Best Pick

HP Z2 Mini G1a Jet Black 2025

100 Compact & SFF Score
AMD Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 395128GB RAM2TBAMD Radeon 8060Smini
Why we recommend this

The unified 128GB memory pool and 16-core AMD Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 395 chip let this compact 2.3kg workstation run large language models locally without a discrete GPU. Its dense I/O includes dual Mini DisplayPort 2.1 and Wi-Fi 7, making it a connectivity powerhouse in a space-saving chassis. This system is best for AI developers and data scientists who need to prototype 70-billion-parameter models on their desk without relying on cloud instances.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

HP EliteDesk 8 G1i Jack Black 2026

85.6 Compact & SFF Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 285T64GB RAM1TBIntel Graphicsmini
Why we recommend this

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285T with 24 cores and 64GB of 5600MHz DDR5 RAM drives AI-accelerated multitasking in a 1.35kg chassis. Its compact design doesn’t sacrifice connectivity, offering Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 7, and two empty M.2 slots for expansion. This mini PC suits developers and home-office power users juggling virtual machines and large codebases without desk clutter.

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HP Z2 G1i Black

78.7 Compact & SFF Score
Intel Core Ultra 9 28532GB RAM1TBNVIDIA RTX 4000 SFF Ada Generationsff
Why we recommend this

The 24-core Intel Core Ultra 9 285 and NVIDIA RTX 4000 Ada with 20GB VRAM pack full-tower power into a compact SFF chassis, ideal for real-time ray tracing and 3D design. Its tool-less expandability and extensive connectivity, including four DisplayPort 1.4a outputs, make multi-display setups effortless without sacrificing desk space. This workstation is best for CAD designers and architects who need ISV-certified reliability in a space-constrained office.

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HP Z2 G9 A1NY8UT#ABA Black 2025

32.7 Compact & SFF Score
2432GB RAM1000GBNVIDIA T1000mid-tower
Why we recommend this

The 24-core Intel Core i9-14900K processor delivers zero-throttle performance for sustained rendering and simulations, backed by 32GB of DDR5 RAM. Its tool-less chassis and ISV certifications make it a practical, easily expandable foundation for professional workflows, while the front and rear ledges simplify physical handling. This workstation is best for engineers and architects running certified CAD applications who need reliable, upgradeable compute power without gaming-grade graphics.

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HP Z2 G9 A1NY8UT#ABA Black 2025 desktop
Price CA$3,508