Mini PC Intel Pentium N3700
3.7Editor score
Low power 6W TDP design
Dual HDMI 4K display support
Compact ultra-portable silver chassis
In this guide
Mini PCs have become essential for modern homelabs due to their compact size and energy efficiency. These devices allow enthusiasts to run virtual machines, network services, and media servers without consuming excessive space or power in their home setups.
We evaluated ten top models based on processing power, networking capabilities, and storage expansion options. Our comparison focuses on devices that support dual LAN ports, upgradeable RAM, and reliable thermal performance for continuous 24/7 operation in server environments.
Each selection highlights specific strengths for different homelab needs, from budget-friendly routing to high-performance virtualization. Please note that pricing and availability fluctuate frequently, so verify current details before making your final purchasing decision for your infrastructure project.
Top 3 Picks for Best Mini Pcs for Homelab
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC
4.6Editor score
Dual 2.5G LAN ports
16GB DDR4 RAM included
Triple 4K display outputs
BOSGAME P6 Neo Mini Gaming PC
4.3Editor score
Ryzen 7 6800H processor
WiFi 6E and BT 5.3
24GB LPDDR5X onboard memory
Top 10 Best Mini Pcs for Homelab in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison highlights the key specifications and strengths of each mini PC model selected for homelab applications. Review these details to match hardware capabilities with your specific networking and virtualization requirements.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U
8GB DDR4 RAM
Dual 2.5G LAN
Triple 4K display
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
BOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC
AMD Ryzen 3 5400U
8GB DDR4 RAM
Dual 2.5G LAN
Triple 4K display
4.3Editor score
Best Premium
Getorli Mini PC
AMD Ryzen 5 7430U
16GB DDR4 RAM
Dual 2.5G LAN
WiFi 6 support
4.5Editor score
Mini PC Intel Pentium N3700
Intel Pentium N3700
8GB RAM included
Dual HDMI 4K
1000M RJ45 LAN
3.7Editor score
KAMRUI Mini PC
AMD Ryzen 5 3500U
8GB DDR4 RAM
Dual Gigabit LAN
Triple 4K display
4.6Editor score
BOSGAME E5 11 Pro
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U
8GB DDR4 RAM
Dual 2.5G LAN
Triple 4K display
4.4Editor score
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U
16GB DDR4 RAM
Dual 2.5G LAN
Triple 4K display
4.6Editor score
C3 Mini PC
Intel Core i3-5005U
8GB RAM included
Gigabit Ethernet
Dual display support
4.2Editor score
BOSGAME P6 Neo Mini Gaming PC
AMD Ryzen 7 6800H
24GB LPDDR5X RAM
Dual Gigabit LAN
Triple 4K display
4.3Editor score
Bmax Mini PC B1 Plus
Intel Celeron J3355
6GB LPDDR3 RAM
Dual HDMI 4K
Gigabit Ethernet
4.2Editor score
1. BOSGAME E5 Mini PC – Best Overall Homelab Option
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC
4 Core 8 Thread CPU
Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports
Expandable to 64GB RAM
Triple 4K display outputs
The BOSGAME E5 Mini PC offers a balanced combination of performance and connectivity ideal for homelabs. It features dual 2.5G LAN ports which are rare in budget units, enabling advanced routing and firewall configurations without extra hardware.
Pros
- Excellent dual 2.5G networking
- Upgradeable memory and storage
- Quiet and efficient operation
- Triple 4K display support
Cons
- 8GB RAM might limit VMs
- Wi-Fi 5 not latest standard
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Its AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor provides efficient multi-threaded performance suitable for running multiple virtual machines or containerized services. The system supports memory upgrades to 64GB and includes an extra NVMe slot for expanding storage capacity.
While it includes only 8GB RAM out of the box, the dual SODIMM slots allow easy future expansion. The triple 4K display support via HDMI, DP, and Type-C offers versatile connectivity for monitoring server dashboards or managing network interfaces.
