Best Mini PC For Gaming: Top Picks And Buying Guide 2026

The Best Mini PC for gaming blends fast CPUs, strong GPUs, and smart upgrade paths.

You want desktop-grade frames without a bulky tower. Maybe your desk is small. Maybe you move between dorm, living room, and LAN nights. Mini PCs today can game hard, render fast, and stream clean. The trick is picking the right chip, cooling, and ports for your setup. I test and tune these boxes for smooth 1080p and 1440p performance, quick loads, and quiet fans. Here’s the short list that makes the Best Mini PC for gaming in 2026 feel simple and stress-free.

GMKtec K11 Ryzen 9 8945HS, 32GB/1TB, Oculink

The GMKtec K11 with Ryzen 9 8945HS hits a sweet spot. It packs 8 cores, fast DDR5, and a quick 1TB SSD. The two USB4 ports and Oculink make eGPU builds clean and fast. Dual 2.5GbE helps with low-latency online play or a split LAN/WAN setup.

Out of the box, the iGPU handles light games well. Add an Oculink GPU dock and it becomes a tiny beast. It drives high-refresh 1080p or 1440p with ease, if you pair a capable GPU. For me, this is a great base for a living room rig that still travels.

Pros:

• Ryzen 9 8945HS with strong single-core and multi-core speed
• Oculink port for high-bandwidth eGPU expansion
• Dual 2.5GbE for flexible networking and low ping
• USB4 x2 for docks, external SSDs, and displays
• Compact chassis with sensible cooling design

Cons:

• iGPU alone is for light gaming unless you add an eGPU
• Fans can ramp up under sustained loads
• 1TB fills fast with modern AAA titles

My Recommendation

If you want a small box that scales into a real gaming setup, this is it. It is ideal for students, renters, or anyone who wants console-like size with PC freedom. With an eGPU over Oculink, it can rival larger desktops. It earns a spot among the Best Mini PC for gaming due to its ports and upgrade path.

Best for	Why
eGPU builds	Oculink offers fast, stable GPU bandwidth
LAN and streaming	Dual 2.5GbE reduces latency and juggling
Compact high-end CPU	Ryzen 9 8945HS is fast and efficient

GMKtec M5 Plus Ryzen 7 7430U, 32GB/1TB, 2.5GbE

The GMKtec M5 Plus runs on Ryzen 7 7430U and arrives set with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD. It is aimed at value buyers who need a nimble box for light gaming and daily tasks. Dual 2.5GbE is a nice touch at this tier. You also get Wi‑Fi 6E for fast wireless play and downloads.

For esports, the iGPU can push solid 1080p with tuned settings. It drives triple 4K displays for work and media, which feels great in small spaces. It is quiet under normal loads and sits neat on a shelf. If you want simple and steady, this covers a lot of ground.

Pros:

• Good value for a mini PC with 32GB RAM
• Dual 2.5GbE for stable, fast networking
• Wi‑Fi 6E and BT 5.2 for modern wireless setups
• Triple 4K output for multi-monitor workflows
• Compact and power efficient

Cons:

• No Oculink; USB4 bandwidth is not listed
• iGPU is fine for light games, not AAA at high settings
• Thermal headroom is modest in long CPU bursts

My Recommendation

This is a smart choice if you want a budget starter. It shines for indie titles, esports, and a slick home office by day. It does not pretend to be a monster, and that is okay. For buyers seeking the Best Mini PC for gaming on a tight budget, it delivers balance and modern ports.

Best for	Why
Budget builds	Strong specs per dollar with 32GB RAM
Multi-display work	Drives triple 4K for clean workflows
Low-noise setups	Quiet under typical loads

GMKtec K11 Ryzen 9 8945HS, 64GB/1TB, USB4 & Oculink

This K11 variant doubles the RAM to 64GB. For creators who game, that’s a big deal. You get the same Ryzen 9 8945HS punch, Oculink for eGPU, and USB4 for fast storage. It is a dense, flexible box that handles heavy multitasking with ease.

