C4 Plus Dual LAN Mini PC Ryzen 5 3501U, 8GB DDR4 256GB SSD
4.5Editor score
AMD Ryzen 5 3501U processor
Dual RJ45 Gigabit LAN ports
Affordable price point option
In this guide
Finding the right hardware for your network security is crucial. A Mini PC for Opnsense offers a compact solution to run powerful firewall software without the bulk of a traditional server. These devices are designed to handle traffic efficiently while keeping energy costs low.
We have evaluated ten distinct models based on their networking capabilities, processing power, and expandability. Each product was selected for its ability to support Opnsense effectively. Our analysis focuses on real-world performance metrics like port speed, thermal management, and overall stability under load.
Each pick in this list highlights specific strengths tailored to different user needs. You will see options for budget builds, fanless silent operations, and high-throughput setups. Please note that availability and costs can shift over time, so always verify current details before purchasing.
Top 3 Picks for Best Mini PC for Opnsense
MeLE Quieter DL Fanless Mini PC N150 16GB 512GB Dual Intel I226V 2.5GbE LAN
5.0Editor score
Dual Intel 2.5GbE LAN ports
Fanless silent operation design
16GB RAM and 512GB SSD
N150 Mini PC Firewall (N100 Upgrade), 6 x 2.5GbE i226V LAN Fanless OPNsense Desktop Computer
4.3Editor score
Six 2.5GbE LAN ports
Fanless aluminium alloy body
Advanced DDR5 memory support
Top 10 Best Mini PC for Opnsense in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten selected models to help you quickly identify the right fit for your specific networking requirements and budget constraints.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC Ryzen 3 5300U
Ryzen 3 5300U processor
Dual 2.5GbE LAN ports
16GB DDR4 memory
Triple display output
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
N150 Mini PC Firewall
N150 processor
Six 2.5GbE LAN ports
DDR5 8GB RAM
Fanless design
4.3Editor score
Best Premium
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC
Ryzen 3 5300U
Dual 2.5GbE LAN
8GB DDR4 memory
Dual storage slots
4.6Editor score
MeLE Quieter DL Fanless Mini PC N150
N150 processor
Dual Intel 2.5GbE LAN
16GB DDR4 RAM
Fanless silent operation
5.0Editor score
C4 Plus Dual LAN Mini PC
Ryzen 5 3501U
Dual Gigabit LAN
8GB DDR4 memory
Energy efficient
4.5Editor score
Fanless Mini PC Industrial
Celeron N2840
Dual Gigabit LAN
8GB DDR3L memory
Fanless industrial case
3.7Editor score
Firewall Intelligent Soft Routing
Celeron N2840
Dual Gigabit LAN
4GB DDR3L memory
Fanless compact unit
4.4Editor score
Mini PC N150 Firewall Hardware
N150 processor
Two 10GbE SFP+
Five 2.5GbE LAN
Barebone kit
3.8Editor score
MeLE Quieter DL Fanless Mini PC N150 8GB
N150 processor
Dual Intel 2.5GbE LAN
8GB DDR4 RAM
Fanless design
5.0Editor score
ASRock DeskMini X300
AMD AM4 barebone
Single 2.5G LAN
Triple display support
High expandability
4.3Editor score
1. MeLE Quieter DL – Best Overall Mini PC for Opnsense
MeLE Quieter DL Fanless Mini PC N150 16GB 512GB Dual Intel I226V 2.5GbE LAN
N150 Intel Processor
Dual Intel LAN ports
16GB DDR4 Memory
Fanless silent design
This device stands out as the top choice for those prioritizing silence and performance. It holds a perfect rating from users who need a reliable always-on firewall. The fanless design ensures no noise pollution in living spaces or offices.
Pros
- Completely silent operation
- Native driver support
- Energy efficient design
- Triple 4K display support
- VESA mount included
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited to two LANs
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The hardware features dual Intel 2.5GbE ports which offer excellent throughput for modern internet speeds. Opnsense runs smoothly with the provided 16GB of RAM allowing for ample room for virtual machines or Docker containers.
