Best picks

9 Best Mini PCs Under $500 (November 2026)

Updated on · By the ActiViews team

The best mini PCs under 500 dollars include the ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PC for multitasking and light gaming, the GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PC for wired networking and upgrades, and the ACEMAGIC K1 mini PC for a tidy home office.

On this page (5 sections)
  1. Which mini PCs under 500 dollars stand out?
  2. How do you compare a mini PC under 500 dollars?
  3. Which specs matter most for a budget mini PC?
  4. Is a mini PC under 500 dollars enough for home use?
  5. Which mini PC under 500 dollars should you choose?

The best mini PC under 500 dollars for most people is the ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS, with 24GB of memory, 512GB storage and triple-display output. Pick the GMKtec M6 Ultra for upgrade options and graphics features, or the Beelink Mini S13 for browsing and streaming.

A mini PC can fit a home office, shared family desk or TV cabinet while using less desk space than a tower. For this budget, compare the processor and memory first, then make sure the ports match your monitor and network setup.

If your main goal is everyday browsing and email, our guide to affordable mini PCs for browsing and email focuses on that lighter workload. For a broader look at mini computers for home use, compare the tasks you run each week with the hardware you need.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PC
    Best for multitasking and light gaming

    ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PC

    8.8/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PC
    Best for wired networking and upgrades

    GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PC

    8.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 ACEMAGIC K1 mini PC
    Best for a tidy home office

    ACEMAGIC K1 mini PC

    8.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4GMKtec M6 Ultra mini PC (16GB)

    GMKtec M6 Ultra mini PC (16GB)

    Best for graphics-heavy everyday tasks
    Check it
  2. 5GEEKOM A5 mini PC

    GEEKOM A5 mini PC

    Best for a multi-screen workstation
    Check it
  3. 6Beelink SER5 MAX mini PC

    Beelink SER5 MAX mini PC

    Best for three-screen home use
    Check it
  4. 7GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 mini PC

    GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 mini PC

    Best for extra built-in storage
    Check it
  5. 8Beelink Mini S13 mini PC

    Beelink Mini S13 mini PC

    Best for browsing and streaming
    Check it
  6. 9Bosgame E5 11 Pro mini PC (1TB)

    Bosgame E5 11 Pro mini PC (1TB)

    Best for a large SSD on a budget
    Check it

Which mini PCs under 500 dollars stand out?

The ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS earns the top spot for its combination of 24GB memory, 512GB storage and three display outputs. The picks below descend by score, with each one suited to a different budget or desk need.

1

ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PC: Best for multitasking and light gaming

ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PC, mini PCs under 500 dollars
8.8/10Our score
  • Ryzen 7 7735HS
  • 24GB LPDDR5 memory
  • 512GB SSD
  • HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C video output

The Ryzen 7 7735HS, 24GB of memory and three display outputs make this a flexible pick for a busy home desk. ACEMAGIC describes its graphics as suitable for casual games.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 24GB memory
  • Three display outputs
  • Two M.2 slots for storage expansion

Cons

  • Onboard memory is not described as upgradeable
  • Confirm the exact configuration before buying

This ACEMAGIC K1 is the strongest all-around choice here for a busy home desk. Its Ryzen 7 7735HS has 8 cores and 16 threads, paired with 24GB of LPDDR5 memory and a 512GB SSD.

The video connections include HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C, so you can run up to three displays. Two M.2 2280 slots also leave room for additional NVMe storage.

ACEMAGIC describes its Radeon 680M graphics as suitable for casual games. Treat that as a light-gaming option rather than a replacement for a PC with a dedicated graphics card.

Choose it if you want more memory out of the box and plan to keep several apps open. Check the exact configuration before you buy, since product names and configurations can be similar.

ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PCCheck it on Amazon
2

GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PC: Best for wired networking and upgrades

GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PC, mini PCs under 500 dollars
8.7/10Our score
  • Ryzen 7 7730U
  • 16GB DDR4 memory, expandable to 64GB
  • 512GB SSD
  • Two 2.5G Ethernet ports

This configuration pairs an 8-core Ryzen 7 with upgradeable memory and dual 2.5G Ethernet. It also supports up to three displays.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Memory can expand to 64GB
  • Dual 2.5G Ethernet
  • Three display connections

Cons

  • Memory and storage upgrades are not included
  • Check BIOS settings for the stated turbo speed

The GMKtec M5 Ultra fits a desk where wired network speed and future memory upgrades matter. It has dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, 16GB of dual-channel DDR4 memory and a 512GB PCIe SSD.

Its memory can expand to 64GB, and the two M.2 slots support storage expansion. HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C provide connections for up to three displays.

The Ryzen 7 7730U has 8 cores and 16 threads. GMKtec describes it as suitable for productivity, office work and gaming, but the specific apps and games you use should guide your expectations.

Choose this model if you expect your memory or storage needs to grow. Confirm the BIOS performance setting if you want to use its stated turbo speed.

GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PCCheck it on Amazon
3

ACEMAGIC K1 mini PC: Best for a tidy home office

ACEMAGIC K1 mini PC, mini PCs under 500 dollars
8.7/10Our score
  • Ryzen 3 7330U Pro
  • 16GB onboard memory
  • 256GB SSD
  • Built-in power supply

A built-in power supply keeps the setup to one power cable, and the compact chassis can mount behind a monitor. The memory is non-expandable, so choose it for a fixed, light workload.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Built-in power supply
  • Six USB-A ports
  • Triple-display output

Cons

  • Memory is non-expandable
  • 256GB storage is the smallest here

This ACEMAGIC K1 is the tidy desk pick, with a built-in power supply that removes the need for an external power adapter. Its compact chassis can also attach behind a monitor with the included VESA mount.

The Ryzen 3 7330U Pro has 4 cores and 8 threads, with 16GB of onboard LPDDR4 memory and a 256GB SSD. The memory cannot be expanded, so the configuration is best suited to browsing, office work and everyday home tasks.

HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C support up to three displays. The six USB-A ports also leave room for a keyboard, mouse, storage drive and other accessories.

Choose it when a simple, compact setup matters more than graphics speed or upgrade flexibility. The smaller SSD is fine for apps and documents, but a large media library may call for added storage.

ACEMAGIC K1 mini PCCheck it on Amazon
4

GMKtec M6 Ultra mini PC (16GB): Best for graphics-heavy everyday tasks

GMKtec M6 Ultra mini PC (16GB), mini PCs under 500 dollars
8.6/10Our score
  • Ryzen 5 7640HS
  • 16GB DDR5 memory, expandable to 128GB
  • 512GB SSD
  • USB4 and three-display support

The Ryzen 5 7640HS and Radeon 760M graphics target buyers who want more headroom for multitasking and moderate gaming. Its memory and storage can be expanded, with upgrades sold separately.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Memory can expand to 128GB
  • Two M.2 SSD slots
  • USB4 and triple-display support

Cons

  • Upgrades are not included
  • Check the exact port and display requirements for your setup

The GMKtec M6 Ultra suits buyers who want more graphics headroom and upgrade options. Its Ryzen 5 7640HS pairs 6 cores and 12 threads with Radeon 760M integrated graphics.

This 16GB version uses DDR5 memory that can expand to 128GB. The 512GB SSD can be joined by additional storage through its two M.2 slots, with upgrades sold separately.

GMKtec says the Radeon 760M can handle moderate gaming and supports hardware encoding and decoding for common video codecs. It also supports three displays, including USB4, HDMI and DisplayPort connections.

Choose it if your workload includes multitasking, casual gaming or media work and you may expand memory later. Check which display outputs and resolutions your monitors need before you connect them.

