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Are you struggling to find enough space for your gaming setup? Do you want to enjoy high-performance gaming without compromising on room? Look no further!
This article will reveal the best compact PC builds. Whether you have a tiny gaming den or need a portable rig, these space-saving options will meet your needs.
Get ready to explore mini gaming PC builds that pack a punch, deliver top-notch gaming experiences, and challenge the belief that bigger is always better.
Benefits of Compact Gaming
Compact gaming PC builds for small spaces offer numerous advantages that make them a popular choice for gamers.
Despite their smaller size, these machines have powerful components and deliver exceptional performance. Let’s explore the benefits of compact gaming PCs:
- Ease of fitting into small spaces: Compact gaming PCs are designed to fit seamlessly into small spaces and on smaller gaming desks. Their smaller form allows gamers to optimize their gaming setups without sacrificing performance.
- Portability: Unlike traditional full-sized gaming PCs, compact gaming PCs are much easier to transport. Their smaller size and lightweight build make them ideal for gamers who want to take their setups on the go.
- Full-scale components: Despite their compact size, these PCs house full-scale components that deliver top-notch performance. Gamers can enjoy smooth gameplay and immersive experiences without compromising on power.
- Thoughtful design features: Compact gaming PCs often have thoughtful design features, such as efficient cooling solutions and easy upgradability. These features ensure the PCs run cool and quiet while providing flexibility for future upgrades.
Compact gaming PCs are a convenient and versatile choice for gamers with limited space.
They offer the perfect combination of performance, portability, and thoughtful design, making them a worthy investment for gaming enthusiasts.
Testimonial: Why Compact Gaming PCs Are Game-Changers
“I used to struggle with limited space in my gaming room until I switched to a compact gaming PC. Not only does it fit perfectly on my small desk, but it also delivers incredible performance. I can’t believe how powerful these small machines can be!”
– Mike Thompson, Gamer
Choosing the Right Compact Gaming PC
When choosing a compact gaming PC, there are several factors to consider.
Whether you’re a fan of pre-built options or prefer to build your own, it’s important to understand what makes a small gaming PC perfect for your needs.
In this section, I will guide you through the key factors to consider when buying a small gaming PC.
Pre-built or DIY?
One of the first decisions you’ll need is whether you want a pre-built compact gaming PC or build your own.
Pre-built options are often convenient as they come ready to use, saving time and effort.
Conversely, building your PC allows customization and the freedom to choose specific components tailored to your gaming preferences.
Specifications that matter
When it comes to the specifications of a compact gaming PC, there are a few key components to consider.
- Graphics Card: The graphics card is crucial for delivering smooth and immersive gaming experiences. Ensure the graphics card is powerful enough to handle the games you want.
- CPU: The CPU plays a vital role in overall system performance. Look for a CPU with enough processing power to handle your desired games.
- RAM: Sufficient RAM is essential for multitasking and running resource-intensive games. Aim for a minimum of 8GB, although 16GB or more is recommended for optimal performance.
- Storage Options: Consider the type and amount of storage you need for your gaming PC. SSDs (Solid State Drives) offer faster load times, while HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) provide larger storage capacities at a more affordable price.
Expert advice: Consider the future
When buying a small gaming PC, it’s important to think about your future gaming needs. Look for a system that allows for easy upgrades so you can keep up with the latest hardware advancements without having to replace the entire PC. Pay attention to the motherboard’s expansion options, the availability of spare PCIe slots, and the power supply’s capacity to support future upgrades.
Choosing the right compact gaming PC requires careful consideration of your gaming preferences, budget, and future needs.
Whether you opt for a pre-built option or build your own, evaluate the specifications and choose components to deliver your desired gaming performance.
Best Pre-Built Compact Gaming PCs
If you’re looking for a ready-to-go solution, several reputable brands offer the best pre-built compact gaming PCs.
These PCs are designed to deliver powerful performance in a small form factor, making them perfect for gamers with limited space.
Whether a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, these pre-built options provide everything you need for an incredible gaming experience.
Top Compact Gaming PC Brands
Regarding compact gaming PCs, some of the top brands in the industry offer exceptional options.
These brands prioritize performance, reliability, and compact size to meet the demands of modern gamers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best pre-built compact gaming PCs:
- Minisforum UM773 Lite: This compact gaming PC features an AMD RDNA 2 680M graphics card, an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS 8-core CPU, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. It’s praised for its small yet powerful performance and ample RAM.
- Origin PC Chronos V3: The Origin PC Chronos V3 is a premium compact gaming PC known for its stunning design and powerful components. It boasts an Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti graphics card, an AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU, 32GB Corsair Vengeance DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB Samsung PM9A1 M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD. It’s a top choice for gamers who value aesthetics and performance.
- Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon: This true mini PC stands out for its small size and dedicated graphics. It features an Intel Arc A770M 16GB graphics card, an Intel i9-12900K CPU, 16GB DDR4 3200Mhz RAM, and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. Its pint-sized design and sleek console-like appearance make it an excellent option for small gaming setups.
These pre-built compact gaming PCs from Minisforum, Origin PC, Intel, and Corsair offer a combination of power, reliability, and compactness.
With high-performance CPUs and GPUs, ample RAM, and fast storage options, these options will surely deliver an exceptional gaming experience.
Their thoughtful design elements, such as efficient cooling systems and upgradability, ensure your gaming PC remains reliable and versatile.
Take your gaming to the next level with one of these top pre-built compact gaming PCs from renowned brands.
Minisforum UM773 Lite
The Minisforum UM773 Lite is a highly recommended compact gaming PC known for its impressive performance in a small form factor.
This PC delivers a robust gaming experience for light gaming needs. It is equipped with an AMD RDNA 2 680M graphics card, an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS 8-core CPU, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD.
Its small size allows it to fit seamlessly into any space, making it a perfect choice for those with limited room.
The Minisforum UM773 Lite has abundant connectivity options, including USB ports, HDMI ports, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth.
This ensures seamless connectivity to peripherals and devices for a complete gaming setup. The ample 32GB of DDR5 RAM enhances performance and enables smooth multitasking and gaming.
The Minisforum UM773 Lite strikes the perfect balance between performance and size, making it an excellent choice for gamers who value powerful specs in a compact gaming PC.
While the Minisforum UM773 Lite boasts many benefits, some users have reported issues with defective WiFi cards. However, considering its overall performance and compact design, this PC remains highly recommended for those seeking a reliable, space-saving gaming solution.
Pros of Minisforum UM773 Lite:
- Powerful graphics card and CPU for an optimal gaming experience
- Ample 32GB DDR5 RAM for smooth multitasking
- Compact size that fits easily into small spaces
- Offers a variety of connectivity options for a complete gaming setup
Cons of Minisforum UM773 Lite:
- Some users have reported issues with defective WiFi cards
Origin PC Chronos V3
The Origin PC Chronos V3 is a premium compact gaming PC renowned for its exceptional performance and stunning design.
It boasts a powerful Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti graphics card, an AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU, 32GB Corsair Vengeance DDR5 RAM, and a blazing-fast 1TB Samsung PM9A1 M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD.
This compact gaming PC offers many connectivity options, including USB and HDMI ports, ensuring seamless integration with your gaming peripherals.
Additionally, the Origin PC Chronos V3 has various cooling solutions to keep your system running cool even during intense gaming sessions.
“The Origin PC Chronos V3 combines powerhouse performance and sleek aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking a premium gaming experience in a compact form factor.”
Pros of Origin PC Chronos V3
- Powerful gaming performance
- Stunning design
- Upgradeable components
- Diverse connectivity options
- Efficient cooling solutions
Cons of Origin PC Chronos V3
- Larger size compared to other compact gaming PCs
- Higher price point
The Origin PC Chronos V3 may have a slightly larger footprint than other compact gaming PCs.
Still, its performance and visual appeal make it a top choice for gamers seeking a powerful gaming experience without compromising on space.
Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon
The Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon is an actual mini PC that packs a powerful punch despite its small size.
With dedicated graphics and impressive performance, it offers a compelling gaming experience in a compact form factor.
The Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon boasts an Intel Arc A770M 16GB graphics card, ensuring smooth visuals and immersive gameplay.
It has an Intel i7-12700H CPU, providing the processing power necessary for demanding games.
Combine that with 16GB DDR4 3200Mhz RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, and you have a system optimized for speed and responsiveness.
The Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon offers plentiful connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, HDMI ports, and additional slots. It also features efficient cooling systems to monitor temperatures during intense gaming sessions.
The Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon’s pint-sized design is sleek and console-like, making it an aesthetic addition to any gaming setup.
Its compact size allows for easy portability, perfect for gamers on the go or those with limited space.
The Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon offers dedicated graphics and an impressive performance in a compact form factor.
Pros:
- Powerful dedicated graphics
- Sleek, console-like design
- Compact and portable
- Efficient cooling systems
Cons:
- Teething issues with Intel Arc cards
- Higher price compared to other compact gaming PCs
Despite its minor drawbacks, the Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon remains a solid choice for gamers looking for a small gaming PC with dedicated graphics.
Its impressive performance, compact size, and sleek design make it a standout option in compact gaming PCs.
Building Your Own Compact Gaming PC
Building your own compact gaming PC allows for customization and flexibility.
By selecting the right components and following a step-by-step guide, you can create a small form factor gaming PC that perfectly suits your needs.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, building your compact gaming PC allows you to customize the performance and aesthetics.
