Category: Computers

  • Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Three PCIe Expansion Slots Revealed

    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Three PCIe Expansion Slots Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra mini PC features the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor with 24 cores and a 4-core Intel Arc integrated GPU.
    2. It includes three PCIe expansion slots, allowing users to install additional GPUs, although space may limit full-sized desktop GPU installations.
    3. The system supports up to 256 GB of DDR5 RAM through four SODIMM slots and can accommodate up to 16 TB of storage via four M.2 slots.
    4. Connectivity options include WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, along with a built-in 350 W power supply for easy upgrades.
    5. The official launch is set for October 22, 2025, during the Japan Autumn IT Week 2025, with pricing and availability still pending.


    Minisforum is about to unveil its latest Arrow Lake HX mini PC, named the MS-02 Ultra. This will be fully presented at the Japan Autumn IT Week 2025, commencing on October 22, 2025. Before the official launch, the Intel system has appeared on r/MiniPCs, revealing all its essential specifications.

    Key Specifications Unveiled

    According to a poster that looks official shared on the subreddit, this system will come equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX, which is a high-end processor from the Arrow Lake HX lineup. It boasts a configuration of 24 cores and includes the 4-core Intel Arc integrated GPU.

    Although the iGPU isn’t exceptionally powerful, an advantage of the Minisforum MS-A2 Ultra is its three PCIe expansion slots. These slots are designated as follows:

    Users can install a separate GPU in either the PCIe 5.0 x16 or the PCIe 4.0 x16 slot. However, it’s important to mention that the casing might not permit the installation of a large, full-sized desktop GPU. Another notable aspect is that the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX supports 24 PCIe lanes, which implies that the x16 slots may not deliver the expected performance when fully populated.

    Expandable Memory and Storage

    Despite this limitation, the CPU in the Minisforum MS-A2 Ultra can support up to 256 GB of DDR5 RAM via its four SODIMM slots. On the storage side, it has four M.2 slots that can accommodate a total of 16 TB of PCIe 4.0 x4 SSDs (2 TB Samsung 990 Evo Plus is currently priced at $139.99 on Amazon). Regarding connectivity, this mini PC offers the following ports:

    Additional features include a built-in 350 W power supply unit, a design that makes upgrades easy, as well as WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 capabilities. Pricing and availability for the MS-A2 Ultra SFF PC are yet to be disclosed by Minisforum.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • OK153-S: New Linux Single-Board Computer with ARM and RISC-V

    OK153-S: New Linux Single-Board Computer with ARM and RISC-V

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OK153-S is a single-board computer that uses the FET153-S SOM, similar in use to a Raspberry Pi.
    2. It features the Allwinner T153 SoC, combining four ARM Cortex-A7 cores and a RISC-V E907 chip for high-performance data processing.
    3. Memory options include 256 MB, 512 MB, or 1 GB of DDR3 RAM, with storage options up to 8 GB in NAND or eMMC.
    4. It supports Linux 5.10 and is designed for industrial applications, lacking an HDMI port but offering various connectivity options.
    5. Key ports include two USB 2.0, one USB-A, one Ethernet, two RS485, and two CAN-FD, along with slots for nano-SIM and microSD.


    The OK153-S is an innovative single-board computer that utilizes the FET153-S SOM. The FET153-S is effectively mounted on a carrier board, making it similar in use to a Raspberry Pi, as the connectivity is structured in a largely standard way. The system on chip (SoC) featured is the Allwinner T153, which integrates a computing chip that combines two distinct architectures: it has four ARM Cortex-A7 cores and a RISC-V E907 chip. Forlinx claims that this combination renders the OK153-S ideal for intensive data processing and applications demanding high real-time performance.

    Memory and Storage Options

    Depending on which model you choose, the OK153-S comes equipped with either 256 MB, 512 MB, or 1 GB of DDR3 RAM. Additionally, it has options for 256 MB or 512 MB of NAND storage or eMMC storage that reaches up to 8 GB in capacity. It supports Linux 5.10, a system many developers are likely to recognize and be comfortable with.

    Connectivity Features

    If you’re looking for an HDMI port on the OK153-S, you’ll be disappointed, but that’s not unexpected for a device primarily aimed at industrial applications. Instead, it features MIPI CSI, and displays can be attached using MIPI DSI. The array of ports includes two USB 2.0 ports, one USB-A port, one Ethernet port, two RS485 ports, two CAN-FD ports, and plenty more. There are also slots available for a nano-SIM and a microSD memory card.

