mini PC Archives

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows 365 Link PC shows up in real life photos ahead of availability this spring

Microsoft introduced the Windows 365 Link, a compact mini PC that operates as a thin client, streaming Windows 11 from the cloud while running a streamlined version of Windows locally. It is currently undergoing private testing with select customers, with a broader release anticipated in April. The device is small enough to be held in one hand and features various ports, including USB-A, USB-C, ethernet, DisplayPort, and HDMI. It is powered by an Intel N250 processor, has 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. Priced at , it requires an active subscription to a Windows 365 PC, which is currently an enterprise-only service, though Microsoft may expand it to consumers in the future.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

5 reasons you shouldn’t use Windows as a NAS OS

The author transformed a mini PC into a basic Network Attached Storage (NAS) solution using a standard Windows installation. While Windows can work for simple setups, it is generally inefficient for NAS due to its resource usage, lack of native ZFS support, forced updates, complicated Docker and VM management, and clunky remote access. Windows runs unnecessary background services that consume RAM and storage, while dedicated NAS software optimizes performance. Windows does not support ZFS natively, which is beneficial for data integrity and features like compression and encryption. Windows updates can disrupt services due to their unpredictable nature, unlike dedicated NAS systems that allow for scheduled updates. Managing Docker containers or virtual machines is more complex on Windows compared to Linux, which is better suited for these tasks. Remote access on Windows requires cumbersome setups, while Linux offers easier SSH access and web interfaces for management.

AppWizard

February 18, 2025

Take your favorite PC games on the go with $200 off the ASUS ROG Ally

As of February 18, the ASUS ROG Ally is available at Best Buy for 9.99, down from its regular price of 9.99, representing a 35% discount. The device weighs just under 2 pounds and is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor with AMD RDNA3 architecture graphics. It offers several hours of battery life and can recharge to 50% in 30 minutes with a USB-C adapter. The ASUS ROG Ally can also be connected to a television, allowing it to function as a mini PC.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

Microsoft Weekly: Xbox features for PCs, useful tools for Windows 11, and more

Microsoft refreshed the Windows Health Dashboard, providing updated information on known bugs affecting Windows 11 version 24H2, including a fix for users unable to modify specific date and time settings and a workaround for difficulties with Windows updates via USB or CD media. A guide was shared on restoring Dolby Digital (AC-3) support in Windows 11 version 24H2, and two debloating applications, WinScript and NoBloatbox, were introduced for system optimization and bloatware removal. This week's preview builds for Windows 11 included a significant update for MIDI and allowed users to customize widgets on their lock screens. An update for the Microsoft Store now permits users to choose which components of games to download. Optical Character Recognition has returned in the Photos app for Windows Insiders with enhancements and bug fixes. Microsoft announced the dates for its upcoming developer conference, Build 2025, scheduled for May 19-22 in Seattle, Washington. Firefox 135 was released with a redesigned new tab page and privacy enhancements, while Microsoft Edge 133 launched with an updated downloads interface and an AI-powered scareware blocker. Chrome version 134 is set to enhance picture-in-picture mode. In gaming news, several Xbox titles, including Forza Horizon 5 and Age of Mythology: Retold, are being released for PlayStation 5. EA's Criterion Games is focused on the next Battlefield installment, leaving the future of Need for Speed uncertain. Microsoft will host the first ID@Xbox showcase on February 24, 2025. Valve updated Steam to include a banner for abandoned games, and Nvidia announced new games for the GeForce NOW streaming service. The Epic Games Store is offering two free titles, and Amazon Prime members have access to several free games.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

Sick of laptop docks and spaghetti cables, I moved my entire daily workflow to a Windows 11 PC no bigger than a bagel

The author discusses their experience with various PC hardware, particularly focusing on the advantages of mini PCs like the Beelink SER9 and Geekom A8|A7 models compared to laptops and desktops. They highlight the Lenovo Slim 7i 14 (Gen 9) laptop for its features but note its inconvenience due to the inactive power button when closed. The author finds that a mini Windows PC, such as the Geekom A8 Max with an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and 32GB of RAM, effectively addresses their needs for a compact and powerful setup. The Geekom A8 Max is priced just under ,000 and offers ample I/O options, including dual HDMI-out ports. The author appreciates the mini PC's performance, silent operation, and ability to handle multiple tasks without storage or RAM concerns.

