Tag: Mini-PC

May 11, 2025

Aoostar GEM12+ Pro Mini-PC: OCuLink, Fingerprint Sensor, Display

Key Takeaways

1. The Aoostar GEM12+ Pro is available on Amazon as a barebones kit starting at $399.95 or a fully assembled system for $499.
2. The Plus version features a built-in screen and a fingerprint sensor for easy unlocking, along with important system information display.
3. It is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 8845HS processor with integrated Radeon 780M GPU, suitable for various applications.
4. The mini-PC offers extensive connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and dual Ethernet ports supporting Wi-Fi 6.
5. There is an option to attach an external graphics card via the OCuLink interface for enhanced graphics performance.

The Aoostar GEM12+ Pro is now listed on Amazon, available as either a barebones kit or a fully assembled system, featuring 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD. The starting price for the barebones option is $399.95, while the complete setup with added memory and storage is priced at $499.

Features of the Plus Version

The Plus variant of the Aoostar GEM12+ Pro includes a built-in screen along with a fingerprint sensor situated on the top. The display is capable of showing important information like system usage stats, and the fingerprint sensor provides a convenient way for users to unlock the computer without needing to type a password. With dimensions of 130 x 130 x 60 mm (approximately 5.1 x 5.1 x 2.4 inches), this compact PC is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 8845HS, which is potent enough to manage various applications, including those that require more power. The Ryzen chip comes with a Radeon 780M integrated GPU, and there is also an option to attach an external graphics card via the OCuLink interface.

Connectivity Options

The Aoostar GEM12+ Pro presents a comprehensive array of I/O ports, featuring two USB 3.2, two USB 2.0, and two USB4 ports. It also includes an HDMI 2.1 output and a DisplayPort for video connectivity. As for networking, the system supports Wi-Fi 6 and has dual Ethernet ports that can reach speeds up to 2.5 Gbit/s. To learn more, you can check out our review of the regular Aoostar GEM12, which is a comparable mini-PC that has the standard Ryzen 7 8845HS but does not come with a built-in screen.

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Tags: Mini-PC
May 6, 2025

MSI MS-C927 Mini PC: 96GB RAM & Intel Core Ultra CPUs

Key Takeaways

1. The MSI MS-C927 mini PC is designed for edge computing with a COM port for industrial equipment connectivity.
2. It can be configured with Intel Core Ultra processors and supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM at 5,600MHz.
3. The device can drive two 4K displays at 60Hz and includes two USB-A 3.2 ports and dual Ethernet ports (2.5G and 1G).
4. It features multiple M.2 slots for expansion, passive cooling for silent operation, and can handle temperature ranges from 14 to 140 °F.
5. The mini PC is built to withstand factory vibrations, but an official price and release date have not been announced.

We have previously discussed mini PCs that are well-suited for edge computing. While most of these gadgets target industrial environments, they can also be appealing to everyday users with specific needs. Unlike many current consumer mini PCs, devices like the latest MS-C927 come equipped with a COM port, allowing connections to particular industrial equipment. This feature enables the MSI MS-C927 to oversee such machines via a network.

Specifications and Performance

According to information from the data sheet, this model can be configured with either an Intel Core Ultra 7 165U or an Intel Core Ultra 5 135U processor. It supports two DDR5 RAM slots that can accommodate up to 96GB of memory, operating at speeds reaching 5,600MHz. Additionally, the MSI mini PC is capable of driving two 4K displays at 60Hz through DisplayPort, though it doesn’t include HDMI or USB Type-C ports. On its rear side, you will find two USB-A 3.2 ports for connecting various accessories or peripherals. Network connectivity is offered through two Ethernet ports, with speeds of 2.5 and 1Gbit/s.

Expansion and Cooling

Moreover, the full-size M.2-2880 slot uses four PCIe 4.0 lanes, while the two shorter M.2 2242 and 2230 slots provide only a single lane each. These slots can be utilized for installing a WiFi module, and the required antennas are already preinstalled in the MS-C927 mini PC. The device can be powered using either 12 or 24 volts. Notably, it operates passively cooled, ensuring it runs silently, and can function in temperature ranges from 14 to 140 °F. Importantly, this new mini PC is designed to withstand vibrations often found in factory settings. However, MSI has not disclosed an official price or release date at this point.

