Get Big Power in a Compact Package With a Small Form Factor PC
Small form factor PCs are designed to carry out all the functions of their larger counterparts while taking up a fraction of the space. On eBay, you will find a selection of new and used small form factor PCs at a range of prices to suit every budget.
What types of small form factor PC are there?There is a wide range of small form factor PCs, most of which fall into one of three categories:
- Slim PCs: The earliest type of small form factor PC, slim PCs look similar to a standard desktop tower but are far thinner. Many slim PCs can also stand either horizontally or vertically, allowing them to fit into small spaces.
- Cubes: Also known as expandable SFF PCs, these small form factor PCs are cube-shaped, as the name suggests.
- Mini PCs: Designed to be as small as possible, these PCs can be smaller than a paperback book, and as technology advances, smaller models are consistently being developed.
As technology has advanced, many parts of PCs have become smaller. While computer components have shrunk, they have also begun multitasking. Whereas components such as Bluetooth, audio output, and other wireless and non-wireless components would previously have all been separate parts, the motherboard now comes with them all integrated. The development of fanless cooling has also played a large part in the development of mini PCs, as the removal of fans has allowed PCs to be reduced in size still further.
What operating systems do small form factor PCs run?Small form factor PCs are available with the same operating systems as regular PCs, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
What are the advantages of a small form factor PC?Small form factor PCs have a number of benefits including:
- Small dimensions: This makes small form factor PCs a great choice for homes and offices where space is at a premium.
- Lower power consumption: Reduces electricity bills.
- Portable: The compact size of small form factor PCs makes them easier to move around as required.
- Quieter in use: Small form factor PCs such as mini PCs that feature fanless cooling are much quieter in use than regular PCs.
