Best Mini PCs for Home Media Server & Plex under $250

Full Description

The Beelink Mini S12 Pro is a compact, budget-friendly mini PC powered by the Intel Alder Lake-N100 processor, designed for light productivity, home office tasks, and media consumption. It features a quad-core architecture that offers a significant efficiency boost over previous generation Celeron chips, making it suitable for web browsing, document editing, and 4K video playback. The device comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro and supports dual-channel memory configurations, which helps maximize the performance of the integrated Intel UHD Graphics. Its small form factor allows for easy mounting behind monitors via the included VESA bracket, saving valuable desk space. The cooling system is specifically tuned for the N100 chip, ensuring quiet operation even under moderate workloads. Overall, it serves as an excellent entry-level solution for users seeking a low-power, cost-effective desktop replacement.

Additional Features

• Intel Alder Lake-N100 Processor (4 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz)
• Intel UHD Graphics (24 Execution Units)
• Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro
• Supports up to 16GB DDR4 RAM
• M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slot (expandable up to 2TB)
• Dual 4K display output via two HDMI 2.0 ports
• Gigabit Ethernet port
• Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2
• 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
• 3.5mm audio jack

Full Description

The GMKtec NucBox G3 is a compact, budget-friendly mini PC powered by the Intel Processor N100, a quad-core Alder Lake-N chip designed for energy efficiency and basic computing tasks. It features a minimalist, palm-sized chassis that is ideal for home office setups, media centers, or light server applications. The device supports up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM and includes an M.2 2242 SSD slot for storage expansion. Connectivity is robust for its size, offering multiple USB ports, dual HDMI outputs for 4K display support, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. It operates silently under light loads, making it a popular choice for users seeking a low-power, space-saving desktop replacement. Overall, it provides excellent value for users prioritizing affordability and portability over high-performance gaming or heavy multitasking.

Additional Features

• Intel Processor N100 (4 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz)

Full Description

The TRIGKEY Key-N100 is a compact, energy-efficient mini PC powered by the Intel Processor N100, a quad-core Alder Lake-N chip designed for basic computing tasks. It features a small form factor that fits easily on a desk or behind a monitor, making it an ideal choice for home office setups, media centers, or light server applications. The device typically comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro and supports expandable storage via an internal M.2 SSD slot. With its low power consumption and silent operation, it serves as a cost-effective alternative to traditional desktop towers for everyday productivity. Connectivity is robust for its size, offering multiple USB ports, dual HDMI outputs for multi-monitor setups, and integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. It is widely regarded as a budget-friendly solution for users who prioritize space-saving design over high-performance gaming or heavy video editing.

Additional Features