10 Best mini PC for streaming 2026 in the United States

The Apple 2024 Mac mini with the M4 chip is a powerful and compact desktop well-suited for streaming purposes. Its 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU provide strong performance, making video playback and streaming smooth and responsive. The 24GB of unified memory helps the system handle multitasking easily, which is useful if you’re running streaming apps alongside other programs. Storage comes with a fast 512GB SSD, ensuring quick loading times, though you may want more space if you plan to store lots of large video files locally.

Connectivity is comprehensive, including multiple Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet (with an option for even faster 10Gb Ethernet), and front-facing USB-C ports for easy access. This variety supports connecting multiple monitors or external devices, enhancing streaming setups. The Mac mini’s small size makes it easy to fit into any workspace without taking up much room. Thanks to Apple’s efficient M4 chip and macOS, the device runs quietly and stays cool, making it reliable for long streaming sessions. Its integration with other Apple devices like iPhones and iPads adds convenience if you’re already in the Apple ecosystem.

The Mac mini’s integrated graphics are powerful but not designed for heavy gaming or tasks that require dedicated graphics cards. Also, while 24GB RAM is generous, some advanced streamers who use multiple high-demand apps simultaneously might find it somewhat limiting. The starting 512GB storage may also require external drives for large media libraries. This Mac mini represents an excellent choice for users who want a compact, energy-efficient mini PC that performs well for streaming and general use, especially if they appreciate easy compatibility with other Apple products.

The KAMRUI GK3Plus Mini PC stands out as a compact yet powerful option for streaming and general multimedia use. Its 12th Gen Alder Lake N95 processor provides significant performance improvements over previous models, making it capable of handling multitasking and demanding applications like photo editing smoothly. With 16GB of RAM, it supports memory-intensive tasks and allows for efficient multitab browsing. The 512GB SSD ensures quick system response and offers decent storage, with the option to expand via an additional 2.5" SSD.

Its small size (5.1 x 5.1 x 1.96 inches) makes it ideal for crowded workspaces or for use as a home theater PC. You can easily mount it behind a monitor or place it under your TV, enhancing your entertainment setup without taking up much space. The support for 4K UHD resolution (4096 x 2160) across multiple displays (up to three) is a highlight for users who enjoy streaming high-definition content.

On the connectivity front, it includes Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band WiFi, ensuring stable internet access for streaming. Bluetooth 4.2 compatibility adds convenience for connecting peripherals. The integrated graphics may limit performance in more intensive graphic tasks compared to dedicated graphics cards, which may be a drawback for users looking for serious gaming or heavy video editing capabilities. The KAMRUI GK3Plus may not be suitable for users requiring extensive gaming capabilities or those needing more robust graphics performance. For general streaming, browsing, and everyday office tasks, it offers good value and performance, making it a strong choice for home users and small office environments.

The GEEKOM Mini PC AX8 Max is a solid choice if you're looking for a compact but powerful mini PC well-suited for streaming, gaming, and business tasks. It packs a strong AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor with 8 cores capable of up to 4.9 GHz, which means it can handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease. The integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics perform surprisingly well for an integrated GPU, supporting up to 8K resolution and even AAA gaming at decent settings, which is great for smooth video playback and gaming streams without needing a separate graphics card.

With 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM and a roomy 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, this mini PC offers plenty of memory and storage for large files, multiple apps, and quick loading times. Its connectivity options stand out—dual 2.5G LAN ports allow for very fast and stable wired internet, which is a big plus for streaming reliability, alongside Wi-Fi 6E for wireless convenience. Multiple USB4 Type-C and USB 3.2 ports provide versatile options for connecting peripherals like cameras, microphones, and external drives.

Cooling is well thought out, using an advanced IceBlast 2.0 system to keep the device quiet and cool even under heavy workloads, which is great when streaming or gaming for long periods. It runs Windows 11 Pro, offering broad software compatibility and security. A minor downside is that while the integrated GPU is impressive, those who want top-tier gaming or video editing might still need a dedicated graphics card. Also, the compact size limits expandability compared to full desktops, and switching performance modes requires a BIOS setting change, which might be a bit technical for some users. The GEEKOM AX8 Max is highly suitable for users needing a powerful, quiet, and versatile mini PC capable of smooth 8K streaming, multitasking, and light to medium gaming, making it ideal for content creators, streamers, and professionals seeking desktop-level power in a small footprint with excellent connectivity.