Looking Beyond the HOUPOO Mini PC Desktop Computer? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How the Alternatives Compare

Glorlin Ryzen 5 3501U Mini PC

The Glorlin GT101 shares the Ryzen 5 3501U processor with the HOUPOO, ensuring similar everyday office performance. It distinguishes itself by including 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD in its base configuration, whereas the HOUPOO requires you to manage memory and storage upgrades separately. Both units support multi-monitor setups, but the Glorlin adds WiFi 6 for faster wireless connectivity compared to the HOUPOO’s standard Wi-Fi. If you want a more complete out-of-the-box package with modern networking without upgrading components yourself, the Glorlin is a practical choice. It sacrifices the HOUPOO’s dual gigabit Ethernet ports for enhanced wireless speed.

Getorli Ryzen 5 3500U Mini PC

The Getorli Ryzen 5 3500U offers a slight processor upgrade over the HOUPOO’s 3501U, providing marginally better multitasking capability for home office tasks. Like the Glorlin, it comes pre-installed with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, removing the need for immediate hardware expansion that the HOUPOO user might face. It also features WiFi 6 networking. The primary trade-off is that it lacks the dual Ethernet ports found on the HOUPOO, relying instead on a single wired connection and modern wireless standards. This model suits users who prioritize value and included storage capacity over the specific networking redundancy of the HOUPOO.

GMKtec Ryzen 5 7640HS Mini PC

The GMKtec M6 Ultra jumps to a significantly more powerful Ryzen 5 7640HS processor, offering far greater computing power than the HOUPOO’s older 3501U chip. It includes 32GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, matching the HOUPOO’s upgrade potential but with much higher baseline performance. Networking is upgraded to 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6, surpassing the HOUPOO’s dual gigabit ports in raw speed. This unit is heavier at 3.2 pounds. It is designed for users who need serious processing power for home servers or intensive multitasking, rather than just basic office work. You give up the lower cost of entry for substantial performance gains.

GMKtec Nucbox Ryzen 5 2.5GbE Mini PC

The GMKtec G10 uses a Ryzen 5 3500U processor, which is very close to the HOUPOO’s 3501U in performance. It comes with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, providing a more complete package than the base HOUPOO. The key difference is its networking: it features a 2.5G LAN port, offering faster wired speeds than the HOUPOO’s standard gigabit ports. Its compact dimensions are slightly different, measuring 3.8 by 4.1 inches. This model is ideal for users who want the same general office performance but need faster wired network connections and pre-installed memory without the need for immediate upgrades.

GMKtec G10 Ryzen 5 Mini PC

Another variant of the GMKtec G10, this model also features a Ryzen 5 3500U processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. It shares the same compact design philosophy as the HOUPOO but focuses on networking speed with its 2.5G LAN capability. Unlike the HOUPOO, it does not list dual Ethernet ports, offering a single high-speed connection instead. The physical dimensions are similar, making it a suitable drop-in replacement for space-constrained desks. It is a solid choice for office users who prioritize fast wired data transfer and ample pre-installed memory over the specific multi-Ethernet setup of the HOUPOO.

Beelink SER5 Ryzen 5 Mini PC

The Beelink SER5 steps up to a Ryzen 5 5500U processor, which is newer and more efficient than the HOUPOO’s Ryzen 5 3501U. It includes 16GB of RAM and a 480GB SSD, offering a ready-to-use configuration. Networking is enhanced with both WiFi 6 and a 2.5G LAN port, surpassing the HOUPOO’s standard connectivity. This model is designed for multi-monitor office workflows, similar to the HOUPOO, but with better underlying hardware. It is the best option if you want a more modern CPU and faster network speeds while maintaining the small form factor and multi-display support you value in the HOUPOO.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

HOUPOO Mini PC Ryzen 5 3501U

Best for: Office multitasking and multi-monitor setups

Processor

Ryzen 5 3501U

Installed RAM

8GB

Storage Capacity

256GB

Ethernet Ports

Dual Gigabit Ethernet

Use

Office

Connectivity

WiFi 5

View on Amazon: HOUPOO Mini PC Ryzen 5 3501U Affiliate link

The HOUPOO Mini PC uses an AMD Ryzen 5 3501U processor with four cores and eight threads. It supports up to 32GB of RAM and dual SO-DIMM slots for future upgrades. The system includes dual gigabit Ethernet ports and triple 4K display outputs. This compact unit measures 5 by 5 by 1.77 inches. It suits users needing reliable office performance and multiple monitor connections.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 5 3501U processor with 4 cores and 8 threads
• Dual gigabit Ethernet ports for stable network connectivity
• Supports up to three 4K displays via HDMI, DP, and USB-C
• Dual SO-DIMM slots allow RAM upgrades to 32GB
• Compact 5x5x1.77 inch form factor with VESA mount support

Cons

• Ryzen 5 3501U is an older entry-level mobile chip
• No dedicated graphics card for heavy gaming
• Limited to 32GB maximum RAM capacity

Good fit if

• You need dual gigabit Ethernet ports for office networking
• You want to connect three monitors for productivity
• You prefer a system with upgradeable RAM slots

Skip if

• You require high-end gaming performance
• You need more than 32GB of system memory
• You prioritize the latest high-performance processors

Verdict: HOUPOO Mini PC Ryzen 5 3501U offers solid office multitasking and robust connectivity for users who value dual Ethernet ports and multi-monitor setups over raw processing speed.

