While it’s thrilling to explore the newest PC hardware such as NVIDIA’s $2,000 GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition graphics card, I don’t find it appealing to compose articles on the same computer that I utilize during my leisure time. My large Windows 11 files and folders are well-managed, seldom appearing in unwanted locations, but there’s a unique sense of peace at the end of the workday when an automatic shutdown occurs, marking the transition from work to relaxation.
To this day, I continue to believe that the “optimal” Windows 11 experience is typically encountered on laptops rather than desktop computers due to the availability of touchscreens, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity as standard, and a practical application for power-saving strategies that strive to harmonize with unstable sleep and hibernate modes. Granted, Microsoft needs to make significant advancements in this area, but I seem to have neglected a third possibility.
Through various trials, my team and I have found the Beelink SER9 and Geekom A8|A7 mini PCs to be exceptional choices among many we’ve tested. Despite having previously tried Geekom’s earlier models myself, I harbored doubts about their ability to meet my requirements or replace my longstanding preferences for a desktop PC environment. However, my initial skepticism was challenged when a specific event triggered an insightful realization. Most of this hesitance stemmed from my reluctance to embrace the unfamiliar, but that mindset began to shift.
Mini PCs vs. laptops and docking stations
After trying out various Windows laptops, including some top-tier models that were fun at times but not suitable for regular work use due to being overly expensive, I found myself drawn to the Lenovo Slim 7i 14 (Gen 9) more than any other. Despite its slim design and simple look, it impressed me greatly. It boasted an OLED touchscreen, face-recognition login via Windows Hello, and a convenient mix of USB-A, USB-C, HDMI-out ports, and a side-mounted power button – a feature that some colleagues find controversial but I enjoy.
This laptop traveled with me for numerous public events, and over time, it became my preferred device for my home office as all settings were customized to my liking. One of its best features was that it didn’t clutter with personal files, images, or games on the desktop and Start menu; it functioned purely for work purposes. With two monitors and room for a separate mouse and keyboard, why wouldn’t I connect this laptop to my workstation setup? Let me elucidate.
Unlike Lenovo’s ThinkPad series, which allows external power button functionality even with the lid closed, Lenovo’s ‘Slim’ laptops do not. This means that while you can still utilize an external monitor through its HDMI port or multiple monitors with a Thunderbolt 4 docking station when the laptop is closed, you will need to manually open it to wake from sleep or power up from a complete shutdown. This can be inconvenient, especially for those who prefer using a basic $20 laptop stand like UGREEN’s and keeping the device vertical to save space.
The constant issues I encounter with this device make me hesitant to keep it on my desk permanently. Instead, I find myself resorting back to a high-performance gaming PC for all my work needs. If the only ways to use the laptop are by leaving it open with no activity or repeatedly connecting and disconnecting it from various USB hubs and display docks, then it’s not worth the hassle. To top it off, these recurring inconveniences disrupt my workspace’s balance and harmony, which affects my overall productivity. In short, it throws off my workspace’s feng shui.
Geekom’s high-spec but miniature solutions
Wishing I had more connectivity options and an effortless method to run a second computer without juggling numerous cables, I found that a compact Windows PC could address most of my problems, particularly one equipped with at least two HDMI outputs and ample RAM to smoothly operate Google Chrome. While the Geekom A6 at approximately $449 might suffice, the high-end A8 Max stands out, featuring AMD’s Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, an integrated NPU, 32GB of RAM, and additional USB ports, making it more advantageous for my needs.
Overlooking mini PCs might be a mistake. They offer a unique alternative, sandwiched between desktops and laptops, and I can vouch for their quality, as I am quite satisfied with my own mini PC.
Personally, I’d like to shed some light on the Geekom A8 Max, which retails at approximately $1,000. It’s not my intention to suggest that everyone should splurge on this high-end mini PC. Instead, it caters to enthusiasts and power users who demand top performance for their needs. This powerhouse is designed to last for years without the fear of running out of storage space or needing additional RAM.
For many Windows users, opting for a more affordable alternative like the Geekom A6, which scores highly at around $450, would still be a wise choice. The A6 offers an array of I/O options, such as dual HDMI-out ports for connecting external displays, ensuring you can still enjoy a wealth of connectivity without breaking the bank.
I’ve set up my accessories using a USB hub on the Alienware AW2723DF monitor, and I’ve connected the rear USB-C ports of the A8 Max for two displays through HDMI cables. Additionally, I have an Ethernet cable linked to the 2.5G LAN port for stable wired networking. Overall, it’s a fantastic setup, but there’s one thing missing – a reliable power button that functions as intended. That would be perfect!
Let me emphasize: Don’t underestimate mini PCs! They offer a unique, midway alternative between desktops and laptops that often goes unnoticed. I’ve personally found immense satisfaction with my mini PC. Despite its small size, it has an internal cooling fan to manage heat stress effectively, but for the most part, it operates silently on my desk. The majority of my work involves using a single browser app with an almost comical number of Chrome tabs open.
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2025-02-06 17:10