This model is a strong choice for enthusiasts seeking professional networking features without excessive power consumption. Its quiet cooling system ensures stable operation in home environments, making it reliable for 24/7 homelab tasks.
Advanced Networking Capabilities
Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports support high-speed internal networking and dual-WAN configurations for robust firewall setups.
Expandable Architecture
Dual memory slots and an additional NVMe storage slot provide future-proofing for growing homelab demands.
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2. BOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC – Enhanced Performance Variant
BOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC
4 Core 8 Thread CPU
Dual 2.5G Ethernet
Expandable to 64GB RAM
Triple 4K display outputs
The BOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC upgrades the base model with a faster Ryzen 3 5400U processor. This unit maintains the essential dual 2.5G LAN ports that make it attractive for homelab networking and virtualization tasks.
Pros
- Higher CPU clock speeds
- Dual high-speed Ethernet ports
- Full-function USB-C with PD
- Triple display connectivity
Cons
- SATA SSD limits initial speed
- Price higher than base E5
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It comes with 8GB DDR4 memory and a 256GB SATA SSD, but offers easy upgrades to 64GB RAM and additional NVMe storage. The flexible design supports various Linux distributions, catering to developers and homelab enthusiasts.
The full-function USB-C port with Power Delivery simplifies workspace setups by allowing a single cable connection for data and power. This reduces cable clutter while maintaining high-speed data transfer and display output capabilities.
Choose this variant if you need slightly better CPU performance for multitasking or media transcoding. Its comprehensive port selection and expandability make it a versatile foundation for building a compact home server.
Upgraded Processing Power
The Ryzen 3 5400U processor delivers improved clock speeds for better performance in compute-heavy homelab applications.
Flexible Connectivity
USB-C with PD and triple 4K outputs provide versatile connection options for modern desk or server room setups.
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3. Getorli Mini PC – High RAM Configured Model
Getorli Mini PC
6 Core 12 Thread CPU
16GB DDR4 RAM included
Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports
WiFi 6 connectivity
The Getorli Mini PC features the Ryzen 5 7430U processor with six cores and twelve threads. This configuration provides strong performance for running multiple virtual machines or containerized services simultaneously without throttling.
Pros
- More cores for multitasking
- 16GB RAM out of box
- WiFi 6 support included
- Dual 2.5G LAN ports
Cons
- Price higher than 5300U models
- Aluminum shell may feel warm
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It includes 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD out of the box, removing the immediate need for upgrades. The dual 2.5G LAN ports support advanced networking scenarios like pfSense firewalls or isolated VLAN setups.
Built-in WiFi 6 ensures faster wireless connectivity for management access or updates without relying solely on wired connections. The aluminum chassis aids heat dissipation, though sustained loads may cause noticeable warmth on the surface.
This model suits users who need higher base memory and core counts for complex homelab deployments. Its comprehensive feature set balances performance and connectivity effectively for serious home server enthusiasts.
Enhanced Core Count
Six cores and twelve threads provide significant headroom for virtualization and multi-service homelab environments.
Modern Wireless Standards
WiFi 6 integration ensures efficient wireless performance for remote management and network monitoring tasks.
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4. Mini PC Intel Pentium N3700 – Budget Homelab Option
Mini PC Intel Pentium N3700
6W low TDP design
8GB RAM 128GB SSD
Dual HDMI 4K output
6 USB ports total
This Mini PC Intel Pentium N3700 is an affordable entry point for basic homelab experiments. Its extremely low 6W TDP makes it energy efficient for 24/7 operation, ideal for lightweight tasks like file storage or home automation.
Pros
- Very low power consumption
- Compact and portable size
- Dual HDMI 4K support
- Affordable entry price
Cons
- Only Gigabit Ethernet
- Lower CPU performance limits
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It supports dual HDMI 4K displays for monitoring dashboards or managing multiple services simultaneously. The six USB ports offer generous connectivity for external storage or legacy peripherals without needing hubs.
The unit weighs under 0.3kg and includes a VESA mount for hidden installation behind monitors. While limited to Gigabit Ethernet and older Wi-Fi standards, it remains functional for simple server roles.
