Expert Mini PC Reviews, Benchmarks & Deals 2026
The 2026 generation has arrived. We test the latest Strix Halo and Ryzen AI chips to help you find the perfect balance of power and price.
Why Choose a Mini PC in 2026?
In 2026, the Mini PC market has undergone a massive transformation. With the launch of AMD Ryzen AI Max+ (Strix Halo) and Intel Core Ultra processors, these compact devices now offer the same performance as full-sized desktops.
Whether you need a massive 80 TOPS NPU for local AI workloads or a system capable of 1440p AAA gaming without a dedicated GPU, the current lineup delivers. At MiniPCDeals.net, we analyze benchmarks and real-world thermals to guide your purchase.
Top 5 Best Mini PCs of 2026
Our expert selection based on performance, AI capabilities, and value.
| Rank | Model | Key Specs | Best For | Price Est. | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Beelink SER9 Pro AI | Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 64GB LPDDR5X / 2TB SSD | AI & Pro Workstation | $1,199 | Check Price |
2 | GMKtec EVO-X2 | Ryzen AI Max+ 395 64GB LPDDR5X 8000MHz | AAA Gaming (Strix Halo) | $1,499 | Check Price |
3 | Beelink SER9 | Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 32GB DDR5 | High-End Versatility | $999 | Check Price |
4 | Bmax B9 Power | Intel Core i9-12900HK 24GB LPDDR5 / 1TB SSD | Intel Performance | $499 | Check Price |
5 | GMKtec M5 Plus | Ryzen 7 5825U (7430U) 32GB RAM / 1TB SSD | Budget / Home Office | $349 | Check Price |
Honorable Mention: The BOSGAME M4 Plus (Ryzen 9 7940HS) remains a top choice for users needing Oculink support for external GPUs in 2026.
Latest 2026 Reviews & Hardware Guides
Gaming vs. AI & Office: What Specs Do You Need?
In 2026, the gap between desktop and mini PC has vanished. Here is what to look for based on your needs:
- For AI & Productivity: You now need an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). Look for the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 (found in the Beelink SER9 Pro) which offers up to 80 TOPS for local AI tasks. 32GB of RAM is the minimum for professional multitasking.
- For Gaming & Video Editing: The AMD Strix Halo (GMKtec EVO-X2) is the king of 2026, offering performance similar to a mobile RTX 4060. If you plan to use an external GPU, ensure the model has an Oculink port like the BOSGAME M4 Plus.
Pro Tip: Always check for **USB4** or **WiFi 7** support to ensure your setup remains relevant through 2027.
How We Test & Review
AI Benchmarks
We test NPU performance with Procyon AI and local LLM execution (Llama 3) to verify real-world AI speed.
1440p Gaming
No more 1080p limits. We test the latest AAA titles at 1440p to see if the iGPU can truly replace a console.
Thermal Stress
We run 2-hour stress tests to ensure the compact fans don’t throttle performance under heavy loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Mini PCs powerful enough for gaming in 2026?
Yes. With the arrival of AMD’s Strix Halo architecture, high-end mini PCs like the GMKtec EVO-X2 can handle modern AAA games at 1440p with high settings, often outperforming the PS5.
Can I upgrade the RAM and Storage?
Most models (like Beelink and GMKtec) allow you to upgrade the NVMe SSD and RAM. However, be careful: some ultra-thin models now use soldered LPDDR5X (8000MHz+) for maximum speed, which cannot be changed.
What is the advantage of Oculink over USB4?
Oculink provides a nearly lossless PCIe connection (63Gbps), making it 50% faster than USB4 for external graphics cards. It’s the preferred choice for hardcore gamers using an eGPU.