The Best Mini-PCs for Small Businesses

When looking for an alternative to a conventional computer, many people resort to all-in-one PCs and laptops. However, minicomputers are small, compact, portable, and combine the benefits of desktop computers and laptops. Minicomputers gained popularity in the mid-1980s and are now common in many businesses. Here is a look at some applications of mini-PCs as well as the top five models for small businesses.

Application of Mini-PCs for Small Businesses

A mini-PC is a small form factor computer that provides the same level of computing in a smaller package. Minicomputers come with different processors from AMD Ryzen, AMD Radeon, to 10th gen intel core i7. Indeed, these PCs have become popular in many industries due to their high specs and convenience. Some applications of mini-PCs for small businesses are as follows:

• Many businesses use mini-PCs for digital signage. The computers connect to displays and provide features that control the signs. They are conveniently small enough to position around the business premises without drawing too much attention.
• Mini-PCs are also used for controlling cash registers. These machines also support apps for information terminals and self-checkout kiosks.
• Mini-PCs work as media hubs in public premises like train stations and shops. These computers come in handy for playing music and broadcasting information.
• Businesses often need multiple computers to perform various tasks, from data entry to accounting. These machines save a considerable amount of space compared to desktops.

1. Mac Mini with Apple’s M1 Processor

The Mac Mini is an Apple product that is energy efficient and comes with a high processing power for editing videos and compiling code. Additionally, the Mac mini has enough graphics performance to control a pair of 4K monitors.

If you want a computer for browsing and general use, choose the Mac mini-intel core i5 with 8 GB of memory and 256GB SSD. However, for video and photo editions or the development of applications, you need a macOS minicomputer with 16 GB of memory. However, note that you cannot upgrade the Mac mini’s storage and memory after buying it. Therefore, you should decide on the amount of GHz, Solid-State Drive, and memory you need up-front.

Additionally, the ports in an Apple Mac mini are fewer than in Intel-based models. Furthermore, you cannot access the ports from the front. Mac mini is also larger than many Windows mini-PCs. The Mac Mini will not disappoint you if you want fast processing power and quality performance for basic computing tasks. If you aren’t familiar with windows 10 pro and windows 11 pro, you can opt for this computer because it runs on the Mac operating system.

2. Lenovo’s ThinkCentre M70q Tiny

ThinkCentre M70q Tiny is small and fanless. It also has numerous ports and high performance. The model that comes with 8 GB of memory, 256 GB of storage, and a six-core Intel Celeron processor go for around $700. The CPU of this model is ideal for tasks such as simple photo and video editing, browsing, and working on Microsoft office documents and Google Docs.

However, suppose you intend to use the machine for professional Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. In that case, you should upgrade to 16 GB of memory, buy a bigger hard drive, or choose a device with higher configurations. This form factor lacks a thunderbolt port and SD card reader slots. However, it also supports a UHD graphics 630.

The main ports in the M70q Tiny include a USB 3.2 Type-A port and a USB-C port on the front side. There is also a line-in jack and headphone port. At the back, the M70q Tiny has four USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one DisplayPort connection, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and an HDMI port. Moreover, you can add ports for the built-to-order version of the M70q Tiny, including a display port, USB-C, HDMI, and VGA.

The M70q Tiny has many perks that are useful to IT managers. For example, the Lenovo Vantage software allows you to update software, run hardware scans, and check warranty status. Another strength of the M70q Tiny is security. The “Smart USB Protection” feature enables network administrators to control the USB devices connected to the machine’s USB ports.

3. Azulle Access3

The Azulle Access3 won the recommendation for best mini-PC in Tom’s Guide Awards 2021. This mini-PC has a compact design that works with any TV or monitor. It also has a faster processor, speedier USB 3.0 ports, and Gigabit Ethernet for fast connectivity compared to other stick PCs. Additionally, Azulle Access3 supports 4K video output and is ideal for streaming.

It doesn’t matter whether you want to use the machine in your home theater, power digital signage, or watch Netflix on your TV; Azulle Access3 is one of the best mini-PCs. One of the main advantages of this form factor is that it can fit in your hip pocket. Also, this computer goes for as little as $234, making it an affordable option for small businesses.

4. Intel NUC 9 Pro

The Intel NUC 9 Pro comes with huge processing power and is easy to upgrade. Therefore, you can add drives, buy a bigger HDD, and add more DDR4 memory to suit your specific needs. Also, the model can support an 8-inch Nvidia graphics card.

NUC 9 Pro’s compute element motherboard has a self-contained GPU design and built-in cooling. This computer is mainly sold as a barebones kit. However, you can still buy it as a pre-configured machine with basic components, peripherals, and software.

Actually, the NUC 9 Pro is bigger than former NUC models and has a boxy mini-tower setup. It also has a case that you can easily open by removing a few screws in the back. Like conventional desktop computers, most of the ports in the NUC 9 are at the back of the machine with PCIe and DIMM slots.

Many people love the NUC 9 Pro for its security features. The computer’s Intel vPro technology has innovative features that reduce the risk of security threats. Indeed, one of the notable security features is the Hardware Shield which provides advanced threat detection.

Another security component is the AES New Instructions or AES-NI. This feature allows fast and secure encryption and decryption of data. Additionally, if you are looking for a portable gaming PC, this model is a perfect choice. The NUC 9 Pro is a computer model that combines the best of two form factor PCs, the business desktop’s powerful computing and the notebook’s mobility.

5. Dell OptiPlex 7070 Ultra

The OptiPlex 7070 Ultra PC is a compact system that slides into an undetectable hidden monitor stand. This means the computer has zero desk footprint. In small offices, this minicomputer is invaluable. Furthermore, the OptiPlex has an NVMe SSD that supports fast connectivity. What’s more, it supports the current Wi-Fi 6 technology, which is an added advantage if you have the right router.

OptiPlex 7070 Ultra contains an Intel Core processor and can support up to 1TB of storage space. It also has mini display ports and supports Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, it provides high performance that puts it among the best mini-PCs. If you are on a tight budget, Dell’s 7070 Ultra is an affordable option for basic computer tasks.

The name “minicomputer” was first coined in the ’60s and ’70s. However, it has recently gained worldwide recognition for offering the benefits afforded by both desktop PCs and laptops. Apart from being small, these computer models are faster and better than conventional computers. Actually, Apple, Lenovo, Azulle, Intel, and Dell have some of the best minicomputer brands in the market. For small businesses looking to improve productivity and save on office space, investing in mini-PCs is a plus.