Optimizing Mini PCs for Gaming: Achieving the Perfect Setup

When it comes to hobbies, PC gaming ranks high on the expense scale. A powerful computer, a high-quality monitor, and various gaming accessories are essential for a seamless experience. Fortunately, cloud gaming has advanced significantly, making affordable cloud PC setups more accessible than ever before. If you’re on the lookout for top Black Friday gaming PC deals or considering holding out for Cyber Monday, a mini PC might just be the option to explore. But, it’s crucial to select the right device for your needs.

In my reviews of numerous gaming accessories and devices, I’ve curated a list highlighting budget-friendly Black Friday deals for establishing an optimal cloud gaming mini PC setup.

Opting for the most affordable options—like a Beelink EQR6 mini PC for $249 from Amazon and an LG UltraGear 27" gaming monitor for $149 at Walmart—you can set up your gaming space for just $399.99. Yet, that’s just the beginning; there are several other routes you might consider.

Best Mini PC for Budget Gaming

There are indeed compact gaming PCs with robust RTX 40-Series GPUs out there, but they tend to be scarce and costly. For instance, my review of the ROG NUC 970 reveals a small yet powerful option featuring an RTX 4060 L, available for $1,399 on Amazon if you’re prepared to invest that much.

A more wallet-friendly gaming setup involves a cost-effective, dependable mini PC suitable for cloud gaming or less demanding titles. With options like Xbox’s "Stream Your Own Game," cloud gaming becomes an increasingly viable choice. Here, powerful servers remotely handle the game’s processing, sending the display to your PC over the internet. The best mini PCs handle less resource-intensive or classic games seamlessly too.

Warning: While there are various affordable mini PCs available, some from questionable brands may include malicious software. Sticking to reputable manufacturers such as ASUS, Lenovo, Intel, Beelink, and Geekom is advised. For more vetted selections, check out our compilation of trusted mini PCs.

Best Gaming Monitors for Mini PCs

Currently, Black Friday monitor deals make it feasible to secure a quality budget option. By opting for a mini PC, you’re already saving, so you might choose to invest in a superior gaming monitor. Regardless, here are some of the best gaming monitors for mini PCs, spanning from budget-friendly to premium options.

PSA: Ensure the monitor you choose aligns with your mini PC’s resolution, refresh rate, response time, and VRR capabilities. For more ideas, explore our guide on top Black Friday deals for gaming monitors.

Best Accessories for Gaming Mini PCs

Having selected your PC and monitor, quality peripherals are the next step for an enhanced gaming experience. We’ve rounded up the best PC gaming accessories for mini PCs, from headsets to mice and keyboards. For more recommendations, have a look at our top PC gaming accessories list.

Why You Should Trust Me

As someone immersed in the gaming world, from the Steam Deck to the ROG Ally, to the Legion Go, I’ve tested several gaming handhelds and continually refine game settings for the best experience. Most nights, you’ll find me unwinding with games on one of these devices before bed.

Build Your Dream Gaming Mini PC Setup

Crafting a dream gaming setup doesn’t require traditional desktops or laptops anymore. With the strides in cloud gaming, a decent mini PC, a fine gaming monitor, a mouse, a keyboard, and a reliable internet connection suffice for an enjoyable gaming experience.

This alternative setup can be considerably cheaper than the traditional gaming desktop or laptop route. However, beware of cheaper mini PC options as they may come with risks, so stick with trusted names like Lenovo, ASUS, Geekom, and Beelink, with Geekom being one of the prominent brands we recommend.

If portability piques your interest, gaming handhelds like the ROG Ally, Legion Go, or Steam Deck might be appealing. With their unique advantages and limitations, they offer flexibility—whether on a couch or during a flight. With a docking station, you can even connect these to a monitor for a desktop-like experience.

What is the Best Budget Gaming PC?

When budget is key, several gaming PC options strike the right balance between performance and cost. Compact desktops, mini PCs, and gaming handhelds typically offer substantial savings compared to full-scale gaming systems.

The Beelink EQR6 stands out as the top budget mini PC, ideal for cloud gaming and equipped with ample ports. Initially priced at $349, it’s now down to $249 on Amazon with a coupon at checkout.

Another solid budget choice is the ROG Ally, a Windows 11 gaming handheld. With its usual price of $649.99, Black Friday has seen it drop to $499.99 at Best Buy.

For desktops, the iBUYPOWER Slate 6 Mesh is a great deal, bundled with the coming Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Typically $1,199.99, you can now snag it for just $699.00 at Walmart.

Can I Use a Gaming Handheld Like a Computer?

Absolutely. Both the ROG Ally and Legion Go are Windows 11-based gaming handhelds. They support keyboard and mouse inputs via docking stations or Bluetooth, allowing them to function much like a laptop. Once set up, they handle browsing, gaming, document creation, and more with ease.

Are Mini PCs Good for Gaming?

It depends on the mini PC in question. Some gaming mini PCs feature RTX 40-Series GPUs, albeit at higher prices. Alternatively, a standard budget mini PC can serve cloud gaming purposes. It’s a money-saving method compared to traditional gaming desktops, enabling access to a vast array of games through various services, so long as you have dependable internet and the right gear.