6 Best Alternatives to the ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC (2026)
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You might be looking for asus chromebox 3 mini PC alternatives if you need a different operating system or form factor. The original ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC runs Chrome OS and features an Intel Core i7-8550U processor with 8GB of DDR4 RAM. It offers 4K UHD graphics and compact dimensions of 5.75 by 5.5 by 1.8 inches. This setup is ideal for users who want a quiet, small device for office work or media consumption on Chrome OS.
However, you may prefer Windows 11 for broader software compatibility or a different size for your desk. Some buyers need more storage, like the 256GB SSD found in other models, or specific ports for industrial use. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. You will find options with similar Intel Core i7 processors, varying RAM amounts, and different connectivity features. This list helps you compare physical dimensions, memory types, and operating systems to find the best fit for your specific technical requirements.
How alternatives compare to ASUS
HP EliteDesk Mini Intel Core i7
The HP EliteDesk Mini shifts you from Chrome OS to Windows 11, which changes your entire software workflow. It targets business environments with ample RAM for multitasking. While the ASUS model offers 4K UHD graphics and compact dimensions, this HP unit prioritizes value and compatibility over raw speed. You gain a full Windows ecosystem but lose the specific Chrome OS integration. It suits users who need a traditional desktop experience in a small form factor without requiring the latest hardware performance.
Lenovo ThinkCentre Fanless AMD Mini PC
This Lenovo ThinkCentre focuses on silence and security rather than processing power. It runs Windows 11 Pro with only 4GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD. Compared to the ASUS Chromebox 3, which has 8GB of DDR4 RAM and an i7 processor, this option is less powerful for heavy tasks. However, its fanless design ensures quiet operation. It is ideal for basic office work where noise is a concern. You trade significant computational speed and memory for a quieter, more secure, and budget-friendly machine.
Kinupute i7-5500U Fanless Industrial PC
The Kinupute i7-5500U is built for industrial automation and network gateways, not home use. It features an older Intel Core i7 processor and 8GB of RAM. Unlike the ASUS model, it lacks standard consumer features and is designed for specialized tasks. It offers silent operation due to its fanless design. You should choose this only if you need serial ports or specific industrial connectivity. It does not suit general home users who require modern media consumption capabilities or a standard consumer operating system.
Kinupute Fanless Industrial Mini PC Core i7
This Kinupute model upgrades the processor to an Intel Core i7-1165G7 and adds WiFi 6 connectivity. It retains the fanless design for silent operation. The ASUS Chromebox 3 uses an older i7-8550U and WiFi 5. This alternative offers better wireless standards and a newer processor architecture. It is suitable for network-focused projects like pfSense. You gain improved networking capabilities and modern silicon, but you may lose the specific USB-C power delivery features found on the ASUS unit. It is better for technical users needing passive cooling.
HP EliteDesk Mini Core i7 Desktop
The HP EliteDesk Mini Core i7 Desktop provides 256GB of SSD storage, which is double the capacity of the ASUS Chromebox 3. It runs Windows 11 Pro instead of Chrome OS. This model offers a stable, Windows-based environment for business users. It does not require cutting-edge hardware speeds. You gain more storage space and a familiar Windows interface. However, you lose the compact size and specific Chrome OS features. It is ideal for business users who need proven performance and standard connectivity without the need for the latest specifications.
Thdeukoty Fanless Core i7 Industrial Mini PC
The Thdeukoty Fanless Mini PC is designed for industrial automation and dual LAN needs. It features an Intel Core i7-5500U processor with 8GB of RAM. Unlike the ASUS Chromebox 3, it lacks modern memory standards and high storage capacity. It includes specific industrial ports like COM RS232. This unit is not ideal for users requiring modern connectivity or high storage. You should pick this only if you need dual LAN connections and specific industrial interfaces. It trades consumer-friendly features for specialized hardware capabilities in a fanless, silent package.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC
Best for: Chrome OS users needing compact power
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-8550U
- Installed RAM
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Graphics
- Intel 4K UHD Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- Gigabit LAN
The ASUS Chromebox 3 packs an 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8550U processor into a compact chassis. It includes 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 128GB SSD. Chrome OS runs full Android apps from Google Play. Integrated Intel UHD graphics support dual 4K monitors via HDMI and DisplayPort. This setup suits users who need a quiet, space-saving desktop with solid processing power for everyday tasks.