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Tags: Edge Computing, Mini-PC
May 4, 2025

Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support

Key Takeaways

1. Teclast N30 is a budget-friendly mini PC with an Intel N150 processor suitable for basic tasks like office work and web browsing.
2. It features 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, with an additional M.2 2280 slot for storage expansion and replaceable RAM.
3. The compact design (about 9 ounces and half a liter) allows for easy placement and VESA compatibility for monitor attachment.
4. Connectivity options include multiple USB ports, HDMI, and Ethernet, but lacks USB-C support.
5. The Teclast N30 is priced at $181 on AliExpress, but shipping to the U.S. is currently unavailable; an alternative option is the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus on Amazon.

Teclast offers a range of devices, including tablets available on Amazon, and compact PCs such as the newly released N30. This mini PC is equipped with an Intel N150 processor, which features four cores and is designed for budget-friendly use, though it doesn’t deliver high performance. It should be adequate for tasks like office work and web browsing; however, those interested in video editing or gaming should consider other options.

Specifications and Features

The N30 comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, providing ample storage. Additionally, it has a second M.2 2280 SSD slot for further expansion of its internal storage. The RAM can also be replaced, which might help if any issues arise. Weighing just about 9 ounces and housed in a compact case of half a liter, it’s easy to place on any workspace. Furthermore, it can be attached to the back of a monitor due to its VESA compatibility.

Connectivity Options

On its front, the device features two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, while another Type-A and a USB 2.0 port are located at the back. Even though USB-C is known for its versatility, the N30 still includes HDMI and Ethernet ports on its rear. Currently, the Teclast N30 is available on AliExpress for a budget-friendly price of $181, but unfortunately, shipping to the United States is not available at this moment.

Alternative Option

If you’re looking for something in the same price range, consider the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus, which is also listed on Amazon.

Source:
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Tags: Mini-PC
May 1, 2025

Kingdel PHX18: Compact Modular Mini-PC with AMD APUs Released

Key Takeaways

1. The Kingdel PHX18 mini-PC features a modular design that can operate with or without its bottom layer.
2. It includes two USB Type-C ports, one on the front and one for power at the back, and measures 100 x 100 x 67 mm.
3. Available in AMD Ryzen 5 6600U and Ryzen 7 7840U versions, with a 19% performance difference in CPU benchmarks.
4. Pricing starts at approximately $433 for the Ryzen 5 model with 16 GB of RAM and no SSD; Ryzen 7 models start at $493.
5. The PHX18 supports M.2 2242 and M.2 2280 slots but is limited to 16 GB of RAM.

Every so often, Kingdel unveils mini-PCs that piques our interest. A few years back, the company showcased models featuring six 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports. Now, they have come back with a modular design that can function with or without its bottom layer.

New Modular Design

Called the PHX18 or K3, this mini-PC elevates the concept of the latest Mac mini (currently priced at $564 on Amazon) connected to an expansion dock. From the images provided by Kingdel, it appears that the PHX18 incorporates two physical connections located at the bottom to introduce additional ports.

Specifications and Features

In terms of its base unit, it includes a single USB Type-C port on the front and another one for power at the back. Kingdel states that the PHX18 measures 100 x 100 x 67 mm, which we think likely includes both components. The mini-PC is available in AMD Ryzen 5 6600U and Ryzen 7 7840U versions, with an expected performance difference of about 19% in CPU benchmarks. However, there’s a more significant performance gap between their Radeon 660M and Radeon 780M integrated graphics.

Pricing Options

Currently, the PHX18 starts at roughly $433 on AliExpress for the Ryzen 5 6600U model, featuring 16 GB of RAM and no SSD. Kingdel does provide slots for M.2 2242 and M.2 2280. On the other hand, the Ryzen 7 7840U models are priced from at least $493, which is a 14% increase for a CPU that offers 19% more performance and over 30% better gaming capability. It’s worth noting that the Kingdel PHX18 can only be set up with 16 GB of RAM.

Source:
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Tags: Mini-PC
April 30, 2025

GMKtec Launches EVO-X2 with AMD Strix Halo and 128GB RAM

Key Takeaways

1. GMKtec’s mini-PC, the EVO-X2, powered by AMD’s Strix Halo, will be available on May 20 for $1,399.
2. The EVO-X2 features 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, with an option to double the RAM for an additional $400.
3. The device is equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, offering 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and a Radeon RX 8060S integrated GPU.
4. Connectivity options include four video outputs, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, five USB Type-A ports, Bluetooth 5.4, and Wi-Fi 7.
5. The EVO-X2 lacks OCuLink support for external graphics cards but provides dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots and eight SO-DIMM slots for RAM expansion.

