Are you fed up with the limitations of your TV? Eager to turn your TV into a smart TV?
As more people have such thoughts, the demand for mini PCs that can do this has also increased.
However, with so many Mini PCs on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your needs.
In this article, we’ll be sharing a detailed guide to help you find the best mini PC for your TV.
Introduction to Mini PCs
Mini PCs are revolutionising the way we think about computing by delivering impressive performance in a remarkably small form factor. Unlike traditional desktop computers, mini PCs are designed to fit seamlessly into any environment, whether it’s your living room, office, or entertainment centre. Their compact design makes them easy to place behind a monitor or TV, saving valuable space without sacrificing functionality.
The best mini PCs, such as the Apple Mac Mini, pack high-performance processors, generous storage options, and a variety of connectivity options—including USB ports, HDMI, and Wi-Fi—into a device that’s often no bigger than a paperback book. This makes them ideal for home entertainment, light gaming, and even productivity tasks. Whether you’re looking for a compact pc to stream movies, browse the web, or handle office work, mini PCs offer a flexible and efficient solution that meets the needs of modern users.
Benefits of Using a Mini PC with a TV
Pairing a mini pc with your TV opens up a world of possibilities, transforming your television into a versatile entertainment and productivity hub. With the right mini pc, you can easily stream your favourite shows and movies, play games, browse the web, and access a wide range of apps—all from the comfort of your couch. Thanks to multiple USB ports, connecting peripherals like external drives, game controllers, or wireless keyboards is a breeze.
Mini PCs are designed for smooth playback of high-quality videos, ensuring a seamless TV experience without lag or buffering. Their user-friendly interface makes navigation simple, even for those new to computers. Plus, their compact size means you can save space in your living room or media centre, while their energy-efficient design helps keep power consumption low. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home entertainment setup or boost your productivity, a mini pc offers the flexibility and convenience you need.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mini PC for TV
Size and Form Factor
The size and form factor of a mini PC are crucial because they determine its compatibility with your TV. Most mini PCs come in small form factors, making them easy to install behind or next to your TV. When comparing the smallest mini PC options, you’ll find that compact PCs and small PCs are ideal for tight spaces or minimalist setups, offering high performance and expandability in a space-saving design. However, some mini PCs may be too large or bulky, making it challenging to integrate them with your TV.
Processor and Performance:
The processor and performance are crucial factors to consider when selecting a mini PC for a TV. A high-end mini pc can rival the performance of a standard pc or traditional desktop computer for demanding tasks such as gaming, streaming, and professional video editing. A fast processor is necessary for the smooth playback of high-quality videos and games. In general, Intel Core i3 or i5 processors are sufficient for most TV use cases.
Graphics Capabilities
The graphics capabilities of a mini PC determine the quality of the visuals displayed on your TV. Support for high-resolution video is essential for enjoying ultra-clear movies and streaming content. While current integrated graphics are more than sufficient to allow you to enjoy content in Full HD or 4K resolution, a dedicated graphics card is necessary for more demanding applications.
Storage and Memory
The storage and memory of the mini PC are crucial as they determine how much content you can store and how fast it can access it. You need a mini PC with plenty of storage space to store your favourite movies, TV shows, and games. Additionally, it should have at least 8GBof RAM to ensure smooth operation. Some mini PCs also allow users to upgrade or replace RAM modules, providing flexibility to enhance performance or customise the system to their needs.
Connectivity Options
The connectivity options of a mini PC are essential as they determine how you can connect to other devices and the internet. A mini PC with multiple connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet, will provide flexibility and convenience when connecting to your TV and other devices.
Operating System
When it comes to choosing the operating system for a mini PC that is designed for use with your TV, there are several options to consider.
- Windows is a full-fledged operating system that can offer access to a wide range of apps and software.
- Linux is a lightweight and customizable option that allows you to install media centre software like Kodi or Plex to use as a streaming device.
- Android TV is designed specifically for use on televisions and streaming devices, making it easy to use and offering built-in support for popular streaming apps.
- macOS is a good choice for those who are already familiar with Apple products and software. It offers seamless integration with other Apple devices and a user-friendly interface.
- Chrome OS is a lightweight and simple option that is ideal for web-based tasks like streaming media.