Pros
- Intel Core i7-8550U quad-core processor
- 8GB DDR4 system memory
- Chrome OS with Android app support
- Dual 4K display output capability
- Compact 5.75 x 5.5 x 1.8 inch form factor
Cons
- Only 128GB of SSD storage
- Bluetooth 4.2 is an older standard
- Chrome OS limits Windows software compatibility
Good fit if
- You need a small footprint for a desk
- You rely on web apps and Android programs
- You want dual monitor support for productivity
Skip if
- You require heavy Windows-only professional software
- You need more than 128GB of local storage
- You prefer the latest Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
Verdict: ASUS Chromebox 3 i7 Mini PC delivers strong processing in a tiny box. It is ideal for office work and media consumption on Chrome OS.
HP EliteDesk Mini Intel Core i7
Best for: Compact business desktops with ample RAM
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-6700T
- Installed RAM
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB SSD
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Operating System
- Windows 10 Pro 64-bit
- Dimensions
- 19 × 16 × 7 inches
The HP EliteDesk 800 G3 Mini is a compact business desktop powered by an Intel Core i7-6700T processor. It includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD for responsive performance. The system ships with Windows 11, allowing you to run modern software. It features multiple USB ports and display outputs, making it a practical option for office tasks or home computing setups where space is limited.
Pros
- Intel Core i7-6700T processor up to 3.6GHz
- 16GB DDR4 memory with two upgradeable slots
- 256GB SSD storage for fast boot times
- Pre-installed Windows 11 operating system
Cons
- Older 6th generation Intel processor
- Only 256GB of internal storage
- Certified refurbished condition
Good fit if
- You need a compact PC with 16GB of RAM
- You require Windows 11 for your workflow
- You want a business-grade desktop for office work
Skip if
- You need the latest processor generation
- You prefer new items with full manufacturer warranties
- You require more than 256GB of built-in storage
Verdict: HP EliteDesk 800 G3 Mini delivers solid business performance with ample RAM for multitasking. It fits users who prioritize value and Windows 11 compatibility over cutting-edge hardware speed.
Lenovo ThinkCentre Fanless AMD Mini PC
Best for: quiet, secure basic office tasks
- Processor
- AMD A4-9120C
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Operating System
- Windows 11 Pro
- Dimensions
- 7 × 7 × 1.36 inches
This Lenovo Mini PC packs an AMD A4-9120C processor into a 1-liter chassis. It comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM and a 128GB SSD. The system runs Windows 11 Pro and features a fanless design for silent operation. It supports dual displays and includes security features like a TPM chip. This compact unit suits users who need a quiet, secure base for light office tasks.
Pros
- Fanless design ensures silent operation
- Compact 1-liter volume fits tight spaces
- Includes Windows 11 Pro out of the box
- Built-in TPM chip for data encryption
Cons
- 4GB RAM limits multitasking with heavy apps
- AMD A4-9120C processor is lower performance than i7 alternatives
- 128GB SSD offers limited storage capacity
Good fit if
- You need a silent PC for a quiet office
- You want a small device for light browsing and docs
- You require built-in Windows 11 Pro security
Skip if
- You need high performance for video editing or gaming
- You require more than 4GB of RAM for smooth multitasking
- You need more than 128GB of storage for large files
Verdict: Lenovo ThinkCentre M625 Thin Client is a quiet, compact option for basic office work. It fits users who prioritize silence and security over raw processing power.
Kinupute i7-5500U Fanless Industrial PC
Best for: industrial automation and network gateways
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-5500U
- Installed RAM
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Ethernet Ports
- 2 x Gigabit LAN
- Operating System
- Windows 10 Pro
- Memory
- 8GB RAM
This Kinupute industrial mini PC uses a Core i7-5500U processor with 8GB RAM and a 128GB SSD. It runs Windows 10 Pro and features a fanless design for silent operation. The unit includes dual Gigabit LAN ports and six COM RS232 ports. It supports 24/7 operation in harsh environments. This system suits users needing robust connectivity and durability for specialized tasks.
Pros
- Intel Core i7-5500U processor with 8GB RAM
- Fanless design for zero noise and dust resistance
- Dual Gigabit LAN ports and six COM RS232 ports
- Pre-installed Windows 10 Pro operating system
Cons
- Older 5th generation processor limits modern performance
- Small 128GB storage capacity restricts data storage
- No mention of built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
Good fit if
- You need multiple serial ports for industrial equipment
- You require silent operation in sensitive environments
- You need dual network interfaces for network setups
Skip if
- You need high-speed modern gaming performance
- You require built-in wireless connectivity options
- You need large storage for media libraries
Verdict: Kinupute Fanless i7 Industrial Mini PC is a specialized tool for industrial or network tasks. It fits users who need serial ports and silent operation. It does not suit general home use.