VRAM in eGPUs and system RAM can clash under heavy projects. With 64GB, headroom feels roomy. You can run a stream, edit clips, and play at once. If you love to tweak, this K11 is a happy sandbox that still stays tiny.

Pros:

• 64GB DDR5 great for creators and streamers
• Oculink support for serious external GPUs
• USB4 ports for fast drives and docks
• Strong single-core for high FPS in CPU-bound games
• Compact case that fits any desk

Cons:

• 64GB raises cost over the 32GB model
• iGPU gaming still limited without eGPU
• Stock 1TB SSD may need an upgrade for large libraries

My Recommendation

Pick this if you want headroom for years. It is best for creators who game, streamers, and power users who hate limits. With Oculink and 64GB RAM, it feels smooth under pressure. It ranks high in the Best Mini PC for gaming list when you want both speed and space.

Best for	Why
Streaming + gaming	64GB avoids memory bottlenecks
eGPU 1440p/4K	Oculink ensures steady, high bandwidth
Editing work	Fast CPU for renders and exports

GMKtec NucBox K11 Ryzen 9 8945HS, 32GB/2TB, Oculink

This NucBox K11 adds a roomy 2TB SSD from the start. That saves you an upgrade on day one. It has the same Ryzen 9 8945HS engine, dual 2.5GbE, and Oculink. It is great for big Steam and Game Pass libraries.

Dual-fan cooling helps manage heat during long gaming sessions. It stays snappy in open-world games that load lots of data. For eGPU builds, storage speed matters, and this has it. It is a tidy mix of speed, space, and smart ports.

Pros:

• 2TB NVMe SSD preinstalled for large libraries
• Oculink for high-performance external GPUs
• Dual-fan setup improves thermal stability
• Dual 2.5GbE and Wi‑Fi 6 for flexible networking
• Solid DDR5 memory and CPU punch

Cons:

• Still needs an eGPU for heavy AAA at high settings
• Fan noise is noticeable at full tilt
• Price premium for 2TB storage

My Recommendation

Choose this if you hate managing storage. It is built for gamers who install everything and bounce between titles. Add an Oculink GPU and you are set for years. It is one of the Best Mini PC for gaming picks for those who value space and speed in a tiny frame.

Best for	Why
Large game libraries	2TB SSD avoids constant cleanup
Extended sessions	Dual-fan cooling helps sustain boost
eGPU performance	Oculink keeps GPU flow steady

wo-we P6 Ryzen 5 3550H, 16GB/512GB, Triple 4K

The wo‑we P6 is a true entry-level gaming mini PC. Ryzen 5 3550H is older but still useful for light games and emulation. You get 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD to start. Triple 4K support is nice for a budget box.

It is quiet and simple, good for a family room or a kid’s setup. Think indie hits, Minecraft, and classic console emulators. It is not meant for heavy AAA play, and that’s fine. As a starter, it is easy to live with and low power.

Pros:

• Very budget-friendly for a mini gaming PC
• Triple 4K output supports multi-use spaces
• Good for emulation and light esports
• Small footprint and low heat
• Easy to set up for casual users

Cons:

• Not for modern AAA titles at high settings
• Older CPU; no USB4 or Oculink
• 512GB SSD may feel tight fast

My Recommendation

Grab this if you want a cheap, cheerful start. It is best for kids, casual gamers, or a simple living room PC. It also suits retro fans who value emulation. For entry users who ask about the Best Mini PC for gaming without big spend, this is a smart pick.

Best for	Why
Emulation	Enough CPU and iGPU for classic systems
Casual play	Quiet, simple, and affordable
Family rooms	Triple 4K for mixed use and media

KAMRUI Hyper H2 i7-13620H, 32GB/1TB, USB4, 4K Triple

The KAMRUI Hyper H2 with Intel Core i7‑13620H brings strong CPU speed. Ten cores handle games, streams, and lots of browser tabs. It includes USB4, triple 4K, and a fast PCIe 4.0 SSD. It is a sharp pick for hybrid work and play.

