If you want to perform AI tasks such as generating images, enhancing videos, analysing text, or generating code, you need the right PC to handle them. While you may think you need a large and expensive computer for this, there are plenty of mini PCs that are up to the challenge and can handle a variety of AI tasks without an issue.
With that in mind, this guide covers some of the best mini PCs for AI and the factors to consider when choosing one.
GEEKOM’s Top Computers for AI
Best for Intensive and High-Performance Tasks: GEEKOM IT15
Best for Large Datasets and Complex Models: GEEKOM A9 Max
Best for Optimal AI Connectivity: GEEKOM GT1 Mega
Best for Intensive and High-Performance Tasks: GEEKOM IT15
If you’re looking for an AI PC that’s perfectly-suited for intensive tasks, consider the GEEKOM IT15. It has a hybrid processor that offers incredible speed and efficiency, and also features an AI boost that accelerates text-to-image conversion by 71%.
The computer also features a Full Throttle Mode that enables CPU, GPU, and AI to work in harmony, handling up to 50 concurrent design tasks with no lag. It’s quite capable right out of the box, but many components are also upgradable. For example, the storage is expandable to 6TB, and you can get up to 64GB of RAM.
It also packs all of this power into a compact design that’s well under 2% of the size of a standard mid-tower PC, so you can be sure it’ll fit into any setup or workstation.
To ensure the computer continues to perform well and stays cool during intensive tasks, the IT15 also features an optimal cooling system. The IceBlast 2.0 system features low-noise fans, dual heat pipes, and a large heatsink to keep the components from overheating.
Specifications
- Intel® Core™ 9-285H Processor + ARC 140T Graphics — Desktop-level performance, easily handling AI tasks, 4K editing, and gaming. It handles even heavy workloads with ease. Next-Generation Connectivity, Always Fast.
- Wi-Fi 7 + 2.5G Ethernet + Bluetooth 5.4 — Lightning-fast, lag-free connectivity for remote work, online collaboration, and smooth streaming, saying goodbye to signal interruptions.
- 32GB DDR5 memory (up to 64GB) + up to 6TB of storage — providing both speed and capacity for large files, multitasking, and long-term use. Easily upgrade as your needs grow.
- USB 4.0 Port (40Gbps) — Thunderbolt-level speeds, dual 8K display output, and external GPU support — Say goodbye to bulky OCuLink setups.
Pros
- Contains a hybrid processor with NPU acceleration
- Several upgradable components
- Solid cooling system to maintain performance and reduce heat
Cons
- It may be too expensive for some people on a budget
Best for Large Datasets and Complex Models: GEEKOM A9 Max
If you’re dealing with large datasets and complex models, the GEEKOM A9 Max is right up your alley. It has dual ultra-fast SSD slots that offer expandable storage up to 8TB, enough for even heavy users.
But in addition to storage capacity, the computer also offers smooth performance and responsiveness. It has a powerful CPU and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), designed to handle AI tasks more efficiently than a standard CPU.
The memory is also a strong point, as the computer offers upgradable RAM up to 128GB, which is great for multitasking and managing multiple projects or models at once. This is great for AI tasks but also helps the computer excel in a variety of other areas, including gaming, work, stock trading, and video editing.
The A9 Max is also well-made and features a full-metal chassis that can endure up to 200kg (around 440lbs) of pressure without bending. It also undergoes hundreds of tests to ensure it delivers lasting reliability and performance. This includes vibration testing, extreme-temperature testing, USB plug-cycle testing, and more.
- AI: CPU/NPU/GPU triple-engine synergy, up to 80 TOPS computing power, high efficiency, low power consumption, and ultra-fast responsiveness
- High-Speed Storage: DDR5 memory (up to 128GB) and dual M.2 slots (2280+2230) supporting up to 8 TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage expansion
- Dual USB4 Ports (Rival OCuLink): Unlock next-generation connectivity. Dual USB4 ports offer Thunderbolt-speed data transfer (40Gbps), dual 8K display output, and support for external graphics cards, effectively replacing OCuLink ports.