GMKtec has begun offering its first mini-PC powered by AMD’s Strix Halo on Amazon. In recent months, various companies have expressed plans to launch desktops utilizing Strix Halo technology. For instance, the Framework Desktop was introduced in February, priced at $1,999, but won’t start shipping until the third quarter of 2025.

Release Date and Pricing

On the other hand, GMKtec has announced that the EVO-X2 will be available to consumers starting on May 20. The mini-PC is currently priced at $1,399, featuring 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, after GMKtec began accepting pre-orders on its online store earlier this month. If you need more memory, GMKtec offers an option with double the RAM for an additional $400.

Specifications Overview

To summarize, the EVO-X2 is equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, which includes 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and a Radeon RX 8060S integrated GPU boasting 40 Compute Units (CUs) that utilize the RDNA 3+ architecture. Based on our experience with the recent ROG Flow Z13, the Radeon RX 8060S performs similarly to Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 4070 laptop GPU in both synthetic and gaming tests.

Connectivity Features

Consequently, GMKtec has not provided OCuLink support for connecting an external graphics card. Instead, the EVO-X2 features four video outputs, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, and five USB Type-A ports. Additionally, the EVO-X2 includes Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7 capabilities, along with dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 slots and eight SO-DIMM slots for LPDDR5X-8000 RAM. For further technical specifications, please check GMKtec’s website.

Source:
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Tags: AMD Strix Halo, GMKtec EVO-X2, Mini-PC
April 30, 2025

Chuwi AuBox: New Mini PC with Powerful AMD Ryzen APU Launches

Key Takeaways

1. The Chuwi AuBox mini PC is now available for purchase at a price of $449 on AliExpress.
2. It is powered by the Ryzen 7 8745HS chip, featuring 8 Zen 4 cores and boost clocks up to 4.9 GHz.
3. The AuBox can run most AAA games at 1080p on low to medium settings, supported by the Radeon 780M GPU.
4. It includes a USB4 port for potential external GPU use, along with Bluetooth 5.1 and WiFi 6 connectivity.
5. The mini PC supports up to 32 GB of RAM and has two M.2 2280 slots for up to 2 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage.

Chuwi first announced the AuBox back in February 2025, but details about its price and when it would be available were not shared at that time. Now, shoppers can buy this mini PC, and it’s listed on AliExpress for $449. This price is a bit lower compared to other small PCs that offer similar specifications.

Performance Specifications

For anyone who didn’t catch our initial report, the AuBox is powered by the Ryzen 7 8745HS. This chip is quite similar to the 8845HS but lacks the NPU feature. It belongs to AMD’s Hawk Point series, boasting 8 Zen 4 cores and reaching boost clocks of up to 4.9 GHz.

Gaming Capabilities

Furthermore, the AuBox comes equipped with the Radeon 780M, allowing it to run most AAA games on low to medium settings at 1080p resolution. A noteworthy feature of this mini PC is its USB4 port, which gives users the option to enhance their gaming experience with an external GPU (like the GMKtec AD-GP1, currently priced at $469.99 on Amazon). However, having an OCuLink port would’ve made it even better suited for such configurations.

When talking about connectivity options, apart from the USB4 port, the AuBox includes the following:

Chuwi also asserts that the AuBox has a sophisticated cooling system that lets the mini PC operate at a TDP setting of up to 65 W. Additional features include Bluetooth 5.1, WiFi 6, dual-channel SO-DIMM slots that can accommodate up to 32 GB of RAM, and two M.2 2280 slots allowing for up to 2 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage. The only configuration available on AliExpress combines the AMD APU with 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD.

Source:
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Tags: Chuwi AuBox, Mini-PC, Ryzen 7 8745HS
April 12, 2025

Buy the Asus NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Series Now Available

Key Takeaways

1. Asus launched the NUC 15 Pro mini PC series at CES 2025, with prices starting at $699 for the entry-level model.
2. The entry-level model features an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor but does not include pre-installed storage or memory.
3. The NUC 15 Pro Slim supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and up to 8 TB of PCIe 5.0 storage.
4. A Tall variant is available for pre-order, allowing for additional accessory support compared to the Slim model.
5. Pro+ models are available with Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processors, and future budget-friendly options will feature Intel 200 series APUs to compete with AMD Ryzen AI 300 series mini PCs.

