Beelink Mini S Mini PC with 11th Gen 4-Cores Processor N5095, 8GB DDR4 256G SSD Mini Desktop Computers, Micro Pc Dual HDMI 4K@60Hz/Gigabit Ethernet/WiFi 5/BT 4.2/Support 2.5″ HDD/SSD
The Beelink Mini S is a compact and powerful Mini PC that aims to offer efficient performance in a small form factor. It comes equipped with an 11th Gen Intel Celeron N5095 processor and Intel UHD Graphics, making it suitable for various tasks, including office work, education, and industry applications. This review will evaluate its performance, design, connectivity, cooling, and overall usability to determine if it’s a worthy investment for users seeking a portable computing solution.
Pros
Cons
Design and Build Quality
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The Beelink Mini S boasts an impressive compact size, measuring just 4.5 x 4 x 1.6 inches, making it highly portable and easy to carry in a business bag. The palm-sized form factor is aesthetically pleasing and offers a sleek and modern look. The materials used in the construction feel sturdy, indicating good build quality, which is essential for a device that might be moved frequently. Additionally, the inclusion of a VESA mount allows for easy mounting behind a monitor or HDTV, keeping the workspace clutter-free.
Performance of the Beelink Mini S
The Mini S’s 11th Gen Intel Celeron N5095 processor with four cores and four threads significantly boost processing power compared to its predecessors, such as the Celeron J4125 and Celeron N3450. This results in improved responsiveness and smoother multitasking, making it well-suited for daily productivity tasks, web browsing, and multimedia consumption.
The integrated Intel UHD Graphics supports 4K resolution at 60Hz and dual HDMI ports, enabling the connection of two monitors simultaneously for enhanced productivity. While the graphics performance is suitable for regular tasks and casual gaming, users looking for more demanding gaming experiences may find it limiting due to the lack of a dedicated GPU.
The Mini PC comes with 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB M.2 SSD, significantly improving overall system performance and reduces lag during multitasking. However, the storage capacity might be insufficient for users with extensive multimedia files or large software libraries. The good news is that the device allows for storage expansion, supporting up to 2TB of 2.5-inch SATA3 HDD or M.2 SATA3 SSD 2280 (not included).
Connectivity and Ports
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The Beelink Mini S offers many connectivity options, including four USB 3.0 ports, two HDMI ports, one RJ45 1000M LAN port, and an audio jack. These ports provide sufficient flexibility to meet office, business, and home audio/video needs. The inclusion of 802.11ac Wi-Fi and 1000Mbps LAN ensures fast and stable network connectivity, and the built-in Bluetooth 4.2 facilitates seamless device pairing.
Operating System and Software
The Mini S comes pre-installed with either Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro, depending on the unit received. This is a positive aspect as it offers users the latest Microsoft operating system with enhanced features and security updates. The absence of unnecessary bloatware contributes to a clean and efficient user experience. Furthermore, the device is compatible with other operating systems, such as Linux, making it versatile for users who prefer different OS options.
Cooling and Noise of the Beelink Mini S
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The Beelink Mini S incorporates an efficient cooling fan, ensuring optimal heat dissipation and preventing overheating during prolonged use. This cooling system contributes to a longer lifespan for the Mini PC and helps maintain consistent performance even under heavy workloads. Additionally, the device operates quietly, which is crucial for users who need a noise-free environment during work or entertainment.
Upgradability
One of the drawbacks of some Mini PCs is the lack of upgradability, but the Beelink Mini S allows for user-upgradeable components. Users can easily upgrade the RAM and storage to accommodate their needs better. The inclusion of the M.2 slot for additional storage expansion is particularly noteworthy, as it provides a cost-effective way to increase storage capacity without replacing the entire system.
Conclusion: Should you buy the Beelink Mini S?
The Beelink Mini S is a compelling option for users needing a portable and powerful Mini PC. Its compact size and high-performance Intel Celeron processor make it suitable for business, education, and everyday tasks. The ability to support dual-screen 4K displays further enhances productivity. Additionally, the connectivity options and upgradability make it adaptable to various use cases.
While the Mini S excels as a productivity workhorse, it may not be the best choice for users looking for a dedicated gaming machine due to the integrated graphics. However, for users seeking a versatile and efficient Mini PC for office tasks, media consumption, and general computing needs, the Beelink Mini S stands out as an excellent option.
Overall, the Beelink Mini S impresses with its performance, design, connectivity, and upgradability, making it a valuable investment for users seeking a compact and powerful computing solution for various purposes.