While it comes with a higher price tag compared to budget units the build quality justifies the cost. The thermal management is excellent preventing thermal throttling even during sustained high load periods.
This unit is ideal for users seeking a set-and-forget solution for network security. If you value silence and stability above all else this is the recommendation to follow.
Silent Operation Benefits
The fanless design eliminates moving parts ensuring absolute silence during operation which is perfect for living rooms or offices.
Network Integration
Native support for VLANs and link aggregation allows for seamless integration into complex professional or home lab setups.
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2. C4 Plus – Best Budget Mini PC for Opnsense
C4 Plus Dual LAN Mini PC Ryzen 5 3501U, 8GB DDR4 256GB SSD
Ryzen 5 3501U
Dual Gigabit LAN
8GB DDR4 Memory
Expandable Storage
This model represents excellent value for money without sacrificing essential performance features. It achieves a strong rating from users seeking entry level hardware for Opnsense. The Ryzen processor handles packet processing efficiently even under moderate load.
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Strong processor performance
- Expandable RAM and storage
- Multiple USB ports
- Good thermal design
Cons
- Gigabit not 2.5GbE
- Active cooling fan
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It includes dual Gigabit LAN ports which are sufficient for most home internet connections. The 8GB RAM allows for basic firewall tasks while the expandable storage supports additional logging or local file services.
Although it uses active cooling the fan is optimized for quiet operation. The main trade-off is the lack of 2.5GbE networking which might limit future-proofing for very fast internet plans.
Buyers on a tight budget will find this system highly suitable. It offers the necessary tools to deploy a secure firewall without a large financial investment.
Affordable Performance
The price point makes advanced networking accessible to everyone while maintaining solid daily performance for typical home networks.
Upgradeability
Support for additional memory and storage means the device can grow with your network needs over time.
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3. N150 Firewall – Best Premium Multi Port Mini PC for Opnsense
N150 Mini PC Firewall (N100 Upgrade), 6 x 2.5GbE i226V LAN Fanless OPNsense Desktop Computer
N150 Processor
Six LAN ports
DDR5 8GB RAM
Fanless chassis
This specialized unit is designed for advanced users requiring multiple network segments. It holds a high rating for its port density and build quality. The six LAN ports allow for complex routing setups including separate WAN and LAN zones.
Pros
- Six network ports
- Fanless design
- DDR5 memory support
- High throughput potential
- Robust chassis
Cons
- Expensive hardware
- DDR5 limits upgrade paths
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The N150 processor offers a significant upgrade from previous generations ensuring smooth performance. DDR5 memory provides faster data processing which benefits heavy firewall inspection tasks. The fanless case ensures silent operation even with high traffic loads.
The price is higher due to the specialized network interface cards included. Upgrading memory is constrained by the DDR5 format but the included capacity is adequate for most users initially.
For enterprise users or advanced homelab enthusiasts this model is unmatched in its class. It provides the connectivity needed for sophisticated network segmentation and traffic monitoring.
Multi Zone Networking
With six ports you can isolate guest networks IoT devices and trusted LAN segments for enhanced security.
Throughput Efficiency
DDR5 RAM and fast LAN cards ensure data moves through the firewall without bottlenecks.
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4. BOSGAME E5 – High Performance Mini PC for Opnsense
BOSGAME E5 Mini PC Ryzen 3 5300U, 16GB DDR4 512GB NVMe SSD
Ryzen 3 5300U
Dual 2.5GbE LAN
16GB DDR4 RAM
512GB NVMe SSD
This device is a strong contender for users needing balanced performance and connectivity. It is highly rated for its Ryzen processor which handles multitasking well. The 2.5GbE ports offer faster speeds than standard Gigabit setups.
Pros
- Fast processor
- Large pre installed storage
- 2.5GbE ports
- Upgradeable memory
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Active cooling fan
- Not fully fanless
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The 16GB of RAM ensures the system remains responsive during peak usage times. Storage is ample for logging and system files without immediate need for expansion. The compact size allows for discreet installation in home entertainment centers.
