Buying Guide
The Best Compact Gaming Desktop PCs
Five compact gaming desktop PCs, from RTX 5060 to RTX 5070 Ti, each with its CPU, graphics, memory and storage named.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
Small gaming PCs range from about $1,000 to $3,400 at the time of writing. The price follows the graphics card: laptop-class chips in the smallest boxes, desktop cards in Mini-ITX cases.
We compared the parts each listing names: CPU, graphics card and VRAM, memory, storage and, where stated, the power supply and warranty. We did not test these systems, and we skipped listings that leave a core part vague.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Lowest Price Here
AVGPC Mini-X (Core i5-11400F, RTX 5060 8GB)
The lowest price among these picks at the time of writing.
Best for: Keeping the budget tight.
Our take Check price for AVGPC Mini-X (Core i5-11400F, RTX 5060 8GB) (opens in a new tab)
RTX 4060 Pick
TOPGRO T1-Pro (Core i9-13900HX, RTX 4060 laptop GPU 8GB)
An RTX 4060 with 8GB of VRAM.
Best for: 1080p gaming.
Our take Check price for TOPGRO T1-Pro (Core i9-13900HX, RTX 4060 laptop GPU 8GB) (opens in a new tab)
RTX 5060 Pick
MINISFORUM G1 Pro (Ryzen 9 8945HX, RTX 5060 8GB)
An RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM.
Best for: 1080p gaming.
Our take Check price for MINISFORUM G1 Pro (Ryzen 9 8945HX, RTX 5060 8GB) (opens in a new tab)
RTX 4070 Pick
TOPGRO T1-MAX (Core i9-13900HX, RTX 4070 laptop GPU 8GB)
An RTX 4070 with 8GB of VRAM.
Best for: 1080p gaming.
Our take Check price for TOPGRO T1-MAX (Core i9-13900HX, RTX 4070 laptop GPU 8GB) (opens in a new tab)
Most VRAM
Cooler Master NR2 Pro (Ryzen 7 9800X3D, RTX 5070 Ti 16GB)
16GB of VRAM on the RTX 5070 Ti.
Best for: High texture settings at 1440p and above.
Our take Check price for Cooler Master NR2 Pro (Ryzen 7 9800X3D, RTX 5070 Ti 16GB) (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
Lowest Price Here1 of 5
AVGPC Mini-X (Core i5-11400F, RTX 5060 8GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Inside the AVGPC Mini-X are a Core i5-11400F and an RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM, backed by 16GB of DDR4-3200 and 1TB of SSD storage.
Best for
- Keeping the budget tight.
Skip if
- Look at the others if this bothers you: 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p.
Why we like it
It also comes with a desktop RTX 5060 in a small case. The power supply is rated at 650W (80 Plus Gold). On VRAM it ties with the TOPGRO T1-Pro, the Minisforum G1 Pro and the TOPGRO T1-MAX at 8GB.
On memory it trails the group at 16GB, while the TOPGRO T1-Pro offers 32GB. You get an RTX 5060 graphics card here, which sets it apart from the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti and its an RTX 5070 Ti graphics card. You get a core i5-11400F processor here, which sets it apart from the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti and its a ryzen 7 9800X3D processor.
A DDR4-3200 memory type is unique to it among these picks, while the Minisforum G1 Pro uses a DDR5 memory type. It cost the least of the 5 picks at the time of writing, with the TOPGRO T1-Pro the next step up.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: RTX 5060
- VRAM: 8GB
- Processor: Core i5-11400F
- Memory: 16GB
- Memory type: DDR4-3200
- SSD: 1TB
- Power supply: 650W
- PSU rating: 80 Plus Gold
Pros
- A RTX 5060 graphics card
- A 650W power supply
- An 80 Plus Gold power supply
- Desktop RTX 5060 in a small case
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
- 16GB of RAM is enough for games but tight alongside streaming or editing
- Memory trails the TOPGRO T1-Pro (32GB)
RTX 4060 Pick2 of 5
TOPGRO T1-Pro (Core i9-13900HX, RTX 4060 laptop GPU 8GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
TOPGRO T1-Pro pairs a Core i9-13900HX with a laptop-class RTX 4060 with 8GB of VRAM, plus 32GB of DDR5-5200 and a 1TB SSD.
Best for
- 1080p gaming.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p.
Why we like it
A laptop-class GPU runs at lower power than the desktop card with the same name. On VRAM it ties with the AVGPC Mini-X, the Minisforum G1 Pro and the TOPGRO T1-MAX at 8GB. An RTX 4060 (laptop-class) graphics card is unique to it among these picks, while the Minisforum G1 Pro uses an RTX 5060 (145W) graphics card.
