Mini PC Repairability Scores
You have the right to repair the things you own—but how easily can that be done?
To find out, our engineers tear down the latest mini PCs and score their repairability from zero (unrepairable) to ten (easiest to repair) so you can pick a product that is easy to repair and lasts as long as possible.
What makes a repairable device?
It should be straightforward to disassemble and replace whatever’s broken, using parts and instructions supplied (or endorsed) by the manufacturer. But that’s just to start—repairability means so much more. For full details, see our repairability scoring explainer.
Repairability is a moving target
We update our scoring rubric frequently to stay current with new technologies, materials, and design trends. This means that devices scored in years past might not fare exactly the same if they were re-scored today, but they can be readily compared with their contemporaries. For a precise list of criteria used to calculate each score, click the scorecard version number linked to each device below. For a downloadable (CSV) list of all scores, click here.
Mini PC Scores
Sorted by newest to oldest
Beelink Mini S13 (N150)
2025
PROS
- Simple construction allows quick access to standard storage and memory modules—and only a Phillips screwdriver is needed for full disassembly.
CONS
- All ports, the CPU, and the Wi-Fi module are soldered to the motherboard.
- Besides for standard storage and memory, no replacement parts are available, and support documentation is limited.
Mac mini 2024 (M4)
2024
PROS
- Socketed storage chips, modular front ports, a serviceable fan, and straightforward entry all simplify repairs.
- Apple provides a thorough service manual with repair procedures for all main components.
CONS
- The M4 chip, memory, and rear ports are soldered to the logic board.
Dell Optiplex 7090 Micro
2021
PROS
- A socketed processor facilitates easy troubleshooting and allows for some upgrade headroom.
- A user-friendly design makes internal upgrades a breeze.
- A thorough service manual is available, with repair procedures for most main components.
CONS
- Dell doesn’t offer replacement parts past the already-standard storage, memory, and CPU, available elsewhere.
Intel NUC 11 (PAHi3)
2020
PROS
- Storage and memory replacements are simple, and both use standard interfaces.
- Straightforward construction requires only a few common tools for nearly all repairs.
CONS
- All ports, the CPU, and the Wi-Fi module are soldered to the motherboard.
- No official replacement parts are offered, and support documentation is limited.
Mac mini 2020 (M1)
2020
PROS
- The fan is serviceable, and the power supply is both modular and protected.
- Apple provides a thorough service manual with repair procedures for all main components.
CONS
- The M1 chip, memory, storage, and ports are all soldered to the logic board.
- Tight working conditions and security screws hamper some repairs.
Lenovo ThinkCentre M75q (Gen 2)
2020
PROS
- A socketed processor facilitates easy troubleshooting and allows for some upgrade headroom.
- A very user-friendly design encourages and expedites both upgrades and routine maintenance.
- Lenovo sells a full suite of replacement parts and publishes a complete service manual with repair guides for all parts.
ASUS MiniPC PN50-B
2020
PROS
- Standard storage and memory are prioritized with easy access, and the Wi-Fi chip is socketed, supporting upgrades.
- The MiniPC is simply constructed, requiring only a few common tools for nearly all repairs.
CONS
- The stiff enclosure complicates motherboard removal, which in turn limits fan service.
- Some replacement parts are available, but support documentation is limited.