Consider this model if budget constraints are primary or for low-load services like home media streaming. It provides essential mini PC functionality without excessive power draw or cost.
Energy Efficiency
The 6W low TDP design minimizes electricity costs for continuous operation in home server environments.
Display Flexibility
Dual HDMI 4K outputs allow multi-monitor setups for server management and monitoring tasks.
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5. KAMRUI Mini PC – Reliable Dual LAN Unit
KAMRUI Mini PC
AMD Ryzen 5 3500U
Vega 8 Graphics
Dual Gigabit LAN ports
Triple 4K display outputs
The KAMRUI Mini PC features AMD Ryzen 5 3500U with Vega 8 graphics, offering better visuals than basic budget units. Dual Gigabit LAN ports make it suitable for creating isolated networks or acting as a pfSense firewall.
Pros
- Dual LAN ports for routing
- Vega 8 graphics power
- Expandable RAM and storage
- Local support availability
Cons
- 28W TDP is higher than others
- No 2.5G Ethernet
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It supports memory upgrades to 32GB and storage to 4TB via dual M.2 slots. This flexibility allows the machine to grow alongside your homelab needs, replacing the need to buy new hardware later.
Triple 4K display outputs via HDMI, DP, and USB-C enable extensive dashboard monitoring. The local support and responsive service team ensure warranty claims are handled without international shipping delays.
This model is a dependable choice for users needing dual LAN without spending on premium brands. Its balance of features and support makes it a solid investment for home infrastructure projects.
Dual LAN Functionality
Dual Gigabit ports allow seamless setup of routers, firewalls, or network isolation without external hardware.
Local Support Advantage
Accessible local customer service ensures quick resolution for warranty issues or technical inquiries.
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6. BOSGAME E5 11 Pro – Pre-installed Windows Pro
BOSGAME E5 11 Pro
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U
8GB DDR4 RAM
Dual 2.5G LAN
Triple 4K display
The BOSGAME E5 11 Pro offers the same hardware as the base E5 but includes a clean Windows 11 Pro installation. This saves time for users who require specific Windows features or prefer immediate out-of-box readiness.
Pros
- Windows 11 Pro included
- Dual 2.5G networking
- Expandable to 64GB RAM
- Dual M.2 SSD slots
Cons
- Higher price than base E5
- Windows license adds cost
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It features dual 2.5G LAN ports and supports memory expansion up to 64GB via SODIMM slots. The extra M.2 slot allows adding storage without replacing the system drive, simplifying homelab maintenance.
Triple 4K display support via HDMI, DP, and Type-C enables comprehensive monitoring setups. The optimized cooling system keeps noise low even under continuous load, suitable for living room or office setups.
Choose this version if Windows Pro features like Remote Desktop are critical for your homelab workflow. It provides premium connectivity with a convenient operating system license included.
Pro OS Included
Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro enables advanced networking features and management tools without extra setup.
Storage Expansion
Dual M.2 slots allow adding storage without removing the OS drive, simplifying capacity upgrades.
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7. BOSGAME E5 Mini PC – Pre-upgraded RAM Variant
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U
16GB DDR4 RAM
Dual 2.5G LAN
512GB NVMe SSD
This BOSGAME E5 variant comes with 16GB RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD pre-installed, saving immediate upgrade costs. It retains the powerful dual 2.5G LAN ports essential for advanced networking in homelab environments.
Pros
- 16GB RAM ready to use
- Fast 512GB NVMe SSD
- Dual 2.5G Ethernet
- Triple 4K support
Cons
- Price higher than 8GB models
- No 2.5G LAN upgrades needed
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The Ryzen 3 5300U processor handles multiple virtual machines comfortably, aided by the faster memory capacity. Triple 4K display support allows extensive monitoring setups, while quiet cooling ensures stable continuous operation.
Expansion remains possible with dual SODIMM slots and an extra NVMe slot for future needs. This configuration is ideal for users seeking performance out of the box without technical modifications.