Kinupute Fanless Industrial Mini PC Core i7
Best for: industrial networking and passive cooling needs
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-1165G7
- Installed RAM
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB SSD
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Graphics
- Iris Xe Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x 2.5G
The Kinupute is a fanless industrial mini PC built around the Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor. It includes 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 128GB SSD, running Windows 11 Pro. You get dual 2.5G LAN ports and Iris Xe graphics. The metal case provides passive cooling for stable operation. This unit suits users who need rugged hardware with strong networking capabilities in a compact form factor.
Pros
- Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor with Iris Xe graphics
- Dual 2.5G Ethernet LAN ports
- Fanless passive cooling design
- Windows 11 Pro pre-installed
- Expandable storage via 2.5-inch bay
Cons
- Only 8GB of RAM included
- Limited 128GB SSD storage
- No wireless connectivity listed
Good fit if
- You need dual wired network ports for routing or firewalls
- You require a fanless system for dust-free environments
- You want a rugged metal chassis for industrial use
Skip if
- You need built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- You require more than 8GB of RAM out of the box
- You want a larger storage capacity included
Verdict: Kinupute Fanless Mini PC Core i7-1165G7 is a solid choice for network-focused projects like pfSense. It fits users who prioritize wired connectivity and passive cooling over wireless features.
HP EliteDesk Mini Core i7 Desktop
Best for: Business users needing Windows 11 Pro
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-7700T
- Installed RAM
- 8 GB
- Storage Capacity
- 256 GB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Graphics
- Intel HD Graphics 530
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x RJ-45
This HP EliteDesk 800 G3 Mini offers solid business performance with a 7th Gen Intel Core i7-7700T processor. It includes 8 GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256 GB SSD for responsive multitasking. The system runs Windows 11 Pro and features dual DisplayPort outputs for multi-monitor setups. You get reliable connectivity via USB 3.1 ports and Gigabit Ethernet. It is a practical alternative for users needing a compact, capable desktop without the Chrome OS interface.
Pros
- Intel Core i7-7700T processor with up to 3.8 GHz Turbo
- 8 GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking
- 256 GB SSD for fast system response
- Windows 11 Pro pre-installed
- Dual DisplayPort outputs for extended displays
Cons
- Older 7th Gen Intel processor compared to newer alternatives
- No Thunderbolt port for high-speed peripheral connectivity
- Base clock speed is lower than higher-tuned i7 models
Good fit if
- You need a Windows-based mini PC for office tasks
- You require dual monitor support via DisplayPort
- You prefer a compact form factor for business use
Skip if
- You need the latest generation Intel processors
- You require Thunderbolt 3 or 4 connectivity
- You are looking for a Chrome OS experience
Verdict: HP EliteDesk 800 G3 i7 Mini PC provides a stable, Windows-based environment for business users who do not require cutting-edge hardware speeds. It fits those who value proven performance and standard connectivity over the latest specifications.
Thdeukoty Fanless Core i7 Industrial Mini PC
Best for: industrial automation and dual LAN needs
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-5500U
- Installed RAM
- 8GB
- Storage Capacity
- 128GB
- Memory Type
- DDR3L
- Graphics
- Intel HD Graphics 5500
- Ethernet Ports
- 2 x Gigabit LAN
View on Amazon: Thdeukoty Fanless Core i7 Industrial Mini PC
This Thdeukoty industrial mini PC uses an Intel Core i7-5500U processor with 8GB DDR3L RAM and a 128GB mSATA SSD. It runs Windows 10 Pro and features a fanless design for silent operation. The unit includes dual Gigabit LAN ports and two COM RS232 ports, making it suitable for specialized industrial tasks. You get dual monitor support via HDMI and VGA for basic display needs.
