9 Best Mini PCs for Linux Servers (October 2026)
The best mini PCs for Linux servers include the KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer for basic headless services, the GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded for dual-network home labs, and the GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor for a small single-service server.
On this page (4 sections)
The best mini PC for Linux server use depends on the job. For broader Linux system options, see our best mini PCs for Linux.
The GMKtec G11 is the clearest pick for a dual-network home lab, the BOSGAME E5 Plus names Ubuntu support, and the Beelink Mini S12 Pro has 2.5GbE plus 16GB memory for a general network box.
A Linux server may run one service quietly in a corner, or it may host containers, virtual machines, shared files, and network tools. For a home automation use, see our mini PCs for Home Assistant.
Match the hardware to the services you plan to run, then check that your chosen Linux distribution supports the components you need.
For other home server roles, compare our guide to the best mini PC for home server. If Linux compatibility is your first concern, start with [Can a Mini PC Run Linux?
The Simple Answer](/can-a-mini-pc-run-linux/).
Our picks at a glance
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1
-
2
Best for dual-network home labsGMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for a small single-service serverGMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itGetorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U
Best for several light services - 5
Check itACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7330U
Best for mixed server and desktop use - 6
Best for a low-power network boxCheck it - 7
Check itBOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC Ryzen 5400U
Best for expandable storage and memory - 8
Best for a dual-LAN Linux labCheck it - 9
Check itKAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U
Best for an expandable general server
How to choose a mini PC for a Linux server
The right Linux server mini PC has enough memory and storage for its workload, plus the network ports and startup options the setup needs. Cooling, upgrade paths, and confirmed Linux support matter too.
We compared processor, installed memory, storage, wired networking, expansion, and stated Linux support against common home server roles. Our score weighs specs and features against what you need from a Linux server.
We did not test these systems with Linux, so confirm distribution and device compatibility before installing.
A small file share or DNS service has different needs from a host running several virtual machines. If local AI is one of your planned workloads, compare our mini PCs for AI.
Give your planned services room to use memory and storage, and leave space for growth if the machine will be difficult to access after setup.
What network ports should a mini PC Linux server have?
One wired Ethernet port is enough for many servers connected to a home router or switch. Dual Ethernet can help when the machine needs separate network connections for a lab, firewall, or router role.
Port speed matters when the server moves large files or supports faster network equipment. The GMKtec G11 and BOSGAME E5 models have dual 2.5GbE ports, while the Beelink Mini S12 Pro offers one 2.5GbE port.
Wi-Fi can be useful during setup, but a wired connection is usually simpler for a server that stays in one place. Check whether you need multiple physical network ports before choosing a compact PC.
How much memory and storage do Linux services need?
The amount depends on how many services run at once and whether you plan to use containers or virtual machines. An 8GB system may fit a light setup, while more memory or an upgrade path gives more room for multiple workloads.
Storage needs also depend on the job. A basic service can fit on a smaller drive, while files, logs, container images, and virtual machine disks need extra capacity.
Our guide to how much storage you need in a mini PC helps estimate space before you buy.
Should you choose a mini PC with confirmed Linux support?
Choose a model with stated support for your target Linux distribution when that detail is available. Both BOSGAME E5 models specify Ubuntu support, while the other product details here do not specify Linux compatibility.
That gap does not mean Linux will fail, but compatibility is not confirmed here. Before buying, check the exact configuration, network controller, Wi-Fi hardware, storage mode, and BIOS options against your distribution and intended server role.
Linux server mini PC comparison
For network-heavy home labs, prioritize multiple wired ports; for simple services, a single-port model may be enough. The table highlights the practical differences across these picks.