Asus has officially launched the NUC 15 Pro mini PC series during CES 2025, just after SimplyNUC unveiled its Cyber Canyon range. The new systems are now available for purchase, with the most budget-friendly model starting at $699.

Specifications and Pricing

This entry-level model is the barebone version of the NUC 15 Pro Slim, which comes equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor. Although the $699 version does not come with any pre-installed storage or memory, Asus has stated that it can support up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and can accommodate up to 8 TB of PCIe 5.0 storage.

Variants Available

In addition to the Slim version, there is a Tall variant of the NUC 15 Pro that is currently only available for pre-order on Adorama. The main difference between the Tall and Slim models is their support for accessories, with the Tall variant allowing for expansion modules.

Pro+ Models and Competitors

There are also Pro+ models that seem to only be available on Newegg, with the least expensive option being the barebone configuration of the NUC 15 Pro Plus featuring the Core Ultra 9 285H. Eventually, the standard mini PCs will offer more budget-friendly options that include non-Ultra Intel 200 series APUs.

When it comes to the options with Core Ultra 200 series APUs, they are competing against mini PCs powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 300 series. However, since many of the new AMD systems are using LPDDR5X RAM, there aren’t many options available that provide affordable barebone configurations.

Source:
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Tags: Asus NUC 15 Pro, Intel Core Ultra, Mini-PC
April 9, 2025

Affordable SZBox C0B Mini PC with Intel Twin Lake CPU Launches

Key Takeaways

1. The SZBox C0B mini PC is an affordable entry-level option for office work and entertainment, starting at $109.89 on AliExpress.
2. It is powered by the Intel N150, supports up to 32 GB of DDR4 RAM, and offers storage options of up to 2 TB.
3. The mini PC features a quiet cooling system and includes DisplayPort and HDMI ports for dual display outputs, supporting 4K resolution.
4. The design includes a compact metallic chassis available in silver, with multiple configurations and price points ranging from $109.89 to $221.34.
5. Connectivity options include WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2 for added convenience.

Chinese company SZBox has launched a new mini PC known as the C0B. This system is aimed at being an affordable entry-level option suitable for office work and entertainment. The starting price for the barebone model is quite reasonable, currently listed at $109.89 on AliExpress.

Specifications and Performance

Powered by the Intel N150, the C0B can support up to 32 GB of DDR4 RAM, operating in a single channel, and offers storage options of up to 2 TB. Although SZBox mentions the presence of a 2280 M.2 slot, they haven’t clarified which generation it is. Considering its price point and the Intel N150 processor, it is likely to be a PCIe 3.0 slot (you can find a 2 TB SanDisk SSD Plus for $109.99 on Amazon).

Cooling and Connectivity

SZBox emphasizes that the cooling system in the C0B allows it to run quietly even when under heavy loads. The mini PC is equipped with a commendable range of ports, including:

Thanks to the inclusion of DisplayPort and HDMI ports, users can enjoy dual display outputs, with SZBox claiming support for 4K resolution on both. For wireless connectivity, the C0B is equipped with WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2.

Design and Variants

In terms of design, the SZBox C0B features a metallic chassis that is compact enough to fit seamlessly into most work environments. The company displayed the mini PC in both silver and gunmetal colors, but it seems that only the silver option is currently available for purchase.

Apart from the barebone variant, there are several configurations of the C0B to choose from. The highest-end version, which includes 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, is priced at $221.34, while a mid-range version with 16 GB of memory and a 512 GB SSD can be purchased for $163.09.

Source:
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Tags: Intel N150, Mini-PC
April 9, 2025

Beelink SEi13 Pro Mini PC: i9-13900HK, 32GB RAM, AI Mics

Key Takeaways

1. Powerful Performance: The Beelink SEi13 Pro is equipped with an Intel Core i9-13900HK processor featuring 14 cores and 20 threads, reaching speeds up to 5.4GHz, outperforming the i9-12900HK by about 16%.

2. High-Quality Graphics and Memory: It supports Intel Iris Xe graphics for 4K resolution at 144Hz and comes with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, expandable up to 8TB.

3. Advanced Cooling and Audio: The custom MSC 2.0 cooling system keeps the device quiet (32 decibels) while built-in speakers and a 360-degree microphone array enhance sound quality and voice recognition.

4. Comprehensive Connectivity: Features include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, multiple USB ports, and display outputs, along with Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On support.

