Mini PCs for gaming are compact machines that pack powerful hardware into a small form factor. These devices deliver desktop-level gaming performance while saving space, making them a perfect choice for gamers with limited room or those seeking a minimalist setup.
If you’re looking to upgrade your gaming rig but want to avoid the bulk of a traditional desktop, mini PCs provide an excellent alternative. Many of these machines support upgrades to the latest CPUs and GPUs, ensuring top-tier performance in a compact chassis. Here are the top 8 best mini PCs for gaming in 2025.
1. Asus ROG NUC 970
Best for: 1440p gaming and premium performance
The Asus ROG NUC 970 is a powerhouse designed for gamers who demand high performance. It features an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU with six multi-threaded performance cores clocked at up to 5.1GHz. Paired with NVIDIA’s RTX 4070 mobile GPU, it delivers stellar 1440p gaming performance, handling demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at 76 fps with Ray Tracing Ultra settings enabled.
Key Features:
- Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU
- NVIDIA RTX 4070 mobile GPU
- Compact yet powerful design
- Customizable performance modes via Asus Armoury Crate
While it’s priced at around $2,000, its compact size and excellent performance make it a premium option for gamers.
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2. Origin PC Chronos V3
Best for: Versatility and customization
The Origin PC Chronos V3 stands out for its sleek vertical design and powerful hardware, including the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU and Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti GPU. It’s ideal for playing the latest AAA games, especially with support for DLSS 3 frame generation.
Key Features:
- AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
- Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti
- Corsair 2000D case for a compact design
- Excellent customer support and customization options
At $2,806, it’s a premium option, but its build quality and performance make it worth considering.
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3. Zotac ZBox Magnus One
Best for: Compact design with discrete GPU
The Zotac ZBox Magnus One combines a small footprint with impressive gaming performance, thanks to its NVIDIA RTX 3070 GPU. While the CPU is slightly dated, it ensures smooth gameplay without bottlenecks.
Key Features:
- NVIDIA RTX 3070 GPU
- 16GB of RAM (upgradeable)
- Compact and sleek design
Though pricey, it’s perfect for gamers who prioritize space-saving solutions without compromising on gaming quality.
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4. Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon
Best for: Budget-friendly gaming
The Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon features an Intel Arc A770M GPU and an Intel i7-12700H CPU, offering competitive performance in a compact package. Its compact design rivals consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Key Features:
- Intel Arc A770M GPU with 16GB GDDR6 VRAM
- Intel i7-12700H CPU
- Compact and stylish chassis
- Upgradeable RAM and storage
At a lower price point, it’s an excellent option for gamers looking for a budget-friendly mini PC with strong 1080p and 1440p performance.
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5. Corsair One i500
Best for: Design and high-end performance
The Corsair One i500 combines premium design with powerful specs, including an Intel Core i9 14900K CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super GPU. Its compact chassis features subtle RGB lighting and water cooling for efficient thermal management.
Key Features:
- Intel Core i9 14900K CPU
- NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super or RTX 4090 GPU options
- Sleek, compact design with water cooling
While fan noise can be noticeable under load, its design and performance make it a standout choice for gamers prioritizing aesthetics.
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6. Intel NUC 12 Enthusiast
Best for: Compact power with innovative cooling
The Intel NUC 12 Enthusiast offers solid gaming performance with its Intel Arc A770M GPU and 12th-gen Intel CPUs. Its innovative cooling system ensures stable performance under heavy load.
Key Features:
- Intel Arc A770M GPU
- 12th-gen Intel CPU
- Dual-fan cooling with heat pipe technology
- Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro
With expandable storage and memory, it’s a reliable choice for gamers seeking a compact yet powerful mini PC.
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7. Minisforum Venus UM790 Pro
Best for: Budget-friendly performance
The Minisforum Venus UM790 Pro is a cost-effective choice for gamers, featuring AMD’s Ryzen 9 7940HS APU with integrated Radeon 780M graphics. It handles modern games at 1080p with medium settings and offers excellent value for its price.
Key Features:
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS APU
- Radeon 780M integrated graphics
- Upgradeable RAM and storage
- Compact and quiet operation
Its performance and price make it a top pick for budget-conscious gamers.
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8. Geekom AX8 Pro
Best for: Ultra-compact design
The Geekom AX8 Pro is one of the smallest mini PCs available, featuring AMD’s Ryzen 9 8945HS and Radeon 780M graphics. Despite its size, it delivers solid 1080p gaming performance.
Key Features:
- AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU
- Radeon 780M integrated graphics
- Ultra-compact design with efficient cooling
- Multiple performance modes
While it’s on the pricier side, its size and performance make it a great choice for gamers prioritizing portability.
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Conclusion
Mini PCs offer a compact, stylish, and powerful alternative to traditional desktop gaming setups. Whether you prioritize performance, design, or budget, there’s a mini PC to suit your needs. As technology continues to evolve, these small yet mighty machines are becoming increasingly capable of handling even the most demanding AAA games.
FAQs
Is a mini PC worth buying for gaming?
Absolutely! Mini PCs offer powerful gaming performance in a small form factor, making them perfect for those with limited space or a preference for minimalist setups.
Do mini PCs overheat easily?
Modern mini PCs are designed with efficient cooling systems to prevent overheating, even under heavy loads.
Can a mini PC replace a desktop?
Yes, high-end mini PCs can match desktop performance, though they may have limited upgrade options.
Are mini PCs good for gaming?
Yes, especially models with dedicated GPUs or powerful integrated graphics. They can handle modern games at 1080p or higher resolutions depending on the specs.
