Crafted a Compact Gaming PC to Showcase Console-Free Gaming Capabilities
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, a new trend has emerged that caters to both console and PC enthusiasts alike: mini console PCs. These compact powerhouses offer console-like gaming quality while providing the flexibility and power of a personal computer, all packed into a small, space-saving form factor.
One such example is the author's mini console PC, which boasts an Intel Core i7-11700K CPU and Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU, housed in a sleek and compact Deepcool CH160 case (though it should be noted that this case is not available in the US).
The author's careful choice of hardware ensures that the mini console PC can handle 1080p and 1440p gaming at 60FPS or more, with occasional DLSS support for heavier games. The Nvidia RTX 4060, specifically a compact single-fan model from Zotac, delivers impressive performance in real-world gaming, even surpassing expectations with titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.
The storage solution for the new build includes a low-capacity Samsung NVMe SSD for booting Windows and a 2TB Kingston SSD for the game library, providing ample space for a growing library of games. The motherboard for the new build is a Gigabyte Z590 mini-ITX, offering a solid foundation for the mini console PC's components.
For those who appreciate the freedom and flexibility of PC gaming, these mini console PCs offer a compelling alternative to traditional gaming consoles. The author, for instance, prefers the flexibility and freedom of PC gaming over the plug-and-play solution of consoles, citing limited upgrade paths, overpriced games, higher costs for online services, and never-ending performance vs. fidelity debates as reasons for his preference.
Moreover, the mini console PC delivers more versatility than a brand-new console at a lower cost. With the mini console PC, the author can tweak settings, install mods, emulate older consoles, and stream content without juggling multiple boxes or subscriptions. This versatility makes the mini console PC an attractive option for those seeking a gaming device that does more than just play games.
For DIY enthusiasts, older small form factor PCs like the HP Elite Desk can be converted into dedicated inexpensive retro gaming consoles loaded with thousands of games using open-source emulators and software like Batocera. This provides an affordable and customizable option for those who enjoy tinkering with their hardware.
In comparison to handheld gaming systems, these mini PCs offer far more processing power, upgradeability, and a more traditional PC gaming experience similar or superior to current-gen consoles but in a smaller, space-saving form factor.
Overall, these mini console PC builds deliver console-like gaming quality but with the flexibility and power of PCs packed into compact cases designed to fit in living rooms or take on the go. They are ideal for gamers who want a small footprint device that can do more than just gaming, such as media consumption, streaming, and productivity.
References:
- Asus ROG NUC 970
- Framework Desktop
- Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT
- HP Elite Desk
- Batocera
- The author's mini console PC, with its technology like the Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU, provides gadgets that deliver console-like gaming quality but with the flexibility and power of a personal computer.
- In the ever-evolving world of gaming, these mini console PCs equipped with advanced hardware and gadgets offer more versatility and upgradeability compared to handheld gaming systems.