| Product | Best for | Processor | Memory | Network | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer | basic headless services | Intel Celeron N5095 | 16GB LPDDR4X | Gigabit Ethernet | 9.7 |
| GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded | dual-network home labs | AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 | 16GB dual-channel DDR4 | 2 x 2.5GbE | 9.7 |
| GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor | a small single-service server | Intel N95 | 8GB DDR4 | Gigabit Ethernet | 9.6 |
| Getorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U | several light services | AMD Ryzen 5 3500U | 16GB DDR4 | 9.6 | |
| ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7330U | mixed server and desktop use | AMD Ryzen 7330U | 16GB LPDDR4 | Gigabit Ethernet | 9.5 |
| Beelink Mini PC | a low-power network box | Intel Alder Lake N100 | 16GB DDR4 | 2.5GbE Ethernet | 9.4 |
| BOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC Ryzen 5400U | expandable storage and memory | AMD Ryzen 5400U | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB | 2 x 2.5GbE | 9.2 |
| BOSGAME E5 11 Pro Mini PC | a dual-LAN Linux lab | AMD Ryzen 3 5300U | 8GB DDR4, expandable to 64GB | 2 x 2.5GbE | 9.1 |
| KAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U | an expandable general server | AMD Ryzen 5425U | 16GB LPDDR4 | Gigabit Ethernet | 8.9 |
Best mini PCs for Linux servers
The best option depends on your server workload and the hardware it needs. The products below are ordered by their assigned scores, with strengths and tradeoffs called out for Linux use.
KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer: Best for basic headless services
- Intel Celeron N5095
- 16GB LPDDR4X memory
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN
The N5095 and 16GB memory suit a modest Linux server running a small set of network services. Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On add useful options for remote or unattended operation.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- Wake-on-LAN
- Supports M.2 and 2.5-inch storage expansion
Cons
- One Ethernet port
- No Linux support details specified
The KAMRUI AK1PLUS pairs an Intel Celeron N5095 with 16GB LPDDR4X memory and a 256GB M.2 SSD. Its Gigabit Ethernet port is a fit for a basic home server attached to a router or switch.
The system supports expansion through an M.2 SATA or NVMe SSD and an additional 2.5-inch SATA SSD or HDD. That can help if your service needs more local space over time, although the initial drive is the simpler starting point.
Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On are useful options for a machine kept headless. The AK1PLUS is a practical pick for modest services, but it has one Ethernet port and the available details do not specify Linux support.
GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded: Best for dual-network home labs
- AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Designed for continuous 24/7 operation
- Dual M.2 PCIe 2280 slots
Dual 2.5GbE ports suit a Linux server that separates network roles, while the R2514 platform is designed for continuous operation. The two M.2 slots offer room for added storage.
Pros
- Two 2.5GbE ports
- Designed for 24/7 operation
- Dual M.2 SSD slots
Cons
- Linux distribution compatibility is not specified
- Fan-cooled
The GMKtec G11 is the strongest match here for a Linux mini PC server with multiple network roles. Its dual 2.5GbE ports make it easier to connect two wired network segments, and the R2514 system is designed for continuous 24/7 operation.
It comes with 16GB dual-channel DDR4 memory and two M.2 PCIe 2280 SSD slots. Those features give a home lab useful room for storage and multitasking, though the Linux distribution and hardware compatibility still need checking before you commit to a setup.
The G11 also supports three displays, but that matters less for a headless server. Focus on the network ports, storage slots, and your chosen server software when comparing it.
GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor: Best for a small single-service server
- Intel N95 processor
- 8GB DDR4 memory
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Gigabit Ethernet
The N95, 8GB memory and Gigabit Ethernet make this a straightforward starting point for one or a few lightweight Linux services. Its preinstalled 256GB SSD gives the system a place to start.
Pros
- Gigabit wired network
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Compact system with dual HDMI
Cons
- 8GB memory may limit larger workloads
- Linux compatibility details are not specified
The GMKtec G3S is a compact choice for one or a few lightweight services. It combines an Intel N95 processor with 8GB DDR4 memory, a 256GB M.2 SSD, and Gigabit Ethernet.
That configuration can suit a basic development box, small utility server, or other limited workload. The 8GB memory is the main constraint to consider if you expect to add several services later.
Its dual HDMI ports are helpful during setup if you want a local display, though a server can run headless once configured. Linux support details are not specified, so check your distribution's compatibility before buying.
Getorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U: Best for several light services
- AMD Ryzen 5 3500U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 16GB DDR4 memory
- 512GB NVMe SSD
- Wi-Fi 6
Four cores, eight threads and 16GB memory offer room for several light services or a small development setup. The 512GB NVMe SSD gives more local space than the 256GB options here.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- 512GB NVMe SSD
- Expandable memory up to 32GB
Cons
- Single Ethernet port
- Linux support details are not specified
The Getorli system offers four CPU cores, eight threads, 16GB DDR4 memory, and a 512GB NVMe SSD. That gives it more installed memory and storage than the 8GB and 256GB entry configurations in this group.
It may suit several light services or a small development environment where the extra drive space is useful. Memory can expand to 32GB, but the system has a single Ethernet connection, so it is less suited to roles that depend on two physical network ports.
The product details do not specify Linux support. Confirm that the processor, network adapter, Wi-Fi hardware, and storage work with your chosen distribution before setting it up as a server.
ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7330U: Best for mixed server and desktop use
- AMD Ryzen 7330U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 16GB LPDDR4 memory
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN
The 7330U and 16GB memory suit a server that also handles occasional local desktop tasks. Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On are useful features to check for an unattended setup.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On
- Three display outputs
Cons
- Memory is non-expandable
- Linux compatibility details are not specified
The ACEMAGIC K1 has an AMD Ryzen 7330U with 4 cores and 8 threads, 16GB LPDDR4 memory, and a 256GB M.2 SSD. Its Gigabit Ethernet port and Wake-on-LAN give it useful basics for a home server that may also be used as a desktop.
Auto Power On is another option for unattended operation. The memory is non-expandable, so decide whether 16GB is enough for the services you expect to run before choosing it.
The three display outputs are less important in a headless setup, but they can make initial configuration easier. Linux compatibility is not specified, so verify it for the exact hardware and distribution.
Beelink Mini PC: Best for a low-power network box
- Intel N100 processor
- 16GB DDR4 memory
- 512GB M.2 SSD
- 2.5GbE port
- Wake-on-LAN and PXE Boot
The N100 system pairs 16GB memory with a 2.5GbE port and 512GB SSD. Wake-on-LAN and PXE Boot can suit network-focused roles, subject to checking your Linux setup.
Pros
- 2.5GbE Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN and PXE Boot
- Expandable storage
Cons
- One Ethernet port
- Linux support details are not specified
The Beelink Mini S12 Pro combines an Intel N100 processor, 16GB DDR4 memory, a 512GB SSD, and a 2.5GbE port. That mix suits a general-purpose network box or a small server where faster wired networking and storage space are useful.
Wake-on-LAN and PXE Boot add options for remote startup and network boot workflows. The system has one Ethernet port, so it does not provide the dual-network layout found on the GMKtec G11 and BOSGAME E5 models.
Its storage can be expanded, and the compact case includes a fan. Linux support details are not specified, so check compatibility before planning a long-running installation.
BOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC Ryzen 5400U: Best for expandable storage and memory
- AMD Ryzen 5400U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 8GB DDR4 memory, expandable to 64GB
- Dual M.2 storage slots
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Supports Ubuntu
This model explicitly supports Ubuntu, has dual 2.5GbE ports and can grow to 64GB memory. Its second M.2 slot gives you a path to add storage as your server needs change.
Pros
- Ubuntu support specified
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Two M.2 slots and two memory slots
Cons
- Starts with 8GB memory
- No continuous-operation claim specified
The BOSGAME E5 Plus is one of the most direct Linux choices because it specifies Ubuntu support. It also has dual 2.5GbE ports, two memory slots, and two M.2 storage slots for a flexible home lab configuration.
It starts with 8GB DDR4 memory, expandable up to 64GB. If you plan to run containers or virtual machines, factor the memory upgrade into your decision rather than assuming the base setup will cover every workload.
The dual network ports can serve separate wired roles, while the second M.2 slot gives a path to add storage. This model makes sense if Ubuntu support and expansion matter more than a larger amount of memory out of the box.
BOSGAME E5 11 Pro Mini PC: Best for a dual-LAN Linux lab
- AMD Ryzen 3 5300U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 8GB DDR4 memory, expandable to 64GB
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Supports Ubuntu
- Second M.2 slot
Ubuntu support and dual 2.5GbE ports make this a fit for Linux labs that need separate wired network connections. Two memory slots allow an upgrade beyond the included 8GB.
