A mini PC is a very compact desktop computer that fits a processor, memory, storage, and ports into a case small enough to sit on a desk, mount behind a monitor, or tuck under a desk. Like a tower, it connects to a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Mini PCs handle everyday computing and business tasks while taking up very little space.
Mini PC Essentials at a Glance
The smallest type of desktop computer, often small enough to hold in one hand
Connects to a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse
Many models can mount behind a compatible monitor or under a desk
Usually runs on an external power adapter
Offers fewer upgrade options than a tower or small form factor desktop
How Is a Mini PC Built?
A mini PC shrinks the desktop by choosing components designed for tight spaces:
Low-power processors: Many mini PCs use processors tuned for lower heat output, which lets a small cooler keep them running steadily.
Compact board: The motherboard holds the processor, memory slots, and one or more M.2 slots for solid-state drives (SSDs).
External power adapter: Most mini PCs use a separate power brick instead of an internal power supply, which saves space inside the case.
Small-scale cooling: A compact fan and heatsink move air through vents on the sides, front, or back.
Dense port layout: USB, display outputs, and Ethernet sit on the front and back panels, so check the count before you buy.
Most mini PCs rely on integrated graphics. Workstation-class models, such as the HP Z2 Mini in our HP Z workstation family, are designed for more demanding professional software in the same compact footprint.
How to Mount a Mini PC
Mounting is one of the biggest advantages of a mini PC. Instead of sitting on the desk, it can disappear behind the screen or under the work surface.
Mounting a mini PC behind a monitor
Many monitors have a mounting pattern on the back that follows the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) standard, usually 75 x 75 mm or 100 x 100 mm. With a compatible bracket, a mini PC attaches to that pattern so the monitor and computer look like one unit. If the monitor stand also uses the VESA mount, choose a bracket that leaves room for both.
Mounting a mini PC under a desk or on a wall
Under-desk and wall brackets keep the mini PC off the work surface and away from spills. This setup is common in offices, classrooms, and reception areas where desk space is limited.
Using a mini PC stand
A vertical stand holds the mini PC upright on the desk, taking up even less surface area while keeping the vents clear.
Whichever option you choose, leave space around the vents, keep cables within reach of the ports, and check that the bracket is compatible with your specific mini PC model. HP offers mounting brackets and stands for many of its mini PCs as accessories. Learn more about ergonomic monitor setups.
What Is a Mini PC Used For?
Mini PCs fit anywhere a full desktop would be too big, too loud, or too visible. Common uses include:
Home offices: Documents, email, browsing, and video calls with a monitor and webcam of your choice
Business desks: Office productivity on desks where space is tight, with business models adding security and remote management features
Classrooms and labs: Compact computers that mount out of sight and are easy to manage in groups
Reception and front counters: Check-in, scheduling, and point-of-sale tasks without a bulky case on the counter
Digital signage and kiosks: A mini PC mounted behind a large display can drive menus, wayfinding screens, or information boards
Conference rooms: A dedicated computer behind the room display for presentations and video meetings
Home entertainment: Streaming and media playback when connected to a TV
Professional compact workstations: Workstation-class mini PCs for design and engineering software in small studios or shared desks
Our business mini PCs, including the HP ProDesk 4 Mini G1i and HP EliteDesk 8 Mini G1i, are built for office deployments. Learn more about business desktops or find the right fit in desktops by use.
Mini PC vs. Small Form Factor Desktop vs. Tower
Mini PCs, small form factor (SFF) desktops, and tower desktops all use a separate monitor, but they differ in size and room to grow. An SFF desktop sits between the other two: smaller than a tower, but larger and more expandable than a mini PC.
Feature | Mini PC | Small form factor desktop | Tower desktop |
Size | Smallest; often fits in one hand | Compact; can sit flat under a monitor or stand upright | Largest; sits on or under a desk |
Mounting | Many models mount behind a monitor or under a desk | Usually placed on or beside the desk | Placed on or under the desk |
Power supply | Usually an external adapter | Usually internal | Internal |
Graphics | Mostly integrated | Integrated, with room for compact graphics cards on many models | Integrated or full-size dedicated graphics cards |
Upgrade room | Limited; often memory and storage only | Moderate; extra drive bays and low-profile expansion slots | Most room for memory, storage, graphics, and cooling |
Often chosen for | Offices, classrooms, signage, small spaces | Business desks that need some expansion | Gaming, creative work, future upgrades |
For a deeper look, read our comparison of micro PCs and small form factor PCs, the space-saving advantages of small form factor PCs, or more desktop comparisons.
Mini PC limitations to keep in mind
Fewer upgrades: Memory and storage are often the only parts you can change, and some models have just one M.2 slot.
Limited graphics: Most mini PCs aren't suited to demanding games or heavy 3D work.
Sustained performance: The small cooler can limit performance during long, heavy workloads.
Separate peripherals: You'll need a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and possibly speakers and a webcam.
What to Check Before Buying a Mini PC
Because a mini PC has less room to grow, the configuration you pick at purchase matters.
Processor and memory: Choose enough performance and random access memory (RAM) for your heaviest regular task. Check whether the memory slots are user-accessible.
Storage: Note how many M.2 slots the model has. If there's only one, pick a solid-state drive (SSD) large enough from the start or plan for external storage.
Display outputs: Count the HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C ports with display support if you plan to run more than one monitor.
USB and networking: Make sure there are enough USB ports for your accessories. Confirm Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet support.
Mounting compatibility: If you plan to mount the mini PC, check the bracket options for that model and your monitor's VESA pattern.
Business features: For office deployments, look for remote management, security features, and warranty options.
Our desktop connectivity guide covers ports and wireless options, and our desktop specs guide explains each line of a spec sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mini PCs
Is a mini PC as powerful as a regular desktop?
For everyday and office tasks, a mini PC can feel as responsive as a larger desktop computer. For long, demanding workloads like gaming, video rendering, or 3D design, a tower desktop usually performs better because it has room for more cooling and dedicated graphics.
Can a mini PC run two monitors?
Many mini PCs support two or more monitors through HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C ports with display support. The number of supported displays varies by model, so check the port specifications. Learn more about multi-monitor setups.
Can you upgrade the memory and storage in a mini PC?
Many mini PCs allow memory and storage upgrades, but the number of slots is small and access varies by model. Check the product's service documentation on HP Support before opening the case. Learn more about desktop upgrades.
Does a mini PC come with a monitor?
A mini PC does not include a monitor. Some configurations include a keyboard and mouse, so check what comes in the box before you buy.
Can a mini PC be used for gaming?
Most mini PCs can handle casual and less demanding games with integrated graphics. For demanding titles at high settings, a gaming tower with a dedicated graphics card is the better choice. Learn more about gaming desktops.
Related Desktop Topics
Desktop computers: the main types of desktops and how they work
All-in-one computers: built-in displays and space-saving setups
Desktop memory and storage: RAM, SSDs, and HDDs in desktops
Budget desktops: getting the most value for your money