GMKtec M6 Ultra mini PC (16GB)Check it on Amazon
5

GEEKOM A5 mini PC: Best for a multi-screen workstation

GEEKOM A5 mini PC, mini PCs under 500 dollars
8.6/10Our score
  • Ryzen 7 7730U
  • 16GB memory, expandable to 64GB
  • 256GB NVMe SSD
  • Support for up to four displays

Dual HDMI and dual USB-C connections support up to four displays, while dual-slot memory can expand to 64GB. Its starting storage is modest, but the A5 has additional storage expansion options.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Up to four display connections
  • Memory can expand to 64GB
  • Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5Gb Ethernet

Cons

  • 256GB SSD may be limiting
  • Verify the current configuration and warranty terms

The GEEKOM A5 is a good fit for a desk with several monitors or accessories. Dual HDMI and dual USB-C ports support up to four displays, with the brand specifying up to 8K output over USB-C.

Its Ryzen 7 7730U has 8 cores and 16 threads, alongside 16GB of DDR4 memory and a 256GB NVMe SSD. The memory can expand to 64GB, and the A5 has additional storage options if you need more room later.

Wi-Fi 6 and a 2.5Gb Ethernet port cover wireless and wired networking. Its compact 0.6-liter chassis is designed to fit behind a monitor or in a small workstation.

Choose the A5 if multi-screen support and upgrade flexibility matter more than a large SSD in the starting configuration. Confirm the exact configuration and warranty terms for the unit you plan to buy.

GEEKOM A5 mini PCCheck it on Amazon

The Beelink SER5 MAX is another strong home desk option, with a Ryzen 7 7735U and 24GB of LPDDR5 memory. A 500GB SSD gives you room for apps and files, while HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C support three screens.

Beelink describes the system for home and office use, including web browsing, presentations and creative apps. Its Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4 and 2.5G LAN provide several ways to connect.

The memory is built in, so choose the capacity you expect to need rather than planning an upgrade. The auto power-on setup requires contacting Beelink with the unit's barcode for instructions.

Choose it if you want 24GB memory and three display outputs without needing a memory upgrade. If auto power-on matters to your setup, factor in that extra setup step.

Beelink SER5 MAX mini PCCheck it on Amazon
7

GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 mini PC: Best for extra built-in storage

GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 mini PC, mini PCs under 500 dollars
8.4/10Our score
  • Intel Core i7-1185G7
  • 16GB DDR4 memory, expandable to 64GB
  • 1TB NVMe SSD
  • Two HDMI ports

The 1TB SSD gives this GMKtec more built-in storage than most picks here. It also has two HDMI ports and a USB-C video output for up to three screens.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 1TB NVMe SSD
  • Memory can expand to 64GB
  • Three display outputs

Cons

  • Older 11th-generation Intel processor
  • Confirm expansion limits for the second drive slot

The GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 model stands out for its 1TB NVMe SSD. It also includes 16GB of DDR4 memory, which can expand to 64GB.

The processor is an 11th-generation Intel Core i7 with 4 cores and 8 threads. For displays, two HDMI ports and USB-C can drive up to three screens.

GMKtec lists a second drive slot for storage expansion, alongside the installed M.2 2280 SSD. Check the supported drive type and capacity before planning an upgrade.

Choose this pick if you want more built-in storage for documents, downloads and media. If your priority is a newer processor platform or gaming graphics, compare it with the Ryzen options above.

GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 mini PCCheck it on Amazon

The Beelink Mini S13 is the simple pick for web browsing, office apps, streaming and video calls. Its Intel N150 processor has 4 cores and 4 threads, and the compact chassis measures 115 x 102 x 41 mm.

It connects to a 4K display over HDMI and includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Two 2.5G LAN ports are useful if you need wired network connections.

The details here do not specify its memory or storage capacity, so check the exact configuration before buying. That matters if you plan to keep many files locally or run demanding apps.

Choose the Mini S13 for light daily tasks and a small footprint. For editing, gaming or heavy multitasking, a Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 5 model gives you more clearly described processing and graphics features.

