Mini PC makers have released several compact devices that utilize Zen 4 AMD APUs. One notable example is the Minisforum EM780, which comes equipped with the Ryzen 7 7840U and boasts an impressively small 1/4-liter chassis. While it’s not technically classified as a mini PC, the forthcoming Next SBC is another strong player in this area.
Early Insights on Next SBC
ETA Prime has gotten his hands on an early version of the SBC, and as demonstrated in the YouTube video, this single-board computer sports the Ryzen 7 7840HS, a top-tier APU from the Phoenix Point series. Originally, it was supposed to feature the 8840U, but it seems the company opted for the slightly older chip to save on costs.
Performance Capabilities
Nonetheless, the Ryzen 7 7840HS proves to be a superior option, as it can be configured with a higher TDP while still housing the same Radeon 780M you’d find in the Hawk Point series. This RDNA 3 iGPU makes the Next SBC quite adept at gaming, which ETA Prime has effectively showcased.
All games were evaluated on the SBC using performance mode and set at 54W TDP. At 1080p resolution, the board managed to run Red Dead Redemption at a Medium preset with frame rates fluctuating between 80 FPS and 100 FPS. Similarly, Doom Eternal performed decently under the same conditions, averaging around 79 FPS.
Gaming Challenges
However, the AMD single-board computer faced difficulties with Starfield, a title known for its high demands on iGPUs, and the Radeon 780M was no different. During testing, the board played the game at a 900p resolution using Low preset, AMD FSR, and frame generation, achieving approximately 70 FPS.
ETA Prime also explored other titles like Overwatch 2, Fallout 4, and Spider-Man Remastered. The AMD Zen 4 board was able to run these games at playable frame rates (Z1 Extreme Asus ROG Ally curr. $499.99 on Best Buy). For further details on the Next SBC’s performance in various benchmarks, check out the video linked below.
