Tag: mini PCs

  • Zotac Unveils 2.65L Mini PCs with AMD Strix Halo APUs and 128GB RAM

    Zotac Unveils 2.65L Mini PCs with AMD Strix Halo APUs and 128GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zotac has launched the Magnus EAMAX mini PC series, featuring AMD’s Strix Halo APUs for improved CPU performance.
    2. The top model, Magnus EAMAX395C, includes a Ryzen AI MAX+ 395, 128 GB LPDDR5X-8000 memory, and integrated Radeon RX 8060S GPU for strong gaming and AI capabilities.
    3. The mini PCs have a compact 2.65-liter chassis and include multiple connectivity options like USB4, HDMI 2.1, and support for Wi-Fi 7.
    4. The Magnus EAMAX series will be available as either a barebones kit or a fully assembled system with a 1 TB NVMe SSD and Windows 11, though pricing is not yet revealed.
    5. An alternative option is the GMKtec EVO-X2, priced at $2,299.99, which also features the Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 APU.

    Zotac has broadened its Zbox series with the introduction of the Magnus EAMAX collection of mini PCs. Similar to other recent mini PCs, the new series is powered by AMD’s Strix Halo APUs, which provide significantly better CPU performance compared to the Intel Core Ultra processors found in the Magnus One and Magnus EN. The Magnus EAMAX series will come in three different models, with configurations reaching up to the Ryzen AI MAX+ 395.

    Top Model Specs

    At the top of the list is the Magnus EAMAX395C, which features the Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 and includes a whopping 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory. This model boasts 16 cores and 32 threads, delivering up to 126 TOPS of AI performance, along with the integrated Radeon RX 8060S GPU. This setup should provide enough power for smooth 1080p gaming and demanding AI tasks. Based on our testing of the Radeon RX 8060S iGPU in the Asus ROG Flow Z13, its performance is quite comparable to that of the GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU, meaning users should have no issues playing most games at 1080p. Other models in the lineup include the EAMAX390C featuring the Ryzen AI MAX 390 and the EAMAX385C with the Ryzen AI MAX 385.

    Compact Design Features

    The Magnus EAMAX mini PCs maintain the same small 2.65-liter chassis as the Magnus EN. The dimensions are 210 × 203 × 62.2 mm and it comes equipped with three M.2 slots (PCIe 4.0×4), dual 2.5 GbE Ethernet ports, and supports Wi-Fi 7. For connectivity options, all models offer one USB4 40 Gbps port, five USB-A 3.2 ports, two DisplayPort 1.4 outputs, two HDMI 2.1 ports, and a headphone/microphone combo jack.

    Zotac plans to provide the Magnus EAMAX series either as a barebones kit or as a fully assembled system with a 1 TB NVMe SSD and Windows 11 preinstalled. However, pricing and availability have yet to be disclosed.

    Alternatives

    For those interested, you can also check out the GMKtec EVO-X2, which is priced at $2,299.99 on Amazon and features a similar Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU.

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  • Sapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUs

    Sapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sapphire is expanding into the compact system market with its new Edge AI range of mini PCs, featuring updated specifications and an elegant design.
    2. The mini PCs have a stylish chassis with dimensions of 117 x 111 x 30 mm, and include a magnetic top cover for easy access to RAM and SSD.
    3. Three performance variants are available, each equipped with a 50 TOPS dedicated NPU for AI tasks, showing significant performance advantages over Intel’s processors in benchmarks.
    4. The mini PCs come in barebone configurations, allowing users to install up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSDs, with various connectivity options including USB4 and HDMI 2.1.
    5. No pricing or availability details are currently provided on the product page.

    Sapphire has made a name for itself with its top-notch GPU cards, backed by over 20 years in the industry. Back in March, the company hinted at some tech specifications for a new Edge AI range of mini PCs, indicating its plans to venture into the compact system market. Recently, Sapphire refreshed its website with a product page for the Edge AI lineup, showcasing the design of the case and a variety of new specifications.

    Elegant Design and Dimensions

    The newest images of the products show a stylish chassis with black panels and golden highlights. The dimensions are 117 x 111 x 30 mm. To make it simpler to access the RAM and SSD, the case is equipped with a magnetic top cover. Sapphire has also ensured there’s ample space at the bottom for airflow, along with numerous hot air exhausts on three sides, which helps maintain optimal cooling.