It shares a core i9-13900HX processor with the TOPGRO T1-MAX; the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti goes with a ryzen 7 9800X3D processor. You get a DDR5-5200 memory type here, which sets it apart from the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti and its a DDR5-6000 memory type. When we checked, only the AVGPC Mini-X cost less, and the Minisforum G1 Pro cost more. If you want a confirmed power supply wattage, look to the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti instead: it offers 850W, while this one gives no figure.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: RTX 4060 (laptop-class)
- VRAM: 8GB
- Processor: Core i9-13900HX
- Memory: 32GB
- Memory type: DDR5-5200
- SSD: 1TB
Pros
- A RTX 4060 (laptop-class) graphics card
- 32GB of RAM
- Laptop-class RTX 4060 and 2.5Gb LAN
- DDR5-5200 memory type, the only one here
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
- Costs more than the AVGPC Mini-X at the time of writing
RTX 5060 Pick3 of 5
MINISFORUM G1 Pro (Ryzen 9 8945HX, RTX 5060 8GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Minisforum G1 Pro pairs a Ryzen 9 8945HX with a full-power 145W RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM, plus 32GB of DDR5 and a 1TB SSD.
Best for
- 1080p gaming.
Skip if
- Pass on it if 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440 rules it out for your setup.
Why we like it
Its PSU wattage isn't published, so ask the seller before a GPU upgrade. It matches the AVGPC Mini-X, the TOPGRO T1-Pro and the TOPGRO T1-MAX on VRAM (8GB). No other pick in this guide offers an RTX 5060 (145W) graphics card; compare the TOPGRO T1-MAX, which has an RTX 4070 (laptop-class) graphics card.
No other pick in this guide offers a ryzen 9 8945HX processor; compare the TOPGRO T1-MAX, which has a core i9-13900HX processor. Like the TOPGRO T1-MAX, it has a DDR5 memory type, while the TOPGRO T1-Pro uses a DDR5-5200 memory type. You also get 5GbE and Wi-Fi 7.
On price it sat third of 5, between the cheaper TOPGRO T1-Pro and the pricier TOPGRO T1-MAX, at the time of writing. The maker doesn't give its power supply wattage; if that figure matters, the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti offers 850W.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: RTX 5060 (145W)
- VRAM: 8GB
- Processor: Ryzen 9 8945HX
- Memory: 32GB
- Memory type: DDR5
- SSD: 1TB
Pros
- A RTX 5060 (145W) graphics card
- 32GB of RAM
- Full-power 145W RTX 5060 in a mini PC
- 5GbE and Wi-Fi 7
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
- Costs more than the AVGPC Mini-X at the time of writing
RTX 4070 Pick4 of 5
TOPGRO T1-MAX (Core i9-13900HX, RTX 4070 laptop GPU 8GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
TOPGRO T1-MAX pairs a Core i9-13900HX with a laptop-class RTX 4070 with 8GB of VRAM, plus 32GB of DDR5 and a 1TB SSD.
Best for
- 1080p gaming.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p.
Why we like it
A laptop-class GPU runs at lower power than the desktop card with the same name. On VRAM it ties with the AVGPC Mini-X, the TOPGRO T1-Pro and the Minisforum G1 Pro at 8GB. You get an RTX 4070 (laptop-class) graphics card here, which sets it apart from the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti and its an RTX 5070 Ti graphics card.
It shares a core i9-13900HX processor with the TOPGRO T1-Pro; the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti goes with a ryzen 7 9800X3D processor. It shares a DDR5 memory type with the Minisforum G1 Pro; the AVGPC Mini-X goes with a DDR4-3200 memory type. It was priced above the Minisforum G1 Pro and below the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti at the time of writing. It gives ground on VRAM, where the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti offers 16GB.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: RTX 4070 (laptop-class)
- VRAM: 8GB
- Processor: Core i9-13900HX
- Memory: 32GB
- Memory type: DDR5
- SSD: 1TB
Pros
- A RTX 4070 (laptop-class) graphics card
- 32GB of RAM
- Laptop-class RTX 4070 in a mini PC
- An RTX 4070 with 8GB of VRAM
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM can force lower texture settings in newer games at 1440p
- VRAM trails the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti (16GB)
- SSD capacity trails the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti (2TB)
Most VRAM5 of 5
Cooler Master NR2 Pro (Ryzen 7 9800X3D, RTX 5070 Ti 16GB) on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti build pairs a Ryzen 7 9800X3D, an RTX 5070 Ti with 16GB of VRAM, 32GB of DDR5-6000 and a 2TB SSD.
Best for
- High texture settings at 1440p and above.
Skip if
- Price-first buyers should look at the AVGPC Mini-X, which cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
The power supply is rated at 850W (80 Plus Gold). Nothing else here matches its 16GB VRAM; the AVGPC Mini-X comes closest at 8GB. On memory it ties with the TOPGRO T1-Pro, the Minisforum G1 Pro and the TOPGRO T1-MAX at 32GB.
You get an RTX 5070 Ti graphics card here, which sets it apart from the TOPGRO T1-MAX and its an RTX 4070 (laptop-class) graphics card. You get a ryzen 7 9800X3D processor here, which sets it apart from the TOPGRO T1-MAX and its a core i9-13900HX processor. A DDR5-6000 memory type is unique to it among these picks, while the TOPGRO T1-Pro uses a DDR5-5200 memory type.
Check the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti's ports against your monitor: most graphics cards use DisplayPort and HDMI, so match the cable to the refresh rate you want. Only the TOPGRO T1-MAX came close to it on price at the time of writing; it cost the most of the 5 picks.
Key dimensions & specs
- Graphics card: RTX 5070 Ti
- VRAM: 16GB
- Processor: Ryzen 7 9800X3D
- Memory: 32GB
- Memory type: DDR5-6000
- SSD: 2TB
- Power supply: 850W
- PSU rating: 80 Plus Gold
Pros
- A RTX 5070 Ti graphics card
- 16GB of VRAM for high texture settings
- An Ryzen 7 9800X3D with 3D V-Cache
- 32GB of RAM
Cons
- Costs more than the AVGPC Mini-X at the time of writing
How We Chose These Compact Gaming Desktop PCs
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Balance
- We compared how the CPU, memory and storage match the graphics card's class.
- Stated parts
- We included only listings that name the CPU, the GPU with its VRAM, the RAM and the SSD capacity.
- Price and warranty
- We compared prices at the time of writing and the warranty terms each listing states.
- Power and upgrades
- We recorded PSU wattage and rating where listed, which decides later GPU upgrades.
What to Look for in a Compact Gaming Desktop PC
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Start with the graphics card
The GPU decides gaming performance more than any other part. Match it to your monitor: an RTX 5060 class card suits 1080p, an RTX 5070 suits 1440p, and 4K high-refresh play needs an RTX 5080 or above.
Check the VRAM figure too; 8GB cards can need lower texture settings in newer games.
Trust specific listings
Prefer listings that name every part: CPU model, GPU model and VRAM, RAM, SSD and PSU. Vague terms like "Core i7" or "brand may vary" leave room for weaker parts.
Check memory and storage
16GB of RAM runs games; 32GB leaves room for streaming, browsers and editing. A 1TB SSD holds a handful of large games, so plan for a second drive if you keep a big library.
Pair a sensible processor
A current six- or eight-core CPU is enough for most games. X3D chips with extra cache help at high frame rates, while older or unnamed CPUs are a warning sign in a listing.
Look for a named power supply
A listing that states wattage and an 80 Plus rating is easier to trust and to upgrade later. When a listing is silent, ask before buying.
Read the warranty terms
Prebuilt warranties vary from one year of parts and labor to three years. Check who handles repairs and whether shipping is covered.
How to Choose a Compact Gaming Desktop PC
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping the budget tight | AVGPC Mini-X | The lowest price among these picks at the time of writing |
| 1080p gaming | TOPGRO T1-Pro | An RTX 4060 with 8GB of VRAM |
| 1080p gaming | Minisforum G1 Pro | An RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM |
| 1080p gaming | TOPGRO T1-MAX | An RTX 4070 with 8GB of VRAM |
| High texture settings at 1440p and above | NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti | 16GB of VRAM on the RTX 5070 Ti |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Prebuilt PC | Graphics card | VRAM | Processor | Memory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVGPC Mini-X | RTX 5060 | 8GB | Core i5-11400F | 16GB |
| TOPGRO T1-Pro | RTX 4060 (laptop-class) | 8GB | Core i9-13900HX | 32GB |
| Minisforum G1 Pro | RTX 5060 (145W) | 8GB | Ryzen 9 8945HX | 32GB |
| TOPGRO T1-MAX | RTX 4070 (laptop-class) | 8GB | Core i9-13900HX | 32GB |
| NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti | RTX 5070 Ti | 16GB | Ryzen 7 9800X3D | 32GB |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
By price at the time of writing
Prices change often; these tiers reflect Amazon prices when this guide was updated.
| Price tier | Prebuilt PCs |
|---|---|
| About $1000 to $1500 | AVGPC Mini-X |
| Over $1500 | TOPGRO T1-Pro, Minisforum G1 Pro, TOPGRO T1-MAX, NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do prebuilt PCs come with extra software?
Some do. Check the product page for trial software, and remove what you do not need after setup.
What does "brand may vary" mean in a listing?
The builder may ship an equivalent part from a different maker. The model and capacity should match; ask the seller if it matters to you.
How much VRAM do I need?
8GB works at 1080p with some texture compromises in newer games; 12GB to 16GB is more comfortable at 1440p and 4K.
Is a prebuilt cheaper than building a PC?
Sometimes. Prebuilts include Windows, assembly and a system warranty; building yourself can cost less but you handle part choices and support.
Is 16GB of RAM enough for gaming?
For most games, yes. 32GB helps when you stream, keep many browser tabs open or edit video alongside gaming.
Can I upgrade a prebuilt later?
Usually. Check the power supply wattage and connectors, the case's GPU clearance and free RAM slots before buying a part.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the AVGPC Mini-X, chosen for the lowest price among these picks at the time of writing. Look at the TOPGRO T1-Pro for an RTX 4060 with 8GB of VRAM, the Minisforum G1 Pro for an RTX 5060 with 8GB of VRAM, the TOPGRO T1-MAX for an RTX 4070 with 8GB of VRAM and the NR2 Pro RTX 5070 Ti for 16GB of VRAM on the RTX 5070 Ti if those matter more to you.
Small boxes run their fans harder under load, so place them where some noise will not bother you.