Pros
- Ubuntu support specified
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Memory expandable to 64GB
Cons
- Starts with 8GB memory
- No continuous-operation claim specified
The BOSGAME E5 11 Pro also specifies Ubuntu support and has dual 2.5GbE ports. Its Ryzen 3 5300U, 8GB DDR4 memory, and second M.2 slot give a home lab a clear starting point with options to expand.
The two SODIMM slots support memory expansion up to 64GB, which can help if you later add virtual machines or more services. As with any server, plan the upgrade around the workload rather than filling capacity without a use for it.
This is a good fit for a Linux lab where two wired connections matter. It starts with 8GB memory, so compare the initial setup and upgrade path with the 16GB systems if you want to avoid an early memory change.
KAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U: Best for an expandable general server
- AMD Ryzen 5425U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 16GB LPDDR4 memory
- Two M.2 storage slots
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN
The 5425U and 16GB memory suit a general-purpose server with modest network needs. Two M.2 slots allow storage expansion, and Wake-on-LAN can help with remote startup.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- Two M.2 storage slots
- Wake-on-LAN
Cons
- Single Gigabit Ethernet port
- Linux support details are not specified
The KAMRUI Pinova P2 has an AMD Ryzen 5425U, 16GB LPDDR4 memory, and one Gigabit Ethernet port. Two M.2 slots give it a storage expansion path, while Wake-on-LAN can help with remote startup.
Its 4 cores and 8 threads suit a general mini PC server with moderate needs, but the single network port limits how naturally it fits a dual-network lab. The details do not specify Linux support, so confirm compatibility with your planned distribution.
Choose this model when memory and storage flexibility matter more than two wired network ports. If your server will store media, compare the setup with our guides to the best mini PC for Plex server and the best mini PC for NAS.
Which mini PC fits your Linux server workload?
The GMKtec G11 is the best fit for a dual-network home lab that needs 24/7 operation by design. Choose the BOSGAME E5 Plus or E5 11 Pro if Ubuntu support and dual 2.5GbE ports matter, or select a single-port model for lighter services.
For media serving, compare the specific storage and network needs in our Plex server mini PC guide. A server can also be a useful home project, as covered in what a mini PC is good for.
Before buying, check your target Linux distribution against the exact configuration, especially network hardware and BIOS options. Then choose enough memory, storage, and wired bandwidth for the services you plan to keep running.
KAMRUI AK1PLUS Mini PC Computer: Best for basic headless services
- Intel Celeron N5095
- 16GB LPDDR4X memory
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN
The N5095 and 16GB memory suit a modest Linux server running a small set of network services. Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On add useful options for remote or unattended operation.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- Wake-on-LAN
- Supports M.2 and 2.5-inch storage expansion
Cons
- One Ethernet port
- No Linux support details specified
GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded: Best for dual-network home labs
- AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Designed for continuous 24/7 operation
- Dual M.2 PCIe 2280 slots
Dual 2.5GbE ports suit a Linux server that separates network roles, while the R2514 platform is designed for continuous operation. The two M.2 slots offer room for added storage.
Pros
- Two 2.5GbE ports
- Designed for 24/7 operation
- Dual M.2 SSD slots
Cons
- Linux distribution compatibility is not specified
- Fan-cooled
GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor: Best for a small single-service server
- Intel N95 processor
- 8GB DDR4 memory
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Gigabit Ethernet
The N95, 8GB memory and Gigabit Ethernet make this a straightforward starting point for one or a few lightweight Linux services. Its preinstalled 256GB SSD gives the system a place to start.