    Performance Variants

    There are three versions available, each featuring a 50 TOPS dedicated NPU for handling AI tasks:

    Sapphire’s internal comparisons of AMD APUs against Intel’s Lunar Lake models found in Asus’s Zenbook S16 / S14 laptops show a significant advantage for Team Red’s processors. In the Cinebench R24 benchmark, the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 reportedly outperforms the Core Ultra 9 288V by 90%, while the Ryzen AI 7 350 is as much as 54% faster than the Core Ultra 7 258V in Cinebench, Handbrake, and Blender. The difference is smaller for the Ryzen AI 5 340, which is only about 16% quicker than an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V in tests such as Handbrake, Puget Photoshop, and Blender Classroom.

    Expandable Options and Connectivity

    All three versions come in barebone configurations without RAM and SSD storage. Users can install up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM through two SO-DIMM slots and there is compatibility for two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots.

    The port options include 2x USB4 (with PD 3.0), 3x USB-A 10 Gbps, 1x USB 2.0, 2x HDMI 2.1 video outputs, an audio jack, and a 2.5 GbE jack. Each model is supplied with a 120 W external power supply. For wireless connectivity, a Wi-Fi 6E + BT 5.2 card is included.

    There is currently no information on pricing or availability listed on the product page.

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    Sapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUsSapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUsSapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUsSapphire Launches Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen AI 300 APUs

     

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  • New U.S. Tariff Imposes $80-$200 Duties on Mini PCs

    New U.S. Tariff Imposes $80-$200 Duties on Mini PCs

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new executive order requires complete customs processing for all tech imports valued under $800, imposing a flat duty between $80 and $200.
    2. The de minimis exemption has been eliminated, affecting budget-friendly mini PCs and single-board computers (SBCs).
    3. The change will significantly increase costs for hobbyists and developers who rely on affordable components from overseas.
    4. Many low-cost tech products may become unavailable in the U.S., as suppliers may raise prices or stop shipping due to compliance costs.
    5. Buyers should act quickly, as the new rules take effect on August 29, with August 28 being an unofficial deadline for overseas purchases.

    A recent executive order from the U.S. has once again shaken the global tech hardware market, with budget-friendly mini PCs and single-board computers (SBCs) feeling the initial effects. This policy change means that all imports valued under $800 will now undergo complete customs processing, which includes a flat duty ranging from $80 to $200, based on where the product comes from.

    Impact on Compact Computing

    If you’re into compact computing—whether you’re creating a low-power home server, constructing an emulation device, or experimenting with alternatives to Raspberry Pi—this new tariff could pose a significant challenge. This new rule is a result of a surprise executive order issued on July 30, which eliminates the U.S. de minimis exemption that previously allowed low-value tech imports to skip over duties and complex customs paperwork. Up until now, buyers could easily order a $129 Beelink mini PC or a $70 Orange Pi kit from abroad, requiring only a shipping label. However, beginning on August 29, these same deliveries will be treated as if they were high-end enterprise hardware.

    New Requirements for Imports

    Every item that meets the criteria will necessitate:

    This change will create issues in the hobbyist and developer communities, where projects that are sensitive to costs often depend on affordable yet powerful components sourced from places like Shenzhen or Hong Kong. A $110 SBC that used to ship without duties may now see a price hike of over 80% due to tariffs and processing fees. Furthermore, many of these boards and mini PCs aren’t available in the U.S., leaving consumers with no other options. Websites like AliExpress, Geekbuying, and Banggood might either pass on compliance costs to buyers or stop shipping these items altogether.

    Act Quickly Before the Deadline

    For the moment, if you’re thinking about purchasing a mini PC or SBC from overseas, it’s wise to act quickly—August 28 is your unofficial deadline.

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  • Topton Launches AMD Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 Mini PC Starting at $360

    Topton Launches AMD Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 Mini PC Starting at $360

    Key Takeaways

    1. Topton’s new mini PCs will feature AMD’s Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 APUs alongside non-PRO variants like AI 7 350, AI 9 365, and AI 9 HX 370.
    2. The AI 7 350 has 4 Zen 5 cores and 4 Zen 5c cores with a Radeon 860M GPU, while the AI 7 PRO 360 has 3 Zen 5 cores and 5 Zen 5c cores with a Radeon 880M GPU.
    3. Starting prices are $362 for the AI 7 PRO 360 and $320 for the AI 7 350, with entry-level configurations likely including 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB SSDs.
    4. Higher-end models AI 9 365 and AI 9 HX 370 will start at around $530 and $585, respectively, with similar design and port arrangements to earlier models.
    5. The new mini PCs will be available on the Taobao platform, which offers global shipping, but account creation may be difficult for users in Western countries.

