC

The ACEMAGICIAN Kron Mini K1 Mini PC stands out as an exceptional choice for those seeking a powerful yet compact solution for ZFS storage. With its AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor, you’ll enjoy a significant boost in CPU and GPU performance—35% and 38% respectively. It comes equipped with 32GB of expandable DDR4 RAM and a 1TB M.2 SSD, plus an extra slot for future upgrades. The Radeon Graphics support stunning 4K displays, making it ideal for multimedia use. With WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and 24/7 support, it’s a reliable option for all your storage needs.

Best For: Those seeking a powerful, compact mini PC for high-performance tasks, multimedia use, and expandable storage solutions.

Pros:

• High Performance: Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7730U, offering significant CPU and GPU performance boosts.
• Expandable Storage: Comes with a 1TB SSD and an additional M.2 slot for future upgrades.
• 4K Display Support: Capable of supporting ultra-realistic 4K visual effects at 60Hz across multiple displays.

Cons:

• Price Point: May be more expensive compared to other mini PCs with lower specifications.
• Limited Internal Upgrade Options: While RAM and storage are expandable, other internal components may not be user-upgradable.
• Size Constraints: Being a mini PC, it may have limitations in terms of extensive gaming or heavy-duty tasks compared to full-sized desktops.

Getorli Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 5 3550H, 16GB DDR4, 1TB SSD

For those seeking a powerful yet compact solution for ZFS storage, the Getorli Mini PC stands out with its AMD Ryzen 5 3550H processor. This mini PC offers 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a speedy 1TB SSD, ensuring smooth multitasking and quick file access. You’ll enjoy 4K video streaming and light gaming thanks to its integrated Radeon graphics. With dual HDMI and USB-C ports, you can easily connect multiple displays. Its compact design fits seamlessly into any workspace, while the efficient cooling keeps it quiet. Plus, a 1-year warranty and responsive customer support add peace of mind.

Best For: The Getorli Mini PC is best for home office users, small businesses, and casual gamers looking for a compact yet powerful computing solution.

Pros:

• Compact design makes it easy to fit in any workspace without taking up much room.
• Fast performance with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and 1TB SSD ensures smooth multitasking and quick boot-ups.
• Versatile connectivity supports multiple displays and various peripherals, enhancing productivity.

Cons:

• Limited gaming capabilities due to integrated graphics, suitable only for light gaming.
• Non-expandable RAM might limit performance for more demanding applications in the future.
• Cooling system may not suffice for heavy workloads, potentially leading to overheating in prolonged usage.

KAMRUI Pinova P1 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 4300U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD

With its powerful AMD Ryzen 4300U processor and 16GB of RAM, the KAMRUI Pinova P1 Mini PC is an ideal choice for users looking to build a reliable ZFS storage solution. This compact mini PC measures just 5.06 x 5.06 x 2.01 inches, making it 60% smaller than some alternatives. It features a 512GB SSD, expandable to 2TB, ensuring quick data access and stable performance for years. Preloaded with Windows 11 Pro, it supports various applications, including light gaming and media playback. Plus, it offers 4K display capabilities and multiple connectivity options, enhancing your overall experience.

Best For: Users looking for a compact and powerful mini PC for tasks such as ZFS storage solutions, light gaming, and media playback.

Pros:

• High-performance AMD Ryzen 4300U processor, providing 50% more performance than previous models.
• Compact design, making it easy to fit into small spaces while still offering a robust set of features.
• Versatile connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, 4K display support, and dual-band WiFi.

Cons:

• Limited gaming capabilities, as it is primarily designed for light gaming and not high-performance gaming.
• The maximum RAM is capped at 16GB, which may not be sufficient for more demanding applications.
• The 512GB SSD may require upgrades for users with extensive storage needs, although it is expandable.

DreamQuest Mini PC with Windows 11 Pro (Intel N95, 12GB DDR5, 512GB SSD)

Designed for users seeking a high-performance mini PC, the DreamQuest Mini PC stands out with its powerful Intel N95 processor and 12GB of DDR5 RAM. You’ll enjoy up to 3.4GHz speeds, providing a 35% performance boost over previous models. The built-in 512GB M.2 SSD is upgradeable to 2TB, ensuring ample storage for your ZFS needs. With dual USB-C and HDMI ports, you can connect multiple 4K displays seamlessly. Preloaded with Windows 11 Pro, it supports various operating systems. Its compact design makes it portable, and you’ll appreciate the 1-year warranty for peace of mind.