Pros
- Intel Core i7-5500U processor
- 8GB DDR3L RAM
- Dual Gigabit LAN ports
- Fanless silent operation
- Windows 10 Pro included
Cons
- Older 5th generation processor
- Only 128GB storage capacity
- DDR3L memory standard
Good fit if
- You need dual Ethernet connections
- You require COM RS232 ports
- You want silent industrial operation
Skip if
- You need modern DDR4 or DDR5 RAM
- You require high-end graphics performance
- You need large storage capacity
Verdict: Thdeukoty Fanless i7 Mini PC suits users who need specific industrial ports like COM RS232 and dual LAN connections. It is not ideal for users requiring modern memory standards or high storage capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC | HP EliteDesk Mini Intel Core i7 | Lenovo ThinkCentre Fanless AMD Mini PC | Kinupute i7-5500U Fanless Industrial PC | Kinupute Fanless Industrial Mini PC Core i7 | HP EliteDesk Mini Core i7 Desktop | Thdeukoty Fanless Core i7 Industrial Mini PC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i7-8550U | Intel Core i7-6700T | AMD A4-9120C | Intel Core i7-5500U | Intel Core i7-1165G7 | Intel Core i7-7700T | Intel Core i7-5500U |
| Installed RAM | 8GB | 16GB | 4GB | 8GB | 8GB | 8 GB | 8GB |
| Storage Capacity | 128GB | 256GB SSD | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB SSD | 256 GB | 128GB |
| Memory Type | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR4 | not specified | DDR4 | DDR4 | DDR3L |
| Graphics | Intel 4K UHD Graphics | not specified | not specified | not specified | Iris Xe Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 530 | Intel HD Graphics 5500 |
| Ethernet Ports | Gigabit LAN | not specified | not specified | 2 x Gigabit LAN | 2x 2.5G | 1x RJ-45 | 2 x Gigabit LAN |
| Operating System | Chrome OS | Windows 10 Pro 64-bit | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 10 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit | Windows 10 Pro |
| Memory | not specified | not specified | 4GB RAM | 8GB RAM | not specified | 8GB RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 128GB SSD | not specified | 128GB SSD | 128GB SSD | 128GB SSD | 256GB SSD | 128GB SSD |
| Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | Industrial | not specified | Business | Industrial |
| Cooling | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Fanless | not specified | not specified |
| Networking | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | WiFi 6 | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 5.5 × 5.75 × 1.8 inches | 19 × 16 × 7 inches | 7 × 7 × 1.36 inches | 8.46 × 5.51 × 1.97 inches | 8 × 5.9 × 2.2 inches | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Core i7-5500U | 8G RAM+128G SSD | not specified | Intel Core i7-5500U |
| Model | CHROMEBOX3-N7290U | 800 G3 | 625 | MKG600 | MKG600 | 800 G3 | MSE200 |
| Size | not specified | 16-256 | 4GB RAM & 128GB SSD | 8G RAM+128G SSD | i7-1165G7 | not specified | 8g Ram+128g Ssd |
Frequently asked questions
Which mini PC is the best alternative for Chrome OS users?
The ASUS Chromebox 3 Core i7 Mini PC remains the top choice for those needing compact power on Chrome OS. It features an Intel Core i7 processor and 128GB SSD. Its small dimensions of 5.75 by 5.5 inches make it ideal for office work and media consumption without taking up much desk space.
What is the best Windows 11 alternative to the ASUS Chromebox 3?
The HP EliteDesk 800 G3 Mini is the best Windows 11 alternative for business users. It provides solid performance with ample RAM for multitasking. While it is larger than the ASUS model, it fits users who prioritize value and Windows compatibility over the smallest possible footprint or cutting-edge hardware speed.
Is there a quiet mini PC option for basic office tasks?
The Lenovo ThinkCentre M625 Thin Client is a fanless, quiet option for basic office work. It runs Windows 11 Pro and includes 4GB RAM with a 128GB SSD. This model suits users who prioritize silence and security over raw processing power, making it a suitable choice for standard administrative duties.
Which mini PC is best for industrial automation projects?
The Kinupute i7-5500U Fanless Industrial PC is designed for industrial automation and network gateways. It features an Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 128GB SSD. This specialized tool fits users who need serial ports and silent operation, though it is not intended for general home use scenarios.
Can I find a mini PC with WiFi 6 for networking?
The Kinupute Fanless Mini PC Core i7-1165G7 supports WiFi 6 and is ideal for network-focused projects like pfSense. It includes an Intel Core i7 processor and a 128GB SSD. This model prioritizes wired connectivity and passive cooling, making it a solid choice for users needing reliable network infrastructure.
What is the best option for business users needing more storage?
The HP EliteDesk 800 G3 i7 Mini PC offers 256GB SSD storage, which is ideal for business users needing Windows 11 Pro. It provides a stable environment for those who do not require cutting-edge hardware speeds. This model values proven performance and standard connectivity over the latest specifications.
Which mini PC supports dual LAN connections for industrial use?
The Thdeukoty Fanless Core i7 Industrial Mini PC supports dual LAN connections and specific industrial ports like COM RS232. It includes 8GB RAM and a 128GB SSD. This model suits users who need specialized connectivity for industrial automation, though it may not meet needs for modern memory standards or high storage capacity.