    Chinese OEM Topton made an announcement yesterday regarding their new line of mini PCs that will use AMD’s Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 APUs. These will be added to the current TOPC TR9 series, which will also feature non-PRO APU choices such as the AI 7 350, AI 9 365, and AI 9 HX 370.

    New Mini PC Features

    Typically, AMD’s PRO APUs are not included in budget-friendly mini PC configurations, but Topton has found a way to include the AI 7 PRO 360 alongside the other non-PRO variants. The AI 7 350 processor includes 4 Zen 5 cores and 4 Zen 5c cores, providing a total of 16 threads with a Radeon 860M GPU. In contrast, the AI 7 PRO 360 has a configuration of 3 Zen 5 cores and 5 Zen 5c cores, along with a more powerful Radeon 880M GPU. The starting price for the PRO mini PC is $362, while the AI 7 350 begins at $320. It is assumed that the entry-level specifications include 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB SSDs, with upgraded memory and storage options likely exceeding $450, which still offers good value.

    Higher-end Models

    Moving up the line, the AI 9 365 and AI 9 HX 370 models, both with 10 cores, will start at around $530 and $585, respectively. Topton has not disclosed the port configurations yet, but judging from the design shown in the pricing announcement, it appears that these new models will maintain a similar look and port arrangement to the earlier Ryzen 7000/8000 series. Expect to find 2 USB-A 10 Gbps ports, an audio jack, and USB4 on the front, while the back is anticipated to have 2 USB-A 5 Gbps ports, dual HDMI video outputs, dual Gb LAN jacks, and Wi-Fi 6E.

    Availability

    All of these upcoming models are expected to be available on the Taobao online shopping platform, which does offer global shipping options. However, creating an account there can be challenging for those in Western countries.

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    Topton Launches AMD Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 Mini PC Starting at $360
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  • New Shuttle XPC Nano Mini PCs: Up to 96GB RAM & Core Ultra 9

    New Shuttle XPC Nano Mini PCs: Up to 96GB RAM & Core Ultra 9

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shuttle has launched two mini PCs, the NT10H9 with Intel Core Ultra 9 185H and the NT10H5 with Intel Core Ultra 5 125H.
    2. The mini PCs are compact, measuring 5.2 x 5.6 x 2.2 inches, and can be mounted using VESA mounts.
    3. They support a single M.2 2280 SSD via PCIe 4.0 lanes and can accommodate up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM with clock speeds up to 5,600MHz.
    4. Connectivity includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, two USB 4 ports, five USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, one USB 2.0 port, and two Ethernet ports with up to 2.5 Gbit/s bandwidth.
    5. The mini PCs do not come with a WiFi module but allow for later installation if needed.

    Shuttle has launched a pair of new mini PCs, though essentially, it’s one model available in two configurations. To start with, the NT10H9 features an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, while the NT10H5 is equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 5 125H. Both devices are notably compact, measuring only 5.2 x 5.6 x 2.2 inches. The manufacturer states that these mini PCs can operate at ambient temperatures ranging from 32 °F to 104 °F and they are compatible with VESA mounts, allowing for easy attachment to the back of a monitor, for instance.

    Specifications

    Moreover, the new Shuttle mini PCs are designed to support a single M.2 2280 SSD, which connects through four PCIe 4.0 lanes. Unfortunately, SATA SSDs aren’t supported, but users have the option to install two DDR5 RAM modules that can reach clock speeds of 5,600MHz and a maximum capacity of 96GB. For connecting displays, there are two HDMI 2.0 ports and two USB 4 ports, which also support DisplayPort 1.4. The two USB Type-C ports provide additional connectivity for external storage devices or docking stations, among other peripherals.

    Connectivity Options

    In addition, there are five USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports plus one USB 2.0 port available. For network connectivity, users can utilize two Ethernet ports that offer a bandwidth of up to 2.5 Gbit/s. Lastly, it’s worth noting that these mini PCs do not include a WiFi module out of the box, but it can be added later if needed.

