Tag: Mini-PC

  • Thunderobot Unveils 16-Core Gaming Desktop to Compete with Intel

    Thunderobot Unveils 16-Core Gaming Desktop to Compete with Intel

    Key Takeaways

    1. Thunderobot launched new Mix G2 and Mix NUC mini-PCs featuring Intel and AMD processors, targeting competitors like Asus ROG NUC 2025 and Beelink SER9.
    2. The Hygon C86 processor, also known as Black Warrior Hunting Blade Pro, has 16 cores and 32 threads but lacks disclosed thermal design power (TDP).
    3. Hygon C86’s multi-core performance is claimed to be between Intel’s Core i7-13700 and i7-14700K, but its single-core performance is comparable to the older Core i7-12700.
    4. Hygon C86 scored 1,073 in single-core and 8,811 in multi-core tests on Geekbench 6, which are considered disappointing results.
    5. Thunderobot employs an all-in-one cooler with multiple fans for the Hygon C86, but details on pricing and availability are still unknown.


    Earlier this month, Thunderobot unveiled its new Mix G2 and Mix NUC mini-PCs, which utilize Intel and AMD processors, respectively. To put it in perspective, the Mix G2 competes with the Asus ROG NUC 2025, while the Mix NUC shares the same form factor and processor as the Beelink SER9, along with other similar mini-PCs (currently priced at $649 on Amazon).

    New Developments

    Now, Thunderobot has shifted its focus to the Hygon C86, an x86 processor produced in China, also known as the Black Warrior Hunting Blade Pro. This processor features 16 cores and 32 threads, although its thermal design power (TDP) is not disclosed. It is claimed to perform between Intel’s Core i7-13700 and Core i7-14700K in multi-core tasks. However, with a peak clock speed of 2.8 GHz, the Hygon C86 achieves single-core performance comparable to the Core i7-12700, scoring only 1,073 and 8,811 points in Geekbench 6’s single-core and multi-core tests, which is quite disappointing.

    Cooling and Design

    Despite these underwhelming performance figures, Thunderobot has opted to keep the Hygon C86 well-cooled with an all-in-one (AIO) cooler, which includes a radiator mounted on top and three other sizable fans. Unfortunately, specifics regarding pricing and availability have not been released yet. From the image below, it’s clear that Thunderobot’s gaming desktop has ample room for a full-length graphics card, along with various front-mounted input/output options.

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  • Minisforum NAB3R Mini-PC: Intel Processor & 64GB RAM Option

    Minisforum NAB3R Mini-PC: Intel Processor & 64GB RAM Option

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minisforum NAB3R is a budget-friendly mini-PC introduced in Japan, featuring a new front USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port.
    2. It is equipped with an Alder Lake-P Core i3-1220P processor, which includes 2 P-cores and 8 E-cores, providing a total of 12 threads.
    3. The NAB3R supports storage and RAM upgrades, with a maximum RAM capacity of 64 GB at DDR4-3200 speeds.
    4. It features an active cooling system for better performance, including a turbo fan and cooling for its M.2 SSD.
    5. The price of the NAB3R in Japan is approximately JPY 74,000 (around $475), and it’s uncertain if it will be released globally.


    Minisforum has introduced a budget-friendly mini-PC in Japan. At first glance, the NAB3R looks a lot like other models in the NAB series, including the NAB6 and NAB9 Plus (currently priced at $495 on Amazon). One noticeable change in the NAB3R is the addition of a front USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, which is perfectly placed between its DMIC and two USB 3.2 Type-A ports located on the front.

    Processor Details

    In a significant change, Minisforum has replaced the Alder Lake-H processors used in the NAB6 and NAB9 with an Alder Lake-P option. The NAB3R comes equipped with the Core i3-1220P, featuring 2 P-cores operating at 4.4 GHz and 8 E-cores capped at 3.3 GHz. This setup provides a total of 12 threads, along with a modest integrated GPU for graphics tasks.

    Upgrade Options

    Furthermore, the NAB3R allows for storage and RAM upgrades, though the RAM is limited to a maximum of 64 GB with DDR4-3200 speeds. To enhance performance, Minisforum has incorporated an active cooling system for its M.2 2280 SSD and a sizable turbo fan located on the bottom of the device. As depicted in the image below, the NAB3R also boasts a variety of ports on its back.