2 Also great

Glorlin Ryzen 5 3501U Mini PC

Best for: multi-monitor home office setups

Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 3501U

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Operating System

OS 11 Pro

Use

Home, Office

View on Amazon: Glorlin Ryzen 5 3501U Mini PC Affiliate link

The Glorlin GT101 uses an AMD Ryzen 5 3501U processor to handle daily office tasks and media streaming. It includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD for fast boot times and smooth multitasking. You can connect three 4K displays via HDMI and Type-C ports. The system runs Windows 11 Pro and features WiFi 6 for stable internet. This compact desktop is designed for home or business use.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 5 3501U processor with 4 cores and 8 threads
• 16GB DDR4 RAM expandable to 32GB
• 512GB SSD for quick file transfers and app launches
• Supports three 4K monitors via dual HDMI and one Type-C port
• Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro operating system

Cons

• Ryzen 5 3501U is an older architecture compared to newer Ryzen 5000 or 7000 series chips
• Only includes 512GB of storage, which is less than some competitors offering 1TB
• Uses DDR4 RAM, which is slower than the DDR5 found in newer models

Good fit if

• You need a budget-friendly mini PC for basic office work
• You want to run three monitors for expanded workspace
• You prefer a system with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed

Skip if

• You require high-end gaming performance
• You need the latest DDR5 memory technology
• You want a processor with more than four cores

Verdict: Glorlin GT101 Mini PC Ryzen 5 3501U fits users who need a quiet, compact desktop for multitasking and multi-monitor setups without spending more. It is a practical option for home offices that prioritize screen real estate over raw processing speed.

3 Best budget

Getorli Ryzen 5 3500U Mini PC

Best for: budget home office setups

Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 3500U

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Use

Home, Office, Gaming

Networking

WiFi 6

View on Amazon: Getorli Ryzen 5 3500U Mini PC Affiliate link

The Getorli Mini PC pairs an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD. This configuration handles daily office tasks, web browsing, and media streaming without issue. It supports dual 4K displays and includes WiFi 6 connectivity. The compact design saves desk space while offering essential ports. It is a practical option for home or business users who need reliable performance.

Pros

• AMD Ryzen 5 3500U CPU with up to 3.7GHz boost
• 16GB DDR4 RAM expandable to 32GB
• 512GB NVMe SSD for fast boot and load times
• Dual HDMI ports supporting 4K Ultra HD output
• WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 for stable connections

Cons

• Ryzen 5 3500U is an older generation compared to newer alternatives
• Only includes one year of warranty support
• Max TDP of 25W limits sustained heavy workloads

Good fit if

• You need a budget-friendly system for office work
• You want dual monitor support with 4K resolution
• You require WiFi 6 for stable wireless internet

Skip if

• You need high-end gaming performance
• You require the latest generation processor
• You need more than 16GB of RAM pre-installed

Verdict: Getorli Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U delivers solid everyday performance for office tasks and media consumption. It fits users who prioritize value and dual-screen capability over cutting-edge processing power.

4 Best premium

GMKtec Ryzen 5 7640HS Mini PC

Best for: Home servers and multitasking workstations

Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS

Installed RAM

32GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Memory Type

DDR5

Graphics

Radeon 760M

Ethernet Ports

Dual 2.5GbE

View on Amazon: GMKtec Ryzen 5 7640HS Mini PC Affiliate link

The GMKtec M6 Ultra packs a Ryzen 5 7640HS processor and 32GB of DDR5 RAM into a compact chassis. It features a Radeon 760M iGPU for moderate gaming and dual 2.5G LAN ports for stable networking. With USB4 support and triple 4K display capability, this unit suits users needing high performance and connectivity in a small form factor.

Pros

• Ryzen 5 7640HS CPU with up to 5.0 GHz turbo
• 32GB DDR5 RAM expandable to 128GB
• Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for fast networking
• USB4 port supporting 8K@60Hz display output
• Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity

Cons

• Only includes a 512GB SSD
• Uses PCIe 3.0 for the installed storage drive
• No dedicated discrete graphics card included

Good fit if

• You need dual wired network connections for a home server
• You require high-speed DDR5 memory for multitasking
• You want to connect three 4K displays simultaneously

Skip if

• You need more than 512GB of built-in storage
• You require a dedicated graphics card for heavy gaming
• You prefer PCIe 4.0 storage speeds out of the box

Verdict: The GMKtec M6 Ultra Ryzen 5 7640HS Mini PC fits users who prioritize strong CPU performance and dual LAN ports for networking tasks over high-end gaming graphics.

