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Tiny Mini Micro Systems (TMMs): These small-form-factor PCs (e.g., HP EliteDesk, ProDesk, Lenovo Tiny, Dell Micro) are popular for home labs due to their performance, small size, and affordability (especially older models like the HP EliteDesk G3 Mini, often found under $50).
Newer Generations (e.g., G6): While newer models (e.g., HP ProDesk 600 G6 Mini) offer more features, the performance increase doesn't justify the significantly higher price (often double the cost of older models).
HP ProDesk 600 G6 Mini Features: This model boasts two NVMe M.2 sockets, a Flex IO port (allowing for various module upgrades like network interfaces), and Intel's AMT platform for remote management.
HP Engage Flex Mini: Similar to the ProDesk G6 in form factor and I/O, but typically more expensive despite often having lower specs (e.g., i3 10100T CPU).
HP EliteDesk: Similar to the ProDesk G6, potentially with higher-end CPUs, better thermals, and more enterprise features.
Performance Benchmarks: Newer systems show better multi-threaded performance but only marginal improvement in single-threaded performance compared to older models. Power consumption is similar across models, with newer systems being slightly more efficient under load but older models slightly better at idle.
Flex IO Port Advantages (G6): The G6's Flex IO V2 offers more upgrade options than previous generations, including USB-C power delivery, 2.5 Gigabit or 10 Gigabit network cards, making them more versatile for home labs and tinkering.
Storage Expansion: The G6 systems can be creatively expanded beyond the standard configurations, potentially supporting three NVMe SSDs and a 2.5-inch hard drive with the addition of compatible adapters (though some require modification or custom 3D printed parts).
Remote Management (Intel AMT): Intel's AMT platform allows for remote power control and serial-over-LAN access, though KVM functionality may be limited depending on the model (EliteDesk supports it, ProDesk doesn't natively). Serial-over-LAN requires configuration and may not work directly in all operating systems.
BIOS Locked Systems: While risky, there are methods to potentially unlock BIOS-locked systems without desoldering, offering a potential way to save money on used models.
Overall Recommendation: Newer G6 systems are worth the extra cost if extensive I/O expansion and remote management are priorities. Older, less expensive models are suitable for basic home server tasks or experimentation.
Laptops vs. Desktops: A Performance Gap: Laptops, due to thermal limitations from miniaturization, significantly underperform compared to even inexpensive desktops, despite similar base CPU performance. This performance difference is exacerbated by thermal throttling in laptops under load.
The Economics of Upgradability: Desktops offer far greater value and upgradability. Component replacement (RAM, storage) is significantly cheaper and easier than on laptops, especially Apple products, where upgrades are often prohibitively expensive.
The Case for Desktops: Unless absolute portability is essential, desktops provide superior performance and value. The author advocates for using inexpensive laptops or Chromebooks only for tasks requiring minimal processing power (note-taking in meetings).
Linux: A Superior Operating System: Linux is presented as a faster, more efficient, and more customizable alternative to Windows and macOS. It's highlighted for its speed, open-source nature, lack of forced updates/restarts, and robust package manager.
Gaming on Linux: The author emphasizes the growing viability of Linux for gaming, citing the success of Proton (a compatibility layer) and the Steam Deck as evidence.
Recommendation: The author strongly recommends building or buying an inexpensive desktop PC and running Linux, citing significantly higher performance-to-price ratio compared to laptops.