8 Best Mini PCs for Linux (October 2026)

The best Linux-compatible mini PCs include the Beelink SER3 Mini PC for a balanced Linux desktop, the GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded for a Linux home lab, and the GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor for a simple Linux desktop.

On this page (5 sections)

1. Which mini PCs for Linux fit different workloads?
2. What hardware matters most in a Linux mini PC?
3. Which connections should you check for a Linux setup?
4. Should you choose a Linux mini PC or one with Windows?
5. Which Linux mini PC should you choose?

The best mini PC for Linux is one with hardware your chosen distribution supports, plus enough memory, storage and ports for your workload. The BOSGAME E5 11 Pro explicitly names Ubuntu support, while the GMKtec G11 and BOSGAME P4 Ultra offer dual 2.5GbE ports for networking projects.

Linux compatibility depends on more than the processor. If you prefer Windows, compare mini PCs with Windows 11 Pro.

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, graphics, audio, sleep and firmware can affect the setup, so check the exact model and component support before you install.

If you're still deciding on size and connections, start with How to Choose a Mini PC: A Step-by-Step Guide. For the broader question of installation and use, see [Can a Mini PC Run Linux?

The Simple Answer](/can-a-mini-pc-run-linux/).

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a balanced Linux desktop

   Beelink SER3 Mini PC

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a Linux home lab

   GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a simple Linux desktop

   GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   BOSGAME E5 11 Pro Mini PC

   Best for stated Ubuntu support
   Check it
5. 5

   BOSGAME P4 Ultra Mini PC

   Best for a higher-core Linux workstation
   Check it
6. 6

   KAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U

   Best for multi-monitor Linux work
   Check it
7. 7

   origimagic C3 Mini PC Intel Core i3-5005U

   Best for a Linux-only system
   Check it
8. 8

   Bmax Mini PC 2026 Desktop Computer Intel

   Best for basic Linux use
   Check it

Which mini PCs for Linux fit different workloads?

The best Linux mini PC depends on whether you need a general desktop, multiple displays or a home server. These picks are ordered by score, with Linux support and hardware fit both in view.

We compared the available processor, memory, storage, connectivity and stated Linux support details. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

1

Beelink SER3 Mini PC: Best for a balanced Linux desktop

9.7/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 3 3200U
• 16GB DDR4 RAM
• 500GB M.2 SSD
• Dual HDMI

Its 16GB of memory and 500GB SSD offer a useful starting point for a general desktop. Check the support status of its wireless and graphics hardware with your chosen Linux distribution.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 16GB RAM and 500GB SSD
• Dual HDMI outputs
• Gigabit Ethernet

Cons

• Linux support for individual components should be confirmed

The Beelink SER3 is a balanced starting point for a Linux desktop, with 16GB of DDR4 memory and a 500GB SSD. Its Ryzen 3 3200U processor has 2 cores and 4 threads.

Two HDMI ports support a dual-screen setup, while Gigabit Ethernet gives you a wired network option. The product information also names dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but check Linux support for the exact wireless hardware before relying on those connections.

This configuration offers more memory and storage than entry-level systems in this group. It can suit browsing, office apps and everyday desktop use, depending on the software you plan to run.

Choose it if you want a roomy general desktop configuration. Confirm component compatibility for your distribution, especially if you plan to use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

2

GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded: Best for a Linux home lab

9.7/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514
• Dual 2.5GbE ports
• Dual M.2 SSD slots
• Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2

Dual Ethernet ports and two M.2 slots suit a compact server or networking build. Confirm Linux support for the network, Wi-Fi and graphics hardware you plan to use.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Dual 2.5GbE ports
• Two M.2 SSD slots
• USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode

Cons

• Distribution and component support need checking

The GMKtec G11 is aimed at compact networking and home lab projects, with dual 2.5GbE ports and two M.2 SSD slots. Its Ryzen Embedded R2514 processor and 16GB of dual-channel memory provide the base configuration.

Those Ethernet ports are useful to consider for router, firewall or NAS builds. GMKtec also describes the system for virtual machines and containers, but check compatibility for your Linux distribution, network controller and any software you plan to run.

For display use, the G11 has dual HDMI and USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode, with support for up to three 4K displays stated by GMKtec. Validate the display connections you intend to use under Linux before setting up a multi-screen workstation.

Choose it for a small server or network build where dual Ethernet and storage expansion matter. Verify support for the exact network and wireless components before buying.

3

GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor: Best for a simple Linux desktop

9.6/10Our score

• Intel N95 processor
• 8GB DDR4 RAM
• 256GB M.2 SSD
• Gigabit Ethernet

This small system has an Intel N95 processor, 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD for everyday desktop tasks. Check device support for your preferred distribution before choosing wireless or display features.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Gigabit Ethernet
• Dual HDMI outputs
• Compact memory and storage setup

Cons

• 8GB RAM and 256GB storage leave less room for heavier workloads

The GMKtec G3S is a straightforward compact system with an Intel N95 processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD. For a nearby Intel processor option, compare our best Intel N100 mini PCs.

It also includes Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0.

Dual HDMI outputs support two displays, and Intel UHD graphics are specified. These are useful hardware details to check against your chosen distribution, particularly if you need a specific screen resolution or wireless connection.

The 8GB memory and 256GB drive can work for basic desktop tasks, but leave less headroom for large projects or virtual machines than the larger configurations here. Consider your apps and files before settling on this capacity.

Choose it for a simple Linux desktop with wired networking available. Check current distribution support for the exact G3S configuration first.

4

BOSGAME E5 11 Pro Mini PC: Best for stated Ubuntu support

9.1/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 3 5300U
• Ubuntu support stated
• Dual 2.5GbE ports
• Three display outputs

BOSGAME states that the E5 supports Linux Ubuntu, giving buyers a specific distribution to check against their needs. Its dual Ethernet ports also suit firewall and home server builds.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Ubuntu support is explicitly stated
• Dual 2.5GbE ports
• Extra M.2 slot for storage expansion

Cons

• Only Ubuntu support is named; verify other distributions separately

BOSGAME explicitly states that the E5 11 Pro supports Linux Ubuntu, making it the clearest pick here when you want a named distribution. Its Ryzen 3 5300U processor has 4 cores and 8 threads, with 8GB DDR4 memory and a 256GB SSD.

The E5 has dual 2.5GbE ports, an extra M.2 storage slot and three display connections: HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C. Those details suit buyers considering a firewall, server or multi-monitor desk system.

The named support is for Ubuntu. If you prefer another distribution, check its compatibility with the E5's graphics, network, wireless and display components rather than assuming the same support.

Choose it if Ubuntu support is a priority and the listed hardware fits your plans. Review the distribution version and component support before installation.

5

BOSGAME P4 Ultra Mini PC: Best for a higher-core Linux workstation

9.0/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 7 7730U
• 8 cores and 16 threads
• 16GB DDR4 RAM
• 1TB PCIe SSD

The 8-core processor, 16GB of memory and 1TB SSD give this model room for heavier desktop or server workloads. Confirm Linux support for its graphics, wireless and wired network components.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 8-core, 16-thread processor
• 1TB SSD
• Dual 2.5GbE ports

Cons

• Linux distribution support is not specified

The BOSGAME P4 Ultra has the highest core count in this group, with an 8-core, 16-thread Ryzen 7 7730U, 16GB of DDR4 memory and a 1TB SSD. For more systems using this processor tier, see our best Ryzen 7 mini PCs.

That combination gives a Linux workstation or server more room for multitasking than the smaller systems.

For networking, it includes dual 2.5GbE ports and Wi-Fi 6E. It also supports three display connections through HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C, according to its specifications.

Linux distribution support is not specified here, so verify the graphics and network hardware before choosing this model. Also check whether your preferred Linux tools can use the features you need.

Choose it for a higher-core workload where memory and storage capacity matter. Confirm component support for your distribution before setting it up.

6

KAMRUI Pinova P2 AMD Ryzen 5425U: Best for multi-monitor Linux work

8.9/10Our score

• AMD Ryzen 5425U
• 16GB RAM
• 256GB SSD
• HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C video

Three video connections and 16GB RAM suit a multi-screen desktop arrangement. Check support for the graphics and USB-C display output with your chosen Linux release.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Three display connections
• 16GB memory
• Two M.2 storage slots

Cons

• Linux support is not specified

The KAMRUI Pinova P2 suits a Linux desktop that needs several screens, with HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C video connections. It pairs a Ryzen 5425U processor with 16GB of memory and a 256GB SSD.

Two M.2 storage slots allow expansion, according to the product specifications. The system also has a Gigabit Ethernet port, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so check support for each connection you plan to use.

Its memory and processor give it more room for multitasking than the most basic picks, while its storage starts at 256GB. If you keep large projects or media locally, account for the extra drive you may want.

Choose it for a multi-monitor setup if your distribution supports its graphics and display outputs. Linux support is not specifically stated, so verify the exact configuration first.

7

origimagic C3 Mini PC Intel Core i3-5005U: Best for a Linux-only system

8.4/10Our score

• Intel Core i3-5005U
• 8GB RAM
• 512GB SSD
• Linux support stated

The C3 explicitly supports Linux and pairs 8GB RAM with a 512GB SSD. Its maker says it supports Windows 10 and Linux, but not Windows 11.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Linux support is stated
• 512GB SSD
• Dual HDMI outputs

Cons

• Windows 11 is not supported

The origimagic C3 explicitly supports Linux and pairs an Intel Core i3-5005U with 8GB RAM and a 512GB SSD. Its maker says it supports Windows 10 and Linux, but not Windows 11.

The C3 offers dual HDMI outputs, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0. Its Intel HD Graphics 5500 supports displays up to 2560 x 1600, according to the product details.

This is a useful option to investigate if Linux compatibility is more important to you than newer hardware. Check that your chosen distribution supports the specific components and that the processor meets the needs of your apps.