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    New Shuttle XPC Nano Mini PCs: Up to 96GB RAM & Core Ultra 9

     

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  • Asus NUC 15 Pro: Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra 7 and 96GB RAM

    Asus NUC 15 Pro: Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra 7 and 96GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus is expanding its mini PC range with the new NUC 15 Pro, but pricing and availability details are not yet released.
    2. The NUC 15 Pro features powerful specifications, including Arrow Lake-H and Raptor Lake-U/H CPUs, with a maximum of 96 GB DDR5-6400 memory.
    3. Storage options include support for up to 4 TB SSD with multiple M.2 slots, but the system lacks discrete graphics.
    4. Connectivity is robust, offering various ports, including dual HDMI 2.0, Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, USB-C, and 2.5G ethernet, along with Bluetooth 5.4 and WiFi 7.
    5. The NUC 15 Pro is available in both tall and slim designs, but its value will depend on the final pricing once announced.

    Mini PCs have become really popular in recent years. Asus is clearly interested in this market, as shown by their growing range of NUC mini PCs. Recently, they announced the NUC 15 Pro, but they haven’t shared any information about pricing or when it will be available yet.

    Powerful Specifications

    The new Asus NUC 15 Pro lineup runs on Arrow Lake-H and Raptor Lake-U/H CPUs. The most powerful option is the Core Ultra 7 255H CPU, which can be combined with up to 96 GB of DDR5-6400 memory. On the flip side, the more basic models with Core 3, 5, and 7 come with slightly slower DDR5-5600 memory. For those needing storage, the NUC 15 Pro offers an M.2 2280 and an M.2 2242 slot, supporting up to 4 TB of SSD storage. Like its older sibling, the NUC 14 Pro (currently priced at $909 on Amazon), this system does not feature discrete graphics, but the integrated Arc 140T iGPU in the high-end model should handle light tasks quite well.

    Connectivity Options

    The selection of ports is quite good, featuring dual HDMI 2.0, dual Thunderbolt 4, three USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2, USB 2.0, audio jacks, and a 2.5G ethernet port. For wireless needs, it includes Bluetooth 5.4 and WiFi 7. The Asus NUC 15 Pro mini PC comes in both tall and slim designs, although there don’t appear to be any technical differences between them. Overall, since pricing is still unknown, it’s hard to say how much value the NUC 15 Pro will offer. Given the features it has, it will likely come with a higher price when set up with decent specifications.

    Final Thoughts

    Asus’s commitment to the mini PC market is clear, as seen by the recent announcements. TechPowerUp has highlighted this trend, showcasing how manufacturers are evolving in this space. The NUC 15 Pro is shaping up to be a solid option, but consumers will have to wait a little longer to find out how much it will cost and when it will hit the shelves.

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    Asus NUC 15 Pro: Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra 7 and 96GB RAM

     

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  • Azulle Mini PC Solutions: Versatile Options for Businesses and Consumers

    Azulle Mini PC Solutions: Versatile Options for Businesses and Consumers

    Azulle, a prominent player in the realm of mini PCs, provides compact yet robust devices that unlock a multitude of opportunities in today’s rapidly evolving tech sphere. These mini PCs from Azulle are instrumental in driving digital signage displays and orchestrating the complexities of IoT within smart cities.

    Powering Innovations with Azulle Mini PCs

    Azulle’s mini PCs distinguish themselves not just by their small form factor but by the vast potential they harbor in optimizing operations and ushering in a new era of efficiency. They enable self-service kiosks to cater to customers seamlessly and facilitate seamless communication among interconnected systems. It’s not only about saving space; it’s about enhancing capabilities and reshaping the digital landscape.

    Digital Signage Solutions

    Azulle’s diminutive mini PCs seamlessly blend with existing signage setups, discreetly fitting behind screens or on walls. Featuring a fanless design for silent operation, they offer various RAM and integrated graphics options, delivering crisp, high-resolution content that captivates audiences across different environments. Organizations like REACH Media Network leverage Azulle’s mini PCs to effectively disseminate news, schedules, and emergency updates across universities, hospitals, and offices globally, with over 30,000 displays powered by Azulle.

