Looking Beyond the AOOSTAR MACO Gaming Mini PC? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these alternatives compare

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC serves as a budget-friendly alternative for builders seeking external GPU support. Like the AOOSTAR MACO, it is a barebone system requiring your own memory and storage. However, it uses the UM880 Plus chassis in silver. While both offer 2.5G LAN connectivity, this option prioritizes cost efficiency over the AOOSTAR's fingerprint security and vapor chamber cooling. You should choose this if you want a flexible foundation without paying for premium thermal solutions or biometric features. It is ideal for users who prioritize raw expandability and external graphics over built-in convenience.

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 7745HX Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 7745HX Barebone Mini PC targets users needing high-speed networking for specialized workloads. It shares the barebone form factor and 2.5G LAN with the AOOSTAR MACO but distinguishes itself with 10G networking capabilities. This makes it superior for data-intensive environments or specialized server tasks. It lacks the AOOSTAR's OCuLink port and fingerprint scanner, focusing instead on raw network throughput. You should pick this alternative if your workflow demands faster data transfer rates than standard 2.5G Ethernet provides. It suits professionals willing to install their own operating system and memory for maximum performance in network-centric applications.

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255 Ryzen 7 Mini PC offers a customizable barebone experience with efficient cooling. It matches the AOOSTAR MACO in processor class and includes OCuLink for external GPU expansion. Unlike the AOOSTAR, it adds WiFi 6E support, providing better wireless connectivity options. It omits the fingerprint reader and multiple BIOS modes found in the original. This unit is lighter and designed for users who value expandable storage and high-speed ports. You should choose this if you need robust wireless networking alongside wired expansion. It fits those who want a flexible system without the enterprise-grade security features of the AOOSTAR MACO.

MINISFORUM X1 Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

The MINISFORUM X1 Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC is built for custom systems with external GPU support. It shares the barebone design and 2.5G LAN with the AOOSTAR MACO but weighs only 1.32 pounds. It lacks the AOOSTAR's fingerprint unlock and vapor chamber cooling system. This model focuses on lightweight portability and multiple display outputs. You should select this alternative if you prioritize a smaller footprint and lower weight over advanced thermal management. It is suitable for users who want to build a compact PC with external graphics but do not require biometric security or the specific BIOS tuning options of the AOOSTAR.

MINISFORUM DeskMini Ryzen 7 Barebone PC

The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC provides strong performance with flexible storage options. It is a barebone system like the AOOSTAR MACO but weighs significantly more at 3.04 pounds. It includes WiFi 6E, offering better wireless connectivity than the original. It lacks the AOOSTAR's OCuLink port and fingerprint scanner. This unit is ideal for users who prefer a slim design with robust networking. You should choose this if you value WiFi 6E and a different form factor over external GPU expansion capabilities. It suits those who want to customize their memory and storage without needing the specialized expansion ports of the AOOSTAR MACO.

Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC

The Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a specialized tool for network administrators. Unlike the AOOSTAR MACO, it is designed for dedicated hardware firewall applications. It features multiple high-speed Ethernet ports and silent fanless operation. It lacks gaming-oriented features like OCuLink and fingerprint security. This unit is ideal for users building a home lab or enterprise firewall. You should pick this alternative if your priority is silent operation and multiple network interfaces rather than general-purpose computing or external GPU support. It suits professionals who need reliable, low-power networking hardware instead of a versatile gaming mini PC.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

AOOSTAR MACO Ryzen 7 H 255 Mini PC

Best for: custom builds with external GPU support

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 H 255

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR5 5600MHz

Graphics

Radeon 780M

Ethernet Ports

Dual 2.5G

View on Amazon: AOOSTAR MACO Ryzen 7 H 255 Mini PC Affiliate link

The AOOSTAR MACO is a barebone mini PC built around the AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 processor. It features integrated Radeon 780M graphics and supports dual-channel DDR5 5600MHz memory. You get dual 2.5G Ethernet ports and high-speed expansion via USB4 and OCuLink. This setup suits users who need flexible connectivity and strong multi-threading performance for gaming or multitasking.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 with 8 cores and 16 threads
• Integrated Radeon 780M graphics on RDNA 3 architecture
• Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for fast networking
• Supports dual-channel DDR5 5600MHz memory up to 128GB
• Includes OCuLink and USB4 for high-speed expansion

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system without RAM or SSD
• No dedicated discrete graphics card for heavy gaming
• Includes only a 120W power supply

Good fit if

• You want to customize your own RAM and storage
• You need dual 2.5G Ethernet for home networking
• You plan to use an external GPU via OCuLink

Skip if

• You need a ready-to-use system with pre-installed OS
• You require dedicated graphics for high-end gaming
• You prefer a system with built-in storage and memory

Verdict: The AOOSTAR MACO Ryzen 7 H 255 Mini PC offers a strong foundation for users who want to build a custom system with high-speed networking and expansion options. It fits those who value flexibility in choosing their own memory and storage components.

