Looking Beyond the Bmax Core i5 16GB Mini PC? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How alternatives compare to Bmax

Lenovo ThinkCentre Mini PC Intel i5

The Lenovo ThinkCentre M720Q uses an Intel Core i5-8400T processor with 16GB of RAM and a 500GB SSD. It runs Windows 11 Pro, matching the Bmax Core i5 in memory and OS. However, the Lenovo unit is significantly larger, measuring 15 by 4 by 19 inches and weighing 2.91 pounds. This bulk makes it less suitable for tight desk spaces or VESA mounts. You should choose this alternative if you prioritize established brand reliability and standard desktop dimensions over the ultra-compact 33mm height of the Bmax. It offers similar multitasking performance for office tasks but sacrifices the space-saving design that defines the Bmax chassis.

Dell OptiPlex Micro Core i5 Desktop

The Dell OptiPlex 3070 Micro features an Intel Core i5-9500 processor, which is a generation newer than the Bmax’s i5-8257U. It includes 16GB of RAM and a 500GB SSD, running Windows 11 Pro. The Dell unit is slightly larger than the Bmax, with dimensions of 13.3 by 4 by 12.1 inches. While the Bmax supports dual 4K displays via Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655, the Dell offers business-grade stability and potentially better long-term driver support. Pick this model if you need a slightly more powerful CPU for complex spreadsheets or data analysis. It provides dependable performance for office work but lacks the specific dual 4K display focus of the Bmax configuration.

Dell OptiPlex Micro Core i5 PC

The Dell OptiPlex 7070 Micro is a premium option featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and WiFi 6E connectivity. It runs Windows 11 Pro, similar to the Bmax. The Dell unit measures 7 by 1.5 by 7 inches and weighs 6 pounds. It is thicker than the Bmax but offers a more robust build quality typical of enterprise hardware. The WiFi 6E provides faster wireless speeds and less interference compared to the Bmax’s WiFi 6. Choose this alternative if you require the latest wireless standards and a sturdy chassis for professional environments. It gives up the ultra-thin profile of the Bmax in exchange for enhanced networking capabilities and business-grade durability.

HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini Desktop

The HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Tiny uses an Intel Core i5-9500T processor with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. It runs Windows 11 Pro, matching the Bmax’s storage capacity and OS. The HP unit is larger than the Bmax, measuring 16 by 7 by 19 inches. While the Bmax focuses on dual 4K display output, the HP offers a proven track record in corporate settings. You should select this model if you need a reliable machine for standard office applications and prefer the HP brand ecosystem. It provides comparable processing power and storage but lacks the compact form factor and specialized display support that make the Bmax suitable for minimalist dual-monitor setups.

HP EliteDesk Mini PC Core i5 16GB

The HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini features an Intel Core i5-9500T processor with 16GB of RAM but only a 256GB SSD. It runs Windows 11 Pro and includes WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. The HP unit measures 3.94 by 1.97 by 3.94 inches and weighs 2.2 pounds. It is smaller in footprint than the Bmax but thicker. The reduced storage capacity is a trade-off for its compact design. Choose this alternative if you prioritize CPU performance and modern wireless standards over large local storage. It offers strong processing power for demanding tasks but requires external storage solutions or cloud usage due to the smaller SSD. It suits users who value connectivity and speed over raw storage space.

Bmax B6 Turbo Intel i5 Mini PC

The Bmax B6 Turbo is a variant of the original product, featuring the same Intel Core i5-8257U processor, 16GB of RAM, and Windows 11 Pro. It also supports WiFi 6. The primary difference is the model designation and potentially the color options, such as Green. This unit is designed for office multitasking and dual 4K displays, just like the original. You might pick this specific SKU if you prefer the Green color finish or a different storage configuration. It offers identical performance and specifications to the Bmax Core i5 16GB Mini PC. This choice is relevant if you want the same compact, dual-display capable machine but with a different aesthetic or specific inventory availability.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Bmax Core i5 16GB Mini PC

Best for: compact office workstations with dual 4K displays

Processor

Intel Core i5-8257U

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655

Ethernet Ports

1x Gigabit Ethernet

View on Amazon: Bmax Core i5 16GB Mini PC Affiliate link

The Bmax B6 Turbo uses an Intel Core i5-8257U processor with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD. It supports Windows 11 Pro and includes WiFi 6. The Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655 handles dual 4K displays. This compact unit weighs 300g. It suits users needing reliable multitasking and a small footprint for office or home use.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-8257U processor with 3.90 GHz burst speed
• 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB M.2 SSD
• Dual 4K display support via HDMI and DisplayPort
• Windows 11 Pro operating system included
• WiFi 6 connectivity for stable networking