    Enhancing Business Operations

    Azulle’s mini PCs elevate productivity, streamline operations, and optimize office configurations. They save space, reduce hardware clutter, enhance data security, and promote mobility. For instance, in a real estate agency, Azulle mini PCs replace bulky laptops, equipping agents with agile tools for client meetings and property viewings. Their energy-efficient design adds a touch of elegance to any workspace, contributing to sustainability initiatives. Crafted for success, Azulle mini PCs blend efficiency, mobility, and style in a single compact unit.

    Empowering Kiosk Solutions

    Azulle’s mini PCs drive interactive kiosks in diverse settings like airports and theme parks. Their compact size and swift setup facilitate seamless integration into kiosk systems, offering tailored information and facilitating smooth user transactions. Additionally, Azulle mini PCs provide remote desktop access, enabling operators to monitor multiple units from afar. Be it at a gas station or a theme park, Azulle mini PCs ensure a seamless user experience at every kiosk.

    Revolutionizing Healthcare with Telemedicine

    Azulle’s mini PCs are at the forefront of revolutionizing healthcare through telemedicine. These compact yet potent devices provide a simple and efficient avenue for remote healthcare services. With Azulle mini PCs, healthcare providers can engage with patients in real-time, delivering prompt diagnoses and treatments from any location. The serial ports facilitate easy connection to various medical devices, such as monitors and diagnostic equipment, crucial for telemedicine consultations. Azulle’s customization options enable healthcare providers to tailor mini PCs to their specific requirements, ensuring seamless upgrades to manage growing workloads and patient volumes.

    Azulle’s mini PCs emerge as versatile and robust tools capable of effortlessly handling a range of tasks. Leading in the mini PC market with a diverse product lineup, Azulle offers solutions ranging from compact sticks to desktop PCs, all customizable to suit specific demands. Their standout feature is the modular design, allowing for adaptation and growth in alignment with business needs.

    Whether in need of a potent workstation or a portable computing solution, Azulle has a solution for you.

    Azulle Mini PC Solutions: Versatile Options for Businesses and Consumers
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  • ASUS Ends Production of NUC Extreme Mini PCs

    ASUS Ends Production of NUC Extreme Mini PCs

    Conclusion of the NUC Extreme Series in the Advanced Compact PC Lineup

    ASUS has officially announced the discontinuation of the NUC Extreme Series of compact mini PCs, with the NUC 13 Extreme "Raptor Canyon" serving as the final model in this particular lineup. This resolution was validated by a representative from ASUS speaking to the Fudzilla media platform.

    ASUS’s Acquisition of Intel’s NUC Product Range

    Intel NUC, which stands for ‘Next Unit of Computing’, is a collection of small-form-factor barebone PC kits. ASUS has taken charge of the NUC product range after Intel’s determination in the prior year’s July to cease direct investment in the NUC sector. ASUS obtained non-exclusive permissions from Intel in order to continue the development of the product lineup.

    The Mighty NUC 13 Extreme

    Originally unveiled by Intel at the close of 2022, the NUC 13 Extreme is celebrated for its potent capabilities, accommodating the premium Intel Core i9-13900K processor alongside significant graphics cards. It represented a notable shift from conventional small PCs with its 14-liter size.

    ASUS’s Recent Innovations in Laptop Designs

    At CES 2024, ASUS showcased their newest laptop innovations that incorporate Intel’s 14th Gen Core processors and Meteor Lake chips. Additionally, they exhibited fresh monitors and unveiled the ASUS ROG NUC as a recent addition to their gaming-focused NUC range. The ROG NUC boasts a more compact design with a maximum volume of 2.5 liters, offering selections for the Intel Core Ultra 9185H processor and NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics card.

    ASUS’s Independent PC Creations

    ASUS is pushing ahead with their independent PC creations, exemplified by the ROG STRIX G16CHR system and the ROG C22H, both equipped with advanced CPUs and GPUs. These designs provide conventional consumer hardware options that may be more attractive to users due to their familiar and adaptable nature.

    NUC Extreme Series Ceases Operations

    The decision to discontinue updates to the NUC Extreme series may be correlated with ASUS’s concentration on their existing and emerging product lines which present varying choices in terms of size, potency, and adaptability. While the NUC Extreme series was distinctive in its structure and capabilities, it appealed mainly to a specialized group of enthusiasts rather than a broad consumer audience.

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