Best For: Users looking for a compact, high-performance mini PC for multitasking, media consumption, and productivity.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: The Intel N95 processor offers up to 3.4GHz speeds and a significant performance boost compared to earlier models.
• Versatile Connectivity: Dual USB-C and HDMI ports allow for seamless multi-screen setups with 4K resolution support.
• Upgradeable Storage: The built-in 512GB SSD can be upgraded to 2TB, providing ample storage for various needs.

Cons:

• Limited Graphics Capability: While improved, the integrated GPU may not be sufficient for high-end gaming or intensive graphic design tasks.
• Compact Design May Limit Upgrade Options: The small form factor could restrict some hardware upgrades beyond storage.
• Warranty Period: A 1-year warranty may be shorter than what some users expect for long-term investment in a PC.

ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 4300U, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD

The ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC stands out as an excellent choice for users looking to harness the power of ZFS storage, thanks to its AMD Ryzen 4300U processor. With four cores and a boost up to 3.7GHz, it’s ideal for multitasking and media editing. You’ll appreciate the 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD, ensuring quick boot times and responsive applications. Plus, its connectivity options, including six USB 3.2 ports and support for a 4K triple-display setup, enhance your productivity. The upgraded cooling system keeps things stable under load, making it a reliable option for your storage needs.

Best For: Those seeking a powerful, compact PC for multitasking, media editing, and efficient storage solutions.

Pros:

• Strong performance with AMD Ryzen 4300U processor, suitable for various tasks including casual gaming and office applications.
• Generous memory and storage with 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD, ensuring fast boot times and quick data access.
• Versatile connectivity options including multiple USB 3.2 ports and support for a 4K triple-display setup, enhancing productivity.

Cons:

• Limited integrated graphics compared to dedicated graphics cards, which may impact performance in high-end gaming scenarios.
• Cooling system may not be sufficient for extremely resource-heavy tasks, potentially leading to thermal throttling.
• Not as portable as traditional laptops, despite being a mini PC, which may limit usage in some mobile scenarios.

KAMRUI Essenx E2 Mini PC (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD)

For those seeking a compact yet powerful solution for ZFS storage, the KAMRUI Essenx E2 Mini PC stands out with its impressive 12th Alder Lake N95 processor, delivering significant performance boosts of 35% in CPU and 78% in GPU compared to previous models. With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, expandable to 32GB, and a 1TB M.2 SSD, you’ll handle memory-intensive tasks effortlessly. Plus, it supports UHD resolution for crisp visuals on dual screens. Its compact size fits easily in tight spaces, and with stable WiFi and various connectivity options, it’s perfect for your storage needs. Enjoy the 2-year warranty and 24-hour support!

Best For: Users looking for a compact and powerful mini PC for ZFS storage and multitasking without compromising on performance or space.

Pros:

• High Performance: Features the latest 12th Alder Lake N95 processor, offering significant CPU and GPU improvements.
• Expandable Memory: Comes with 16GB of RAM, expandable up to 32GB, ideal for memory-intensive tasks.
• Versatile Connectivity: Offers multiple ports and stable wireless connections, making it suitable for various setups.

Cons:

• Limited GPU for Gaming: While suitable for photo editing and browsing, the integrated UHD graphics may not meet high-end gaming requirements.
• Compact Size May Limit Upgrades: The small form factor may restrict future hardware upgrades beyond RAM and SSD.
• Potential Heat Management Issues: Compact design may lead to thermal throttling under heavy loads, depending on usage.