To start building your compact gaming PC, there are a few key components you’ll need to consider:
- Small form factor case: Choose a case specifically designed for compact gaming PCs to ensure proper fitment of all components.
- Powerful CPU and GPU: Opt for high-performance processors and graphics cards that can handle graphics-intensive games and deliver smooth gameplay.
- Sufficient RAM: Select enough RAM to support multitasking and provide a seamless gaming experience.
- Fast storage options: Consider SSDs or NVMe drives for quick boot times and fast game loading.
Checking compatibility and ensuring they fit within the selected case is essential when choosing components.
Some small form factor cases have specific size restrictions for components, so research or consult with experienced builders if needed.
Follow a step-by-step guide or seek assistance from experienced builders when assembling your compact gaming PC.
This will help ensure all components are installed correctly and properly configured for optimal performance.
Building your compact gaming PC allows you to create a personalized gaming rig that meets your unique requirements.
Whether you prioritize performance, aesthetics, or both, the ability to customize your compact gaming PC gives you complete control over your gaming experience.
Benefits of Building Your Compact Gaming PC
There are several benefits to building your compact gaming PC:
- Customization: Building your PC allows you to choose each component, enabling you to create a system that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
- Cost-effectiveness: Building your PC can often be more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-built system, as you can choose components based on your budget.
- Upgradability: With a self-built PC, you can upgrade individual components, ensuring your system stays up-to-date with the latest gaming technologies.
By building your compact gaming PC, you can create a powerful, customized gaming rig that fits perfectly within your small gaming space.
You can enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that every component in your system was handpicked to deliver the best gaming experience possible.
Recommended Components for Building a Compact Gaming PC
Tips for Maximizing Space in Compact Gaming Setups
When setting up a compact gaming PC in a small space, it’s important to maximize the available space and keep things organized. Here are some tips for organizing small space gaming setups:
- Use wall-mounted shelves or desks: Utilize vertical space by mounting shelves or desks on the wall. This frees up floor space and provides additional gaming peripherals and accessories storage.
- Utilize cable management solutions: Keep cables tidy and prevent them from cluttering your gaming area by using cable management solutions. This includes cable clips, sleeves, or raceways to neatly route and hide cables.
- Invest in compact gaming peripherals: Opt for compact-sized gaming peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and controllers. These take up less space on your gaming desk and provide a more streamlined and efficient setup.
- Optimize storage options: Store games, media, and files on external hard drives or cloud storage solutions. This helps free up storage space on your gaming PC and keeps your setup clutter-free.
By implementing these tips, you can effectively organize your small space gaming setup and create a functional and efficient gaming area, even with limited room.
The Future of Compact Gaming PCs
The future of compact gaming PCs looks promising, with advancements in technology and design leading to even smaller and more powerful machines.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, small-form-factor gaming PCs are becoming increasingly popular among gamers who value performance, portability, and aesthetics.
One key trend in small-form-factor gaming PCs is the emphasis on efficiency and performance. Manufacturers are developing innovative cooling solutions to ensure optimal thermal management in compact systems.
These cooling technologies, such as advanced heat sinks and fans, allow for efficient heat dissipation and help prevent thermal throttling, enabling gamers to push their systems to the limits without sacrificing performance.
Another trend in compact gaming PCs is the improved compatibility of components.
Manufacturers are designing small form factor cases that can accommodate powerful CPUs and GPUs, ensuring gamers enjoy high frame rates and smooth gameplay even in a compact form.
Additionally, the availability of miniaturized versions of high-performance components, such as small form factor graphics cards and powerful processors, further enhances the capabilities of compact gaming PCs.
When it comes to design, portability and aesthetics are at the forefront. Compact gaming PCs are being crafted with sleek and stylish designs that save space and enhance the overall look of a gaming setup.
Manufacturers are incorporating RGB lighting and customizable features to allow gamers to personalize their systems and create visually stunning setups.
The Advantages of Compact Gaming PCs
Compact gaming PCs offer several advantages over their larger counterparts. Firstly, their small size suits gamers with limited space, such as those living in small apartments or dorm rooms.
They can easily fit on a desk or be mounted on a wall, allowing gamers to maximize their available space.
Furthermore, compact gaming PCs are highly portable. Their compact form factor and lightweight design make them ideal for gamers who frequently travel or attend LAN parties.
Compact gaming PCs can be easily transported without compromising performance, whether in a backpack or a dedicated gaming travel case.
By investing in a compact gaming PC, gamers can enjoy powerful gaming experiences without needing a large, dedicated gaming room.
Whether an intense esports competition or an immersive single-player adventure, compact gaming PCs provide the performance and versatility to tackle any gaming genre.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the benefits of compact gaming PCs far outweigh the disadvantages.
