The ASRock DeskMini A300 is a surprising barebones offering that allows for not only a compact system, but a solidly performing one. It delivers exceptional number-crunching capabilities due to the Ryzen 2400G, which is a quad-core/eight-thread processor. Unlike many other mini-PCs, the ASRock can pack a proper desktop processor and is by extension leagues faster than the ECS LIVA Z and LIVA Q2. Even the ZOTAC CI660 Nano with its Intel i7-8550U, which is also a quad-core/eight-thread CPU, falls behind. Granted, that is due to it being a lower TDP part as its design is focused on efficiency rather than pure performance. However, even so, the difference between the two in regards to power draw is just 35 watts; 65 watts for the ZOTAC vs. the ASRock barebones with the Ryzen 2400G at 100 watts.

While far more expensive, the ZOTAC CI660 Nano comes with Wi-Fi and more USB connectivity options, which are excluded with the barebones model from ASRock. While optional add-ons are available, which add rear panel audio, Wi-Fi, USB connectivity, etc., you still have to source those upgrades yourself, which may prove problematic over time. I would have much preferred those to be included out of the box for a slightly higher overall cost as the barebones system only runs $149.99 right now. Seeing it bumped up to say $200 with Wi-Fi, audio, and USB add-ons included would have been a better option, and best yet, wouldn't break the system in terms of affordability either.

When it comes to graphical performance, the AMD Vega 11 integrated graphics proves quite capable. While gaming at 1080p might be a stretch, pushing modern titles at 720p is not a real problem. Though not the system's intended focus, users can still use the DeskMini A300 for more casual titles, like Dota 2, which ran maxed out at 1080p with no problems, or older games that are less demanding. The IGP even proved more than enough for emulating PS2 titles at 1080p with the native render increased, alongside better texture filtering and so much more. While emulating older consoles isn't massively difficult, the ASRock DeskMini A300 at least offers enough grunt to make it enjoyable, and with the extra storage options, it can be a one-stop system for casual and indie titles on top of your favorites from years gone by. Just make sure to get the optional USB upgrade or grab a USB hub. Trust me, you will need it as you will otherwise swap in and out mouse, keyboard, Wi-Fi, adapter, and controller annoyingly often.

Another potential annoyance for more enthusiast-focused users will be the simplistic BIOS. It does have everything you need, including customizable fan profiles for either a silent operation or maximum performance, or anything in between, however. The ASRock motherboard even supports higher memory frequencies when manually set, which is quite nice considering higher memory frequencies do increase IGP performance. Meaning, if you can get high-frequency memory for only a couple of bucks more, it's definitely worth it.

Overall, there is a lot to like about the ASRock DeskMini A300, and if configured similarly to how it was tested here today, I have no issues highly recommending it.