Pros
- Huge storage capacity
- Well-built and durable design
- Smooth performance and responsiveness, both in and out of AI tasks
Cons
- Only a single CPU and graphics option
Best for Optimal AI Connectivity: GEEKOM GT1 Mega
If you need a PC with exceptional connectivity and versatility, the GT1 Mega may be the best option. It has dual LAN ports, numerous USB ports (including two USB4 ports), two HDMI ports, and several others to ensure your experience is as versatile as possible. You can also take advantage of both WiFI 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 with the GT1.
In addition to providing comprehensive connectivity, this computer is powered by a CPU, GPU, and NPU three-tier multi-processing architecture that helps execute AI tasks faster and with greater flexibility. It also supports smart resource allocation and is compatible not only with Windows but also with other operating systems, such as Linux.
This computer is also among the best AI deep learning workstations, as it supports several 4K screens at once to ensure you can multitask with ease. It’s also incredibly compact and easy to fit in your workstation. Even if you’re short on desk space, the computer comes with a VESA mount that lets you mount this mini PC to the back of one of your monitors.
Specifications
- Intel Ultra 9 + 1.4GHz AI NPU
- Intel Arc Graphics (Ray Tracing + XeSS)
- 8 USB Ports + Abundant I/O Interfaces
- 32GB DDR5 RAM (upgradeable to 64GB) + up to 4TB storage
- Dual USB4 (40Gbps) ports
Pros
- Comprehensive and versatile port options
- Powered by an AI-boosted CPU and high-speed RAM
- Compatible with a variety of operating systems
Cons
- Not as much storage as some other options
What to Consider When Choosing a Mini PC for AI
Before you decide which mini PC to buy, here are a few important things to keep in mind.
Processing Power and Graphics
First, how well a computer handles tasks often depends on its processing power and graphical capabilities. In terms of the processor, you should look for high core counts and threads, as well as fast clock speeds.
When deciding between two of the big players, Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen AI, make sure to evaluate not only the power but also the user experience that each offers. Also, consider a CPU with an integrated NPU.
For graphics, choose a graphics card with high memory bandwidth that offers plenty of video random access memory (VRAM). VRAM is especially important for AI-related tasks as it provides incredibly fast storage for models, quicker processing, and better performance in general.
Also, it’s a good idea to spend some time understanding AI computing power in general, so you can become more familiar with what to look out for when evaluating mini PC options.
Memory
A Mini PC’s RAM also plays an important role in successfully handling these tasks. It not only helps quickly load datasets but also prevents bottlenecks. Generally, look for at least 16GB of RAM, but some advanced tasks may be better with even more.
While VRAM is often more important for AI than RAM, if you ever run out of VRAM, the system RAM itself will take over, so you want to ensure you have enough so the performance dip isn’t too steep.
Cooling and Thermals
With many of these functions being quite intensive, you need to ensure your PC is up to the task of keeping components cool. This is especially true for a mini PC, as all of these components are cramped fairly close together in a small case.
Without proper cooling in place, your mini PC may suffer from performance drops, freeze, crash, or even drastically shorten the lifespan of the various components inside the machine. If you’re not careful, overheating may also cause permanent damage or failure.
As a result, look for a computer that features a cooling system that includes things like fans, heat pipes, heatsinks, and proper airflow to ensure you can keep it cool even during the most demanding tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What PC Do You Need for AI?
For a PC to work well with these tasks, look for a computer with an adequate processor, strong graphical capabilities, enough storage for your needs, and plenty of RAM. Also, consider looking for a computer with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which can efficiently handle tasks without overwhelming the CPU and GPU.
Do I Need a Powerful CPU for AI?
While it depends on your needs, some less-powerful CPUs may still work for AI-related tasks, as long as these tasks are relatively basic or the models are small. If you want to take on more advanced and heavy tasks, a more powerful CPU may be helpful. Also, keep in mind that it’s often the GPU or NPU that does a lot of the heavy lifting.
Mini PCs Enable High-Performance AI Processing in Small Form Factors
Whether you plan on using a mini PC for basic or advanced AI tasks, it’s vital to buy one with enough processing power, graphical capabilities, RAM, and a proper cooling system in place. Thankfully, GEEKOM has a selection of mini PCs to handle these tasks with ease.
The IT15 is capable of taking on intensive and demanding work, the A9 Max offers maximised storage space for even the largest datasets and models, and the GT1 Mega provides plenty of ports and useful connectivity options.