Consider this model for balanced homelab workloads requiring higher memory and storage than base units. It delivers professional features without needing manual component upgrades after purchase.
Ready to Use Performance
16GB RAM and 512GB NVMe SSD provide immediate speed for virtualization and storage without upgrades.
Network Speed
Dual 2.5G ports enable fast internal data transfers between homelab services and devices.
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8. C3 Mini PC – Older CPU with Storage Expansion
C3 Mini PC
Intel Core i3-5005U
512GB M.2 SSD
Up to 4TB total storage
Dual HDMI display
The C3 Mini PC uses an older Intel Core i3-5005U processor but offers substantial storage flexibility. It supports up to 4TB total capacity via M.2 and 2.5-inch SATA slots, ideal for media servers or archives.
Pros
- 512GB SSD included
- Dual storage expansion slots
- 7×24 hour operation ready
- Dual HDMI display support
Cons
- Older Intel CPU generation
- No support for Windows 11
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Designed for 24/7 industrial operation, it features optimized cooling for stable performance. While it lacks Windows 11 support, it runs efficiently on Linux or Windows 10, fitting many homelab OS choices.
Dual HDMI ports enable multi-monitor setups for monitoring system health or managing services. The compact design includes Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 for convenient peripheral connectivity.
This unit suits users prioritizing storage capacity over raw processing speed. Its durability and thermal design make it reliable for long-term continuous use in home environments.
Storage Capacity
Combined M.2 and 2.5-inch slots allow up to 4TB total storage for large media libraries.
Industrial Reliability
Engineered for 7×24 operation, ensuring stable performance during continuous server tasks.
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9. BOSGAME P6 Neo Mini Gaming PC – Premium Homelab Powerhouse
BOSGAME P6 Neo Mini Gaming PC
AMD Ryzen 7 6800H
24GB LPDDR5X RAM
1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
WiFi 6E and BT 5.3
The BOSGAME P6 Neo Mini Gaming PC delivers high-performance computing with a Ryzen 7 6800H processor. Its 24GB LPDDR5X RAM and PCIe 4.0 SSD provide excellent speed for virtualization and media transcoding tasks.
Pros
- High-end Ryzen 7 CPU
- Fast LPDDR5X memory
- WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3
- PCIe 4.0 SSD storage
Cons
- RAM is soldered non-upgradeable
- Premium price point
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Triple 4K display support and modern wireless standards ensure versatile connectivity. The dual-fan cooling system manages heat effectively, maintaining performance during intensive workloads without excessive noise.
Storage expansion is possible via an extra M.2 slot despite the RAM being soldered. This model suits users needing maximum CPU power for complex homelab environments and gaming services.
Invest in this unit if raw performance and modern connectivity are top priorities. It represents the upper end of mini PC capabilities for advanced home infrastructure projects.
High-Performance Hardware
Ryzen 7 CPU and LPDDR5X memory offer fast processing for heavy homelab workloads.
Modern Connectivity
WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 provide latest wireless standards for efficient network access.
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10. Bmax Mini PC B1 Plus – Entry-Level Compact Unit
Bmax Mini PC B1 Plus
Intel Celeron J3355
128GB eMMC storage
Dual M.2 SSD expansion
4K Dual Display
The Bmax Mini PC B1 Plus is an entry-level unit featuring Intel Celeron J3355. It offers dual M.2 slots for SSD expansion, allowing users to upgrade storage capacity up to 2TB independently.
Pros
- Dual M.2 expansion slots
- Compact palm-sized design
- Windows 11 pre-installed
- Quiet fan operation
Cons
- 6GB RAM limits multitasking
- eMMC storage slower than SSD
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With 6GB RAM and Windows 11 pre-installed, it provides basic functionality for light server tasks. Its compact size and silent cooling system make it easy to integrate into small spaces.
Dual HDMI 4K outputs support basic monitoring needs. While storage starts as eMMC, the expansion options provide flexibility for growing homelab storage requirements.
This model suits users needing a tiny footprint for basic services or home automation. Its affordable price and compact size offer value for limited-use scenarios.