    At this point, it remains uncertain if the company intends to launch the mini-PC worldwide. Normally, Minisforum mini-PCs do get international releases over time, similar to the MS-R1 and the upcoming MS-02 Ultra. For reference, the price of the Minisforum NAB3R in Japan is approximately JPY 74,000 for the configuration with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, which translates to around ~$475 based on current currency rates.

     

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  • Beelink SER9 Max Mini-PC Launches with 10 Gbps LAN and USB4

    Beelink SER9 Max Mini-PC Launches with 10 Gbps LAN and USB4

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beelink has launched the SER9 Max, an upgrade to its SER9 series, featuring AMD’s Ryzen 7 H 255 APU with 8 Zen 4 CPU cores and Radeon 780M iGPU.
    2. The SER9 Max supports expandable storage via M.2 2280 (PCIe 4.0 x4) slots and offers multiple ports including 10 Gbps LAN, DisplayPort 2.1, and a USB4 40 Gbps port.
    3. There is some inconsistency in RAM specifications, with mentions of both LPDDR5x 6,400 MT/s and DDR5 5,600 MT/s.
    4. The SER9 Max is priced at $699 with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, and is available for pre-order on Amazon for as low as $615 before taxes.
    5. A barebones version of the SER9 Max is offered in China at about $325, indicating potential for a more affordable global variant in the future.


    Beelink has once again revamped its SER9 series after releasing the SER9 and SER9 Pro (curr. $819 on Amazon) earlier this year. The latest addition is the SER9 Max, which comes in Frost Silver and Space Grey. It features AMD’s Ryzen 7 H 255 APU, which includes 8 Zen 4 CPU cores and a Radeon 780M iGPU running at 2,600 MHz.

    Storage and Ports

    Moreover, the SER9 Max allows for expandable storage through M.2 2280 (PCIe 4.0 x4) slots and is equipped with multiple ports on both the front and back. However, there’s some confusion as Beelink mentions that the SER9 Max has LPDDR5x 6,400 MT/s RAM in some cases and DDR5 5,600 MT/s RAM in others. Nonetheless, it boasts impressive features like 10 Gbps LAN, DisplayPort 2.1, and a USB4 40 Gbps port, all packed into a compact design measuring 135 x 135 x 44.7 mm and weighing 780 g.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, Beelink is selling the SER9 Max worldwide with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. As of now, you can buy the mini-PC for $699 from the company’s official website, but it’s available for pre-order on Amazon for as low as $615 before taxes in the US.

    In China, a barebones version is being offered at a 50% discount, bringing the price to about $325 at current exchange rates. This suggests that a more affordable SER9 Max variant may be released globally in the future. For further information, check out Beelink’s website.

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  • AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Machenike Mini GTR Mini-PC with USB4

    AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Machenike Mini GTR Mini-PC with USB4

    Key Takeaways

    1. Machenike has updated its Mini GTR mini-PC to feature AMD’s Strix Point architecture with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU.
    2. The Mini GTR includes a Radeon 890M integrated GPU, allowing it to run many AAA titles at 1080p on low to medium settings.
    3. Connectivity options include a USB4 port, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, six USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports, and two dedicated video outputs.
    4. The mini-PC is compact, measuring 128 x 128 x 43.1 mm and weighing about 650 g, with upgradeable RAM and storage options.
    5. The Mini GTR is available in China for CNY 6,999 (around $986), with global launch details to be announced later.


    Machenike has refreshed its Mini GTR mini-PC after recently launching the GTS featuring Intel’s Arrow Lake-H. Interestingly, the GTS is also expected to have a complete worldwide release, which we have discussed in another article. Regarding the Mini GTR, Machenike already offers it with Hawk Point APUs like the Ryzen 7 8745HS, currently priced at $649 on Amazon.

    Upgraded Architecture

    Now, the firm has transitioned its AMD-focused mini-PC to utilize AMD’s Strix Point architecture, aiming to compete more effectively with the GTS in terms of CPU and GPU capabilities. Specifically, the Mini GTR now comes with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, a 4 nm APU featuring 4 Zen 5 CPU cores and 8 Zen 5c CPU cores, along with the Radeon 890M integrated GPU. With a power supply of up to 70 W, the Radeon 890M should be able to handle many AAA titles at 1080p with settings on low to medium.

