Best Mini PC for Emulation of 2024

best mini pc for emulation

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Are you a retro gaming enthusiast who loves to revisit your favorite classic games from years past?

Or perhaps you’re a gamer who wants to experience the best of both worlds by playing modern titles and old-school classics.

Whatever your motivation may be, one thing is clear: emulation is becoming increasingly popular among gamers of all types.

What is Emulation?

For those unfamiliar with the concept, emulation involves using specialized software to mimic the functionality of video game consoles or computers of the past. By doing so, players can run classic games on modern hardware, opening up a world of possibilities for gaming enthusiasts.

Not only can you play games from consoles that are no longer in production, but you can also take advantage of advanced features like save states, enhanced graphics, and even online multiplayer.

However, to truly get the most out of emulation, you need a reliable and powerful computer capable of running demanding emulators smoothly. And that’s where mini PCs come into play.

What to Look for in a Mini PC for Emulation

With so many mini PCs available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your emulation needs. That’s why it’s important to consider several key factors when making your decision.

Processor

The processor is the brain of any computer, and it plays a crucial role in running emulators smoothly.

When it comes to choosing a mini PC for emulation, you should look for a processor that has multiple cores and high clock speeds.

This will ensure that your mini PC can handle demanding emulators without any lag or slowdowns.

RAM

Random Access Memory (RAM) is another important component to consider when choosing a mini PC for emulation.

The more RAM your computer has, the smoother and faster it will run. Aim for at least 8GB of RAM, but if you plan on running multiple emulators at once, consider upgrading to 16GB or more.

Storage

Emulation software and game ROMs can take up a lot of storage space, so it’s important to choose a mini PC with ample storage.

Solid State Drives (SSDs) are faster and more reliable than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), so consider opting for an SSD if possible.

Graphics Card

While not as important as the processor or RAM, a powerful graphics card can improve the performance of certain emulators and enhance the visuals of classic games.

Look for a mini PC with a powerful graphics card, such as an Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon, for the best experience.

Compatibility

Not all emulators work seamlessly with all mini PCs, so it’s important to check the compatibility of your chosen mini PC with popular emulators and game controllers.

Make sure to research which emulators work best with your specific mini PC before making a purchase.

5 Best Mini PC for Emulation

When it comes to choosing the best mini PC for emulation, there are plenty of options available. However, some stand out from the rest due to their performance, affordability, and compatibility with popular emulators. Here are our top 5 picks:

1. GEEKOM MiniAir 11 Mini PC

  • 11th Gen Intel Celeron N5095
  • Intel UHD Graphics 605
  • 8GB DDR4 RAM
  • 256GB M.2 2280 SSD
  • Wi-Fi 5
  • Windows 11 Pro

The MiniAir 11 is a small and affordable computer that’s perfect for emulation. While it may not be as powerful as other mini PCs on this list, it can still run many popular emulators and games smoothly. Plus, its low price makes it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.

2. GEEKOM Mini IT8 SE

  • 11th Gen Intel Celeron N5095
  • Intel UHD Graphics 605
  • 8GB DDR4 RAM
  • 256GB M.2 2280 SSD
  • Wi-Fi 5
  • Windows 11 Pro

The Mini IT8 SE Mini PC is another budget-friendly option that’s great for emulation. It features an Intel Core™ i3-8109U processor, 8GB of RAM, and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655. Its compact size and low price make it a popular choice for those looking for a basic mini PC for emulation.

3. GEEKOM Mini IT8

  • 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8279U
  • Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655
  • 16GB DDR4 RAM
  • 512GB M.2 2280 SSD
  • Wi-Fi 5
  • Windows 11 Pro

The Mini IT8 is a versatile mini PC that can handle emulation with ease. It comes with an 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8109U processor, up to 32 GB of DDR4 memory, and various storage options. Additionally, it has an IntelIris Plus Graphics card, making it suitable for most emulators.

4. GEEKOM Mini IT11

  • 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1195G7
  • Intel Iris Xe
  • Up to 32GB DDR4
  • 1TB M.2 2280 SSD
  • Wi-Fi 6
  • Windows 11 Pro

The Mini IT11 is a powerful mini PC that’s perfect for emulation. It features an 11th gen Intel Core i7 processor, Intel Iris Xe graphics, up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, and built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. It also has multiple USB ports and supports up to three displays.

5. GEEKOM Mini IT12

  • 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics eligible
  • 16GB DDR4 RAM
  • 512GB M.2 2280 SSD
  • Wi-Fi 6E
  • Windows 11 Pro

The Mini IT12 is a high-end mini PC perfect for demanding emulators. It features a 12th gen Intel Core i7 processor, Intel® Iris® Xe graphics, up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port. It’s also VR-ready, making it a great option for modern gaming as well.

Conclusion

Emulation is a great way to revisit classic games and experience gaming history. With the right mini PC, you can run even the most demanding emulators with ease and enjoy a seamless gaming experience.

So why wait? So why wait? Order your GEEKOM Mini PC today and start gaming like a pro!

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