Price and Value
Finally, you should consider the mini PC’s price and value. Mini PCs can range from budget-friendly to high-end models. If you are looking for the best budget mini PC, several affordable options offer great value for basic streaming and productivity tasks. Keep in mind that the most expensive option may not always be the best option if you just want to use it for TV.
Remember to factor in the cost of any necessary accessories, such as a keyboard or mouse, when calculating the total cost.
Best Mini PCs for TV
Now that we’ve explored the essential factors to consider when selecting a mini PC for TV, let’s review the top devices currently available on the market. This list includes some of the top mini PCs for TV streaming, and each model could be the perfect mini PC for different needs. These devices have been carefully selected based on their specifications, features, and overall value.
| CPU: | 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5-12450H/i7-1280P | |
| Graphics: | Intel UHD Graphics for i5/Intel® Iris® Xe for i7 | |
| Memory: | 16GB/32GB; expandable up to 64GB | |
| Storage: | 512GB/1TB; expandable up to 2TB | |
| Size: | 117 x 112 x 49.2 mm | |
| Connectivity: | 3*USB 3.2, 2*USB 4, 1*USB2, 2*HDMI 2.0, 1 × SD card reader, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 6E |
Mini IT 12 is an excellent mini PC for TV with a powerful 12th Gen Intel Core processor, high-speed Wi-Fi, ample storage capacity, and supports up to 8K resolution. Additionally, it comes with various connectivity options, including USB TYPE-C, HDMI, and Wi-Fi.
| CPU: | AMD Ryzen™ 5 7430U or Ryzen™ 7 5825U |
| Graphics: | AMD Radeon™ Graphics |
| Memory: | 16GB; expandable up to 32GB |
| Storage: | 512GB; expandable up to 2TB |
| Size: | 117 x 112 x 38 mm |
| Connectivity: | 3*USB3.2 Type-A, 2*USB3.2 Type-C, 1*USB2, 2*HDMI 2.0, 1 × SD card reader, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 6 |
GEEKOM A5 Mini PC is a compact yet powerful mini PC that is perfect for home entertainment use. It features an AMD Ryzen™ processor, up to 32GB of RAM, and integrated AMD graphics. Its compact design makes it easy to install and hide, and it also features a variety of connectivity options, such as HDMI and USB Type-C, making it easy to connect to your TV.
| CPU: | 12th Gen Intel®Alder Lake N150 |
| Memory: | 16GB; expandable up to 32GB |
| Storage: | 512GB; expandable up to 2TB |
| Size: | 117 x 112 x 34.2 mm |
| Connectivity: | 3*USB 3.2, 2*USB-C, HDMI 2.0, Mini DP, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 5.2 |
| OS: | Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro |
MiniAir 12 is a budget-friendly mini PC that offers excellent value for money. It features an Intel Alder Lake N150 processor, up to 32GB of RAM, and support for up to three displays. The more critical small form factor makes it easy to install and hide, making it an excellent choice for a TV setup.
Tips for Setting Up Your Mini PC with Your TV
After choosing the best mini PC for your TV, it’s time to set it up. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Choose the Right Connection Method
When connecting your mini PC to your TV, it’s important to choose the right connection method. HDMI is the most common connection method for TVs, but some mini PCs may also have DisplayPort or USB-C outputs. Make sure that the output on your mini PC matches the input on your TV.
2. Set Up Your Display Settings
Once you’ve connected your mini PC to your TV, you’ll need to set up your display settings. This includes adjusting the screen resolution, aspect ratio, and refresh rate to match your TV’s specifications. You may also need to adjust your overscan settings to ensure that the image fits on your TV screen correctly.
3. Install the Right Software
Before you can start using your mini PC with your TV, you’ll need to install the right software. This includes the operating system and any media player software you plan to use. Make sure that your software is compatible with your mini PC and that it’s configured correctly for your TV.
4. Use a Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
Using a wireless keyboard and mouse can make it easier to control your mini PC from your couch. This can be especially useful if you plan to use your mini PC for gaming or media playback.
5. Set up a sound system
If you want to enhance your audio experience, consider setting up a sound system such as a soundbar or surround sound system. Connect the sound system to your TV and configure the audio settings on your mini PC to output sound through the sound system.
Conclusion:
With a mini PC, you can transform your TV into a powerful entertainment centre that can handle anything you throw at it and has more storage space than most smart TVs.
Don’t wait any longer to upgrade your TV experience. Visit GEEKOM today to browse our selection of mini PCs and buy now!