    Details regarding pricing or when it will be available are still unknown.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Lenovo ThinkPad P1 & P16s: 4K OLED, RTX 4080, 64GB RAM Deals

    Lenovo ThinkPad P1 & P16s: 4K OLED, RTX 4080, 64GB RAM Deals

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo ThinkPad P-series offers powerful desktop replacements, suitable for users not needing portability.
    2. The ThinkPad P1 Gen 6 is on sale for $1,999, featuring an Intel Core i7, 64GB RAM, and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080.
    3. The ThinkPad P16s Gen 4 is a more affordable option at $1,359, with a Ryzen 7 Pro CPU and a 4K OLED display.
    4. The P16s Gen 4 is a good choice for users who don’t need a dedicated GPU but still want strong performance.
    5. Prices and deals mentioned may change, and users should check retailer availability before purchase.


    16 inches may not be the top choice for lots of ThinkPad fans, but for those seeking a powerful desktop replacement that won’t need to be lugged around often, the larger models in the Lenovo ThinkPad P-series could be a good option.

    Great Offers for Powerful Machines

    For instance, those in the market for a dependable work laptop with a dedicated graphics card might want to look at Lenovo’s current deal for the ThinkPad P1 Gen 6, which is now priced at $1,999 as part of a clearance sale. This price is for a high-end setup featuring the Intel Core i7-13800H, 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB SSD.

    Furthermore, this variant comes with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 boasting 12GB VRAM and a low TGP of 80 watts. The 4K OLED touchscreen provides 400 nits brightness, full DCI-P3 color coverage, and supports Dolby Vision. While this display operates only at 60Hz, it should handle multimedia tasks quite well. For additional details on this laptop, refer to our comprehensive review of the Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 6.

    A Cheaper Alternative

    ThinkPad aficionados who don’t require a dedicated GPU but still seek a strong 16-inch laptop may find the more affordable Lenovo ThinkPad P16s Gen 4 to be a better fit. This device is currently on sale for $1,359, down from $2,379, thanks to a significant 42% price reduction. To maximize savings, use the coupon code “BUYMORELENOVO” at Lenovo’s official online store.

    The ThinkPad P16s also features a 4K OLED display offering the same 60Hz refresh rate, complete DCI-P3 coverage, and 400 nits brightness. However, this laptop is powered by the newer AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 350, which is paired with 32GB of RAM that can be upgraded in the future. It also includes a 1TB SSD and runs Windows 11 Pro. Since this Lenovo model is over $600 cheaper than the more powerful ThinkPad P1, bargain hunters who can accept less CPU and GPU performance might find the ThinkPad P16s Gen 4 AMD a worthwhile purchase.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • TSMC Boosts 2nm Chip Production and U.S. Expansion Amid AI Race

    TSMC Boosts 2nm Chip Production and U.S. Expansion Amid AI Race

    Key Takeaways

    1. TSMC is set to begin mass production of its 2nm process, N2, in 2025, ahead of its original 2030 timeline.
    2. The company reported a revenue increase of over 40% in Q3 2025, driven by demand for AI technology and high-end smartphones.
    3. TSMC plans to invest $42 billion in expanding its manufacturing capabilities in Taiwan and abroad in 2025.
    4. The Arizona plant is being upgraded for 2nm production, aiming to become a major semiconductor center outside Asia.
    5. TSMC targets to produce around 100,000 wafers per month from its Arizona facility, supporting U.S. efforts for more domestic chip production.


    TSMC is getting ready for the worldwide competition in the semiconductor field. The chip maker has shared that it will begin mass production of its 2nm process, known as N2, sooner than it originally planned.

    Production Timeline Adjustments

    TSMC aims to kick off production of its N2 node in 2025, with a gradual increase in output anticipated for 2026. This change brings the schedule ahead by several years from the initial target of 2030. Executives at the company have indicated that early yields are looking good. They have already commenced work on a better version called N2P, which is set to be released in late 2026.

    Financial Growth Driven by AI

    This accelerated timeline follows TSMC’s impressive Q3 2025 results. The semiconductor giant reported revenues of $33.1 billion, which is more than a 40 percent increase compared to the same time last year. TSMC’s success has been largely fueled by the demand for AI technology and high-end smartphones, with substantial orders coming from clients like Nvidia and Apple.