KAMRUI Hyper H2 Mini Gaming PC

With its Intel Core i9-11900H processor, the KAMRUI Hyper H2 Mini Gaming PC stands out as a powerhouse for gamers and content creators alike. Its 8-core, 16-thread design offers impressive multi-core performance, perfect for large 3A games, multitasking, and complex projects. You’ll appreciate the 32GB DDR RAM and 1TB M.2 SSD, expandable up to 4TB, ensuring ample storage and responsiveness. Connectivity options are plentiful, featuring 6 USB 3.2 ports and dual-band WiFi. Plus, it supports triple 4K displays at 60Hz. Compact and VESA mount compatible, it fits seamlessly into any workspace, backed by lifelong support.

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

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel Core i9-11900H processor and 32GB DDR RAM for high-speed multitasking and gaming.
• Ample Storage: 1TB M.2 SSD, expandable up to 4TB, caters to large software and game storage needs.
• Versatile Connectivity: Multiple USB ports and dual-band WiFi ensure seamless connections for various peripherals.

Cons:

• Price Point: May be on the higher end compared to other mini PCs, making it less accessible for budget-conscious users.
• Limited Upgrade Options: While expandable storage is available, other components may have limited upgrade capabilities due to its compact design.
• Heat Management: High-performance components may generate more heat, potentially requiring additional cooling solutions in confined spaces.

KAMRUI Essenx E1 Mini PC (16GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB SSD)

Ideal for users seeking a compact and efficient solution for light-duty tasks, the KAMRUI Essenx E1 Mini PC combines a powerful Twin Lake-N N150 processor with 16GB of DDR4 RAM. This mini PC’s 256GB M.2 SSD guarantees quick system startups and ample storage, expandable up to 2TB. You’ll appreciate its dual 4K display support via HDMI 2.0 and DP1.4, perfect for content creation. With Gigabit Ethernet and multiple USB ports, connecting devices is seamless. Its small footprint—only 3.96 inches square—makes it easy to fit into any workspace, while the durable design offers reliable performance for your daily tasks.

Best For: Users seeking a compact and efficient mini PC for light-duty tasks such as office work and content creation.

Pros:

• Compact design makes it easy to fit into any workspace.
• Dual 4K display support enhances productivity for content creators.
• Expandable storage options allow for increased data capacity.

Cons:

• Limited performance for heavy-duty tasks or gaming.
• Potential need for additional RAM if multitasking extensively.
• Small form factor may limit upgrade options compared to larger desktops.

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

The GMKtec G3S Mini PC stands out as an excellent choice for users who need a compact yet powerful device for ZFS storage applications. With a 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N95 processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, it offers smooth multitasking and performance improvements of up to 36% over previous models. The 512GB M.2 SSD guarantees quick file transfers, while dual HDMI 2.0 ports support dual 4K displays for enhanced visuals. Plus, its versatile connectivity options, including WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0, make it easy to connect to various peripherals. Backed by a solid warranty and customer support, it’s a reliable option.

Best For: Users seeking a compact and powerful Mini PC for routine tasks, office work, home entertainment, and ZFS storage applications.

Pros:

• High Performance: Features a 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake N95 processor with significant performance improvements over older models.
• Dual 4K Support: Equipped with dual HDMI 2.0 ports for connecting two 4K displays, enhancing visual experience.
• Versatile Connectivity: Offers multiple connectivity options, including WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and various USB ports for easy integration with peripherals.

Cons:

• Limited Upgrade Options: Being a mini PC, it may have limited upgradeability compared to traditional desktop PCs.
• Integrated Graphics: While it supports 4K playback, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics may not meet the needs of high-end gaming or graphic-intensive applications.
• Warranty Duration: The 1-year limited warranty may be shorter than some users expect for a device in this price range.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mini PC for ZFS Storage

When choosing a mini PC for ZFS storage, you need to take into account several key factors. Think about the processor performance, memory capacity, and whether the storage options can expand to meet your needs. Don’t forget to evaluate connectivity options and the cooling system to guarantee efficient operation.

Processor Performance Requirements

Choosing the right processor for your mini PC dedicated to ZFS storage is vital, as it directly impacts the system’s performance and efficiency. Aim for a processor with at least 4 cores and 8 threads to effectively manage concurrent data operations. High clock speeds—up to 4.5GHz or more—are important for quick data processing during heavy loads. Opt for modern CPU architectures like Zen 2 or Alder Lake, as they offer better performance and energy efficiency than older models. If you plan to use the mini PC for tasks beyond storage, consider integrated graphics capabilities for enhanced media handling. Finally, make sure the CPU supports virtualization features if you want to run additional services alongside ZFS for improved functionality.