Cons

• Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655 is older than modern integrated solutions
• No dedicated graphics card for heavy gaming
• Limited to two display outputs simultaneously

Good fit if

• You need a compact PC for office multitasking
• You require dual 4K monitor support
• You want Windows 11 Pro pre-installed

Skip if

• You need high-end 3D gaming performance
• You require more than two displays
• You prefer the latest generation processors

Verdict: The Bmax B6 Turbo i5 Mini PC offers solid multitasking capabilities for office work and media consumption. It fits users who value a small footprint and dual 4K display support over raw graphical power.

2 Also great

Lenovo ThinkCentre Mini PC Intel i5

Best for: Office multitasking and home productivity

Processor

Intel i5-8400T

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

500GB NVMe

Memory Type

DDR4

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Use

Home, Office

View on Amazon: Lenovo ThinkCentre Mini PC Intel i5 Affiliate link

The Lenovo M720Q is a compact desktop built around the Intel Core i5-8400T processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes a 500GB NVMe drive and runs Windows 11 Pro. This configuration provides reliable multitasking for home or office use. The unit features 5G WiFi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. It is a practical option for users who need a capable machine in a small footprint.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-8400T hexa-core processor for smooth multitasking
• 16GB DDR4 RAM ensures responsive performance
• 500GB NVMe SSD provides fast load times
• Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro for advanced features
• Built-in 5G WiFi and Bluetooth adapter

Cons

• Intel Core i5-8400T is an 8th Gen chip, older than the 9th Gen options in this list
• 500GB storage capacity is smaller than the 512GB drives found on competing models
• Physical dimensions are listed as 15x4x19 inches, which is bulkier than typical micro PCs

Good fit if

• You need Windows 11 Pro for business or security features
• You prioritize fast NVMe storage speeds over maximum capacity
• You want a compact desktop with reliable wireless connectivity

Skip if

• You require the latest 9th Gen Intel processors for peak performance
• You need more than 500GB of internal storage
• You are looking for the smallest possible physical footprint

Verdict: Lenovo M720Q i5-8400T 16GB Mini PC offers solid 8th Gen performance and Windows 11 Pro for users who value reliable daily computing over cutting-edge specs.

3 Also great

Dell OptiPlex Micro Core i5 Desktop

Best for: office work and compact setups

Processor

Intel Core i5-9500

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

500GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Dimensions

12.1 × 13.3 × 4 inches

View on Amazon: Dell OptiPlex Micro Core i5 Desktop Affiliate link

The Dell OptiPlex 3070 Micro is a compact desktop featuring an Intel Core i5-9500 hexa-core processor. It includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 500GB SSD for responsive multitasking. Windows 11 Pro is pre-installed for professional use. This unit offers reliable performance in a small footprint, making it suitable for office work or home setups where space is limited.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-9500 hexa-core processor
• 16GB DDR4 RAM for multitasking
• 500GB SSD for fast storage
• Windows 11 Pro pre-installed

Cons

• Older 9th generation Intel processor
• No mention of dedicated graphics card
• 500GB storage is limited for large files

Good fit if

• You need a reliable office PC
• You prefer Windows 11 Pro
• You want a compact desktop

Skip if

• You require high-end gaming
• You need more than 500GB storage
• You want the latest CPU generation

Verdict: Dell OptiPlex 3070 Micro i5-9500 fits users who need dependable business performance in a small form factor. It is ideal for office tasks rather than heavy creative work.

4 Also great

Dell OptiPlex Micro Core i5 PC

Best for: users needing 16GB RAM and WiFi 6E

Processor

Intel Core i5-9500T

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Memory

16GB RAM

Networking

WiFi 6E

View on Amazon: Dell OptiPlex Micro Core i5 PC Affiliate link

The Dell OptiPlex 7070 Micro offers a 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9500T processor paired with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB NVMe drive. It runs Windows 11 Pro and includes built-in WiFi 6E connectivity. This compact desktop is designed for users who need reliable performance in a small footprint. It suits those seeking a balanced mix of processing power and storage for everyday computing tasks.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-9500T processor
• 16GB installed RAM
• 512GB NVMe storage capacity
• Built-in WiFi 6E

Cons

• Heavier at 6 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
• 9th Gen Intel CPU is older than 12th Gen options
• Limited to 1.5 inches in height

Good fit if

• You need a Windows 11 Pro machine
• You require 16GB of RAM for multitasking
• You want built-in WiFi 6E

Skip if

• You need the latest generation processor
• You prefer a lighter device under 4 pounds
• You are on a tight budget

Verdict: Dell OptiPlex 7070 Micro PC fits users who prioritize established performance and ample RAM over cutting-edge specs. It is a solid choice for professional environments needing stable, mid-range power.