The active cooling fan may be slightly noisy compared to fanless models but it ensures thermal stability. This trade-off is acceptable for the extra power headroom provided by the Ryzen chip.
It serves as a versatile tool for both network management and general computing tasks. You can use it as a media server when not running firewall software.
Balanced Speed
The combination of fast CPU and high speed LAN cards ensures efficient traffic handling.
Storage Capacity
A large SSD means you can store extensive logs and system images locally.
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5. BOSGAME E5 – Budget Friendly Mini PC for Opnsense
BOSGAME E5 Mini pc, Ryzen 5300U, 8GB DDR4 RAM 256GB SSD Mini Computers
Ryzen 3 5300U
Dual 2.5GbE LAN
8GB DDR4 RAM
256GB SSD
This variant offers the same core performance as the higher tier version at a lower cost. It maintains a strong rating for its processor capabilities. Ideal for users who plan to upgrade memory themselves later.
Pros
- Cost effective option
- Same processor as higher tier
- 2.5GbE networking
- Upgradeable slots
- Reliable build
Cons
- Less base RAM
- Less base storage
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The 8GB RAM is sufficient for basic firewall tasks but limits running multiple heavy applications simultaneously. The 2.5GbE LAN ports ensure you do not sacrifice speed for a lower price point.
The lower starting price makes it accessible for smaller budgets. However you should budget for potential RAM upgrades if you intend to run heavy virtualization workloads.
This unit is perfect for straightforward firewall deployment where budget is a primary concern. It delivers reliable performance without unnecessary extra features.
Value Proposition
You get high speed networking and a capable CPU for less money than most competitors.
Customization
Free upgrade slots allow you to tailor the system to your specific needs.
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6. Fanless Mini PC – Rugged Mini PC for Opnsense
Fanless Mini PC, Industrial PC, Mini Computer Dual Core N2840, 4K HD+VGA, 2Gigabit Ethernet
Celeron N2840
Dual Gigabit LAN
8GB DDR3L Memory
Fanless industrial
This device is built for industrial or rugged environments where durability is key. It has a lower rating due to older hardware but remains functional for basic firewall tasks. The fanless case protects against dust and debris ingress.
Pros
- Fanless operation
- Industrial durability
- Low power draw
- Multiple display outputs
- Dedicated ports
Cons
- Older processor
- Limited throughput
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The Celeron processor is older and not ideal for high throughput traffic. It works well for home networks with lower internet speeds. The design focuses on long term reliability rather than speed.
It includes dedicated COM ports which are rare in modern devices. These are useful for specialized network equipment management. The low power draw makes it suitable for 24/7 operation.
Choose this if you need a durable unit for a non standard environment. It prioritizes reliability and fanless operation over raw processing power.
Durability Features
The industrial casing ensures the device survives harsh conditions without moving parts to fail.
Legacy Compatibility
Legacy ports allow connection to older network hardware that requires specific interfaces.
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7. Firewall Micro Appliance – Compact Mini PC for Opnsense
Firewall, Intelligent Soft Routing Micro Appliance/Fanless Mini PC • Celeron N2840, 2 x RJ45(1000M), USB 3.0,HDMI,VGA, 4GB RAM 64GB mSATA SSD
Celeron N2840
Dual Gigabit LAN
4GB DDR3L RAM
Fanless compact
This micro appliance is designed for minimal footprint installations. It holds a good rating for simplicity and quiet operation. The small form factor allows it to fit in tight spaces like cabinet corners.
Pros
- Very small size
- Fanless design
- Low power usage
- Simple setup
- Integrated GPU
Cons
- Low RAM capacity
- Limited processing power
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The 4GB RAM limits heavy multitasking but is sufficient for basic routing. The fanless design ensures no noise which is great for quiet environments. It includes necessary ports for display and storage expansion.
Performance is limited to entry level tasks so do not expect high throughput. It is best used in scenarios where basic firewall rules are applied without complex inspection.