Beelink Mini S13 mini PCCheck it on Amazon
9

Bosgame E5 11 Pro mini PC (1TB): Best for a large SSD on a budget

Bosgame E5 11 Pro mini PC (1TB), mini PCs under 500 dollars
7.9/10Our score
  • Ryzen 5300U
  • 16GB DDR4 memory
  • 1TB NVMe SSD
  • Triple-display output

The E5 11 Pro pairs 16GB of memory with a 1TB SSD and supports three displays. Its Ryzen 5300U has four cores and eight threads, making it a straightforward option for everyday tasks.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 1TB SSD
  • Storage expansion up to 4TB
  • Three display outputs

Cons

  • Four-core processor
  • Confirm warranty coverage and configuration before buying

The Bosgame E5 11 Pro provides a 1TB NVMe SSD and 16GB of DDR4 memory. Its Ryzen 5300U has 4 cores and 8 threads, and storage can expand up to 4TB.

HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C allow up to three displays at 4K resolution. The system also has two gigabit Ethernet ports and a mix of USB-A connections.

This is a practical everyday pick for office work, streaming and lighter tasks where the larger SSD is useful. Its four-core processor is a more modest fit than the Ryzen 7 options for heavy multitasking.

Choose it if storage capacity matters more than having the fastest processor in this group. Confirm the configuration and warranty coverage for your intended purchase.

Bosgame E5 11 Pro mini PC (1TB)Check it on Amazon

How do you compare a mini PC under 500 dollars?

The best way to compare mini PCs under 500 dollars is to match the processor, memory, storage and ports to your actual workload. A model with extra display outputs may be useful for spreadsheets, while a large SSD matters more if you keep files on the computer.

ProductBest forProcessorMemoryStorageOur score
ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PCmultitasking and light gamingAMD Ryzen 7 7735HS24GB LPDDR5512GB SSD8.8
GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PCwired networking and upgradesAMD Ryzen 7 7730U16GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB512GB PCIe SSD8.7
ACEMAGIC K1 mini PCa tidy home officeAMD Ryzen 3 7330U Pro16GB LPDDR4256GB SSD8.7
GMKtec M6 Ultra mini PC (16GB)graphics-heavy everyday tasksAMD Ryzen 5 7640HS16GB DDR5, expandable to 128GB512GB PCIe SSD8.6
GEEKOM A5 mini PCa multi-screen workstationAMD Ryzen 7 7730U16GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB256GB NVMe SSD8.6
Beelink SER5 MAX mini PCthree-screen home useAMD Ryzen 7 7735U24GB LPDDR5500GB SSD8.5
GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 mini PCextra built-in storageIntel Core i7-1185G716GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB1TB NVMe SSD8.4
Beelink Mini S13 mini PCbrowsing and streamingIntel N150Configuration varies; confirm before buyingConfiguration varies; confirm before buying8.3
Bosgame E5 11 Pro mini PC (1TB)a large SSD on a budgetAMD Ryzen 5300U16GB DDR41TB NVMe SSD, expandable to 4TB7.9

For everyday browsing, email and office apps, the Beelink Mini S13 has the simplest described workload target. For more room to keep several apps open, compare the 24GB ACEMAGIC K1 and Beelink SER5 MAX configurations.

Memory capacity is only part of the choice. Some systems use onboard memory that cannot be upgraded, while GMKtec's M5 Ultra and M6 Ultra support memory expansion.

Storage also varies widely in this group, from 256GB to 1TB at the starting configuration. If you work with large video or photo files, read our guide to mini PCs with 32GB of memory to compare higher memory options.

Which specs matter most for a budget mini PC?

For a budget mini PC, prioritize enough memory for your apps, a processor that fits the workload and the right display connections. Storage and networking come next, especially if you keep files locally or use wired internet.

What processor should you choose in a mini PC under 500 dollars?

The processor should match the most demanding tasks you run regularly. The Ryzen 7 7735HS and Ryzen 7 7730U picks have 8 cores and 16 threads, while the Intel N150 in the Mini S13 is aimed at lighter tasks.

For casual games or graphics work, compare the integrated graphics descriptions too. The ACEMAGIC K1 has Radeon 680M graphics, and the GMKtec M6 Ultra has Radeon 760M graphics.