Choose it for a Linux-first desktop where 512GB of storage is useful. Skip it if Windows 11 support is also a requirement.

8

Bmax Mini PC 2026 Desktop Computer Intel: Best for basic Linux use

8.3/10Our score

• Intel Celeron J3355
• 6GB LPDDR3 RAM
• 128GB eMMC
• Linux and Ubuntu support stated

Bmax states support for Linux and Ubuntu, with 128GB onboard storage and M.2 SSD expansion. Its 6GB RAM and Celeron processor make it a fit to investigate for basic tasks.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Linux and Ubuntu support stated
• M.2 SSD expansion
• Gigabit Ethernet

Cons

• 6GB RAM and 128GB eMMC are modest starting specifications

Bmax states that this mini PC supports Linux and Ubuntu, with an Intel Celeron J3355 processor, 6GB of LPDDR3 memory and 128GB of eMMC storage. It also supports M.2 SSD expansion.

The built-in storage is modest, so consider an added SSD if your Linux install, apps and files need more room. The system includes Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0, each of which should be checked against your chosen distribution.

Bmax also lists dual HDMI outputs and Intel HD Graphics 500. Confirm the display mode and component support you need before making this a daily-use desktop.

Choose it for basic Linux tasks when the stated OS support and compact setup fit your needs. For heavier multitasking, compare the memory and processor with the other picks.

What hardware matters most in a Linux mini PC?

For Linux, prioritize confirmed support for the exact network, graphics and wireless components, then match memory and storage to your workload. A familiar processor name alone does not confirm that every device will work well.

Check the distribution's hardware support pages and recent reports for the exact model. If wireless support is uncertain, a wired Ethernet connection can help during setup and troubleshooting.

Memory affects how much you can keep open, while storage determines space for the operating system, apps and files. Use How Much Storage Do I Need in a Mini PC? to estimate capacity before choosing a drive.

Which connections should you check for a Linux setup?

Check the ports you plan to use and verify that Linux supports their related hardware. HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C video, Ethernet, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can each have their own compatibility details.

If a multi-screen setup is central to your work, compare the outputs and intended monitor connections before choosing. Our guide to the best mini PC with HDMI covers display connections, while the best 24 inch monitor guide can help with screen choice.

For a workstation that needs more expansion room, also compare the best small form factor PC options. A larger case may offer a different balance of size and upgrade choices.

Should you choose a Linux mini PC or one with Windows?

Choose based on the operating system you plan to use and whether the hardware supports it. Some buyers want a ready-to-use Windows setup, while others want a Linux installation for development, server tasks or a preferred desktop environment.

A Windows-installed mini PC can still be suitable for Linux, but confirm component support before installing another operating system. If Windows 11 compatibility is part of your decision, see our guide to the best mini pc windows 11.

For business applications and a conventional office setup, compare the best mini pc for office work as well. That can help you weigh Linux flexibility against the software and support needs of your workplace.

Which Linux mini PC should you choose?

Choose the BOSGAME E5 11 Pro if Ubuntu support is your main requirement, the GMKtec G11 for a compact network build with dual 2.5GbE, and the Beelink SER3 for a general desktop with 16GB memory and a 500GB SSD. For every pick, confirm support for the exact distribution and components you plan to use.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for a balanced Linux desktop

   Beelink SER3 Mini PC

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for a Linux home lab

   GMKtec G11 Mini PC AMD Ryzen Embedded

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a simple Linux desktop

   GMKtec G3S Mini PC Intel N95 Processor

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What should I check before installing Linux on a mini PC?

Check that your chosen Linux distribution supports the mini PC's processor, graphics, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet and sleep behavior. Search for the exact model and component names, then review recent reports from users of the same distribution.

A stated Linux or Ubuntu support note helps narrow the search, but component checks still matter.

Is a mini PC with Windows already installed suitable for Linux?

It can be, if its hardware works with your chosen distribution. A preinstalled operating system does not by itself confirm that Wi-Fi, sound, graphics or suspend functions will work under Linux.

Compare the exact model and components with distribution support information before replacing or dual-booting the installed system.

How much memory does a Linux mini PC need?

The right amount depends on your apps and workload. The picks here range from 6GB to 16GB, with 16GB offering more room for multitasking than the smaller configurations.

For virtual machines, development tools or several large apps at once, check whether the computer supports a memory upgrade and how much memory your workload needs.

Should I use Wi-Fi or Ethernet with Linux?

Ethernet is a practical choice when your desk or server can connect by cable, since it avoids depending on wireless driver support. If you need Wi-Fi, check support for the exact wireless hardware and your distribution's current kernel.

The models here list different wireless standards, so verify the precise configuration before buying.

Can a mini PC run Linux as a home server?

Yes, a mini PC can serve as a compact home server when its processor, memory, storage and network connections fit the services you plan to run. Dual Ethernet ports and extra SSD slots can help with networking or storage builds.

Check Linux hardware support and power or cooling needs for continuous use before choosing a system.