Dual Storage Expansion
Dual M.2 slots allow flexible SSD upgrades without needing to replace the main eMMC drive.
Compact Footprint
Palm-sized design ensures minimal desk or rack space usage in tight homelab setups.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Mini Pcs for Homelab
Selecting the right mini PC for homelab use requires evaluating specific hardware capabilities that affect performance and reliability.
Processor Performance
The CPU determines how many virtual machines or containers can run simultaneously. Look for at least a quad-core processor for modern virtualization tasks to avoid bottlenecks.
Prioritize CPUs with higher thread counts to ensure smooth operation when multiple services are running in parallel.
Memory Capacity
Memory is critical for running multiple applications at once. At least 8GB is recommended, but 16GB or more provides better headroom for complex setups.
Check if the RAM slots are upgradeable so you can increase capacity as your homelab needs grow.
Network Connectivity
Dual Ethernet ports are highly valuable for homelabs needing routing, firewall, or isolated network segments. Ensure the LAN speed matches your internet or internal network requirements.
Models with 2.5G ports offer future-proofing for faster internal transfers between servers and storage devices.
Storage Options
Fast storage like NVMe SSDs improves boot times and application loading. Verify available expansion slots for adding more storage without replacing the OS drive.
Dual M.2 or SATA slots allow flexible storage scaling for media servers or virtual machine images.
Power Efficiency
Mini PCs often run 24/7 in homelabs, so low power consumption reduces electricity costs and heat output. Look for TDP ratings under 20W for continuous operation.
Efficient cooling systems prevent thermal throttling and extend hardware lifespan over years of daily use.
Operating System Support
Ensure the mini PC supports Linux or your preferred OS for server roles. Some budget models may lack certification or drivers for newer systems.
Pre-installed licenses like Windows 11 Pro can save costs if your homelab requires specific Windows features.
How to Use and Care for Your Mini Pcs for Homelab
Connect your mini PC to a stable power source and ensure ventilation space is not blocked to prevent overheating. Use a reliable network cable for consistent homelab performance.
Install essential updates and configure network settings such as static IPs for server devices. Enable remote access tools to manage services without physical presence.
Regularly back up configuration files and monitor system temperature using software tools. Clean dust from vents periodically to maintain cooling efficiency and device longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mini PC is best for running pfSense or OPNsense?
Look for models with dual Gigabit or 2.5G Ethernet ports to separate WAN and LAN traffic efficiently. Devices like the BOSGAME E5 series with dual 2.5G ports are ideal for this firewall use case.
Can I upgrade the RAM on these mini PCs?
Most models reviewed have dual SODIMM slots allowing upgrades up to 64GB. Check each specific product details as some premium units may have soldered memory limiting future expansion.
How much storage can I add to these systems?
Expansion varies by model; many support up to 4TB via dual M.2 or additional SATA slots. Verify the number of available internal slots before purchasing if large capacity is needed.
Is 8GB RAM enough for homelab virtualization?
Eight gigabytes work for light tasks but 16GB or more is recommended for running multiple VMs. Upgrading RAM is easy on most models to match your project requirements.
Do these mini PCs support Linux distributions?
Most reviewed models support Ubuntu or other Linux distros for server use. Ensure driver compatibility especially for WiFi and Ethernet before choosing your preferred operating system.
Are 2.5G LAN ports worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you have a gigabit or faster internet connection or plan internal file transfers. They future-proof your network infrastructure for faster data speeds within your homelab.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Mini Pcs for Homelab
The BOSGAME E5 models stand out as excellent choices due to their dual 2.5G networking and upgradeability. The Getorli Mini PC offers stronger performance with more cores and RAM for complex tasks.
Prioritize dual LAN ports, memory expansion, and cooling efficiency when selecting a unit. These features ensure reliable long-term operation essential for 24/7 homelab services.
Always check the latest pricing and availability since deals fluctuate frequently. Verify the warranty terms and local support options to protect your investment in your home infrastructure.