Winsage

December 24, 2024

Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year

This year has seen significant advancements in consumer technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, highlighted by Microsoft's Copilot+ PC initiative in collaboration with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor, introducing fanless, battery-efficient laptops to the Windows ecosystem. AI companies like OpenAI have expanded their offerings, prompting competitors such as Google, xAI, and Facebook to enhance their products. New brands like XREAL have emerged, while established companies like ASUS have innovated with dual-screen laptops. Accessory manufacturers have also improved their products. The Windows Central Tech Awards for 2024 recognize standout devices and features across various categories, including Tech Innovator of the Year, Best Processor, Best Overall Laptop, Best Keyboard, Best Pre-Built Gaming PC, Best Mini PC, Best Gaming Laptop, Best Gaming Headset, Best Tech Accessory, Best Monitor, Best Gaming Input, Best Gaming Hardware, Best Desktop All-in-One, Best Budget Laptop, Best Business Laptop, Best Mobile App for Windows Users, Best Windows Feature, Best Mouse, and Best Windows PC App. Looking ahead to 2025, advancements in AI, robotics, cloud computing, and potential breakthroughs in 6G and quantum computing are anticipated, with Microsoft focusing on AI server technology acquisitions and developments in PC gaming handhelds and new Xbox hardware.

Winsage

December 12, 2024

I’ve been using this Intel-based mini AI PC for the last two weeks of work, and now I absolutely love it

The Geekom GT1 Mega mini PC has an MSRP of 9.00, with sales prices around 9.00 on platforms like Amazon. It features Windows 11 Pro, an Intel Core Ultra processor, and Intel Arc graphics. Specifications include options for Intel Core Ultra 5, 7, or 9 processors, 32GB of RAM (expandable to 64GB), and 1TB SSD storage. The package includes the mini PC, a VESA mount, screws, an HDMI cable, a power adapter, and a user manual. The design is compact with a sturdy aluminum casing, and it has a variety of ports: two USB-C 4.0 ports, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and five USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, along with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. Performance is solid for everyday tasks, with a performance rating of 5/5, and thermal performance is commendable with minimal fan noise. The overall score for the GT1 Mega is 5/5, highlighting its value, design, connectivity, and performance. Alternatives include Geekom's A8 and A7 models, as well as offerings from Beelink and ASUS.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Our favorite mini PC is affordable and perfect for photo and video editing — Right now, you can get it at a special low price with this coupon code

The Geekom A8 mini PC features a Ryzen 7 CPU and Radeon 780M integrated graphics, making it suitable for tasks like web browsing, media streaming, and photo/video editing. It runs on Windows 11 Home and offers options for AMD R9-8945HS or R7-8845HS CPUs with a TDP of 45W, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and PCIe Gen 4 storage ranging from 1TB to 2TB. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and various ports: 3x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB-A 2.0, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB4 Gen 3, 1x 3.5mm headphone jack, 1x RJ45, and 2x HDMI 2.0. The A8 is currently available for 9.00, discounted to 9.00 with the code WINDOWSA8R7. The package includes a VESA mount, manual, HDMI cable, and power adapter, but users must provide their own keyboard, mouse, and monitor. The A8 received a four and a half-star review for its performance and port availability.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

A Snapdragon X Elite mini-PC is on the way, but it’s not from Qualcomm

Geekom is reportedly developing a new mini-PC powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, which would be the first mini-PC with this processor. The design of the new device resembles Geekom's A8 and A7 models, known for their aluminum chassis. Details about the mini-PC, including pricing, specifications, and availability, are currently undisclosed. There is speculation about whether it will be classified as an official Copilot+ PC, a category that has so far included only laptops and convertible 2-in-1s.

Winsage

December 2, 2024

How to Run Microsoft’s New Windows CPC (NXT) OS on Your PC

Microsoft has introduced the Windows 365 Link, a mini PC that runs on cloud-based Windows and features an undisclosed Intel processor, 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. It utilizes a new operating system called Windows CPC, codenamed “NXT,” which has a simplified interface primarily based on HTML and lacks traditional components like Explorer, Task Manager, and Notepad. The onboarding process is facilitated by Edge WebView2. Users must sign in with a work account, as standard Microsoft accounts are not supported. The OS version displayed is "Microsoft Windows [Version 10.0.26100.2314]." The System32 folder contains files related to NXT, and only a limited number of applications can be run, such as dxdiag, Narrator, and the on-screen keyboard. Windows CPC is described as a lightweight operating system, similar to ChromeOS, and is not intended for the average consumer.