Tag: fanless mini PC

  • ASRock iBOX Fanless Mini PCs with Intel Panther Lake CPUs

    ASRock iBOX Fanless Mini PCs with Intel Panther Lake CPUs

    Key Takeaway

    – Two Panther Lake Core Ultra models (X7 385H and Core Ultra 5 325) powering a refreshed fanless iBOX with unchanged chassis.
    – High RAM/storage options: up to 128 GB DDR5-7200 on the faster model; NVMe M.2 2242 PCIe 4.0 x4 and M.2 2280 PCIe 5.0 slots for storage.
    – Rich I/O: front Thunderbolt 4 with DP 2.1, USB-A 10 Gbps, USB-C 20 Gbps (DP 1.4a), USB 2.0, optional legacy port; back includes dual HDMI 2.1 and dual 2.5 GbE, plus Wi-Fi card option via M.2 slot.

    ASRock’s iBOX Panther Lake Update

    ASRock is refreshing its iBOX fanless mini PC lineup with two models powered by Intel’s Panther Lake Core Ultra Series 300 processor. The case design is unchanged from the previous Core Ultra Series 200 models launched in early 2026 and features aluminium housing with heat dissipation fins on top and on the sides. It measures 20 x 17.6 x 5.36 cm (7.87 x 6.95 x 2.11 inches) and weighs 3 kg (6.6 lbs).

    Processor and Memory Options

    Processor options include the Core Ultra X7 385H model with 4P, 8E and 4 LPE cores, as well as a more affordable Core Ultra 5 325 with only 4P and 4LPE cores. The faster model supports up to 128 GB of DDR5-7200 RAM, while the slower one is limited to DDR5-6400. On the storage side, both versions support NVMe SSD via M.2 2242 PCIe 4.0 X4 plus M.2 2280 PCIe 5.0 slots.

    Ports and Connectivity

    Port selection is quite decked. The front panel features a Thunderbolt 4 connector with DP 2.1 output, 1x USB-A 3 10 Gbps, 1x USB-C 3 20 Gbps (DP 1.4a mode) and 2x USB 2.0, plus a combo audio jack (Realtek ALC256). Users can also choose a customizable older port like serial or VGA. Back panel comes with 2x additional USB-A 3 10 Gbps ports, 2x HDMI 2.1 video outs and 2x 2.5 Gbps NICs. Wireless connectivity is not offered by default, but users can add a Wi-Fi card on the M.2 2230 PCIe x1 expression slot.

    Pricing and Availability

    Pricing and availability info is only available through direct inquiry with ASRock.


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  • MSI Launches 0.55-Liter Mini PC Series with Entry-Level Intel Processors

    MSI Launches 0.55-Liter Mini PC Series with Entry-Level Intel Processors

    Key Takeaway

    1. MSI’s Cubi NUC TWG series features compact, business-oriented mini PCs with both fanless and cooled options.
    2. Powered by entry-level Intel Twin Lake N250 or N150 processors suitable for day-to-day tasks.
    3. The systems include one DDR5 SO-DIMM slot, one M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 3 slot, and support WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
    4. Both models offer triple-display output and come in a small 0.55-liter chassis, with two color options.
    5. Pricing and availability details are yet to be announced.

    Introduction to the New MSI Cubi NUC TWG Series

    MSI has rolled out afresh line of tiny PCs branded as the Cubi NUC TWG series that caters mainly to business users. This new range is noted for its sleek, professional designs and compact size. The lineup so far includes two distinct models, one of which, labeled TWG S, is particularly unique due to its fanless build, aiming for silent operation.

    Design and Hardware Overview

    The standard model of the TWG series deploys a traditional fan cooler, which helps manage heat in more demanding conditions. Meanwhile, the TWG S offers a fanless experience, making it ideal for quiet work environments. Both machines operate with Intel’s N250 or N150 processors, derived from the Twin Lake generation—these are basic, entry-level chips perfect for simple, everyday computing tasks instead of intensive workloads.

    Specifications and Expandability

    Although MSI has not detailed all available configurations, it has confirmed that each model includes one DDR5 SO-DIMM slot and an M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen 3 slot. A 1TB Patriot P300 SSD is suggested as typical storage, which currently costs around $156.99. The ports included on both models are sufficient for most office needs, featuring typical connections that support multiple peripherals and displays.

    Connectivity and Form Factor

    One of the standout features of these mini PCs is their small chassis, with a volume of just 0.55 liters, making them perfect for tight desk spaces. They come in two different colors, adding a touch of customization. They also support WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and capability for triple-display outputs, which are quite good for professional users needing multiple screens for multitasking.

    Market Position and Availability

    MSI hasn’t yet announced when these small business computers will be available for purchase nor their pricing. Nevertheless, the market already has some similar compact PCs like the Asus NUC 14 Essential, which can be used as reference points for what to expect in terms of performance and cost. These compact machines are typically priced in a range that makes them accessible for most small business budgets.


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  • Asus Fanless Rugged Mini PC with 12-Core CPUs and 4 LAN Ports

    Asus Fanless Rugged Mini PC with 12-Core CPUs and 4 LAN Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched the PE1000U fanless mini PC designed for industrial edge computing, featuring a durable design and MIL-STD810H certification.
    2. Buyers can choose between Intel Core Ultra 7 265U and Core Ultra 5 235U processors, with the 265U offering 12% better performance in multi-core tests.
    3. The mini PC operates without a fan, using passive cooling for its 15W processors, making it suitable for light to moderate tasks.
    4. It includes various connectivity options, expansion capabilities, and supports up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory, all within a compact size of 63 x 110 x 160 mm.
    5. Pricing and availability are unclear, and potential buyers for industrial use will likely need to contact Asus directly for quotes.

    Asus has launched a new fanless mini PC featuring a sturdy design. Targeted mainly at the industrial edge computing market, the PE1000U mini PC runs on impressive Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and comes with MIL-STD810H certification, meaning it can endure significant wear and tear.

    CPU Choices

    In terms of processor options, buyers can select between the Core Ultra 7 265U and the Core Ultra 5 235U models. Even though both are labeled with the 200 series, the more powerful 12-core Core Ultra 7 265U is part of the Arrow Lake-U generation, while the more affordable 12-core Core Ultra 5 235U belongs to the Meteor Lake-U series.

    Performance Insights

    When it comes to performance, the 265U has a decent, although not overwhelming, 12% advantage over the 235U in multi-core synthetic tests, and it is approximately as effective as the Apple M2 SoC. For light to moderate tasks, either chip should perform adequately. As previously stated, the mini PC operates entirely without a fan and relies on passive cooling to maintain the 15W processors.

    Connectivity Features

    Input/output options are essential for any industrial-focused system, and the Asus PE1000U mini PC comes equipped with several ports:

    Additionally, it offers expansion possibilities like M.2 E and B-keys for WiFi and cellular, an M.2 2280 M-key for PCIe Gen 4 solid-state drives, a 2.5-inch drive bay, and integrated dual CAN bus. Memory can be upgraded with dual SODIMMs, allowing for up to 64 GB of DDR5-6400. Compact in size at 63 x 110 x 160 mm, the PE1000U mini PC weighs around 1 kg or 2.2 lbs.

    Pricing and Availability

    Details regarding pricing and availability remain uncertain at this moment. Typically, for industrial mini PCs, potential customers will likely need to reach out to Asus sales directly to obtain a quote, which may vary based on the quantity ordered. For everyday users, the significantly more robust Apple Mac mini (currently priced at $549 on Amazon) presents an excellent alternative.

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