Best mini PCs for gaming — from AAA gaming to budget cloud gaming, our top tested recommendations

Best Mini PCs for Gaming

Mini PCs can be a great way to save money on gaming if you choose the right model and know how to use it effectively. Compared to gaming laptops and desktops, these compact systems are cheaper, take up far less space, and can still deliver impressive gaming performance.

Cloud Gaming and Mini PCs

Cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming allow users to enjoy high frame rates in the latest gaming titles on affordable mini PCs. This approach removes the need for expensive hardware while still providing smooth gameplay experiences.

Dedicated Gaming Mini PCs

For those who prefer local gaming over the cloud, several mini PCs come equipped with powerful components to run demanding AAA games. Windows Central tested multiple models to identify the best ones for various use cases, from top-tier performance to budget-friendly setups.

HP Ryzen AI Max Pro Recommendation

HP managed to create a small AI computer that still packs plenty of power to handle local AAA gaming.

This HP configuration, featuring a Ryzen AI Max Pro processor, Radeon 8040S GPU, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, provides excellent performance in a compact chassis. It also includes multiple connectivity options, such as a wired Ethernet port, making it both versatile and affordable compared to other dedicated gaming miniature systems.


Author's summary: Compact yet powerful, modern mini PCs like HP Ryzen AI Max Pro redefine affordable gaming, offering both cloud and local performance options in a small form factor.

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Windows Central Windows Central — 2025-11-06