2 Also great

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

Best for: Custom builds utilizing external GPU expansion

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Graphics

AMD Radeon 780M

Ethernet Ports

2.5Gbps LAN

High-Speed Expansion

OCuLink, USB4

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC Affiliate link

This compact barebone desktop runs on an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor paired with Radeon 780M integrated graphics. You supply your own DDR5 memory, PCIe 4.0 storage, and operating system. The included OCuLink adapter enables high-speed external GPU connectivity over PCIe 4.0 x4 lanes. It suits you if you already own components and need modular graphics expansion.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor with 8 cores, 16 threads, and up to 5.1GHz boost
• OCuLink interface adapter supporting PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds up to 64Gbps
• Triple display outputs via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and full-featured USB4
• 2.5Gbps Ethernet port alongside Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2

Cons

• Requires you to purchase and install your own RAM, storage drive, and operating system
• Installing the OCuLink adapter occupies one of the two internal M.2 2280 slots
• OCuLink interface is non-hot-swappable

Good fit if

• You want to provide your own DDR5 memory, SSD storage, and operating system.
• You plan to connect an external graphics card using the PCIe 4.0 x4 OCuLink adapter.
• You require triple monitor support using HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB4.

Skip if

• You want a turnkey computer that includes factory-installed RAM, SSD, and Windows.
• You need two internal M.2 SSDs while simultaneously utilizing the external OCuLink connection.

Verdict: MINISFORUM DeskMini Ryzen 7 Barebone serves builders who want to install their own memory, storage, and external graphics hardware.

3 Also great

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 7745HX Barebone Mini PC

Best for: high-speed networking and PCIe expansion

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR5 SODIMM 5200 MT/s

Ethernet Ports

2x 2.5G, 2x SFP+ 10G

Operating System

No OS (Barebone)

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 7745HX Barebone Mini PC Affiliate link

The MINISFORUM MS-A2 is a barebone mini PC built around the AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX processor. It features DDR5 memory slots and three M.2 NVMe SSD slots for storage expansion. You get dual 10G SFP+ ports and dual 2.5Gb LAN for high-speed networking. This unit lacks pre-installed RAM or an operating system, requiring you to supply those components yourself.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX processor with up to 5.1 GHz speed
• Dual 10G SFP+ Ethernet ports for high data transfer
• Supports up to 96 GB DDR5 5200 MT/s memory
• Three M.2 NVMe SSD slots with RAID support

Cons

• Sold as a barebone unit without RAM or storage
• Requires separate purchase of an operating system
• No pre-installed software or drivers included

Good fit if

• You need high-speed 10G networking for data transfer
• You want to customize your own RAM and SSD capacity
• You require PCIe expansion for professional graphics or network cards

Skip if

• You want a ready-to-use system with pre-installed Windows
• You prefer a compact form factor without expansion slots
• You need built-in storage and memory for immediate use

Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-A2 Ryzen 7 7745HX Barebone is ideal for users who need 10G networking and PCIe expansion for specialized workloads. It suits those willing to install their own memory and operating system for maximum flexibility.

4 Also great

MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

Best for: Users wanting a customizable barebone PC

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 255

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR5 5600MHz

Graphics

AMD Radeon 780M

Ethernet Ports

2.5GbE

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC Affiliate link

The MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255 is a barebone mini PC built around the AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor. It pairs eight cores with integrated Radeon 780M graphics. You get dual-channel DDR5 memory support and two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots for storage. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5G LAN, and a full USB4 port. An OCuLink port allows for external GPU expansion. This unit suits users who want a compact, high-performance base for office work or light gaming.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 255 with up to 4.9 GHz clock speed
• Integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics for light gaming
• Full USB4 port with 40Gbps transfer speeds
• OCuLink port for external GPU expansion
• Supports up to 128GB DDR5 memory

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system without RAM or SSD
• OCuLink port requires one M.2 SSD slot for use
• No dedicated discrete graphics card included

Good fit if

• You need a compact PC with strong multi-threaded performance
• You want to add your own RAM and storage later
• You plan to use an external GPU via OCuLink

Skip if

• You prefer a ready-to-use system with pre-installed components
• You require high-end discrete graphics for heavy gaming
• You need Thunderbolt 4 connectivity instead of USB4

Verdict: The MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255 Ryzen 7 Mini PC offers a flexible foundation for users who value expandability and efficient cooling. It fits those who want to customize their storage and memory while accessing high-speed ports like OCuLink.

