# Supercharged Miniature PCs The Panther Alpha Super Mini PC Cuts Energy Needs for Computing By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2016-11-04 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/super-mini-pc References: [geeky-gadgets](http://www.geeky-gadgets.com/panther-alpha-super-mini-pc-03-11-2016/) & [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/panthermpc/panther-alpha-the-super-mini-computer) Traditional computer equipment is notorious for being an energy suck, so the Panther Alpha super mini PC is designed to help eliminate this perception and much more. Capable of cutting [energy needs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/giada-ai-pc) by 77% when compared to traditional Windows computers, the Panther Alpha won't compromise on performance because of the power efficiency. Instead of running Windows, the Panther Alpha is powered by Linux and allows users to access their favorite apps in a full-screen environment. This also requires much less memory (around a fifth of what's required for Windows to run), which allows users to do more and experience better performance without lag. The Panther Alpha super mini PC is currently being funded as part of a [Kickstarter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/miniature-computer) campaign where early bird deals allow users to grab a unit for just $79. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.1/10 - Popularity: 57% | Activity: 59% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/computers) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Energy-efficient Computing:** The Panther Alpha super mini PC demonstrates the trend of reducing energy consumption in computer equipment. - **Linux-based Systems:** The Panther Alpha showcases the trend of utilizing Linux as an alternative to Windows for power-efficient computing. - **Increased Performance with Less Memory:** The Panther Alpha exemplifies the trend of achieving better performance by reducing the memory requirements of the operating system. ### Who This Affects Most - **Computer Hardware:** The Panther Alpha presents disruptive innovation opportunities for computer hardware manufacturers to develop energy-efficient and Linux-based mini PCs. - **Software Development:** The Linux-powered Panther Alpha indicates potential for software developers to create optimized and efficient Linux apps for mini PCs. - **Crowdfunding Platforms:** The Panther Alpha's Kickstarter campaign highlights the opportunity for crowdfunding platforms to support innovative energy-efficient computing solutions. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Hackable Miniature Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/miniature-computer.md) - [Compact Fanless Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fanless-computers.md) - [Cost-Effective Mini PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mini-it8.md) - [Power-Efficient Mini PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kamrui-gk3.md) - [Ultra-Efficient Keyboard PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pentaform-abacus-pc.md) - [Ultra-Portable Mini PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blackview-mp80.md) - [Budget-Friendly Mini PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/picobox-lite.md) - [Low-Cost Mini PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/morefine-m9.md) - [Ultra-Thin Desktop PCs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lattepanda-mu.md)