    Expansion Plans in Manufacturing

    The company is also set to invest heavily in boosting its manufacturing capabilities, both in Taiwan and abroad, with a significant $42 billion allocated for this purpose in 2025.

    TSMC has also shared news regarding its Arizona plant. The facility is undergoing upgrades from 3 nm and 4 nm technology to accommodate 2 nm production. This site is expected to be ready for future A16-class manufacturing. TSMC believes this plant could become one of the leading semiconductor centers outside Asia, targeting a 30 percent share of the company’s next-generation output.

    Arizona Production Goals

    The plan is to produce approximately 100,000 wafers each month from the Arizona facility. TSMC is working on establishing the necessary infrastructure for packaging, testing, and suppliers, and is currently exploring options for acquiring additional land. This expansion comes at a crucial time as the United States strives for more domestic chip production and aims to lessen its dependence on foreign manufacturers.

    The competition remains fierce in the global AI and national security arena, but TSMC is positioning itself to lead the charge in the development of next-generation semiconductors for advanced computing.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Dell Pro Max 16 Plus Enhances Precision 7680 Features

    Dell Pro Max 16 Plus Enhances Precision 7680 Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Dell Pro Max 16 Plus features significant performance upgrades with the Arrow Lake-HX CPU and Blackwell GPU, along with support for up to 256 GB of CAMM2 RAM and a removable DGFF graphics card for enhanced flexibility.

    2. Repairability has improved with modular USB-C ports that can be easily replaced, promoting sustainability and reducing repair costs.

    3. The AC adapter is now a thinner, more efficient universal 280 W USB-C model, replacing the older 240 W barrel adapter.

    4. New display options include 120 Hz OLED screens, enhancing visual quality for professional users.

    5. An upgraded 8 MP webcam is now available, improving video conferencing capabilities compared to the previous model.


    The Precision series has been around for a long time, but now it’s time to look ahead to the new Dell Pro series, which focuses on professional use. The top-tier Dell Pro Max 16 Plus is now available globally, stepping in for last year’s Precision 7680. Unlike the recent Dell 16 Plus, this new model offers significant upgrades that go beyond just a name swap.

    Performance Boosts

    In our review of the Pro Max 16 Plus, we found that it’s much faster than older versions, thanks to the cutting-edge Arrow Lake-HX CPU and Blackwell GPU. However, the real exciting features are not just about the processors. Dell has made several modifications to the chassis that lead to notable improvements. For instance, CAMM2 RAM can now support an impressive 256 GB of memory, and the specialized DGFF graphics card is removable, allowing users to swap it out or upgrade to a Qualcomm AI 100 Inference Card. This upgrade can turn the Pro Max 16 Plus into a strong mobile tool for running large AI models locally, especially if users don’t require the Nvidia Pro Blackwell GPU.

    Enhanced Repairability

    When it comes to repairability, the USB-C ports are now designed to be modular and are not directly attached to the main board. This makes it simpler and less expensive to replace them in case they break or get loose from extensive use. Dell plans to incorporate this sustainable feature into more of their laptops soon, with hopes of adding more modular ports beyond just USB-C in the future.

    Adapter Updates

    Even the AC adapter has been updated to be thinner and more efficient. The Pro Max 16 Plus stands out as one of the few laptops to come with a universal 280 W USB-C AC adapter, replacing the 240 W barrel AC adapter that was included with the older Precision 7680 series.

    There are also many smaller enhancements, such as the addition of new 120 Hz OLED displays and 8 MP webcam options that were not available on the previous model.

     

  • Ebyte Launches Raspberry Pi 5 Rival with Allwinner SoCs and 4K Support

    Ebyte Launches Raspberry Pi 5 Rival with Allwinner SoCs and 4K Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ebyte has launched two new single-board computers: ECB32-PGB2E16-I with T527M processor and ECB32-PGBN4E32-I with T527MN processor (featuring a neural processing unit).
    2. The NPU in the T527MN offers up to 2 TOPS performance, which is lower than modern AMD and Intel chips.
    3. Both models can have either 2GB or 4GB of RAM and come with 32 or 64GB of built-in storage.
    4. Connectivity options include two 1Gbps Ethernet ports, a PCIe 2.1 interface, HDMI, and MIPI DSI supporting 4K resolution.
    5. Ebyte’s single-board computers are available for purchase on Amazon Germany and other global retailers.


