Getting a new computer doesn't mean you need to buy a quality notebook or fit a big new case under your desk: for plenty of people, a mini-PC will fulfil most needs, say experts at a German computer magazine. The mini-PCs, which are boxes about the size of a can of food, take up little space on a desk and use less power than a desktop PC does.
At the same time, be aware that opting for the cost savings of a mini means you have less chance to upgrade in the future.
Those most likely to benefit tend to only use the computer to go online, write some emails or take care of basic office-style work.
The magazine, c't, tested three models and said they're all perfectly adequate for day-to-day needs.
You might not think at first glance that the minis are powerful, but inside there's the same technology as you find in a notebook, which means reduced power consumption and less noise than in traditional desktop models.
But they are cheaper than notebooks because they come without a screen and are not ruggedized in any way.
Top models can be connected to monitors with 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160 pixels) or have sockets to connect up to three hard drives. Depending on what you need, prices will range from 300 to 700 euros (340 to 790 dollars).
But you can't expect more than office-level computing from the mini computers.
They are not up to playing 3D games and only provide an unfulfilling experience for quick-paced games in full HD resolution, if at all.
There's also not a lot of scope to upgrade them.
If it's even an option, extending them usually means attaching another device via a USB port, since there are no expansion slots.
The mother board tends to be welded in, ruling out replacing it with a faster model.
Experts say it just means you should be sure about what you want to do before investing in a mini.