How I Transformed My Windows 11 Mini PC into a Powerful Linux Workstation—and Why You’ll Love the Switch!

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How I Transformed My Windows 11 Mini PC into a Powerful Linux Workstation—and Why You’ll Love the Switch!

I’ve always been a fan of mini PCs. There’s something exciting about creating a compact system. Recently, I tried out the Geekcom IT 15 Mini PC. It’s small yet powerful, making it a solid choice for everyday tasks.

Design and Size

The IT 15 measures just 4.5 x 4.5 x 2 inches. You can even mount it behind your monitor for a clean, all-in-one look. Despite its size, it packs a punch. It might not be meant for heavy gaming, but it offers more than enough horsepower for regular use.

Setup and Performance

After unboxing, I quickly hooked it up to a monitor and keyboard. To my dismay, it booted into Windows 11, which I’m not fond of. So, I decided to install Linux instead. I ended up dual-booting Windows and Ubuntu Budgie to compare their performance. Running on Linux felt more familiar and efficient for my needs.

I wanted to push the IT 15 to its limits, so I installed Ollama AI and Msty—both resource-intensive applications. Usually, local Large Language Models (LLMs) require a lot of power, especially without a dedicated GPU. Unfortunately, the IT 15 lacks a dedicated graphics card, which meant the CPU had to manage all the processing.

When I asked Ollama about “What is Linux?”, the response was slower than I’d hoped. While the Intel CPU handled the task, a dedicated GPU would have significantly sped up the output.

Everyday Use

After the AI test, I used the IT 15 for browsing and software installations. With an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H CPU, its performance was impressive. Apps launched quickly, and everything ran smoothly. For a mini PC, this one stood out in terms of speed and efficiency.

Unlike many budget mini PCs made of plastic, the IT 15 has a sturdy design. It uses metal for the internal frame and high-grade materials on the outside. This means it can withstand rough use—a rarity in compact machines.

Tech Insights

Intel claims the IT 15 uses AI tech with a peak of 13 TOPS. While I didn’t get to test it with text-to-image AI conversions, the CPU appears capable of handling a wide range of tasks.

According to a recent study by Statista, the demand for mini PCs is growing, with 12% annual growth expected through 2026. Many users are opting for space-saving devices that don’t compromise on performance.

Conclusion

If you’re in the market for a compact and powerful PC, the Geekcom IT 15 Mini PC, priced at $1,100, could be your top choice. It supports both Windows and Linux, providing flexibility based on your preference.

Overall, I found this mini PC to be one of the best in its class. It delivers strong performance without taking up a lot of space. If you’re a fan of compact systems, the IT 15 is worth considering. You can check more details on Geekcom’s official website, where they highlight its specs and unique features.



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