    Connectivity Features

    For those interested in an eGPU setup, a USB4 port is available. Additionally, this mini-PC is equipped with 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, six USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports, and two dedicated video outputs, all housed in a compact 0.74-litre case measuring 128 x 128 x 43.1 mm and weighing about 650 g. Furthermore, the Mini GTR includes upgradeable SO-DIMM RAM and M.2 2280 storage options. Currently, Machenike offers the Mini GTR with a Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 32 GB of RAM, and 1 TB of storage for CNY 6,999 (around $986) in China. Although precise launch details for other regions are not yet available, Machenike has listed the Mini GTR on its global website.

    JD.com via ITHome

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  • Machenike GTS Mini-PC Global Release with Arrow Lake CPUs, 128GB RAM

    Machenike GTS Mini-PC Global Release with Arrow Lake CPUs, 128GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Machenike introduced the GTS mini-PC featuring Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285H processor with a built-in display in China, and plans to release it globally.
    2. The GTS Mini also offers a version with the Core Ultra 5 225H processor, which is 15% slower than the Core Ultra 9 285H.
    3. The GTS will be available as a barebones system without RAM or storage, allowing customization up to 128 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage.
    4. The mini-PC includes multiple ports and has compact dimensions of 147 x 147 x 61 mm.
    5. Pricing information is currently unavailable, but the GTS is expected to be sold on Amazon and other retail platforms.


    Machenike introduced its GTS mini-PC in China earlier this month, featuring Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285H processor along with a built-in display. It now appears that the brand is gearing up to release the same mini-PC on a global scale. Additionally, the company has several SKUs listed on its website that were not part of the initial Chinese launch.

    Performance Details

    The GTS Mini comes equipped with the Core Ultra 5 225H, a 14-core Arrow Lake-H processor that lags about 15% behind the Core Ultra 9 285H in benchmark tests. However, the Core Ultra 9 285H is also expected to offer a version with 16 CPU cores and a more powerful Arc Graphics 140T integrated GPU.

    Configurations and Features

    Machenike plans to sell the GTS as a barebones system, which means it will not include RAM or storage, in order to compete with similar products like the GMKtec Evo-T1 (currently priced at $999 on Amazon), which we reviewed earlier this year. On the other hand, the mini-PC can be configured with up to 128 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage through SODIMM and M.2 2280 slots. As shown in the image below, the GTS is also equipped with numerous ports, despite its compact dimensions of 147 x 147 x 61 mm.

    Pricing and Availability

    At the moment, Machenike has not provided any pricing information for the GTS SKUs. Nonetheless, we anticipate that the company will start offering its Arrow Lake-H powered mini-PC through Amazon and other retail platforms, rather than just on its own website. For more details, please refer to the product listing for the Machenike GTS.

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  • GMKtec Launches M8 Mini-PC with USB4 eGPU Support Under $350

    GMKtec Launches M8 Mini-PC with USB4 eGPU Support Under $350

    Key Takeaways

    1. GMKtec has launched the M8 mini-PC worldwide, following its showcase in China.
    2. The M8 resembles the EVO-X1 in design but has lower CPU and GPU capabilities.
    3. Key features of the M8 include OCuLink, USB4, dual USB 3.2 Type-A ports, and a 3.5 mm audio jack.
    4. The M8 uses a Ryzen 5 Pro 6650H processor, which is less powerful than the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 in the EVO-X1.
    5. The starting price of the M8 is $329.99, with a $150 launch discount, and it offers options for 16 GB RAM and 512 GB or 1 TB storage.


    GMKtec has officially release its M8 mini-PC worldwide, after showcasing it in China earlier this month. At first glance, the GMKtec M8 looks just like the EVO-X1, which the company introduced at the end of last year (currently priced at $799.98 on Amazon). However, the M8 doesn’t match the CPU and GPU capabilities of the EVO-X1, and this difference is seen in the price of the M8 at launch.

    Similarities Noted

    Focusing on the similarities, the GMKtec M8 features front-facing OCuLink, USB4, and dual USB 3.2 Type-A ports. As depicted in the images above and below, these ports are accompanied by a 3.5 mm audio jack, a CMOS reset button, and a power button, which is situated right at the edge on the right side. Additionally, GMKtec has incorporated a floating metal frame as a reference to the existing EVO-X1 design.