    Ebyte has introduced some new single-board computers to their collection. The ECB32-PGB2E16-I comes with the T527M processor, while the ECB32-PGBN4E32-I is equipped with the T527MN. The ‘N’ in T527MN indicates the presence of a neural processing unit (NPU), which is designed to speed up AI tasks. This NPU is said to deliver performance of up to 2 TOPS, which isn’t all that impressive when compared to the NPUs found in modern AMD and Intel chips, which typically have double-digit TOPS capabilities. However, the Allwinner T527M does come with four Cortex-A55 CPU cores.

    Specifications and Features

    Depending on the setup, these single-board computers can have either 2 or 4GB of RAM. In contrast to the Raspberry Pi 5, Ebyte’s SBCs come with 32 or 64GB of built-in storage, which can be utilized for installing an operating system. The dimensions of the board are 5.75 x 3.98 inches.

    Connectivity Options

    Both models provide two Ethernet ports, each capable of 1Gbps. There is also a PCIe 2.1 interface with a single lane, offering a bandwidth of 5Gbps. For connecting displays, users can choose between HDMI and MIPI DSI, with the latter supporting 4K resolution at up to 45Hz, whereas HDMI allows for the usual 4K at 60Hz. Additionally, these alternatives to the Raspberry Pi 5 include two 40-pin headers for connecting various sensors and actuators. Ebyte’s latest single-board computers are already available for purchase on Amazon Germany and other retailers globally.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • RedMagic Unveils Gaming Laptop and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Series

    RedMagic Unveils Gaming Laptop and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. RedMagic has launched the RedMagic Gaming Laptop 16 Pro 2026 in China, expected to be released globally as the Titan 16 Pro 2026.
    2. The laptop can be equipped with powerful hardware, including an Nvidia RTX 5090 and Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, enabling smooth performance for gaming at 1440p.
    3. There are multiple configurations available, all featuring the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, with options including the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5080 for various performance levels.
    4. The 16-inch display offers a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, a 300 Hz refresh rate, and full 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, along with a brightness of 500 nits.
    5. The laptop features a modern design, a 99 Wh battery with 100 W PD support, and 80 Gbps Thunderbolt 5 compatibility, with pricing starting at CNY 14,999 (approximately $2,105).


    RedMagic has unveiled several new gadgets in China. The spotlight is primarily on the RedMagic 11 Pro series, which is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, but the company has also rolled out an exciting new gaming laptop.

    New Gaming Laptop Announcement

    The newly launched laptop, named the RedMagic Gaming Laptop 16 Pro 2026 in China, is anticipated to be released globally as the Titan 16 Pro 2026. As the company previously hinted, this device can be equipped with up to an Nvidia RTX 5090 and an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX. Based on our testing, this powerful setup should be able to run almost all games smoothly at 1440p resolution with maximum visual settings turned on.

    Configurations and Performance

    The brand is not stopping at just one configuration for the gaming laptop. There are actually two more variations available, all featuring the same Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor. For the graphics card, the base model comes with the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti, which is a reliable upper mid-range option. There is also a higher-tier option that includes the RTX 5080, known for its strong performance in high-end gaming laptops. RedMagic emphasizes that both the CPU and GPU are paired with the Magic Cooling Architecture 2.0, designed to keep the system cool even under heavy usage. This new design reportedly allows for improved airflow compared to previous models, featuring a total of three active fans.

    Display and Features

    Turning to the display, the RedMagic Gaming Laptop 16 Pro 2026 boasts a 16-inch screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. This 16:10 aspect ratio panel is said to offer a typical brightness of 500 nits, DC dimming, a 300 Hz refresh rate, and full 100% DCI-P3 color coverage.