5 Best premium

MINISFORUM X1 Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC

Best for: custom builds with external GPUs

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 255

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Ethernet Ports

2.5G LAN

High-Speed Expansion

2x USB4, OCuLink

Operating System

No OS (Barebone)

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM X1 Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC Affiliate link

The MINISFORUM X1-255 is a barebone mini PC powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor. It features an OCuLink port for external GPU support and dual M.2 slots for up to 12TB of storage. You get four video outputs and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. This unit requires you to install your own RAM, SSD, and operating system.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor with 8 cores and 16 threads
• OCuLink port for high-speed external GPU connections
• Expandable storage up to 12TB across three M.2 slots
• Four video outputs including two USB4 ports
• Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5G LAN for fast networking

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system without pre-installed RAM or SSD
• Requires separate purchase of an operating system
• OCuLink port is not hot-swappable

Good fit if

• You want to connect an external graphics card via OCuLink
• You need multiple displays for expanded workspaces
• You prefer to choose your own RAM and storage capacity

Skip if

• You need a ready-to-use system with an installed OS
• You require pre-installed memory and storage
• You want a device that supports hot-swapping external GPUs

Verdict: The MINISFORUM X1-255 Ryzen 7 Mini PC suits users who want to build a custom system with external GPU support. It fits those who value expandable storage and multiple display outputs over plug-and-play convenience.

6

MINISFORUM DeskMini Ryzen 7 Barebone PC

Best for: Users building custom compact PCs

Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 8745H

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR5

Graphics

AMD Radeon 780M

Ethernet Ports

1x 2.5G Lan Port

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM DeskMini Ryzen 7 Barebone PC Affiliate link

The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim uses an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with Radeon 780M graphics. It supports up to 96GB of DDR5 memory and two PCIe 4.0 SSDs. You get three video outputs, including 8K via HDMI 2.1 and USB4. The 2.5G LAN and Wi-Fi 6E ensure stable networking. This barebone unit is ideal for users who want a compact, powerful machine they can customize with their own RAM and storage.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor for heavy multitasking
• AMD Radeon 780M graphics for light gaming
• Supports up to 96GB DDR5 RAM
• Dual PCIe 4.0 SSD slots for storage expansion
• 8K@60Hz output via HDMI 2.1 and USB4

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system without RAM or SSD
• No built-in operating system included
• Requires separate purchase of memory and storage

Good fit if

• You want to choose your own RAM capacity
• You need high-speed 2.5G wired networking
• You plan to run multiple displays up to 8K

Skip if

• You need a pre-configured PC with OS installed
• You require Thunderbolt 4 certified ports
• You prefer a system with built-in storage

Verdict: The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC offers strong Ryzen 7 8745H performance and flexible storage options for users who prefer to build their own specifications.

7 Best budget

Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC

Best for: Dedicated hardware firewall and routing applications

Processor

Celeron J6413

Installed RAM

Barebone

Storage Capacity

Barebone

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

UHD Graphics

Ethernet Ports

4 x 2.5GbE

View on Amazon: Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link

The Glovary J6413 4L is a barebone fanless mini PC built for network security. It features a Celeron J6413 processor and four i226V 2.5GbE LAN ports for robust routing. The aluminum chassis supports dual DDR4 RAM and multiple storage options. This compact unit runs quietly, making it suitable for home labs or enterprise environments where low power consumption and stable operation are priorities.

Pros

• Four i226V 2.5GbE LAN ports for high-speed multi-LAN routing
• Fanless aluminum design ensures quiet, passive cooling operation
• Celeron J6413 processor offers low power consumption and energy efficiency
• Dual DDR4 SO-DIMM slots support up to 64GB of memory

Cons

• Barebone configuration requires you to purchase RAM and SSD separately
• Celeron J6413 processor lacks multi-core performance for heavy workloads
• Integrated UHD Graphics limits display capabilities for complex tasks

Good fit if

• You need a dedicated hardware firewall for network segmentation
• You require multiple 2.5GbE ports for virtualization or routing
• You prefer a silent, fanless device for always-on operation

Skip if

• You need a pre-built system with RAM and storage included
• You require high-performance CPU power for gaming or rendering
• You need dedicated graphics processing for visual tasks

Verdict: Glovary Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a specialized tool for network administrators who need multiple high-speed Ethernet ports and silent operation. It fits users building a home lab or enterprise firewall who are willing to install their own components.

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