5 Also great

GMKtec Nucbox Ryzen 5 2.5GbE Mini PC

Best for: Multi-monitor office setups and home servers

Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 3500U

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB SSD

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

AMD Radeon Vega 8

Ethernet Ports

2.5GbE

View on Amazon: GMKtec Nucbox Ryzen 5 2.5GbE Mini PC Affiliate link

The GMKtec G10 Mini PC uses an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor with 16GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD. It features a 2.5GbE LAN port for fast wired networking and supports triple displays via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. This compact unit allows USB-C PD charging, making it suitable for office work or light gaming.

Pros

• Ryzen 5 3500U processor with 16GB dual-channel RAM
• 2.5GbE Ethernet for high-speed wired connectivity
• Supports triple simultaneous displays
• USB-C Power Delivery charging capability

Cons

• Wi-Fi 5 is slower than modern Wi-Fi 6 standards
• Bluetooth 5.0 lacks the latest speed and range improvements
• Base clock speed is lower than newer Zen 3+ models

Good fit if

• You need fast wired networking for home lab tasks
• You want to connect three monitors simultaneously
• You prefer USB-C power supply flexibility

Skip if

• You require Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
• You need a processor with higher base clock speeds
• You want Bluetooth 5.3 or newer for audio latency

Verdict: GMKtec G10 Mini PC Ryzen 5 3500U is a practical desktop replacement for users who prioritize wired network speeds and multi-monitor setups over the latest wireless standards.

6 Also great

GMKtec G10 Ryzen 5 Mini PC

Best for: Office multitasking and home server setups

Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 3500U

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

512GB

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

Radeon Vega 8

Ethernet Ports

2.5GbE

View on Amazon: GMKtec G10 Ryzen 5 Mini PC Affiliate link

The GMKtec G10 is a compact desktop powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor. It includes 16GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM and a 512GB PCIe SSD for fast performance. The system supports triple 4K displays and features a 2.5GbE network port. This setup suits users who need reliable office multitasking, light media editing, or a stable home server foundation.

Pros

• Ryzen 5 3500U processor with 16GB dual-channel DDR4 RAM
• 512GB PCIe 3.0 SSD for quick boot and load times
• Triple display support via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C
• 2.5GbE LAN port for high-speed wired networking

Cons

• WiFi 5 connectivity instead of newer WiFi 6 standards
• Radeon Vega 8 integrated graphics limit heavy gaming
• No mention of USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for faster transfer speeds

Good fit if

• You need a stable wired connection for media server tasks
• You want to run multiple monitors for productivity workflows
• You require ample RAM for smooth multitasking in office apps

Skip if

• You require high-end discrete graphics for modern gaming
• You need the latest WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 speeds
• You prefer a system with USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports

Verdict: The GMKtec G10 Ryzen 5 3500U Mini PC delivers solid multitasking performance and versatile display options for office and home server users. It is a practical choice for those prioritizing network speed and memory capacity over cutting-edge wireless standards.

7 Best 480gb ssd

Beelink SER5 Ryzen 5 Mini PC

Best for: Multi-monitor office workflows

Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 5500U

Installed RAM

16GB

Storage Capacity

480GB NVMe SSD

Memory Type

DDR4

Graphics

Radeon Graphics 7 CUs

Ethernet Ports

2.5G LAN

View on Amazon: Beelink SER5 Ryzen 5 Mini PC Affiliate link

The Beelink SER5 uses an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 480GB NVMe SSD. It supports three 4K displays and includes WiFi 6 and 2.5G LAN. This compact unit suits users needing strong multitasking and high-speed connectivity for office or creative work.

Pros

• Ryzen 5 5500U processor offers 6 cores and 12 threads
• 480GB NVMe SSD provides fast storage access
• Supports three simultaneous 4K@60Hz displays
• Includes WiFi 6 and 2.5G LAN ports

Cons

• 480GB storage is smaller than 512GB or 1TB options
• Uses DDR4 RAM instead of newer DDR5
• Integrated Radeon Graphics limits heavy gaming

Good fit if

• You need triple monitor support for productivity
• You want fast WiFi 6 connectivity
• You require a compact desktop for office tasks

Skip if

• You need dedicated graphics for gaming
• You require more than 480GB of internal storage
• You prefer DDR5 memory for maximum speed

Verdict: Beelink SER5 Ryzen 5 5500U Mini PC fits users who prioritize multi-monitor setups and reliable office performance over raw gaming power. It delivers solid multitasking capabilities in a small footprint.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions