How we test
Every mini PC we review goes through the same five steps, so the results can be compared.
- 1
Specs, checked
We take the processor, graphics, memory, storage, ports and network from the maker’s own product page, and check them against the unit or the store listing.
- 2
Performance
We put processor speed (one core and all cores) and graphics speed on one simple 1 to 100 scale, so any two machines can be compared.
- 3
A European counterpart
We find the closest machine sold by a European brand or shop, such as Lenovo, HP, Dell or a local retailer, matched on processor class, memory and storage.
- 4
Real prices
We look up prices for your country, with VAT and delivery included, from stores that ship within Europe, and show how much you save against the counterpart.
- 5
Verdict
We say who should buy it and who should skip it, and list three to five pros and cons.
How we score
The performance scale is calculated from published benchmark results for each processor and graphics chip, never typed in by hand. When the formula changes, we publish the new version here.
[Performance scale, version 1: added with the scoring spec]