MINISFORUM vs ASUS: Mini PCs Compared by Specs
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You are comparing a MINISFORUM vs ASUS mini PC for very different needs. Both devices are small desktops that connect to displays. The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim is a high-performance Windows machine with strong graphics. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 is a compact, silent unit running ChromeOS. Their specs show they serve distinct purposes. You need to check the processor, memory, and storage to see which fits your workflow.
Key differences
| Aspect | MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC | ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 8745H (8C/16T) | Intel Celeron 5265U |
| Memory | 32GB DDR5 | 4GB DDR4 |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD | 32GB eMMC |
| Operating System | Windows | ChromeOS |
| Cooling | Fan (65W TPD) | Fanless |
| Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5G LAN | Wi-Fi 6 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC if
- You need high performance for multitasking, content creation, or gaming.
- You require large storage and fast RAM for demanding applications.
- You want a Windows environment with extensive connectivity options.
Choose ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 if
- You need a silent, fanless device for commercial or digital signage use.
- You primarily use web-based apps and ChromeOS features.
- You want a compact, low-maintenance system for basic tasks.
Verdict: The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim is the better choice for users who need a powerful, expandable Windows PC for productivity and media. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 suits those who need a quiet, specialized ChromeOS unit for commercial or basic web tasks. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize raw performance or silent operation.
MINISFORUM vs ASUS Mini PC Specs
processor performance
The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim uses an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with eight cores and sixteen threads. It boosts up to 4.9GHz and supports a thermal design power of 65W in performance mode. This chip handles heavy computing tasks and multitasking smoothly. In contrast, the ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 relies on an Intel Celeron 5265U processor. This is a low-power chip designed for basic tasks. It lacks the core count and clock speed of the Ryzen unit. If you need raw processing power for demanding workloads, the MINISFORUM provides significantly more computational strength than the ASUS Celeron.
memory and storage
Memory and storage capacities differ greatly between these two units. The MINISFORUM comes with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. It also supports expansion up to 96GB of RAM and dual SSDs totaling 4TB. The ASUS model includes only 4GB of DDR4 RAM and 32GB of eMMC storage. DDR5 is faster than DDR4, and 32GB allows for serious multitasking, while 4GB limits your browser tabs and apps. The 1TB SSD on the MINISFORUM offers ample space for files, whereas the 32GB eMMC on the ASUS fills up quickly with the operating system and basic apps.
graphics capability
Graphics performance is a major differentiator here. The MINISFORUM features AMD Radeon 780M integrated graphics based on the RDNA3 architecture. It has 12 cores running at 2600MHz, delivering performance close to a GTX 1650 discrete card. This allows for light gaming and video editing. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 does not list dedicated or powerful integrated graphics suitable for such tasks. Its Intel Celeron processor relies on basic integrated graphics intended for display output and media playback. For visual tasks, the MINISFORUM is clearly superior.
operating system
The operating systems serve different user bases. The MINISFORUM runs Windows, which is not explicitly stated in the title but is implied by the Windows-centric feature set like USB4 PD and standard Windows driver support for the Ryzen chip. This gives you access to the full Microsoft ecosystem and desktop applications. The ASUS unit runs ChromeOS natively. This is a cloud-first operating system designed for web browsing and Android apps. It is simpler and more secure for basic users but lacks the software compatibility of Windows. Choose the OS that matches your software requirements.
cooling and noise
Thermal management approaches vary significantly. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 uses an extruded-aluminum chassis with no fans. This design ensures silent operation and stable thermal performance without moving parts. The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim does not explicitly state it is fanless, and its 65W TPD suggests it uses active cooling to manage the heat from the Ryzen 7 processor. If silence is your top priority, the ASUS fanless design is the better choice. However, active cooling allows the MINISFORUM to sustain higher performance levels for longer periods.
connectivity and ports
Port selection highlights the different eras of these devices. The MINISFORUM offers modern connectivity with USB4, HDMI 2.1 supporting 8K output, DisplayPort 1.4, and a 2.5Gbps LAN port. It also includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The ASUS provides two HDMI 2.0 ports, a USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port, and legacy RS232 via RJ50. It supports Wi-Fi 6 but lacks the 2.5G LAN and USB4 speeds of the MINISFORUM. The ASUS is better for legacy industrial equipment, while the MINISFORUM suits modern high-bandwidth needs.
Which Mini PC Fits Your Needs
Power users needing strong performance
The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim features an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with eight cores and sixteen threads. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. The AMD Radeon 780M graphics handle heavy tasks. You get USB4 ports and dual M.2 slots for expansion. This setup supports demanding multitasking and fast data transfer speeds.
Businesses requiring silent operation
The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 uses a fanless design with an extruded-aluminum chassis. It runs on ChromeOS with an Intel Celeron 5265U processor. The silent operation ensures stable thermal performance. It includes legacy RS232 support for commercial devices. This compact unit is ideal for environments where noise must be eliminated while maintaining reliable connectivity.
Users wanting simple setup
The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 comes pre-installed with ChromeOS. You do not need to configure complex settings. It supports up to three displays via HDMI and USB-C ports. The device is lightweight and easy to mount. This simplicity makes it a practical choice for users who want a plug-and-play experience without managing software updates.
People needing high-speed networking
The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim includes a 2.5Gbps LAN port and Wi-Fi 6E. It also supports Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connections. The USB4 port offers 40 Gbps transfer speeds. These features provide faster data transmission than standard connections. You benefit from stable and rapid network performance for large file transfers and streaming.
