Introduction

In today’s computer market, which pursues efficiency and compactness, small form factor computer solutions are becoming more and more popular. Small Form Factor (SFF) and Mini PC are two mainstream compact computer options, each with its own unique advantages and applicable scenarios. This article will compare these two devices in depth to help you make an informed choice based on your needs.

1. Definition and Basic Concepts

• Small Form Factor (SFF)

Small Form Factor is a compact version of a traditional desktop computer, usually with a volume of 10-20 litres (some may be smaller). They retain many features of standard desktops, including upgradeable components and relatively strong performance, but achieve space savings through carefully designed chassis and component layouts.

• Mini PC

Mini PCs are more extreme compact computers, usually with a volume of less than 1 litre (common dimensions such as 10×10×5cm). Such devices usually adopt a highly integrated design, with many components directly soldered on the motherboard to pursue extreme space efficiency.

2. Size and appearance design comparison

Physical size

• SFF computer: The volume is usually between 5-20 litres, which can be placed on the desktop or next to the monitor, but it saves about 50-70% space compared to traditional tower cases
• Mini PC: Extremely compact, the volume is usually less than 1 litre, and can be easily hung on the back of the monitor (VESA installation) or hidden in a small space

Design philosophy

• SFF: Reduce the volume while maintaining a certain degree of upgradeability
• Mini PC: Prioritise minimising the occupied space, sacrificing some upgradeability

3. Performance comparison

Processor performance

• SFF: can be equipped with a standard desktop CPU (such as Intel Core i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 7/9), and the performance is comparable to that of a full-size desktop computer
• Mini PC: mostly uses mobile or low-power processors (such as Intel U series or AMD U series), and the performance is about 60-80% of the same-level desktop CPU

Graphics processing power

• SFF: can be installed with a discrete graphics card (limited by size), suitable for medium-level games and professional graphics work
• Mini PC: usually only has integrated graphics, suitable for daily office and media playback, high-end models may have customised MXM graphics cards, or can also be connected to an external graphics card

Heat dissipation and noise

• SFF: good heat dissipation capacity, but fan noise may be more obvious under high load
• Mini PC: passive cooling or fanless design is common, running quietly but may be downclocked under high load, but the GEEKOM Mini PC is equipped with a fan to maintain good heat dissipation under high load

4. Expandability and Connectivity

Internal Expansion

• SFF:
  • Usually has 1-2 PCIe slots (maybe half-height)
  • Supports 2.5″ and 3.5″ hard drives
  • Replaceable memory (usually 2-4 slots)
• Mini PC:
  • Most components are soldered to the motherboard
  • May have only one M.2 slot for storage expansion
  • Memory is usually not upgradeable or has only one SO-DIMM slot, but GEEKOM Mini PCs can upgrade memory in almost all products

External Interfaces

• SFF: Provides a wide range of interfaces (multiple USB, display output, audio, etc.), similar to standard desktops
• Mini PC: Limited number of interfaces but a complete variety, high-end models may provide Thunderbolt/USB4

5. Usage scenarios and target users

SFF computers are suitable for:

• Users who need performance close to full-size desktops but have limited space
• Light gamers and content creators
• Technology enthusiasts who want to upgrade hardware regularly
• Users who need multi-hard drive storage solutions

Mini PCs are suitable for:

• Minimal office environments (front desks, reception desks, etc.)
• Digital signage and embedded applications
• Home theatre computers (HTPCs)
• Professionals who often need to work on the move
• Environments with extremely limited space (such as student dormitories)

6. Cost considerations

Initial purchase cost

• Entry-level Mini PCs are usually 20-30% cheaper than SFFs of the same level
• SFFs may offer better cost-performance ratios under high-performance configurations

Long-term ownership costs

• SFFs are easier to upgrade and can extend their service life
• Mini PCs usually require full machine replacement, and long-term costs may be higher

7. Energy efficiency and environmental protection

• Mini PC: power consumption is usually 15-45W, more energy-saving and environmentally friendly
• SFF: power consumption is about 50-150W, depending on the configuration

8. Purchase suggestions

Choose SFF:

• Need to run professional software or light games
• Plan to upgrade components in the future
• Need multiple hard disk configurations
• Don’t mind a slightly larger size

Choose Mini PC:

• Space is the top priority
• Main use is office, web browsing and media playback
• Need extremely quiet or passive cooling solutions
• Frequently need to carry a computer

9. Market representative products

Popular SFF models:

• Intel NUC Extreme series
• ASUS ROG Strix G16CH
• HP EliteDesk 800 G6 Mini

Popular Mini PC models:

• Apple Mac Mini
• Intel NUC series
• ASUS PN series
• GEEKOM IT series

10. Future Development Trends

• Performance Improvement: Both forms are constantly improving performance, and the boundaries may be blurred
• Modular design: Mini PCs that are easier to upgrade may appear in the future, and GEEKOM is now available
• AI integration: Local AI acceleration will become standard for small computers
• Wireless connection: Reduce dependence on external ports and turn to wireless peripherals

Conclusion

SFF and Mini PC each have their irreplaceable advantages, and the choice depends on your specific needs. For most home and office users, if high-end gaming or professional creation performance is not required, the Mini PC provides unmatched space savings and energy efficiency. For users who need stronger performance or upgrade flexibility, SFF is a more suitable choice. Before purchasing, be sure to evaluate your usage scenarios, performance requirements, and budget to make the best decision.

Regardless of which form you choose, miniaturised computers represent the direction of future PC development, finding the perfect balance between performance and portability. As technology advances, we look forward to seeing these two product categories continue to evolve and bring more surprises to users.