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My use of the Blackview Mini PC (16GB RAM 1TB SSD Windows 11 Pro) - (2024)
Introduction
I recently had the chance to test out the Blackview Mini PC and was quite surprised by how much it delivered given its size. It’s not easy finding a space-saving computer that can keep up with my daily workload without compromise: whether I am working on spreadsheets, browsing, or watching videos, it just keeps going fluently.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Blackview | Memory Storage Capacity | 16 GB |
| Screen Size | 2.5 Inches | Color | Black |
| Special Feature | Windows 11 pro | Wireless network technology | Wi-Fi |
| Year | 2023 | Human Interface Input | Mouse, Keyboard |
| Hardware Interface | Bluetooth | Graphics Card Description | Dedicated |
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Prices
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Impressive Performance in a Compact Size
The Blackview Mini PC packs a surprising amount of horsepower for its size. With a 12th Gen Intel Alder Lake Quad-Core N95 processor that clocks in at up to 3.4 GHz, its performance is on par with many mainstream chips such as the i3-5005U and i5-5257U. The response speed and fluency have been quite impressive, making it a formidable option in its category.
Here’s a rundown of the system’s standout features:
Powerful Intel 12th Gen N95 Processor: Smooth performance for everyday tasks and lighter games.
16GB DDR4 RAM + 1TB SATA SSD: Excellent for multitasking and quick data access.
Compact Size: Can fit about anywhere with dimensions like 5”x5”x2.1”.
When it comes to speed, the addition of 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 1TB SATA SSD make this machine a zippy little box that flies through daily tasks and multitasking without flinching. The option to expand using a 2.5” hard drive up to an additional 2TB is a nice touch, allowing more storage flexibility, which I find very practical.
Despite its prowess, I have noticed that the Blackview Mini PC does have a few shortcomings. For instance, the lack of a dedicated audio-out port seemed like an oversight. It’s not a dealbreaker since I was able to route audio through my monitor, but it’s certainly something to consider for those with specific audio setup needs.
On the same note, gaming performance does lag behind more specialized systems, especially with graphic-intensive titles. The Intel Ultra HD graphics card is decent, but it isn’t designed for heavy gaming loads. That being said, for casual gaming or media server use, it handles itself extremely well, due in part to the big memory it has.
For me, just seeing the desktop footprint decrease so dramatically was a big win. The fact that it’s so unobtrusive yet packs such a punch is nothing short of impressive. Another point to mention is the inherent simplicity in setup—truly a case of plug and play, minus the peculiar absence of support for a wireless keyboard and mouse setup right out of the box.
However, for anyone in need of heavy-duty gaming or tackling high-end video editing, it’s important to set expectations right—the Blackview Mini PC, while robust in daily performance, won’t satisfy those specific needs. Considering its build and specs, though, its proficiency for work and leisure in a small package is admirable.
The bottom line here is that the Blackview Mini PC merges compact size with commendable performance. The affordable price point for the specs provided makes this machine an attractive option for those looking to conserve space without compromising on capability. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come in miniaturization and efficiency in personal computing.
Connectivity and Expansion Capabilities
When it comes to the connectivity and expansion capabilities of the Blackview Mini PC, I’ve found a lot to like, with a few caveats to consider. The options provided are quite robust, considering the diminutive size of the device. Here’s a quick rundown:
USB Ports: With two USB 2.0 and one USB 3.0 ports, you’ve got a fair number of options for peripherals. USB 3.0 is especially useful for speedy data transfers.
HDMI Ports: Dual 4K HDMI 1.4b outputs mean you can set up multiple monitors, which is a huge plus for multitasking or entertainment setups.
Ethernet: The RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port is a godsend for stable, high-speed internet connections, especially when Wi-Fi is being finicky.
Storage Expansion: The ability to add a 2.5” hard drive or upgrade via M.2 2280 SATA SSD slot is a huge plus for someone like me who always needs more space.
Wireless Connectivity: The included dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 ensure that you’re well-covered for wireless connections, although an upgrade to Bluetooth 5 would be nice.
In terms of drawbacks, while the Ethernet port is available, I hit a snag when trying to use it with Proxmox 8, as it didn’t function straight out of the box. This was a major bump in the road for my home server aspirations. On top of that, the lack of a dedicated audio out could be a turn-off for audiophiles or anyone who wants an easy connection to external speakers without going through a monitor or an adapter.
Another minor gripe is the lack of a backlight on the power button. It’s a small detail, but it does affect the usability in low-light conditions where fumbling around the button could lead to an accidental shutdown.
Taking all these into consideration, the Blackview Mini PC offers a surprisingly competent array of ports and expansion options which cater to a variety of needs. Its small form factor belies its ability to become a central hub for a home or office setup, with quick and easy connections to a range of devices. Sure, it’s not without its faults—the Ethernet issue is particularly troublesome if you’re planning on a server use. However, for day-to-day operations such as a bit of gaming, office work, and general media consumption, you really can’t beat the versatility at this size.