The products compared
MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC
Best for: multitasking and expandable storage needs
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745H
- Installed RAM
- 32GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB SSD
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon 780M
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x 2.5Gbps LAN
View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC Affiliate link
This MINISFORUM UM870 Slim mini PC features an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with 8 cores and 16 threads. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. The system uses AMD Radeon 780M graphics for capable performance. You get USB4 connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and a 2.5Gbps LAN port. It supports triple displays, including 8K output. This setup suits users needing strong multitasking and expandable storage in a compact form.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with up to 4.9GHz boost
- 32GB DDR5 RAM expandable to 96GB
- 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD with dual slot expansion
- USB4 port supporting 40 Gbps transfer speeds
- Triple display output with HDMI 2.1, USB4, and DisplayPort 1.4
Cons
- Integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics limit heavy gaming
- No mention of included operating system
- Lacks Thunderbolt certification despite USB4 support
Good fit if
- You need high RAM capacity for multitasking
- You require fast wired network speeds via 2.5Gbps LAN
- You want expandable storage with dual M.2 slots
Skip if
- You require a pre-installed Windows license
- You need dedicated discrete graphics for gaming
- You prefer Thunderbolt 4 certified connectivity
Verdict: MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Ryzen 7 8745H offers robust processing power and memory for professional multitasking. It fits users who prioritize expandable storage and high-speed networking over dedicated graphics performance.
ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4
Best for: fanless commercial displays and legacy RS232
- Processor
- Intel 5205U
- Installed RAM
- 4GB
- Storage Capacity
- 32GB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Operating System
- Chrome OS
- Cooling
- Fanless
View on Amazon: ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 Affiliate link
This ASUS Mini PC runs ChromeOS with an Intel Celeron 5265U processor. It includes 4GB of DDR4 RAM and 32GB of eMMC storage. The fanless design uses an extruded-aluminum chassis for passive cooling. It supports up to three displays via two HDMI ports and a USB-C port. The unit also features RS232 connectivity for legacy devices.
Pros
- Fanless extruded-aluminum chassis for stable thermal performance
- Supports up to three simultaneous displays
- Includes RS232 interface for legacy equipment
- Built-in power switch for commercial use
Cons
- Only 4GB of RAM limits multitasking
- 32GB eMMC storage is very limited
- ChromeOS restricts software compatibility
Good fit if
- You need a fanless unit for dusty environments
- You require RS232 connectivity for legacy devices
- You use ChromeOS for web-based workflows
Skip if
- You need to run Windows applications
- You require more than 4GB of RAM
- You need large local storage capacity
Verdict: ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 Mini PC is a specialized tool for commercial displays or legacy device integration. It fits users who rely on ChromeOS and need passive cooling.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC | ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 8745H | Intel 5205U |
| Installed RAM | 32GB | 4GB |
| Storage Capacity | 1TB SSD | 32GB |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | DDR4 |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | not stated |
| Ethernet Ports | 1x 2.5Gbps LAN | not stated |
| High-Speed Expansion | USB4 | not stated |
| Operating System | not stated | Chrome OS |
| Memory | 32GB RAM | 4GB RAM |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 32GB SSD |
| Cooling | not stated | Fanless |
| Networking | 2.5G LAN, WiFi 6E | not stated |
| Weight | 2.73 pounds | 2.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 5.75 × 4.11 × 0.89 inches |
| Size | UM870 Slim 32+1T | 4GB RAM | 32GB eMMC |
| Color | Silver | BLACK |
| Model | DeskMini | CHROMEBOX4-FC017U |
Frequently asked questions
Which mini PC is better for heavy multitasking?
The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim is the stronger choice for demanding tasks. It features a Ryzen 7 8745H processor with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. This configuration allows you to run multiple applications smoothly. The ASUS Chromebox 4 has only 4GB of RAM, which limits its ability to handle complex workflows or many open tabs simultaneously.
Do I need a fan for quiet operation?
If silence is your priority, the ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 is the correct option. It uses passive cooling with no moving parts. The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim uses an active cooling system to manage the heat from its high-performance Ryzen 7 processor. You will hear the MINISFORUM fan during heavy loads, while the ASUS unit remains completely silent.
Which device supports faster internet connections?
The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim offers superior networking capabilities. It includes 2.5G LAN ports and WiFi 6E for high-speed data transfer. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 is designed for basic connectivity and does not list these advanced networking features. If you need fast file transfers or low-latency streaming, the MINISFORUM hardware is the better fit.
Can I expand the storage on these devices?
The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim is designed with expandability in mind. It comes with a 1TB SSD and supports additional storage upgrades for your files. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 has a fixed 32GB SSD. This limited storage is sufficient for ChromeOS but cannot be easily expanded. You should choose the MINISFORUM if you need large local storage capacity.
Which mini PC is more compact in size?
The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 is physically smaller and lighter. It measures 5.75 inches in length and weighs 2.2 pounds. The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim is larger and weighs 2.73 pounds. If you have limited desk space or need a device that fits in a tight enclosure, the ASUS unit provides a smaller footprint for your setup.
Is ChromeOS better than Windows for this use case?
The choice depends on your software requirements. The ASUS Fanless Chromebox 4 runs ChromeOS, which is ideal for web-based tasks and commercial displays. The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim runs Windows and is suited for professional multitasking and expandable storage needs. If you require specific desktop applications, the Windows-based MINISFORUM is the necessary choice.