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Mini PCs have long since become more than just simple office computers. They sit on your desk, behind your monitor, in the living room or in your home lab, where they handle tasks that used to require a large desktop PC. That’s precisely why it’s worth taking a look inside: If you properly assess the RAM, SSD, Wi-Fi, and ports before buying, you can upgrade a compact system later on as needed, rather than replacing it prematurely.
However, there is less scope for customization than with traditional tower PCs. Compact cases, soldered components, and confined cooling systems set clear limits. Nevertheless, RAM, an SSD, a Wi-Fi module or an external graphics solution can make all the difference — between a mini PC that’s barely adequate and a system that will remain useful for several more years.
What can actually be upgraded
Three components are accessible in most mini PCs: RAM, the SSD, and the Wi-Fi module. An external graphics card is a fourth option, provided the appropriate connector is available. The processor and integrated graphics are off-limits; they are permanently soldered in place. Knowing this in advance saves you disappointment.
The Sapphire Edge AI 370 serves as a good example of just how significant the differences can be. This mini PC uses replaceable DDR5 SO-DIMMs instead of soldered-on LPDDR memory and supports up to 96GB of RAM. The SSDs are also easily accessible: The magnetically attached cover can be removed without tools, revealing the key components directly underneath. For buyers who wish to upgrade later, this design has a clear advantage.
RAM: The first port of call
Upgrading the RAM is the most obvious step. In many mini PCs, SO-DIMM modules are fitted into a socket, just as in a laptop. Often, all you need is a screwdriver and a few minutes. However, depending on the case, additional covers, clips, or glued-on feet can make access more difficult.
Current devices use DDR5, while older ones use DDR4. The two generations are not compatible; the notch is in a different position.
Christoph Hoffmann
Two factors determine success: First, the maximum capacity supported by the motherboard. If the datasheet specifies 64GB, you shouldn’t plan to use a larger kit. In some cases, more memory may work, but this isn’t guaranteed. Second, dual-channel operation. Two identical modules deliver faster speeds than a single one, which is particularly noticeable with integrated graphics.
Be careful with particularly slim models: LPDDR5 or LPDDR5X is usually soldered directly onto the board, so replacement is not possible. LPCAMM2 could change this in future, as it allows LPDDR memory to be implemented as a plug-in module. However, this is not yet the norm in mini PCs. Anyone wishing to upgrade later should therefore specifically look for SO-DIMM or LPCAMM2 slots before purchasing.
SSD: More space, more speed
The second worthwhile upgrade concerns the SSD. Manufacturers often cut corners here in two areas: capacity and speed. 512GB fills up quickly. Many mini PCs offer an M.2 2280 slot for an NVMe SSD; some have two or three. Devices such as the GMKtec K12 come with three M.2 slots — enough space to separate Windows from your data.
Christoph Hoffmann
Pay attention to the PCIe generation. Some new models support PCIe 5.0, while most support PCIe 4.0. A faster SSD will still work in a slower slot, albeit at a reduced speed. A second slot can be used for a dedicated data drive without affecting the system. If you only have a small-capacity drive, back up your data, clone the old SSD before replacing it, or reinstall Windows.
The height is also important. In some mini PCs, there is little space for SSDs with tall heatsinks. Often, only a thin thermal pad will fit, but not a tall SSD heatsink. A very fast PCIe 5.0 SSD is of little use if it quickly throttles due to heat in a cramped case.
See our roundup of the best SSDs for buying recommendations.
Practical tip: Take care with Wi-Fi antennas
Care is required when opening some mini PCs. Internal metal covers sometimes route the Wi-Fi antenna cables very close to the Wi-Fi card. If you’re replacing RAM or an SSD, you may accidentally disconnect the black and grey antenna cables when lifting the cover. Afterwards, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth may no longer work reliably or may stop working altogether. Our test of the Geekom A9 Max highlighted precisely this risk.
Christoph Hoffmann
Therefore, never pull covers off abruptly. First check whether the antenna cables are secured with adhesive strips, and remove these carefully. If the cables have already come loose, they must be reconnected to the Wi-Fi card: The black one usually goes on “Main,” the gray one on “AUX.” The Wi-Fi card is often located beneath the M.2 SSD, so the SSD will need to be temporarily removed.
Wi-Fi module: The leap to Wi-Fi 7
The Wi-Fi module is the unassuming upgrade. In many mini PCs, it sits as a small M.2 2230 card under a cover and can be swapped for a newer model. Before buying, however, you should check that the antenna connections, form factor, connectivity, and drivers are compatible.
Upgrading from Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 7 delivers higher throughput and the latest version of Bluetooth. However, the benefits are only noticeable if your router is also compatible. For devices connected via an Ethernet cable, the upgrade is hardly worth it.