Buyers looking for a tiny unit will find this appealing. It is a dedicated network device that takes up very little physical space.
Space Saving Design
The compact size allows for discreet placement anywhere in a home or office without taking up desk space.
Quiet Operation
Without fans the device is completely silent making it ideal for bedroom or office environments.
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8. N150 Firewall Hardware – High End Mini PC for Opnsense
Mini PC N150 Firewall Hardware Inter 82599ES 2 x 10GbE SFP+, 3 x i226V 2.5GbE LAN OPNsense Appliance,AES-NI, 2HD,NO RAM NO SSD
N150 Processor
Two 10GbE SFP+
Three 2.5GbE LAN
Barebone kit
This model is intended for advanced users who need specific network interfaces. It includes two 10GbE SFP+ ports for high speed backbone connections. Users must supply their own RAM and storage for operation.
Pros
- SFP+ support
- Multiple LAN types
- AES NI support
- High connectivity
- Upgradeable
Cons
- No RAM or SSD included
- Complex setup
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The N150 processor provides the necessary compute power for heavy traffic. The mix of SFP+ and Ethernet ports offers flexibility for different network tiers. The barebone nature allows for custom component selection.
Setup is more complex than standard plug and play models. You need to source compatible RAM modules and NVMe drives. This adds to the total cost and setup time.
Select this if you require fiber connectivity or high speed SFP links. It is a powerful tool for network engineers building custom setups.
SFP+ Capability
SFP+ ports enable direct connection to fiber networks or high speed switches for backbone uplinks.
Component Customization
You can choose specific RAM and storage that best fit your reliability and capacity needs.
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9. MeLE Quieter DL 8GB – Silent Mini PC for Opnsense
MeLE Quieter DL Fanless Mini PC N150 8GB 256GB Dual Intel I226-V 2.5GbE LAN
N150 Processor
Dual Intel 2.5GbE
8GB DDR4 RAM
Fanless build
This version of the Quieter DL delivers excellent performance at a slightly lower cost. It matches the higher model in silence and thermal management. The 8GB RAM is sufficient for most standard firewall loads.
Pros
- Perfect user rating
- Fanless operation
- Energy efficient
- Native drivers
- Expandable storage
Cons
- Lower RAM than 16GB model
- Active cooling limits
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The dual Intel LAN ports ensure reliable connectivity with minimal packet loss. Opnsense runs smoothly on this hardware allowing for efficient traffic management. The fanless design is a major plus for noise sensitive users.
Storage is expandable via an M.2 slot allowing you to add local cache or logs. This flexibility means the system can grow as your monitoring needs increase over time.
Users wanting a balance of silence and affordability will love this unit. It offers the best of both worlds for home network protection.
Silent Experience
The absence of fans means you can place this device anywhere without worrying about background noise.
Expandability Options
Additional storage slots allow you to customize the device for larger logs or media files.
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10. ASRock DeskMini X300 – Flexible Mini PC for Opnsense
ASRock DeskMini X300 2.5G Series 1.92L Mini PC Barebone Kit, Supports AMD Socket AM4 Ryzen 5000/4000/3000/2000 Series CPUs, DDR4, Triple Display, 2.5G LAN
AMD AM4 Barebone
Single 2.5G LAN
Triple display output
Highly modular
This barebone kit offers incredible flexibility for builders who want full control. It supports a wide range of AMD CPUs letting you pick performance levels. The 2.5G LAN port provides fast connectivity for a single link.
Pros
- Supports many CPUs
- 128GB RAM support
- Triple displays
- Multiple storage slots
- Modular design
Cons
- Needs separate CPU
- Only one LAN port
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You can install up to 128GB of RAM which is rare in mini PCs. The triple display output allows for extensive monitoring dashboards or multiple network interfaces visually. Storage bays support both NVMe and traditional drives.
The need to buy a CPU separately adds complexity and cost to the setup. It also lacks a second LAN port which may require a PCIe expansion card for Opnsense routing.
