You're right, if there's no need of GPIO.
For example I'm using a Fujitsu Futro S720 that I've bought for about 30/40€ and it consumes about 4W idle and 10/15W maximum (I don't really remember).
My point of view is like yours: those boards are not good for self hosting, are good for IoT, digital signage and…mmm…I don't know what else.
You're right, if there's no need of GPIO. For example I'm using a Fujitsu Futro S720 that I've bought for about 30/40€ and it consumes about 4W idle and 10/15W maximum (I don't really remember). My point of view is like yours: those boards are not good for self hosting, are good for IoT, digital signage and…mmm…I don't know what else.