External graphics card: OCuLink offers performance benefits
An external graphics card offers the most significant leap in performance. Mini PCs rely on integrated graphics, which are sufficient for Office and films but reach their limits when it comes to gaming. An eGPU bridges this gap. It’s housed in a case with its own power supply and connects to the computer via a cable.
The connection determines the outcome. OCuLink routes the PCIe lines directly to the outside and therefore suffers only a minimal loss of performance. With PCIe 4.0 x4, 64Gbit/s is available. Depending on the graphics card, game, resolution, and dock, the performance loss is often roughly between 3 and 7 percent.
Mark Hachman / Foundry
USB4 and Thunderbolt are more flexible, but they usually cause a greater performance drop for an external graphics card. Thunderbolt 5 and USB4 v2 offer significantly more bandwidth than Thunderbolt 4 or standard USB4; nevertheless, the performance loss depends heavily on the dock, graphics card, game, and resolution.
As a rough guide: OCuLink often results in a loss in the low single-digit percentage range, while Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 can cause a significantly greater loss of performance depending on the scenario. A common misconception therefore remains: A USB4 port on its own does not make for a good eGPU host.
One drawback remains: OCuLink does not support hot-plugging. The computer must be shut down to connect or disconnect the device. And the setup isn’t cheap: The case, graphics card, and a suitable power supply all add up. For those who stay at their desk anyway, a compact desktop is often a more cost-effective option.
Cooling and thermal paste
A mini PC thrives on its compact design. This comes at a price when it comes to cooling. If you’ve opened the case anyway, you can replace the thermal paste. On older devices, this reduces the temperature by a few degrees and makes the fan run more quietly. It’s not an absolute must, though. If you’re unsure, it’s best to leave it alone. Using too much thermal paste or damaging components while dismantling the unit can quickly create more problems than it solves.
Operating system and BIOS
You can boost performance even without new hardware. An up-to-date BIOS fixes bugs and sometimes unlocks higher RAM clock speeds. Before updating, however, you should check the exact model, read the manufacturer’s instructions, and ensure your power supply is stable before starting the process.
If you find Windows is slowing things down, you can install a lightweight version of Linux. This can breathe new life into older mini-PCs in particular. Neither option costs any extra money, but both require preparation and a bit of time.
Where the limits lie
Three things remain virtually impossible with most mini PCs. The processor is soldered in place and cannot be replaced. The integrated graphics are tied to the processor and share its fate. And the maximum RAM capacity is determined by the motherboard, not by your best intentions. Anyone who hits these limits is faced with the question of buying a new device — not upgrading the existing one.
See our article on the best mini PC deals for buying options.
What’s worth it — and what isn’t
All in all, a clear hierarchy emerges. More RAM offers great value for money and remains the first port of call, provided a socket is fitted. A larger or faster SSD creates space and headroom. The Wi-Fi module is only worth it if you have a compatible device on the other end. An eGPU can make the mini PC significantly more suitable for gaming, but requires a connection, money, and a dedicated space. The processor and graphics unit cannot be modified.
The most important step comes before you buy: If you want to upgrade later, check the sockets, slots, and ports in the technical specifications. A mini PC with two RAM slots, an additional M.2 slot, and an OCuLink port leaves plenty of upgrade options open. A slimline model with soldered-on memory, on the other hand, will remain largely unchanged from the day it was first released.
FAQ
1.
Can any mini PC be upgraded?
No. Many mini PCs allow you to replace the RAM, SSD, or Wi-Fi module. However, very slim models often have the RAM soldered in place or make it difficult to access individual components.
2.
What offers the best value for money with mini PCs?
In most cases, it’s worth upgrading the RAM first. Next comes a larger or faster SSD. Both significantly improve everyday performance, multitasking, and system headroom.
3.
Can you swap the processor?
Generally speaking, no. In mini PCs, the processor and integrated graphics are almost always soldered in place. A CPU upgrade is therefore virtually impossible.
4.
Is an external graphics card a good idea?
Yes, but only if you have the right connection and a realistic budget. OCuLink usually delivers better eGPU performance, while USB4 and Thunderbolt offer greater flexibility. However, an eGPU enclosure, power supply, and graphics card make the setup expensive.
5.
Is a Wi-Fi upgrade worth it?
Only if your router also supports the new standard. If you’re using the mini PC via an Ethernet cable, you’ll gain little benefit from a new Wi-Fi module.
6.
What should you look out for before buying?
Key features to look for include RAM slots, an additional M.2 slot, space for SSDs without large heatsinks, a replaceable Wi-Fi module, and, if you’re planning to use an eGPU, a dedicated OCuLink port.