    Performance Differences

    On the other hand, GMKtec has opted for the Ryzen 5 Pro 6650H for the M8, replacing the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 that is found in the EVO-X1. The 6 nm APU, with its six Zen 3+ cores and Radeon 660M iGPU, falls significantly short compared to the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 in CPU performance, and even more so in gaming scenarios. Consequently, the GMKtec M8 is priced starting at $329.99, featuring 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. This is said to be a $150 launch discount, but this model is only $30 less than a version with 1 TB of storage. For more information, visit GMKtec’s official website.

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  • Machenike GTS Mini PC: Core Ultra 9, 64GB RAM, Foldable Display

    Machenike GTS Mini PC: Core Ultra 9, 64GB RAM, Foldable Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique 2.33-inch display on top for real-time system metrics.
    2. Customizable RGB LED strip and display information via Machenike M-Control software.
    3. Powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor with six performance cores and ten efficiency cores.
    4. Supports up to 128GB of RAM and two M.2 SSDs, with various connectivity options.
    5. Priced at approximately $1,165 in China with specifications including 64GB RAM and a 1 TB SSD.


    The Machenike GTS mini PC features a predominantly classic design with one unique aspect: a 2.33-inch display positioned on the top. This screen is attached via a hinge, designed to tilt upwards for improved visibility. It provides real-time updates on several metrics, such as the current power limit of the processor, the load on the CPU and GPU, and the overall temperature of the system.

    Customizable Features

    Below the hinge lies an RGB LED strip that users can modify using the Machenike M-Control software, allowing for changes in both color and lighting style. Moreover, the display’s information is adjustable to meet user preferences. This mini PC is packed with power, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, which comes with six performance cores, boost speeds reaching 5.4 GHz, along with a total of ten efficiency cores.

    Performance and Connectivity

    The built-in Intel Arc Graphics 140T offers sufficient power for less intense gaming experiences. Additionally, Machenike provides a dedicated AI accelerator, delivering a performance rating of 99 TOPS. The mini PC can accommodate up to 128GB of RAM and two M.2 SSDs. It also boasts a variety of ports, which include three USB-C ports (two supporting USB 4 and 40 Gbps), four USB-A ports (5 Gbps), two 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and an AUX connection.

    The Machenike GTS mini PC is currently listed for sale in China on JD.com for about $1,165. At this price point, purchasers receive an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, 64GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. Information regarding its global release is still unclear, but many of Machenike’s mini PCs are available in other regions, including Europe.

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  • Firebat F1 P Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7 H 255, 64GB DDR5 Support

    Firebat F1 P Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7 H 255, 64GB DDR5 Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Processor: The Firebat F1 P is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 APU with eight cores and integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics.
    2. High-Performance Memory and Storage: It comes with 16GB of DDR5 RAM (upgradable to 64GB) and a 512GB SSD, with an extra M.2 SSD slot for storage upgrades.
    3. Multiple Display Support: Users can connect up to three monitors using HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB 4, supporting 4K resolution at 60Hz.
    4. Comprehensive Connectivity: The device features various ports, including USB 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2, a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, and WiFi 6 with Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connections.
    5. Affordable Pricing: The Firebat F1 P is priced around €500 and is available on AliExpress with quick shipping options for customers in the EU.


    You may need to take a closer look because the Firebat F1 P is indeed powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 H 255. This model number might trigger memories for tech lovers, as it bears resemblance to some Intel chips. This APU is not something you see often in the mini PC world. Regardless, it boasts eight cores and an AMD Radeon 780M integrated graphics.

    Impressive Specifications

    The device comes pre-installed with 16GB of DDR5 RAM that runs at a speed of 5,600MHz, and it includes a 512GB SSD. It operates on Windows 11 Pro, can support up to 64GB of RAM and has an extra M.2 SSD slot that simplifies storage upgrades.

    Connectivity Options

    The other specifications are quite solid too. Users can connect three monitors at the same time using HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB 4. Each of these ports can handle up to 60Hz at 4K resolution when all three monitors are in use. Meanwhile, a single monitor can be connected at 144Hz and 4K. On the front, there’s a USB 4 port, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The back features a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port along with four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports for peripherals like a mouse, keyboard, or card reader. Wireless connections can be made using WiFi 6, and it also includes Bluetooth 5.2.

    Pricing and Availability

    The fresh Firebat F1 P is available for purchase on AliExpress for around €500, shipped from a warehouse in the EU, which means quick delivery times for customers in that region. However, it’s important to keep in mind that customers shouldn’t expect much in the way of support. Similar mini PCs are also easily found on Amazon.

