In the realm of compact computing, the Minix Neo Z97 mini PC stands out as a remarkable contender. Priced at a modest 7 on Amazon, this palm-sized powerhouse is designed for everyday tasks while offering surprising performance for its size.
My experience
Upon unboxing the Neo Z97, I was greeted with Windows 11 pre-installed, a choice I decided to stick with for this review. While some may argue that Linux distributions generally outperform Windows in terms of resource management, my goal was to assess how well this mini PC could handle the latest operating system right out of the box.
The initial setup process was somewhat lengthy, a characteristic often associated with Windows 11. However, once I navigated through the setup, I put the Z97 to the test with my typical daily activities. Tasks included installing LibreOffice, browsing the web, and streaming videos on YouTube. To my surprise, the Neo Z97 performed admirably, with applications launching swiftly and video playback seamless. Even resource-intensive tasks like image editing with GIMP were handled with ease.
However, when I pushed the limits with Ollama/Msty—an application that demands significant system resources—the Z97 did show signs of strain. This is not entirely unexpected, as even my more robust desktop struggled with similar tasks. A dedicated GPU might have alleviated some of the pressure, but the Z97 is not primarily designed for heavy AI workloads.
One of the standout features of the Z97 is its near-silent operation. Throughout my testing, I noticed that the fan remained virtually inaudible, even during the Windows 11 upgrade. This quiet performance adds to the appeal of the device, making it suitable for environments where noise levels are a concern.
ZDNET’s buying advice
While many might associate mini PCs with limited applications, the Minix Neo Z97 defies those expectations. Its compact design does not compromise its capability; it can easily serve as a desktop replacement for everyday use. Additionally, the Z97 supports a triple monitor setup, allowing for enhanced productivity.
In terms of specifications, the Z97 is equipped with:
- CPU: Intel® Processor N97 (6MB cache, up to 3.6 GHz)
- GPU: Intel® UHD Graphics
- Memory: 12GB LPDDR5X-4800MHz (Onboard)
- Storage: 512GB M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x 4 NVMe SSD
- Storage Slot: M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x 1 NVMe Slot
- Ethernet Chipset: 2 x RJ-45 1G Ethernet
- Connectivity: M.2 2230 Intel® 802.11AX Dual Band WIFI 6 (2.4GHz/5GHz), BT5.2
- Ports: 2 x HDMI2.1 TMDS 4K@60Hz, 1 x DP1.4 4K@60Hz, 3 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, and more
- OS: Windows 11
- Size: 88×88×42mm
- Weight: 0.18kg
In summary, the Minix Neo Z97 mini PC is a compelling option for those seeking a compact yet capable computing solution. It balances performance and price effectively, making it a noteworthy addition to the market of small form-factor PCs.
