Minimal tech (computer) refers to a minimalist IT solution that focuses on basic functions and avoids unnecessary features, high energy consumption, size or complexity. The goal is often simplicity, efficiency and longevity. These are the most important aspects of minimal technology in computing:
Low energy consumption
Devices with minimal power requirements, such as a Raspberry Pi or a microcontroller. Classic desktop PCs are not optimised for power consumption, but for performance. Most users do not ask about power consumption or efficiency, but about performance. Manufacturers focus on this aspect. You can only achieve low power consumption by doing a lot of research; some components such as the power supply unit, the CPU and the mainboard cannot work efficiently. Mobile CPUs, ARM architecture and MicroPSUs are a good start.
Measure the power consumption of computers
Compact design
Small and lightweight designs, e.g. mini PCs or thin laptops. The circuit boards with memory, CPU and graphics card are getting smaller and smaller. Laptops consist of 70 % battery and 30 % “computer”. In the desktop sector, you can build a very compact computer with the standard MiniITX, SFX power supply units and low-profile coolers, which have less than 10 litres. The problem with compact designs is the cooling, which either slows down the system or sounds like a jet.
Only the necessary components
Focus on essential parts like the processor, memory and storage, without the superfluous peripherals. RGB, mouse pads, CD bays and extra hard drives are nice, but take up space. All extra parts need maintenance or can cause problems.
Robust construction
These devices are often built to last, with less vulnerable components. Industrial hardware is optimised for durability, which is dust and waterproof. Industrial computers are designed for temperature fluctuations and every climate on earth.
Frugal software
Resource-saving operating systems
Lightweight systems such as Linux distributions (e.g. Ubuntu, Arch Linux or Alpine Linux), which require few resources, help to create a minimal setup. The central idea is debloating. We remove all programmes from the operating system that we do not need. Windows included not only the necessary programmes from the start, but also advertising programmes that you generally don’t need. Only install programmes that you use and avoid installing 3 browsers (unless you explicitly need them). I have written an article about debloating here.
Debian does not need much RAM
Focus on the essentials
Tools and programmes that prioritise functionality over functionality, such as text-based editors (e.g. vim, nano) or command line programmes. These programs are so minimal that they need expertise. vi does not show you how to close the program (ESC –>
! –>
q), but is free of distractions. If you don’t need it that extreme, you can also use a graphical Markdown editor like Joplin or Typora. Remember that minimal tech is just a tool and not an end in itself.
Less is more – debloating
Privacy and security
Minimalist software often does without telemetry and unnecessary background services. There are new vulnerabilities every day, so it makes sense to have as few programmes and services installed as possible. These must be leased in good time to ensure protection. Other programmes are very talkative. They track your every move and send it to the mothership. Telemetry should be optional under GDPR, but some companies take it so-so.
For seriousness – areas of application
Why do I need minimal tech? Here are a few examples:
Simplicity
Designed for basic tasks like browsing, word processing, programming or media playback. Most computer users don’t need a hippy setup with lots of bling bling, but a stable system that explains itself. We don’t want the operating system or the computer/software itself to become an occupation (distro hopping). The software and hardware should work together to support us with a problem. This can be the procurement and processing of information. We don’t want to be primarily concerned with themes and dark mode.
DIY or customisable
Many minimalist setups are do-it-yourself solutions where users only integrate what they really need. There is no one minimal tech. Every setup looks different and that’s a good thing. If a setup is not so minimal, that’s a good thing because the user wants to do different jobs. We don’t want to count the number of programmes or compare performance, we want to get to our goal.
Portability
Minimalist computers are often portable and flexible to use. Laptops or Ultrabooks are super-light computers with everything you need. Even mini PCs can be made portable with a portable screen, mobile keyboard and power bank.
4. Examples of minimal tech
What is optional? The PC industry makes more money from accessories and other components than from the sale of CPU and GPU chips.
Monitors, RGB fans, designer cases, keyboards and CPU thermometers suck money out of your pocket without giving you 1% more performance.
Minimal Tech takes a step back and asks “What do I want to do with the computer?” first. If you spend 95% of your time surfing the web, writing emails and listening to music, you can rule out a whole range of computers and leave unnecessary equipment behind:
Raspberry Pi:… is a credit card-sized computer for basic tasks, educational purposes and hobby projects. The computer can be purchased with up to 16 GB RAM and is therefore better equipped than many laptops. The computer is the size of a wallet, has a bunch of ports and you can even connect graphics cards and PCIe SSDs. This computer usually runs Linux.
Intel NUC or mini PCs / thin clients: Mini PCs are usually notebooks without a screen and keyboard. These are available with AMD and Intel chips, which are very space-saving and energy-efficient compared to large computers. If you don’t do any gaming or video editing, you will hardly notice any difference. These devices are available as very weak (thin clients) through to workstation mini PCs with graphics cards. The more power the systems have, the louder the fans become or the more expensive the systems become.
Chromebooks:… are inexpensive laptops with Chrome OS for web-based work. They are based on Linux with all the services that Google has to offer. They are inexpensive to buy as no Windows licence is required.
To save costs and nerves, it makes sense not to buy the latest (bleeding edge) because you are spending a lot of money to become a beta tester. Instead, buy the established hardware of the last year(s) with enough RAM and storage to be prepared for the future.
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