5 Best 512gb ssd

HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini Desktop

Best for: office work requiring Windows 11 Pro

Processor

Core i5-9500T

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Dimensions

19 × 16 × 7 inches

View on Amazon: HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Mini Desktop Affiliate link

This HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Tiny mini PC uses a 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9500T processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. It includes a 512GB SSD and Windows 11 Pro. The compact form factor fits tight spaces. You get reliable performance for office tasks and media playback. The included storage capacity handles most daily files without needing immediate upgrades.

Pros

• 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9500T processor
• 16GB DDR4 RAM for multitasking
• 512GB SSD for fast storage
• Windows 11 Pro pre-installed

Cons

• 9th Gen Intel processor is older than current 13th or 14th Gen options
• 16GB RAM may limit heavy virtualization workloads
• No mention of included wireless peripherals

Good fit if

• You need Windows 11 Pro for business features
• You require 512GB of storage for documents
• You want a compact desktop for tight spaces

Skip if

• You need the latest high-performance CPU generation
• You require more than 16GB of RAM
• You prefer a larger desktop tower

Verdict: HP EliteDesk 800 G5 Tiny i5-9500T offers solid mid-range specs for standard office work. It suits users who need Windows 11 Pro and ample storage in a small footprint.

6 Best budget

HP EliteDesk Mini PC Core i5 16GB

Best for: users needing strong CPU performance

Processor

Intel Core i5-9500T

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

256GB NVMe SSD

Memory Type

DDR4 2666MHz

Graphics

Intel UHD Graphics 630

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

View on Amazon: HP EliteDesk Mini PC Core i5 16GB Affiliate link

The HP EliteDesk 800 G5 uses a 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9500T six-core processor. It includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB NVMe SSD. This setup handles daily tasks smoothly. You get Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for reliable connectivity. The compact design fits tight spaces. It is a solid option for users who need a dependable, spec-rich mini PC for office work or light media use.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-9500T six-core processor
• 16GB DDR4 2666MHz memory
• 256GB NVMe SSD storage
• Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0

Cons

• 256GB SSD is smaller than many competitors
• Only one USB Type-C port available
• Requires separate USB Wi-Fi adapter

Good fit if

• You need a six-core processor for multitasking
• You want fast Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
• You prefer a compact, lightweight design

Skip if

• You require more than 256GB of storage
• You need multiple USB Type-C ports
• You want a PC with built-in Wi-Fi

Verdict: HP EliteDesk 800 G5 i5-9500T Mini PC is a practical choice for users who prioritize processing power and modern wireless standards over large storage capacity.

7 Best premium

Bmax B6 Turbo Intel i5 Mini PC

Best for: Office multitasking and dual 4K displays

Processor

Intel Core i5-8257U

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655

Ethernet Ports

Gigabit Ethernet

View on Amazon: Bmax B6 Turbo Intel i5 Mini PC Affiliate link

The Bmax B6 Turbo packs an Intel Core i5-8257U processor with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD. It supports dual 4K displays via HDMI and DisplayPort. The compact chassis includes WiFi 6 and Windows 11 Pro. This setup handles multitasking and office work efficiently. It suits users who need reliable performance in a small footprint without the bulk of a full tower.

Pros

• Intel Core i5-8257U with burst speeds up to 3.90 GHz
• 16GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking
• 512GB SSD for fast boot and load times
• Dual 4K display support at 60Hz
• WiFi 6 connectivity

Cons

• Uses SATA SSD instead of faster NVMe
• Integrated Intel Iris Plus 655 graphics limit gaming
• No dedicated discrete GPU for heavy rendering

Good fit if

• You need a compact PC for office tasks
• You require dual monitor support for productivity
• You want Windows 11 Pro pre-installed

Skip if

• You need high-end gaming performance
• You require heavy video editing capabilities
• You prefer NVMe storage for maximum speed

Verdict: Bmax B6 Turbo i5-8257U Mini PC delivers solid multitasking performance for office work. It fits users who value dual 4K displays and compact size over raw graphical power.

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Frequently asked questions