As technology advances, compact gaming PCs will only become more powerful, efficient, and visually appealing, making them a compelling choice for gamers of all levels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, compact gaming PC builds are the perfect solution for gamers with limited space or prioritize portability.
Whether you opt for a pre-built option or build your own, a wide range of compact gaming PCs offer exceptional performance in a small form factor.
Brands like Minisforum, Origin PC, Intel, and Corsair offer top-notch compact gaming PCs with powerful components and well-thought-out designs.
You can find the ideal compact gaming PC for your small-space gaming setup by carefully considering specifications, design, and upgradability.
With these compact gaming PC builds, you can enjoy immersive gaming experiences without compromising space.
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, these small form factor machines will deliver the needed performance while fitting perfectly into your limited gaming area.
So go ahead and unleash your gaming potential with a compact gaming PC!
FAQ
What are the benefits of compact gaming PCs?
Compact gaming PCs offer advantages such as space-saving design, easy portability, and the ability to deliver excellent performance despite their smaller size.
How do I choose the right compact gaming PC?
When choosing a compact gaming PC, consider whether you want a pre-built or custom-built option, the PC’s specifications, and the system’s design and upgradability.
What are the best pre-built compact gaming PCs?
The best pre-built compact gaming PCs include the Minisforum UM773 Lite, Origin PC Chronos V3, Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon, and Corsair ONE i400.
What are the specifications, pros, and cons of the Minisforum UM773 Lite?
The Minisforum UM773 Lite features an AMD RDNA 2 680M graphics card, an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS 8-core CPU, and 32GB DDR5 RAM.
Pros include its small yet powerful performance, while cons include reported issues with the WiFi card.
What are the specifications, pros, and cons of the Origin PC Chronos V3?
The Origin PC Chronos V3 features an Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti graphics card, an AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU, and 32GB Corsair Vengeance DDR5 RAM.
The pros include its powerful performance and easy upgradability, while the cons include its larger size compared to other compact gaming PCs and higher price.
What are the specifications, pros, and cons of the Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon?
The Intel NUC 12 Serpent Canyon features an Intel Arc A770M 16GB graphics card, an Intel i7-12700H CPU, and 16GB DDR4 3200Mhz RAM.
Pros include its small size, dedicated graphics, and sleek design. Cons include reported teething issues with Intel Arc cards and a higher price.
How can I build my compact gaming PC?
To build your compact gaming PC, you’ll need to choose the right components, ensure compatibility, and follow step-by-step guides or seek assistance from experienced builders.
What are some tips for maximizing space in compact gaming setups?
Tips for maximizing space in compact gaming setups include using wall-mounted shelves or desks, utilizing cable management solutions, investing in compact gaming peripherals, and optimizing storage options.
What does the future hold for compact gaming PCs?
The future of compact gaming PCs looks promising, with advancements in technology and design leading to even smaller and more powerful machines.
Trends include increased efficiency, improved component compatibility, and innovative designs.
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| Advantages of Compact Gaming PCs | Traditional Full-sized Gaming PCs |
|---|---|
| Fits easily into small spaces and on smaller gaming desks | Requires more space and may not fit in tight areas |
| Easier to transport, ideal for gamers on the go | Heavier and bulkier, making transportation challenging |
| Full-scale components deliver excellent performance | Larger size doesn’t necessarily translate to better performance |
| Thoughtful design features for efficient cooling and upgradability | May lack optimized cooling systems and limited upgradability options |
| Specs | Description |
| Graphics Card | AMD RDNA 2 680M |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS 8-core |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD |
| Connectivity | USB ports, HDMI ports, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth |
| Component | Specification |
| Graphics Card | Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D |
| RAM | 32GB Corsair Vengeance DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB Samsung PM9A1 M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD |
| Connectivity | USB ports, HDMI ports, and more |
| Component | Recommended Models |
| Small form factor case | NZXT H1, Fractal Design Node 202, Cooler Master NR200P |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-11600K, AMD Ryzen 5 5600X |
| GPU | Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060, AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT |
| RAM | Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB), G.Skill Trident Z RGB 16GB (2 x 8GB) |
| Storage | Crucial P5 1TB NVMe PCIe M.2 SSD, Samsung 980 PRO 1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD |
| Motherboard | ASRock B560M-ITX/ac, Gigabyte A520I AC |
| Power supply | Corsair SF600, Seasonic Focus SGX-500 |
| Tips for Maximizing Space in Compact Gaming Setups | |
| Use wall-mounted shelves or desks | |
| Utilize cable management solutions | |
| Invest in compact gaming peripherals | |
| Optimize storage options | |
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Space-saving | Limited room for expansion |
| Portability | Potential for higher temperatures |
| Stylish design | Higher price compared to some full-sized PCs |
| Optimal for small gaming setups | It may require specialized components |
