Using a budget laptop for streaming and watching movies is affordable.
Using a budget laptop for streaming and watching movies is affordable.
I was using an old laptop to power my projector and it just stopped working.
I usually assemble my own PCs with a gaming focus, but this time I’m aiming for something simpler.
It should handle streaming movies from Amazon or Netflix and play videos from a flash drive with VLC.
I’m open to building a small PC or purchasing an affordable laptop; I could also consider a used one, though I’m not very familiar with the used market.
Any suggestions on what to buy cheaply would be appreciated.
I think Windows 11 is necessary since support for Windows 10 ends in 2025. Thanks!
Consider looking on your nearby FB marketplace for second-hand offers.
I've found decent opportunities on Newegg for refurbished or used laptops. They tend to focus more on office models, but that's not a big issue. This would be a better fit than a NUC or similar ultra-compact form factor. For example, Dell offers a range of very slim Optiplex cases that could be a cost-effective solution. In-Win also has an ITX model named Chopin, which works well for standard builds and might benefit from AMD integrated graphics (7xxx or newer) or Intel.
A fresh or used mini PC suffices. No necessity to construct. 16GB RAM mini PC is advised for upcoming needs.
https://www.amazon.com/GMKtec-Windows-Co...B0CQ4XQ2WG
I previously owned a 32GB 5700U mini PC from GMKtec, highly satisfied. The latest model has been upgraded to 5825U, priced similarly.
https://www.amazon.com/GMKtec-Mini-PC-Ry...B0CD7Y4C5Y
Consider adding a small screen if required.
https://www.amazon.com/MNN-Portable-15-6...B0B9NNWXVP
When I look for "laptop" on Amazon and sort by chepeast, I find several options near or below $200. I'm cautious about getting new ones, though some cheaper models are under $100. It's unclear if they support Windows 10 or 11.
I noticed one SFF Optiplex priced at $232, but it runs Windows 10.
I previously assembled a laptop using an NUC and it lasted around four months. I haven't tried it again.
I constructed a unit with an in-win case, which is still performing well. Its design is very compact. The main issue remains the same: even a budget build requires me to buy Windows.
It seems almost anything should work for VLC video playback.
Used laptop
https://www.ebay.com/itm/303417557813?_s...7050761314
Install with Rufus
Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uz6rXjfd9M4
Thank you for the information. I'm not ready to settle for "used" yet. I'd prefer to spend under $250 on a brand-new device if possible.
I've been working with multiple PCs for over two decades (often relying on Toms Forum advice). However, I usually purchase full Windows licenses. Recently I discovered that it's possible to legally use Windows without a license, though some features might not function properly. Is this accurate?
I'll save Rufus for later. I have another machine that needs an upgrade to Windows 11, but the updater says I can't... although I still believe I could.
Thanks for the links. Do you know anyone else with recommendations for smaller laptops or alternatives? Appreciate it!
I found your first link about the GMKtec Mini PC. It suits my needs perfectly—just need HDMI output and a couple of USB ports for wireless logitech devices and a flash drive. The best part is, I don’t even require the monitor you mentioned; I can use it with my projector. It includes Wi-Fi and runs Windows 11.
From your description:
【4K Dual Screen Display】This mini desktop comes with Intel UHD Graphics (up to 750MHz), supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding. You can connect the PC to a projector for a home theatre experience, offering a range of entertainment options. Two HDMI 2.0 ports let you multitask smoothly across two 4K@60Hz displays.
All for $127.99.
Your second link at $330 seems more than necessary, but I could spend over $128 if there’s a compelling reason. The $128 model comes with 8GB DDR4+256GB N100, while the upgraded version is $144.49 and offers 12GB DDR5+256GB N97.
Since I mostly build high-end gaming PCs, processing speed isn’t a concern for simple tasks like streaming or file management. Would this price point affect my experience with such a budget machine?
Thank you for your feedback on the other GMKtec. I’m unfamiliar with this brand—could you or someone else share more details about it, especially regarding the hardware?
Anyone have suggestions to question this PC for my requirements? Anyone has something comparable?
I really appreciate your comments. Good finds!
*Bonus question. My wife enjoys playing Sims 4. Would it run smoothly?*
Lantis introduced me to these mini PCs.
Anyone has any information about the KAMRUI brand?
The KAMRUI GK3Plus Mini PC features 16GB RAM, 512GB M.2 SSD, 12th Gen Alder Lake N95 processor (up to 3.4GHz), 2.5''SSD, Gigabit Ethernet, 4K UHD, WiFi, BT, and supports VESA/Home/Business Mini Desktop configurations.
Price is around $170.
Link: https://www.amazon.com/KAMRUI-GK3-2-5-in...B0BC7S9R5C