Within the world of single-board computers, the Raspberry Pi stands out, but small form-factor desktop PCs are not as abundantly available. This is the niche Ayaneo, a noted gaming hardware company, is aiming to fill.
The company recently revealed the Ayaneo Retro Mini PC AM01, a compact desktop computer powered by AMD. This piece of advanced hardware fits into a 5-inch box reminiscent of a beige Macintosh from the 1980s, but unique enough to steer clear of any copyright infringement with Apple.
The device comes adorned with a removable six-color rainbow logo and features an imitation Finder face on its mock display.
Given Ayaneo’s reputation as a handheld gaming PC manufacturer, it’s only expected that they are emphasizing the Retro Mini PC’s gaming capabilities in their promotional content.
Despite the Apple aesthetic, the Ayaneo Retro Mini PC actually runs Windows 11.
Ubuntu, Debian, and other “Linux host” compatibility is advertised on the IndieGoGo page. It’s not buried in an FAQ or footnote either; the campaign page has a nice crisp mockup of Ubuntu 23.10 on a monitor connected to the device.
Ayaneo Retro Mini PC running Linux host
I must stress: this PC is not sold with Ubuntu pre-installed. There’s Windows, or a barebones edition without an OS for those who don’t want to pay for a Windows license you won’t use.
With a starting price point of only $149 (excluding RAM or SSD), you might be inclined to assume the specifications are worthless. However, they’re surprisingly decent. While still not as affordable as custom building, most pre-assembled computers aren’t:
Consider the following:
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200U or AMD Ryzen 7 5700U
- Capable of supporting up to 32GB DDR4 dual-channel memory
- Possibility for up to 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 SSD
- Wi-Fi 6 ready
- Includes Bluetooth 5.2
- 1 USB-C port
- 3 USB-A ports
- HDMI port
- Equipped with Ethernet
- 3.5mm audio jack
- Inclusion of DisplayPort
I should also mention that Ayaneo includes a unique app pre-installed on their Windows versions. Based on their social media, it seems like it’s a custom gaming launcher/platform they plan to evolve into several features down the road.
As that software only supports Windows, if you want it, you’ll have to buy/use Windows to benefit.
Buy the Ayaneo Retro Mini PC
The Ayaneo Retro Mini PC is available
through an Indiegogo campaign,
priced from $149 (prices are minus shipping, import fees, etc).
Devices begin shipping first week of December so if you’re quick (and possibly befriend a few reindeer) you could have this on your desk in time for Christmas!
— No, I’m not entirely sure why it’s on IndieGoGo either. It’s already been made. I guess it adds to the confusion: a mini PC that looks like a Mac, runs Windows, and is pitched as a retro-gaming gaming machine, sold via a crowd-funding site, despite having already been made…