    Additional features of the new RedMagic gaming laptop include a modern design, a substantial 99 Wh battery with 100 W PD support (you can find the Baseus 145 W laptop power bank for approx. $62.98 on Amazon), and 80 Gbps Thunderbolt 5 compatibility. The base model was introduced in China at a price of CNY 14,999, roughly $2,105, while the premium configuration retails for CNY 27,999, which is around $3,930. There is currently no information regarding a global release, but it is expected to make its debut internationally soon.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Timeline for Upcoming M5 Macs: Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and More

    Timeline for Upcoming M5 Macs: Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has a strong track record for accurate news about Apple, sharing details on upcoming M5 Macs.
    2. The MacBook Air is expected to get an M5 upgrade in Spring 2024, with no major hardware changes apart from a possible new LCD display by 2027.
    3. The high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros will receive M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, anticipated to launch in early 2024 alongside the MacBook Air.
    4. The standard M5 chip will have a much stronger GPU, suggesting that the Pro and Max versions will also feature significant GPU improvements.
    5. Following the release of the M5 Pro and Max chips, updates for the Mac mini and Mac Studio are likely, with the next Mac Studio possibly featuring an M5 Ultra SoC.


    When it comes to news and speculation about Apple, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has shown a strong history of accuracy. In his recent PowerOn newsletter, he has disclosed a significant amount of details regarding the anticipated M5 Macs from the tech company based in Cupertino. This includes systems equipped with the more powerful M5 Pro and M5 Max SoCs.

    MacBook Air Update

    The MacBook Air (curr. $899 on Amazon) received its most recent update in March this year, featuring the M4 SoC and a new color option. No other modifications were introduced, and a similar pattern is expected for the refresh next year. Mark suggests that the M5-equipped MacBook Air will likely launch in Spring 2024, without any additional hardware changes. However, an updated LCD display is projected to debut by 2027.

    Upcoming MacBook Pros

    The high-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros did not get the M5 upgrade last week. Mark indicated that the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips are expected to be released in the first quarter of next year, likely coinciding with the launch of the previously mentioned MacBook Air.

    M5 Pro and Max Specs

    The specific information about the M5 Pro and Max chips remains unclear at this time. However, it’s important to highlight that the standard M5 comes with a significantly stronger GPU, making it reasonable to anticipate that the Pro and Max variants will also boast impressive GPU enhancements.

    Once the M5 Pro and Max SoCs make their debut early next year, updates for the Mac mini and Mac Studio should follow, according to Mark. At present, the top-tier Mac Studio can only be outfitted with an M3 Ultra SoC, and Apple has confirmed that not every generation will have an “Ultra” version. The M4 lineup omitted an Ultra SoC, suggesting that the next Mac Studio could feature an M5 Ultra SoC.

    Mark Gurman, through MacRumors’ sources, has provided these insights.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Getac Launches Rugged Laptops with AMD Kracken Point & Intel CPUs

    Getac Launches Rugged Laptops with AMD Kracken Point & Intel CPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Getac has launched two new rugged laptops: the S510AD with AMD’s Krackan Point APUs and the B360 Plus with Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200V processors, both compatible with Microsoft Copilot+.

    2. The S510AD features a 15.6-inch FHD display with a peak brightness of 1,000 nits and offers customizable RAM options up to 64 GB, along with storage configurations up to 2 TB.

    3. The B360 Plus is more compact with a 13.3-inch FHD display, boasting a higher brightness of 1,400 nits, and offers processor options including an Arc 140V GPU, also supporting RAM up to 32 GB and 2 TB SSD storage.

    4. Both models provide extensive connectivity options, including USB4, HDMI, Ethernet, and various optional ports, along with advanced security features like TPM 2.0 and Windows Hello support.

    5. Pricing for the new models is not specified and interested buyers must contact Getac directly for inquiries.


    The rugged laptop market doesn’t often experience frequent technology updates, but Getac, a well-established player in this area, has been actively refreshing its product range and even launching new models in the last few years. Recently, the company unveiled two new laptops compatible with Microsoft Copilot+, namely the S510AD, which is Getac’s first rugged model utilizing AMD’s Krackan Point APUs, and the B360 Plus, powered by Intel’s Lunar lake Core Ultra 200V processors.

    S510AD Model Features

    For the S510AD, Getac provides four APU options: the Ryzen AI 5 340 and its PRO variant with 6 cores and 12 threads, along with the Ryzen AI 7 350 and its PRO version featuring 8 cores and 16 threads. These APUs come equipped with a Radeon 860M GPU and an XDNA 2 NPU that offers up to 50 TOPS. Additionally, there’s an option to include an Nvidia Quadro RTX A500 dGPU.

