Joybuy Insights

Mini PC Guide: Choosing the Right Mini Computer for Your Needs

Published July 19, 2026 by the Joybuy Editorial Team

Say goodbye to bulky, noisy, and power-hungry desktop towers! Whether you want to optimise a cramped desk, build a discreet media centre under your TV, or simply travel light, the mini PC has emerged as the clear solution. But with an overwhelming number of options, how do you make the right choice?

This guide is here to decode the spec sheets and help you choose the mini-computer that truly meets your needs, cutting through the marketing jargon.

The 3 Essential Criteria for Choosing Your Mini PC

Before you dive in, let's review the three components that determine the power and versatility of your future machine.

1. The Processor (CPU): The Brains of the Operation

For an office mini PC dedicated to web browsing, the Office suite, and video streaming, a processor like an AMD Ryzen 3 or an Intel Core i3 is an excellent entry point.

For more demanding tasks (occasional video editing, photo retouching, intensive multitasking), you should aim for an AMD Ryzen mini PC with a Ryzen 5 or 7. Finally, for power users looking for a gaming mini PC or a compact workstation, the Ryzen 7 or 9 processors from the H or HS series are a must-have.

2. RAM and Storage (SSD): The Duo That Sets the Pace

RAM determines how smoothly your machine runs when juggling multiple applications.

  • 8 GB: The bare minimum today for a smooth office experience.
  • 16 GB: The sweet spot for optimal multitasking comfort and most use cases, including casual gaming.
  • 24 GB and up: For intensive uses like content creation (3D, heavy video), virtualisation, or no-compromise gaming.

As for storage, modern mini PCs almost always include an SSD (Solid State Drive), guaranteeing near-instant boot times and application launches. There are two main types: SATA SSDs, which are reliable and perfect for office work, and NVMe SSDs, which offer much higher speeds and are essential for handling large files or reducing game loading times.

3. Ports and Connectivity: Don't Overlook the Details

A mini PC has to be practical. Be sure to check the number and type of available ports:

  • USB Ports: Make sure you have enough for all your peripherals (keyboard, mouse, external hard drive, etc.). The presence of USB 3.2 or USB-C ports is a real bonus for fast file transfers.
  • Video Outputs: Most models offer at least one HDMI and one DisplayPort, allowing you to connect multiple monitors. For media, check for 4K or even 8K compatibility.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 or 6E ensures a more stable and faster connection than the older Wi-Fi 5. Bluetooth 5.2 (or higher) is also an asset for connecting your accessories (headphones, controller) with minimal latency.

SOYO Mini PC Recommendations

To help you see things more clearly, we've reviewed three models from the SOYO range, each tailored for a specific use case.

SOYO S5Air: The Balance of Performance and Versatility

SOYO S5Air Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS

Its Strong Suit

The SOYO S5Air is the ultimate Swiss Army knife. Its AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor (6 cores, 12 threads) handles intensive multitasking and light creative applications without breaking a sweat. With 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a 512 GB NVMe SSD, responsiveness is guaranteed. Add modern connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E, 8K support), and you get a machine that's ready for the future.

Key Features

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS (up to 4.55 GHz)
  • RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5 6400 Mhz
  • Storage: 512 GB NVMe SSD
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
  • Display: Triple screen (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C) up to 8K

Who is it for? For remote workers, students, and anyone looking for a versatile and powerful machine that is equally at home with advanced office work, multimedia, or occasional creative tasks.

SOYO M5: The Essentials for Office and Media

SOYO M5 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 3 4300U

Its Strong Suit

The SOYO M5 gets straight to the point: everyday efficiency at an accessible price point. Its AMD Ryzen 3 4300U processor, backed by 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD, ensures perfect fluidity for web browsing, office work, and 4K video playback. It's the quintessential office mini PC, with no frills.

Key Features

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 4300U (up to 3.7 GHz)
  • RAM: 16 GB LPDDR4 4266 Mhz
  • Storage: 512 GB SATA SSD
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
  • Display: Triple screen 4K @ 60Hz (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C)

Who is it for? For users with standard needs, students on a budget, or as a secondary PC or a discreet media centre connected to a TV.

SOYO S4PLUS: The Power of a Compact Workstation

SOYO S4PLUS Mini PC Ryzen 7

Its Strong Suit

The S4PLUS is built for those who refuse to compromise on power. It packs a formidable AMD Ryzen 7 H255 processor (8 cores, 16 threads) and, most notably, an AMD Radeon 780M graphics chip capable of running recent games in excellent conditions. With 24 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and an NVMe SSD, it's a true pocket-sized workstation and a gaming mini PC that holds its own.

Key Features

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 H255 (up to 4.9 GHz)
  • Graphics Chip: AMD Radeon 780M
  • RAM: 24 GB LPDDR5 6400 Mhz
  • Storage: 512 GB PCIe 3.0 SSD
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, 2.5G Ethernet port

Who is it for? For content creators (video editing, 3D), developers, and gamers who want maximum power in a minimal footprint.

Still Not Convinced?

If these models don't check all your boxes or if you're simply curious, feel free to explore our full selection of computers.

Discover Our Range of Personal and Desktop Computers

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a mini PC really be used for gaming?

Yes, provided you choose the right one! The most powerful models, like the SOYO S4PLUS, feature a processor/graphics chip combo (for example, a Ryzen 7 and a Radeon 780M) capable of running many AAA games. You may need to adjust the graphics settings sometimes, but the experience remains thoroughly convincing.

Can you upgrade the components in a mini PC?

Upgradability is more limited than on a traditional tower. Generally, you can easily change or increase the storage (SSD) and sometimes the RAM, as long as it isn't soldered to the motherboard. However, the processor and graphics chip are fixed and cannot be replaced.

Does a mini PC consume a lot of power?

In fact, that's one of their biggest advantages! A compact desktop PC is incredibly light on your electricity bill. Expect between 15 and 40 watts for office tasks, compared to 100 to 300 watts (and much more) for a conventional tower. Less consumption also means less heat, and therefore, much quieter operation.