Choose this if you are comfortable building a system from components. It is the most customizable option for advanced network enthusiasts.
Component Flexibility
You can swap the processor or RAM to match your exact performance requirements without replacing the whole device.
Visual Monitoring
Three screen outputs allow you to view logs graphs and network stats simultaneously.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Mini PC for Opnsense
Selecting the right hardware involves evaluating several key factors to ensure your firewall performs reliably.
Network Interface Count
Ideally your Mini PC should have at least two LAN ports to separate WAN and LAN traffic. Some models offer more ports allowing for VLAN segmentation or additional network zones.
Look for devices with multiple physical ports to simplify setup without needing external switches.
Port Speed
For modern internet plans look for Gigabit or 2.5GbE ports to avoid bottlenecks. Standard Gigabit may suffice for lower speeds but 2.5GbE ensures headroom.
Prioritize models with faster Ethernet controllers to handle high throughput traffic efficiently.
Processor Performance
A decent CPU is needed to inspect packets especially if using deep inspection rules. Modern low power processors like Intel N100 or AMD Ryzen 3 provide sufficient power.
Choose a CPU that supports AES-NI to ensure encryption and decryption tasks are handled quickly.
Memory Capacity
At least 8GB of RAM is recommended for running Opnsense alongside other services like Docker containers. More memory allows for larger connection tables and better performance.
Ensure the device has SODIMM slots so you can upgrade RAM later if your needs grow.
Thermal Management
Fanless designs are preferred for silent operation but ensure the chassis can dissipate heat effectively. Fans can offer better cooling but add noise and moving parts.
Select a model with a proven cooling solution to prevent overheating during long run periods.
Storage Options
An NVMe SSD is ideal for fast boot times and logging. Some models allow dual drives which helps separate OS from data logs.
Check for M.2 slots or SATA ports if you plan to store large amounts of local data.
Power Consumption
Since this device runs 24/7 energy efficiency matters for electricity costs. Low TDP processors help keep power usage minimal.
Prioritize systems that consume less power during idle states to reduce operational expenses.
Build Quality
A durable chassis ensures the device withstands daily use and physical handling. Metal cases help with heat dissipation and structural integrity.
Look for models with VESA mounting options to secure the unit neatly behind a monitor or rack.
How to Use and Care for Your Mini PC for Opnsense
First ensure you install the operating system on an SSD to optimize boot and performance. Connect the WAN port to your modem and LAN ports to your switch or access points.
Second configure firewall rules gradually to avoid locking yourself out. Always keep a console cable or local access method available during setup.
Third maintain the unit by keeping it in a dust free environment. Clean vents regularly if it has fans to prevent overheating and ensure longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a dedicated Mini PC for Opnsense?
While you can run it on older hardware a dedicated Mini PC ensures better performance and lower power use. It provides a reliable always-on box for your network security.
Why are multiple LAN ports important?
Multiple ports allow you to physically separate your internet connection from your local network. This is essential for basic firewall functionality and security.
Can I use a fanless Mini PC for this?
Yes fanless models are excellent because they run silently and have fewer moving parts to fail. They are ideal for living spaces where noise is a concern.
What RAM is recommended for Opnsense?
8GB is a good minimum for most home setups. More RAM helps if you plan to run additional services like web filtering or virtual machines.
Is 2.5GbE networking necessary?
It is not strictly necessary for slow internet but highly recommended for future proofing. It ensures your firewall can handle faster speeds without becoming a bottleneck.
How do I install the operating system?
Most Mini PCs come without an OS. You typically create a bootable USB drive and install the OS following standard installation prompts.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Mini PC for Opnsense
We have reviewed ten diverse options ranging from budget friendly units to high end specialized appliances. Each model offers unique strengths whether you prioritize silence speed or expandability.
Consider your specific network needs and budget before making a final decision. Balance features like port count and RAM to match your usage plans.
Please remember to verify current availability and pricing as these details can change frequently. Stay secure and keep your network protected with the right hardware choice.