    Display and Storage Options

    Getac’s display choices are tailored to enhance visibility in bright conditions. The 15.6-inch TFT LCD screen on this model boasts an FHD resolution and can achieve a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. There’s also an optional touch-screen version. The standard RAM is set at 16 GB DDR5, with upgrade options for 32 GB and 64 GB. The PCIe 4.0 SSD can be configured up to 2 TB.

    Connectivity and Security Features

    The laptop offers customizable port selections, starting with a default setup that includes a USB4 connector, USB-A 10 Gbps, USB-A 5 Gbps, HDMI 2.0 output, a docking connector, a 1 GbE Ethernet jack, and an audio combo jack. Optional ports are available, including a MicroSD card reader, SIM card slot, an additional USB4 port, a smart card reader, RF antenna pass-through for GPS, 2.5 GbE NIC, and a serial port. It also supports wireless connectivity through a Wi-Fi 7 + BT 5.4 card.

    Security features are comprehensive, starting with TPM 2.0, a Kensington lock, and a 5 MP webcam that supports Windows Hello. Users may opt for additional security measures like a fingerprint reader, HF RFID reader, and Absolute Persistence, along with the ability to activate AMD’s PRO functionalities.

    B360 Plus Model Specifications

    In contrast to the AMD variant, the B360 Plus is more compact, featuring a 13.3-inch display. This screen is also a TFT with FHD resolution but shines brighter at 1,400 nits. The processor options are more diverse, integrating up to an Arc 140V GPU and a 48 TOPS NPU. RAM capacity can reach up to 32 GB on-package LPDDR5X, and SSD storage mirrors the 2 TB capacity of the S510AD.

    Most ports and functionalities are alike to those in the AMD model, with the exception of optional Thunderbolt 4 and VGA video output. Although smaller, this model’s weight is nearly the same as the AMD variant at 2.32 kg (5.11 lbs), with a slightly slimmer profile of 34.99 mm (1.37 inches). The battery setup is unique, featuring two 4060 mAh packs.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Sleek Mini PC with Custom Display and Intel Twin Lake Processor Upgrade

    Sleek Mini PC with Custom Display and Intel Twin Lake Processor Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Firebat S1 mini PC has been upgraded to the Intel N150 chip, available on AliExpress.
    2. The performance improvement of the N150 over the N100 is minimal, with both processors being similar in speed and capabilities.
    3. The mini PC features Intel UHD integrated graphics, suitable for basic tasks like old-school gaming and video playback.
    4. It includes 16 GB of DDR4 RAM and 512 GB of SSD storage, with options for additional storage via M.2 slots.
    5. The current price for the Firebat S1 mini PC on AliExpress is $202.92, while a similar option, the Beelink S13, is priced at $179.


    The Firebat S1 mini PC has been on the market for some time, showcasing a simple Intel N100 processor along with a unique design that sets it apart from other budget systems. Recently, this mini PC received an upgrade with the Intel N150 chip and is now up for grabs on AliExpress.

    Performance Upgrade

    Sadly, the Intel N150 “Twin Lake” chip doesn’t offer a significant speed boost compared to the N100. Both processors are quite similar, featuring 4 cores and 4 threads. The N150 can reach a boost clock of 3.6 GHz, while the N100 caps at 3.4 GHz. With a thermal design power (TDP) of a mere 6 watts, both models are designed to operate with minimal noise and heat, needing little cooling. However, since its performance is comparable to a six-year-old dual-core Intel i3, the Firebat S1 mini PC is best suited for very light tasks.

    Features and Capabilities

    Even so, having a newer and slightly faster processor is always a plus, no matter how small the gain may be. As expected, there is no separate GPU, and the Intel UHD integrated graphics with 24 execution units are adequate only for old-school gaming and video playback. The Firebat S1 mini PC also comes with a customizable front display that can show useful details like temperatures, fan speeds, power consumption, and other data.

    Memory and Pricing

    For memory and storage, it includes 16 GB of DDR4 RAM and 512 GB of SSD space. There are two M.2 2280 slots available for additional storage options. The ports available include:

    The Firebat S1 mini PC with 16 GB of memory and 512 GB of storage is currently listed on the AliExpress EU store for $202.92. However, it’s worth noting that the N150 model isn’t available at the AliExpress US store at this time. US customers seeking something similar might consider the Beelink S13, which is currently priced at $179 on the same platform.

    Source:
    Link