Esports run well with tuned settings on the iGPU. USB4 opens the door for external graphics and hubs. The case is small yet practical with ports within reach. If you want a nimble all‑rounder, it is hard to beat at this price.

Pros:

• Fast hybrid CPU for high FPS in CPU-bound titles
• USB4 enables eGPU and high-speed storage
• PCIe 4.0 SSD for speedy loads
• Triple 4K outputs for work and entertainment
• Wi‑Fi 6 and BT 5.2 included

Cons:

• iGPU gaming is limited versus a discrete GPU
• Can run warm under sustained loads
• Fans may get audible in turbo

My Recommendation

This is for players who want a fast CPU first. It makes sense for esports, streaming, and a clean eGPU plan later. It is compact, modern, and simple to move around. For many users, it is the Best Mini PC for gaming when CPU speed and USB4 are top needs.

Best for	Why
CPU-heavy games	High single-core boosts frame rates
eGPU-ready	USB4 simplifies external GPU docks
Work + play	Triple 4K and fast storage

KAMRUI Pinova P2 Ryzen 4300U, 16GB/512GB, Triple 4K

The KAMRUI Pinova P2 gives you Ryzen 4300U with a smooth desktop feel. It is not a powerhouse, but it is quick for daily use. In games, think MOBAs, 2D titles, and light shooters. It keeps heat and noise low with simple cooling.

Triple 4K output supports broad use in a small office or studio. Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth handle controllers and headsets well. The 512GB SSD works for a modest library, and you can expand later. It is a friendly option for casual players and learners.

Pros:

• Affordable mini PC that feels snappy
• Triple 4K video for flexible setups
• Low noise and low power draw
• Good for indie and older games
• Easy to set up and manage

Cons:

• Not aimed at AAA gaming
• No USB4 or Oculink for eGPU
• Base storage is limited

My Recommendation

Consider this if you want a low-cost desktop that also games a bit. It is best for students, casual gamers, and family use. It makes learning PC gaming simple and safe. If you ask me what’s the Best Mini PC for gaming under a strict budget, this one earns a look.

Best for	Why
Casual gaming	Runs lighter titles well and stays quiet
Multi-monitor work	Triple 4K for efficient workflows
Beginners	Simple setup and modest price

BOSGAME P3 Ryzen 7 7840HS, 32GB/1TB, Wi‑Fi 6E

The BOSGAME P3 is a favorite for integrated graphics. Ryzen 7 7840HS offers one of the best iGPUs in this class. It ships with 32GB DDR5 and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. You also get dual Ethernet, Wi‑Fi 6E, and triple display support.

For esports and many modern games at 1080p low to medium, it holds up. It is a great couch PC with no external GPU needed. Cooling is fair, and noise stays decent if you manage profiles. As a balanced mini PC, it hits a sweet spot for many people.

Pros:

• Strong iGPU performance for a mini PC
• 32GB DDR5 and fast storage included
• Dual Ethernet for stable online play
• Wi‑Fi 6E and BT 5.2 for modern wireless
• Compact, capable, and easy to place

Cons:

• No Oculink for high-end eGPU users
• AAA games still need lower settings
• Thermals can spike in long CPU bursts

My Recommendation

If you want solid iGPU gaming with no extra gear, start here. It is best for esports fans, students, and living room setups that stay neat. It is a great all‑in‑one you can enjoy right away. In my list of the Best Mini PC for gaming without an eGPU, it stands out.

Best for	Why
iGPU-only play	7840HS iGPU is strong for 1080p
Dorms	Small, quiet, and runs many games
Work + entertainment	Triple display and fast SSD

TOPGRO T1‑MAX i9‑13900HX + RTX 4070, 64GB/2TB

The TOPGRO T1‑MAX is the “no compromises” mini gaming PC. It pairs a Core i9‑13900HX with a GeForce RTX 4070. You also get 64GB DDR5, a 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and bold RGB. It is small, but it plays like a full tower.

Expect smooth 1440p and even 4K in many modern games. It loves high-refresh monitors and heavy mods. The cooling is beefier, so it handles long sessions better. If you want a tiny unit with true AAA power, this is the one to watch.