How much memory and storage do you need?

For general office work and browsing, 16GB is a useful starting point in this selection, while 24GB gives more room for multitasking. If your apps use large files or many browser tabs, consider systems with upgradeable memory such as the GMKtec M5 Ultra or M6 Ultra.

A 256GB SSD may be enough for apps and documents, but a 512GB or 1TB drive leaves more room for local files. The GEEKOM A5 and ACEMAGIC K1 with Ryzen 3 also have stated storage expansion options.

Which ports should your mini PC have?

Check every port against the monitor, network cable and accessories you plan to use. HDMI is common across these picks, while DisplayPort and USB-C video output can add screen choices.

For two or three monitors, compare the exact output combinations and resolution support. Our guide to mini PCs with 2 HDMI ports explains what to check if you specifically need two HDMI connections.

Is a mini PC under 500 dollars enough for home use?

Yes, a mini PC under 500 dollars can suit common home tasks such as browsing, email, office work, streaming and video calls. The best fit depends on whether you need extra processing power, local storage, upgrade options or a small unit behind your monitor.

The Beelink Mini S13 targets light work and streaming. For more demanding multitasking, the 24GB ACEMAGIC K1 or Beelink SER5 MAX have more memory, while the GMKtec M6 Ultra adds upgradeable DDR5 memory and Radeon 760M graphics.

Consider the full setup as well as the mini PC. You may need a monitor, keyboard, mouse and speakers if you do not already have them, and the computer itself does not include a built-in display.

If you're still deciding whether this form factor fits your routine, read should I buy a mini PC?. It covers the tradeoffs between a compact desktop and other computer types.

Which mini PC under 500 dollars should you choose?

Choose the ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS for a strong mix of memory, storage and three display outputs. Pick the GMKtec M5 Ultra if you want upgradeable memory and dual 2.5G Ethernet, or the Mini S13 if your needs are mostly browsing and streaming.

The GEEKOM A5 fits a multi-screen workstation, while the GMKtec Core i7-1185G7 model offers a 1TB SSD. To focus on lower-cost everyday systems, see our best affordable mini PC picks and compare the configurations against your desk setup.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PC
    Best for multitasking and light gaming

    ACEMAGIC K1 Ryzen 7 7735HS mini PC

    8.8/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PC
    Best for wired networking and upgrades

    GMKtec M5 Ultra mini PC

    8.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 ACEMAGIC K1 mini PC
    Best for a tidy home office

    ACEMAGIC K1 mini PC

    8.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

Can you get a good mini PC under 500 dollars?

Yes. Several mini PCs under 500 dollars offer enough memory and storage for everyday work, and some add features such as triple-display output or upgradeable memory.

Compare the processor, memory type, SSD capacity and ports for your workload.

A low price alone does not show whether a system can handle your apps.

What should I prioritize in a mini PC under 500 dollars?

Start with the work you do most. For many browser tabs and office apps, look for a capable processor and at least 16GB of memory; for photo or video files, storage capacity and expansion options matter too.

Check the display ports and network connections against the monitors and accessories you already own.

Are budget mini PCs good for gaming?

Some can handle casual games, but integrated graphics and cooling vary by model. The ACEMAGIC K1 with Ryzen 7 7735HS and the GMKtec M6 Ultra with Radeon 760M are the picks here with graphics features described for light or moderate gaming.

Check the requirements for the specific games you play before choosing a compact PC.

Can you upgrade a mini PC later?

It depends on the model. The GMKtec M5 Ultra and M6 Ultra support memory upgrades, while the ACEMAGIC K1 with Ryzen 3 7330U has non-expandable memory.

Storage expansion also differs, so confirm the available slots and supported drive sizes before planning a later upgrade.

Is a mini PC under 500 dollars enough for home use?

For browsing, email, office work, streaming and video calls, many budget mini PCs have suitable features. The Beelink Mini S13 is aimed at lighter work, while Ryzen 7 options offer more headroom for multitasking.

See our guide to mini computers for everyday home use for help matching a computer to your routine.