5 reasons why every business needs a mini PC

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The Mini PC represents the ultimate evolution of the computer, starting from mainframes in the 1950s to desktop computers that help bring unlimited productivity to every desk and beyond.

best mini computers go much further; It combines desktop-class performance and feature set with exceptional portability thanks to its small volumes.

Don’t be fooled by their size; these are really small powerhouses; It is useful for a wide range of use cases such as digital signage and public service, hotel/restaurant, education and even medical environments. That’s why every business, large and small, should consider a mini PC for its computing needs.

1. Easier to spread

Gone are the days when you had to book a room or a truck to transport dozens of desktops. Mini PC is much lighter and takes up less space than its PC cousins.

For example, MSI’s next computing unit (that’s what NUC stands for) tips the scales at just 625g (that’s 1.37lb), with a volume of just 0.826 liters. You can fit almost 20 of them (yes 20) into a small desktop computer. some like this Chuwi Larkbox They are even slightly smaller than a Rubik’s cube.

Thanks to their small size, minicomputers can go almost anywhere: in the glove compartment of a car, in an office desk drawer, behind a monitor or a TV, the possibilities are truly endless. This means faster rollout, taking up less desk space (if that); This means significant time savings, shorter downtime and lower installation costs. Ideal for hospitals or medical centers where downtime is unacceptable.

2. Lower power consumption

Unlike desktop PCs, mini PCs are powered by laptop components; These consume less energy than their desktop-class counterparts while also being more performant. Lower power consumption means less heat dissipation, less load on internal cooling (e.g. cooling fan) and more compact power supply units, as well as real cost savings.

Therefore, some models can even be powered via Thunderbolt 4 ports that support up to 100W Power Delivery, eliminating the need for an external traditional PSU; This can be particularly useful for digital signage installations at exhibitions or events.

3. Better connectivity

Due to their size, mini PCs are generally end user accessible; Being on a flat, clutter-free surface aids wireless connectivity because there are fewer obstacles blocking incoming radio waves. Since desktop computers are normally placed under the desk, often next to the wall and on the floor, out of sight, Wi-Fi connections become more problematic.

Many mini PCs also have exceptional connectivity options, especially when compared to similarly priced standard desktops. Some mini PCs have not one but two Ethernet ports, capable of reaching 2.5 Gbps, accelerating data transfer to new heights. It’s a godsend for educational purposes when dealing with heavy file transfers.

4. Impressive versatility

You would be forgiven for assuming that a mini PC has limited functionality, but you would be wrong. Like Mary Poppins’ magic bag or the Tardis from Doctor Who, there is much, much more than meets the eye.

get NUC 1 million For example; Despite its small footprint (slightly larger than a CD case), it can hold two memory sticks, three SSDs, and has 15, yes 15, connectors and slots; three of which can be used to power four 4K monitors, TVs, or video walls; Ideal for hotels and restaurants.

5. Maintenance friendly

Hear us out on this. Downtime is a productivity killer for businesses of all sizes. Every hour an employee is unable to use their computer means real, tangible loss of income and ultimately a breakdown. The size of a minicomputer means that several of them can be kept in place in case of emergency and quickly replaced in the event of a hardware failure.

And because they use laptop parts designed to actually withstand shock, mini PCs are less likely to fail in our opinion, and if they do, their small size means you can easily perform maintenance anywhere, even on-site. As a bonus, some of them look pretty nice. Apple’s latest situation MacMini M4Arguably the most powerful mini PC ever released, it’s pretty cool.