Pros:

• Discrete RTX 4070 for real AAA performance
• i9‑13900HX crushes CPU-heavy titles and tasks
• 64GB RAM and 2TB SSD out of the box
• Plenty of display options including DP and HDMI
• Wi‑Fi 6E and BT 5.3 for modern wireless

Cons:

• Price is high compared to iGPU-based minis
• Cooling can still get loud under max loads
• RGB look is not for everyone

My Recommendation

Pick this if you want top-tier frames from a small box. It is best for 1440p or 4K gaming without an external GPU. The parts are strong and balanced for modern titles. For many people, this is the Best Mini PC for gaming when you want an all-in-one powerhouse.

Best for	Why
AAA performance	RTX 4070 handles modern games well
High-refresh play	Powerful CPU + GPU for smooth frames
Content creation	Fast CPU and 64GB RAM aid workflows

KAMRUI Hyper H2 i9‑11900H, 32GB/1TB, Triple 4K

The Hyper H2 with i9‑11900H is a strong older flagship option. It gives you high clocks and smooth multitasking. You get 32GB RAM, a 1TB SSD, and triple 4K support. Ports cover USB‑C, HDMI, DP, and 6x USB‑A for accessories.

For esports and older AAA titles, it runs well at 1080p. Pair with an external GPU later for more punch. The system feels mature and stable for daily use. It is a workhorse that can game when you want.

Pros:

• High clocks and good single-core speed
• Triple 4K displays for flexible setups
• Plenty of ports for gear and storage
• Wi‑Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 included
• Solid 32GB/1TB baseline

Cons:

• Older CPU design versus newer generations
• iGPU is limited without an eGPU
• May run warmer under full load

My Recommendation

Choose this if you want a proven i9 mini at a fair price. It is best for players who value CPU speed and many ports. Add a GPU dock when you are ready. It still makes sense in the Best Mini PC for gaming guide if your budget fits and you want a reliable platform.

Best for	Why
Port-heavy setups	Many USB ports and video outputs
CPU-first use	Fast clocks for snappy response
Upgrade path	Works well with eGPU docks

How to choose the Best Mini PC for gaming in 2026

I always look at five things: CPU, GPU path, cooling, storage, and ports. A fast CPU keeps 1% lows stable. That smooths frame time spikes. For graphics, choose a unit with discrete GPU or a clean eGPU path like Oculink or USB4.

Cooling decides noise and boost time. Two fans and clear vents help. For storage, go PCIe 4.0 or better. At least 1TB if you play many AAA titles. For ports, USB4 and 2.5GbE make life easier now and later.

Match your pick to your goal. Esports? A strong iGPU can be enough. AAA? Go discrete or eGPU. Want silence? Look for bigger heatsinks and smart fan curves. The Best Mini PC for gaming is the one that fits your space, screen, and style.

FAQs Of Best Mini PC for gaming

Can a mini PC run modern AAA games well?

Yes, if it has a discrete GPU or an eGPU via Oculink/USB4. Integrated graphics can handle light or older games, but AAA needs more power.

Is Oculink better than USB4 for an eGPU?

For gaming, Oculink often offers lower overhead and steady bandwidth. USB4 is great too, but Oculink can feel closer to internal PCIe.

How much RAM do I need for smooth gaming?

16GB is the floor. 32GB is the sweet spot for gaming and streaming. 64GB helps creators with big projects.

Do I need 2.5GbE for online play?

No, but it helps with local transfers and reduces congestion. For low ping, wired Ethernet of any speed is better than Wi‑Fi.

What is the smallest screen I should use?

24 inches at 1080p is a great start. For 1440p, 27 inches feels ideal. Use a high-refresh panel if you play esports.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

If you want ready-made power, the TOPGRO T1‑MAX with RTX 4070 is the safe pick. For a flexible path, the GMKtec K11 with Oculink is easy to love.

On a budget, the BOSGAME P3 and KAMRUI Hyper H2 i7 are great. Any of these can be the Best Mini PC for gaming if they match your goals and space.