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  • Orico OminiPro Mini PC Launches with Mac Pro Design and eGPU Support

    Orico OminiPro Mini PC Launches with Mac Pro Design and eGPU Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Orico has entered the PC market with its new mini PC model, the OminiPro, designed similarly to the Apple Mac Pro.
    2. The OminiPro features a Ryzen 7 8845HS APU and Radeon 780M GPU, allowing smooth gameplay for most AAA games at 1080p with medium or low settings.
    3. It includes two USB4 ports for eGPU compatibility, while offering a variety of other ports, although it lacks an OCuLink port.
    4. The mini PC boasts WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, supports up to 256 GB of DDR5 RAM, and has 8 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage.
    5. The barebone version is priced at approximately $435 in China, with no confirmed global availability yet.


    Orico has ventured into the PC industry, introducing one of its initial models called the OminiPro. As hinted before, this mini PC features a design that resembles a smaller version of the Apple Mac Pro. It showcases a similar lattice pattern on its front panel, along with a handle on the top and footstands on the bottom that echo Apple’s aesthetic.

    Power and Performance

    Inside the Orico OminiPro, you’ll find the Ryzen 7 8845HS, a robust Hawk Point APU paired with the Radeon 780M. This integrated GPU enables the mini PC to run most AAA games smoothly at 1080p or lower resolutions, with settings adjusted to medium or low quality.

    Connectivity Options

    The mini PC is equipped with two fully functional USB4 ports, allowing compatibility with eGPUs (such as the GMK AD-GP1, currently priced at $469.79 on Amazon). Although it would have been nice to see an OCuLink port included, the OminiPro still offers a range of other ports that enhance its usability:

    As the company mentions, the front panel design can conceal the front ports when they’re not in use. Moreover, Orico emphasizes that this mini PC has an efficient cooling system and is supplied with a 120 W GaN power adapter, promoting higher efficiency and reliable power delivery.

    Additional Features

    Other notable features of the Orico OminiPro include WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and the capacity for 256 GB of DDR5 RAM and 8 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage. The barebone version of this mini PC was launched in China for CNY 3,099, which is approximately $435. There hasn’t been any announcement regarding its global availability yet, but the brand does distribute its products beyond China.

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  • Orico Launches OminiPlus: A Mac Mini Clone with AMD CPU & eGPU Support

    Orico Launches OminiPlus: A Mac Mini Clone with AMD CPU & eGPU Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Orico has launched the OminiPlus mini PC, which resembles the Apple Mac mini and is compact at 0.8 liters.
    2. The OminiPlus is powered by a Ryzen 5 7535HS APU with Radeon 660M GPU, suitable for casual gaming and emulation.
    3. The mini PC features USB4 ports for connection to external GPUs, enhancing its gaming capabilities.
    4. It includes dual DDR5 SODIMM RAM slots and two M.2 PCIe slots for expandable storage.
    5. One configuration with 16 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage is priced at approximately $534, with more details on global availability expected soon.


    Orico has made its entry into the world of PCs with the introduction of its latest products, including the OminiPlus mini PC. This small computer features a design that closely resembles the Apple Mac mini, and despite its compact 0.8-liter size, it offers a good range of ports.

    Port Configuration

    Specifically, the Orico OminiPlus includes the following ports:

    Powered by the Ryzen 5 7535HS, a Zen 3+ APU from the Rembrandt R series, this mini PC comes equipped with the Radeon 660M integrated GPU. This setup is good enough for casual gaming and emulation. The inclusion of USB4 ports allows the Orico OminiPlus to connect with an external GPU, such as the GMKtec AD-GP1, which currently retails for $469.79 on Amazon, for enhanced gaming capabilities.

    Specifications and Cooling

    Orico hasn’t released a complete spec sheet yet, but the promotional images indicate that the device has dual DDR5 SODIMM RAM slots and two M.2 PCIe slots for adding storage drives. The pictures also display a well-designed cooling system, which should effectively maintain the processor’s temperature during intensive tasks.

    Pricing and Availability

    It remains uncertain how many different configurations Orico will provide for this mini PC. However, on the Chinese marketplace JD, there is one configuration available featuring 16 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage for CNY 3,799, which is approximately $534. The company is anticipated to provide additional details regarding global availability shortly.

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