If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to build a mini PC, you can easily do so by repurposing a TV box. TV boxes, like the one found here, are versatile devices that can be transformed into a mini desktop setup with the right accessories. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to convert a TV box into a mini PC, add a monitor, a wireless keyboard and mouse, and hook it up to a display with an HDMI cable for sound and picture.
Step 1: Choosing the TV Box
The key component for this project is a TV box, which acts as the “brain” of your mini PC. TV boxes typically run on Android, but you can also install other operating systems (like Linux) if needed. The one in this guide is a reliable choice because it comes with essential ports and decent hardware specifications for tasks like web browsing, streaming, and light productivity work.
Key Features of the TV Box:
- Pre-installed Android OS for a smooth interface.
- USB ports for connecting peripherals.
- HDMI output for connecting to a monitor or TV.
Important things to Note
Look for something preferably with Android 12+ (current version is 14).
If you go looking for a cheap alternative ie in aliexpress or temu etc, they have to be (google) play protection certified, for them to run Netflix – it is a software lock not a hardware lock – .
If you can have a USB-C connector on it, it is perfect, it allows for power (electricity), audio & video (data) to be connected directly to your monitor via USB-C with one cable alone.
Step 2: Connecting the Monitor
Once you have your TV box, the next step is adding a monitor. A monitor like this 15.6-inch portable display is a great companion. This specific monitor offers full HD resolution and works perfectly with the HDMI output of the TV box (also supports full USB-C connectivity, you can even attach your phone to it). Its portable nature and embedded speakers makes it an ideal option for a compact setup.
Steps to Connect the Monitor:
- Plug the HDMI cable from the TV box into the monitor’s HDMI port.
- Ensure the monitor is powered via USB or an external power source, depending on the model.
Step 3: Connecting a Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
To make the setup functional as a mini PC, you’ll need input devices like a wireless keyboard and mouse. This combo wireless keyboard and mouse offers great flexibility with wireless connectivity, ensuring your setup remains clutter-free. The wireless adapter can be plugged into one of the USB ports on the TV box.
Steps to Set Up the Keyboard and Mouse:
- Insert the USB receiver (provided with the keyboard/mouse set) into the USB port on the TV box.
- Turn on the keyboard and mouse. They should automatically pair with the receiver.
Step 4: Connecting the TV Box with an HDMI Cable for Sound and Picture
Lastly, you’ll need an HDMI cable to connect the TV box to your monitor for both video and audio. A cable in the range of 0.30-0.50 meters should work perfectly for this compact setup. You can find the appropriate HDMI cable size on Amazon to suit your needs. The shorter length keeps your setup clean and organized, reducing cable clutter.
Steps to Connect HDMI Cable:
- Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the TV box.
- Connect the other end to the HDMI input on your monitor.
- This HDMI connection will handle both video and sound.
Budget
TV Box ~ 40 – 50 Euros
Monitor ~ 80 – 100 Euros
Wireless Keyboard and Mouse ~ 20 – 30 Euros
Total Budget: 140 – 180 Euros
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can transform a TV box into a fully functional mini PC setup. It’s an affordable and space-saving alternative to traditional desktop systems, perfect for light computing tasks, streaming, and entertainment. Here’s a quick recap of what you need:
- TV Box: Your main computing device. Link
- Monitor: For display purposes. Link
- Wireless Keyboard and Mouse: For easy navigation and control. Link
- HDMI Cable: To connect sound and video between your TV box and monitor.
From Aliexpress, I would propose to get the Vontar H1 ( 4G / 64G ) and the UPERFECT monitor as these were the ones I had in the previous generation’s setup and have worked well for me. Should be around 120 Euros all in all. Feel free to do your own research on this. If your budget is going over 250 Euros you should be looking for an actual mini PC or a thin client, it will outperform anything you can scrap together like this.
Enjoy your mini PC!
