A specific desktop / mini computer requirement

Catanonia · 8 Jul 2015 at 20:47

Hi all,

I am after a small factor, very quiet an not power hungry small machine to run as a web server and a game server that will be left switched on 24/7. I used to use an old laptop, but it died and I want to replace it. I wonder if you can help.

Needs to have

Small factor, no bigger than a laptop, the smaller the better
Silent (as much as possible)
Power efficient
Dual core CPU or more and not Intel atom or AMD
8gb RAM min
Min graphics, on board CPU is fine
Capable of holding 1 x 2.5 disk min 120GB
3 x usb 2 or usb3
VGA min output
GB network RJ45
Capable of running Windows OS's

Nice to have but not necessary

16gb RAM or expandable
Intel Virtualization capable CPU

Now I am probably describing a laptop, but is there anything else you can recommend and not a mini HP server please.

It will be left on 24/7, may run telnet and IIS webserver as well as a game server and that is all. I have a dedicated NAS / Media unit already and my gaming PC so all needs are covered accept for a constantly on PC type machine for a minecraft / arc server for the kids and myself.

Looking around on the net and so many to pick from, so recommendations would be extremely helpful to narrow down the search.

Thanks all

paulstung · 9 Jul 2015 at 00:59

How about the G3258 Pentium anniversary ? Do you have a budget ?

paulstung · 9 Jul 2015 at 01:16

Hotwired · 9 Jul 2015 at 01:52

SilverStone PT13

And whatever you want to chuck in it.

Catanonia · 9 Jul 2015 at 08:45

Thanks all, but not really what I was after. I was after an all in one mini PC and not a small factor build.

TBH, probably not allowed to post recommendations on OCUK for stuff they don't sell.

The search continues this lunchtime, thanks

OracIe · 9 Jul 2015 at 08:54

So a NUC/BRIX is a no go?

Andre · 9 Jul 2015 at 09:13

What about a Intel DN28(2|3)0FYKH Barebone Desktop - now previous generation
- silent unless under load
- can take 8GB RAM
- 2.5" disc, any capacity
- HDMI out
- tiny (4" square, 2" high approx)
- low power (CPU uses max of 16W)
- GB LAN, Wireless AC
- Bluetooth 4.0

Throw in a stick of 1.35V RAM and any size drive (up to 9mm thick I believe) and install whatever operating system you like

Catanonia · 9 Jul 2015 at 10:18

Andre said:
What about a Intel DN28(2|3)0FYKH Barebone Desktop - now previous generation
- silent unless under load
- can take 8GB RAM
- 2.5" disc, any capacity
- HDMI out
- tiny (4" square, 2" high approx)
- low power (CPU uses max of 16W)
- GB LAN, Wireless AC
- Bluetooth 4.0

Throw in a stick of 1.35V RAM and any size drive (up to 9mm thick I believe) and install whatever operating system you like

Many thanks,

After a bit of googling I have ended up in the same place with the Intel NUC's (and previous versions) with the HP Pavilion Mini Desktop 300-050na. These seem to fit the bill perfectly.

Catanonia · 9 Jul 2015 at 10:32

Update. The Intel DN2820FYKH is now looking like the favourite.

Looks like the Celeron CPU can run Intel Virtualization for VMWare which is a bonus too.
I have an older 2.5 drive and 8GB RAM is about £80 so I am looking at sub £200 for it.

Now looking at the I3 as this would work better for a Plex server as well to take over from my crappy non transcoding NAS.