It’s worth noting that if you’re not already equipped with USB peripherals, you might want to invest in a USB hub or opt for corded input devices to get past the initial setup. Those with older monitors will also need to heed the need for HDMI—something to keep in mind before purchasing. All in all, I’m quite satisfied with the connectivity options on offer here, though I hope future iterations will look into improving some of these minor shortcomings.
Set Up and User Experience
The moment I unboxed the Blackview Mini PC, I knew setting it up was going to be a breeze. Plugging in the essentials - monitor, mouse, and keyboard - I hit the power button, and within moments, I was greeted by the Windows 11 Pro setup screen. Impressively, everything was up and running, including updates, in a mere 10 minutes. The setup process was just the first hint at the streamlined experience that lay ahead. Here’s a quick rundown of my initial observations:
Speed and Responsiveness: The N95 processor snapped to attention, launching apps and handling multitasking effortlessly.
Expansion Options: The options to expand storage with an M.2 SATA SSD is a great feature, ensuring that I have room to grow.
Connectivity: Dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2 meant I could connect my devices without a hitch.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The lack of a dedicated audio-out port caught me off guard. I had to reroute the audio through my monitor temporarily, but thankfully, it’s nothing a simple adapter can’t fix. Another hiccup—my wireless keyboard and mouse couldn’t communicate with the PC until after set up, necessitating a brief switch to wired peripherals.
I appreciate the absence of bloatware; the clean Windows installation allowed me to personalize the system from the get-go. Although marketed with some gaming capabilities, I noticed the integrated Intel Ultra HD graphics weren’t cut out for the latest demanding games, but then again, for its size and cost, this didn’t disappoint me too much.
The USB ports and 4K HDMI support meant connecting to external devices was uncomplicated. The noticeable compactness of the PC, measuring just 5” x 5” x 2”, makes it an inconspicuous addition to my desk setup. Despite the compact size, the unit runs cool and quiet, a testament to its well-thought-out design.
Some drawbacks did stand out. Support from Blackview seems to be a hit or miss affair. The lack of readily available support information online resulted in some DIY troubleshooting, especially when looking for drivers after a fresh OS installation. This can be a significant roadblock for those not familiar with PC assembly or troubleshooting.
Overall, the Blackview Mini PC impresses with its no-fuss setup and robust performance for everyday tasks. While it may fall short for hardcore gaming or as a specialized server without some tweaking, for the average user or even for certain professional applications, it’s a potent little machine that punches above its weight.
Value for Money and Final Thoughts
Delving straight into the heart of my experience with the Blackview Mini PC, there’s a clear tug-of-war between value and performance. For the price point, you really get a substantial machine that meets daily computing needs without breaking the sweat or your bank account. Here’s the quick rundown:
Pros:
Impressive processing capabilities with the Intel Alder Lake N95 CPU.
Ample storage with a 1TB SATA SSD and expandable slots.
Versatility with multiple ports and Windows 11 Pro pre-installed.
Good network connectivity options including dual-band WiFi and Ethernet.
Cons:
The lack of dedicated audio output requires an alternative solution or adapter.
The onboard graphics are basic, limiting gaming and heavy graphic workloads.
Customer support from Blackview can be improved.
Performance-wise, I’m genuinely stunned at how snappy this mini PC is. With 16GB DDR4 RAM, multitasking feels like a breeze—even when juggling several memory-hungry applications. Moreover, the small stature of the PC means it takes up minimal space on my desk, an absolute win for those working in confined spaces.
On the flip side, the absence of a dedicated audio out is a bit of a hiccup. As someone who relies heavily on audio quality for multimedia tasks, I was initially caught off guard. However, a quick dash for an audio adapter and the problem was sorted—not a dealbreaker, but something to consider.
The graphics capabilities are as expected for an integrated system—it handles everyday tasks well but isn’t built for demanding games or professional graphic design. That said, for most uses, the Intel UHD graphics are entirely sufficient.
Now, the elephant in the room: customer support. Should things go south, Blackview’s support feels like navigating uncharted waters. The lack of responsive support channels could be a major deterrent for less tech-savvy users, who might struggle to find drivers or resolve issues independently.
Finalizing the Blackview Mini PC review, I appreciate what it offers—a “powerful little guy” that’s a sweet deal for the price. It stands tall for home office tasks, light gaming, and general media consumption. Just bear in mind that its shortcomings, mostly around specialized support and its onboard graphics, might push power users to look elsewhere.
Value for money? Absolutely, especially if your computing demands align with the strengths of this mini yet mighty PC. Just stay aware of its limitations, and you’ll find it to be a reliable, cost-effective addition to your tech arsenal.