Pros
- Gigabit wired network
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Compact system with dual HDMI
Cons
- 8GB memory may limit larger workloads
- Linux compatibility details are not specified
Getorli Mini PC AMD Ryzen 5 3500U: Best for several light services
- AMD Ryzen 5 3500U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 16GB DDR4 memory
- 512GB NVMe SSD
- Wi-Fi 6
Four cores, eight threads and 16GB memory offer room for several light services or a small development setup. The 512GB NVMe SSD gives more local space than the 256GB options here.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- 512GB NVMe SSD
- Expandable memory up to 32GB
Cons
- Single Ethernet port
- Linux support details are not specified
ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7330U: Best for mixed server and desktop use
- AMD Ryzen 7330U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 16GB LPDDR4 memory
- 256GB M.2 SSD
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN
The 7330U and 16GB memory suit a server that also handles occasional local desktop tasks. Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On are useful features to check for an unattended setup.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On
- Three display outputs
Cons
- Memory is non-expandable
- Linux compatibility details are not specified
Beelink Mini PC: Best for a low-power network box
- Intel N100 processor
- 16GB DDR4 memory
- 512GB M.2 SSD
- 2.5GbE port
- Wake-on-LAN and PXE Boot
The N100 system pairs 16GB memory with a 2.5GbE port and 512GB SSD. Wake-on-LAN and PXE Boot can suit network-focused roles, subject to checking your Linux setup.
Pros
- 2.5GbE Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN and PXE Boot
- Expandable storage
Cons
- One Ethernet port
- Linux support details are not specified
BOSGAME E5 Plus Mini PC Ryzen 5400U: Best for expandable storage and memory
- AMD Ryzen 5400U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 8GB DDR4 memory, expandable to 64GB
- Dual M.2 storage slots
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Supports Ubuntu
This model explicitly supports Ubuntu, has dual 2.5GbE ports and can grow to 64GB memory. Its second M.2 slot gives you a path to add storage as your server needs change.
Pros
- Ubuntu support specified
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Two M.2 slots and two memory slots
Cons
- Starts with 8GB memory
- No continuous-operation claim specified
BOSGAME E5 11 Pro Mini PC: Best for a dual-LAN Linux lab
- AMD Ryzen 3 5300U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 8GB DDR4 memory, expandable to 64GB
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Supports Ubuntu
- Second M.2 slot
Ubuntu support and dual 2.5GbE ports make this a fit for Linux labs that need separate wired network connections. Two memory slots allow an upgrade beyond the included 8GB.
Pros
- Ubuntu support specified
- Dual 2.5GbE ports
- Memory expandable to 64GB
Cons
- Starts with 8GB memory
- No continuous-operation claim specified
KAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U: Best for an expandable general server
- AMD Ryzen 5425U, 4 cores and 8 threads
- 16GB LPDDR4 memory
- Two M.2 storage slots
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Wake-on-LAN
The 5425U and 16GB memory suit a general-purpose server with modest network needs. Two M.2 slots allow storage expansion, and Wake-on-LAN can help with remote startup.
Pros
- 16GB memory
- Two M.2 storage slots
- Wake-on-LAN
Cons
- Single Gigabit Ethernet port
- Linux support details are not specified
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
-
2
Best for dual-network home labs
GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for a small single-service server
GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Can a mini PC run a Linux server?
Yes. A mini PC can run a Linux server for services such as file sharing, a development environment, or network tools, provided its hardware works with your chosen distribution.
Check wired networking, memory, storage, cooling, and BIOS options against the workload before you install Linux.
How much memory does a mini PC Linux server need?
A lightweight service may run with 8GB, while several services or virtual machines can call for more. Check the memory capacity and whether it can be upgraded before buying.
For example, the BOSGAME E5 Plus starts with 8GB and supports up to 64GB, while some models here have 16GB installed.
Is dual Ethernet useful in a mini PC server?
Dual Ethernet helps when you need two wired network connections, such as separate network roles in a lab or router setup. It does not by itself configure routing or security.
The GMKtec G11 and both BOSGAME E5 models listed here have dual 2.5GbE ports.
Should a Linux server mini PC have a fan?
A fan can help move heat away during sustained work, but it also adds a moving part and potential noise. Consider the workload, room, and airflow around the case.
The models here include fan or air cooling, so leave space around the computer and check its operating guidance.
Can I use a mini PC as a NAS?
Yes, a mini PC can serve files, but the right fit depends on drive capacity, network speed, and how you plan to attach storage. Check internal expansion and external ports before deciding.
For a storage-focused setup, see our guide to the best mini PC for NAS.