Memory Capacity and Type

A minimum of 16GB of RAM is essential for a mini PC dedicated to ZFS storage, as this amount greatly enhances caching and overall performance. You’ll want to opt for DDR4 or DDR5 RAM, which offer faster and more efficient data transfer rates than older memory types. This speed is vital for storage applications. Make sure the mini PC supports expandable memory, allowing upgrades to 32GB or more, which can considerably boost ZFS functionality and manage larger datasets. Additionally, look for dual-channel memory configurations to improve bandwidth and performance. Finally, aim for a memory speed of at least 3200MHz for DDR4 or 5600MHz for DDR5 to maximize performance in your data-intensive tasks.

Storage Expandability Options

While evaluating mini PCs for ZFS storage, it’s vital to take into account their storage expandability options. Check the maximum storage capacity; some models support up to 4TB via additional M.2 slots or SATA connections. You should also look for RAM expandability since more memory enhances ZFS performance, with certain mini PCs allowing up to 96GB. Multiple storage interfaces are important, so verify the model offers several M.2 slots or SATA ports for varied drive configurations. Additionally, consider the speed of the storage interface; PCIe 4.0 SSDs outperform older SATA connections considerably, boosting efficiency. Finally, don’t overlook adequate cooling solutions, as expanded storage and high workloads can generate heat that needs effective thermal management.

Connectivity and Ports

When considering a mini PC for ZFS storage, connectivity and ports play an essential role in your setup’s overall efficiency. You’ll want multiple USB ports, ideally USB 3.2, for fast data transfer and smooth connections with external drives. Gigabit Ethernet ports are vital for high-speed network connectivity, ensuring efficient data access and transfers. If you plan on using multiple monitors, look for dual HDMI or DisplayPort outputs to enhance your management capabilities. Wi-Fi 6 support can greatly boost wireless connectivity, making remote access and cloud backups faster. Finally, consider models with expandable storage options, like additional M.2 slots, to accommodate your growing ZFS storage needs as your data demands increase.

Cooling and Noise Levels

Effective cooling is essential for maintaining the performance of mini PCs used for ZFS storage, as high temperatures can lead to hardware failures and potential data loss. Since mini PCs have a compact design, airflow is often limited, making efficient cooling solutions like heat sinks or passive cooling vital. Look for fans that prioritize quiet operation; they usually feature larger, slower-spinning blades to minimize noise while maintaining airflow. Placing your mini PC in a well-ventilated area can greatly enhance cooling efficiency, reducing the need for noisy active cooling systems. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning dust from vents and ensuring unobstructed airflow, can also improve cooling effectiveness, helping your mini PC last longer and perform better in storing your data.

Operating System Compatibility

Choosing the right operating system is essential for getting the most out of your mini PC for ZFS storage. You’ll want to select an OS that supports ZFS natively, like FreeBSD, Ubuntu, or CentOS. Pay attention to kernel version compatibility, as ZFS performs best on Linux kernels 5.0 and above. It’s also helpful to take into account the availability of ZFS management tools; some distributions offer better support for administration and monitoring. Ease of installation is another factor—some systems provide streamlined processes or pre-configured options. Finally, make sure your mini PC has enough RAM and processing power to handle ZFS’s demands, especially if you plan to use features like deduplication and compression effectively.

Form Factor and Size

As you consider a mini PC for ZFS storage, the form factor and size play an essential role in determining your setup’s efficiency and expandability. Compact designs may limit the number of drives you can install, while larger models often offer better storage options. If you’re in a tight space, ultra-compact mini PCs under 5 inches wide can be perfect but may compromise connectivity. Verify the height and width allow for adequate cooling, as high-performance drives can generate heat. Portability is a plus with smaller units, but check for necessary mounting options. VESA compatibility can help you place the mini PC behind monitors or in tight spaces, guaranteeing proper airflow for peak performance.