5. Compact and Stylish Design: Weighing only 780 grams and measuring 135 x 135 x 44.7mm, the SEi13 Pro is available in Frost Silver or Space Grey, combining performance with a sleek, lightweight design.

Beelink has unveiled the SEi13 Pro, a mini PC that shows you don’t need a large unit to achieve impressive performance. This compact desktop is now available worldwide and features Intel’s Core i9-13900HK along with some truly high-end additions — such as integrated speakers, an advanced microphone system, and a stylish all-metal finish that weighs less than a kilogram.

Beelink SEi13 Pro Specs

Inside, this device is powered by a 14-core, 20-thread processor that can reach speeds of up to 5.4GHz — the kind of power typically found in premium laptops. Built using Intel’s hybrid architecture, it smartly balances performance and efficiency cores, allowing it to manage everything from heavy multitasking to light background processes. Beelink claims it outperforms the older i9-12900HK by about 16%, which is quite remarkable considering its lightweight design.

Graphics and Memory Features

Graphics are managed by Intel Iris Xe, supporting up to three displays through HDMI, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C. You can enjoy stunning 4K resolution at 144Hz, making it ideal for media tasks or a smooth multi-monitor arrangement. Additionally, it comes with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM (6000MHz, dual-channel) and a speedy 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, with the capability to expand storage up to 8TB using two M.2 slots.

Cooling and Audio Innovations

Thermal management is taken care of by Beelink’s custom MSC 2.0 cooling system, which utilizes a vapor chamber, a quiet fan, and an SSD heatsink to maintain optimal temperatures. Even under heavy use, it reportedly operates at a whisper-quiet level of about 32 decibels, which is quieter than a typical refrigerator.

The most surprising feature? This mini PC includes its own built-in speaker and microphone system. It boasts dual speakers powered by a DSP chip and amplifier, promising much better sound quality than the standard tinny audio you usually find in mini PCs. Plus, it features a 360-degree microphone array equipped with an AI chip for noise cancellation and voice recognition — it can pick up your voice clearly from up to 5 meters away, making it ideal for hands-free calls or smart assistant configurations.

Connectivity Options and Design

You also get a complete set of connectivity options: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, numerous USB ports, display outputs, and even a 3.5mm headphone jack. It supports Wake-on-LAN and Auto Power On as well. Available in Frost Silver or Space Grey, the SEi13 Pro measures only 135 x 135 x 44.7mm and weighs 780 grams.

Pricing Details

The Beelink SEi13 Pro is priced at $539 and is now available in the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Japan through Beelink’s global store.

Tags: Beelink SEi13 Pro, Intel Core i9 13900HK, Mini-PC
April 7, 2025

Bmax B9 Plus Mini PC: 24GB RAM & 12-Core CPU Now Available

Key Takeaways

1. The B9 Plus mini PC is priced at €349 and available for preorder on Geekbuying, with direct shipping from Europe.
2. It features a compact design (5 x 4.4 x 2 inches) and has an effective cooling system for its Intel Core i5-1250P processor.
3. The mini PC includes 24GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD for storage.
4. Connectivity options include Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, USB Type-C, and multiple USB ports.
5. Warranty claims may be difficult, and currently, shipping to the US is not available.

The B9 Plus is a compact mini PC from Bmax that is now up for preorder. It’s priced at €349 on Geekbuying and ships directly from Europe, so there are no customs or extra fees involved. However, buyers should keep in mind that making warranty claims might prove challenging. Currently, shipping to the US isn’t available.

Compact Design

This mini PC has dimensions of approximately 5 x 4.4 x 2 inches, making it suitable for various setups without taking up much space. The company claims it features a sufficient cooling system that includes a fan and two heat pipes to maintain the Intel Core i5-1250P processor’s temperatures from 2022. While this processor may not be top-tier, it should perform adequately for everyday tasks such as Microsoft Office and photo editing. Additionally, it comes with 24GB of LPDDR5 RAM that runs at 4,400MHz, and a built-in NVMe PCIe SSD that offers 512GB of storage.

Connectivity Features

When it comes to connectivity, the Bmax B9 Plus includes Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting wireless devices like headsets. There are options for connecting monitors through HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and USB Type-C. It also provides two USB 3.2 and two USB 2.0 ports for various accessories or external storage. Lastly, Bmax chose a standard barrel plug connector for powering this new mini PC.

Source:
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Tags: Mini-PC