Mini PC Router vs MikroTik Hardware

MikroTik routers are widely trusted for routing, firewalling, and ISP deployments. However, as network demands grow—higher VPN throughput, more concurrent users, and advanced services—many engineers begin to ask:

Should I buy a ready-made MikroTik router, or build a custom router using a mini PC?

This article answers that question clearly by:

• Explaining both approaches
• Showing where each one excels
• Providing a realistic cost comparison in KSh
• Including diagrams and a recommended hardware list

Two Approaches to Running MikroTik RouterOS

There are only two practical ways to run RouterOS today:

Option 1: Off-the-Shelf MikroTik Hardware

Purpose-built routers designed and optimized by MikroTik.

Option 2: Mini PC + RouterOS CHR

A standard x86 mini PC running MikroTik Cloud Hosted Router (CHR).

Both run the same RouterOS software—but the hardware philosophy is completely different.

Architecture Diagrams (Conceptual)

1️⃣ Off-the-Shelf MikroTik Router

[ ISP / Fiber ]
       |
   [ WAN Port ]
       |
[ MikroTik Router ]
  ├─ LAN Port 1
  ├─ LAN Port 2
  ├─ LAN Port 3
  ├─ SFP / SFP+
  └─ Switch Chip (Hardware Offload)

Key Characteristics

• Fixed number of ports
• Hardware acceleration (switch chips)
• Very low power consumption
• Plug-and-play reliability

2️⃣ Mini PC Router (CHR on x86)

[ ISP / Fiber ]
       |
   [ USB / Ethernet NIC ]
       |
[ Mini PC (x86 CPU) ]
  ├─ Built-in Ethernet
  ├─ USB Ethernet Adapter 1
  ├─ USB Ethernet Adapter 2
  ├─ SSD Storage
  └─ Optional Virtual Machines / Services

Key Characteristics

• CPU-driven routing
• Expandable RAM & storage
• Flexible NIC layout
• Can run multiple services or virtualization

Hardware Comparison Table (Kenyan Context)

Why MikroTik Hardware Still Makes Sense

Choose ready-made MikroTik hardware if you value:

✅ Stability & simplicity No USB NICs, no drivers, no surprises.

✅ Lower power bills ARM-based routers consume significantly less electricity.

✅ Built-in ports Multiple Ethernet and SFP ports without adapters or hubs.

✅ Predictable performance Hardware switch chips offload traffic from the CPU.

✅ Support & warranty Easy replacements and local availability.

For most offices, hotels, schools, and small ISPs, models like RB4011 or RB5009 are the best balance of price and performance.

Why Someone Would Choose a Mini PC Instead

Despite the availability of MikroTik hardware, a mini PC router exists for specific, valid reasons.

1️⃣ High VPN & CPU-Heavy Workloads

x86 CPUs outperform ARM in:

• WireGuard throughput
• IPsec with complex rules
• Large firewall rule sets
• DPI, logging, or traffic analysis

2️⃣ Flexibility Beyond Routing

A mini PC can:

• Run RouterOS + Proxmox
• Host monitoring, logging, or billing agents
• Act as a lab, testbed, or multi-router environment

3️⃣ Hardware Reuse & Scaling

If you already own a mini PC:

• Cost drops significantly
• RAM and storage upgrades are easy
• NIC count can be expanded (within limits)

4️⃣ Advanced ISP or SaaS Integrations

For SaaS-driven ISPs:

• Easier integration with APIs
• Local databases or collectors
• Custom automation workflows

USB Ethernet: Reality Check

USB NICs work—but they are not equal to native ports.

Limitations:

• Shared USB bandwidth
• Slight latency increase
• Higher CPU usage
• Practical limit of 4–5 adapters

Rule of thumb: USB NICs are acceptable for edge routing and services, not ideal for core switching.

Recommended Hardware List (Field-Tested)

Mini PC (Best Choices)

• Dell OptiPlex 3040 / 3050 Micro
• HP ProDesk 600 G2 / G3 Mini
• Protectli Vault (multi-port models)

Minimum Specs

• Intel i5 (6th gen+) or Celeron J4125
• 8GB RAM
• 128GB SSD

USB Ethernet Adapters (Use Only These)

• UGREEN USB 3.0 → Ethernet (RTL8153)
• TP-Link UE300
• StarTech USB 3.0 Gigabit (AX88179)

Supporting Hardware

• Powered USB 3.0 Hub (5V / 4A)
• Small UPS (600–850VA)
• Cooling pad or good airflow

Cost Breakdown (Kenya – KSh)

• Mini PC (refurbished): 18,000 – 35,000
• USB Ethernet adapters (4×): 10,000 – 14,000
• Powered USB hub: 3,500 – 5,000
• RouterOS CHR P1 license: ~6,000 / year

Total: 👉 KSh 35,000 – 55,000 + annual license

Final Decision Guide

Bottom Line

• MikroTik routers are the best default choice for most networks.
• Mini PC routers exist for power users, ISPs, and advanced deployments where flexibility and CPU power matter more than simplicity.

Knowing why each exists helps you choose wisely—and avoid building complexity where it isn't needed.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information presented, ISP Centre makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in this article.

ISP Centre bears no responsibility for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article. Hardware specifications, pricing, and availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Readers are advised to:

• Verify current pricing and specifications with suppliers
• Consult with qualified network engineers before making purchasing decisions
• Consider their specific requirements and network environment
• Review official MikroTik documentation and support resources

ISP Centre and the author have no business association with MikroTik or any hardware manufacturers mentioned in this article. Any views or opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ISP Centre.