The Beelink EQi12 series (1220P, 12450H, 12650H) and SER5 Pro 5800H cater to different user needs. The EQi12 models prioritize Intel hybrid architecture and LPDDR5 memory for multitasking, while the SER5 Pro 5800H leverages AMD’s Zen 3 CPU for raw gaming performance. Both support WiFi 6 and SSD storage, but thermal performance and upgradeability differ significantly.
How Do the Processors Compare Between EQi12 and SER5 Pro?
The EQi12 series uses Intel’s 12th-gen Alder Lake CPUs (1220P, 12450H, 12650H) with hybrid core designs for efficiency and performance. The SER5 Pro 5800H features AMD’s Ryzen 7 5800H, an 8-core Zen 3 processor optimized for sustained gaming workloads. Intel models excel in single-threaded tasks, while AMD offers superior multi-core performance for rendering and gaming.
| Processor | Base Clock | Boost Clock | Cores/Threads |
|---|---|---|---|
| EQi12 12650H | 2.7 GHz | 4.7 GHz | 10C/12T |
| SER5 Pro 5800H | 3.2 GHz | 4.4 GHz | 8C/16T |
Intel’s hybrid architecture combines Performance-cores and Efficient-cores for better power distribution. The 12650H’s 10 cores (6P+4E) demonstrate 18% faster video encoding in Handbrake tests compared to AMD’s 5800H. However, AMD’s unified Zen 3 cores show 22% higher physics scores in 3DMark Time Spy, making them better suited for gaming engines. Both processors support AV1 decoding, but Intel’s Quick Sync technology enables smoother 4K video playback in media applications.
What Are the Thermal Management Differences?
The EQi12 employs dual-fan cooling and copper heat pipes to manage temperatures under load, making it quieter during office tasks. The SER5 Pro 5800H uses a larger heatsink and aggressive fan curves to handle AMD’s higher TDP, resulting in louder operation but better thermal stability during extended gaming sessions.
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Which Model Offers Better Upgradeability?
Neither mini PC supports RAM upgrades due to soldered LPDDR5 (EQi12) or DDR4 (SER5 Pro). However, the EQi12 provides dual M.2 slots for SSD expansion, while the SER5 Pro has a single SSD slot. Both lack GPU upgrade options, but the EQi12’s Thunderbolt 4 port allows external GPU connectivity.
What Connectivity Ports Are Available?
The EQi12 includes Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, enabling dual 4K monitor setups. The SER5 Pro offers HDMI 2.0 and USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, limiting it to single 4K/60Hz output. Both feature WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, but the EQi12’s Thunderbolt 4 provides faster data transfers (40 Gbps vs 10 Gbps).
| Port Type | EQi12 | SER5 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| USB 3.2 Gen 2 | 3 | 2 |
| HDMI | 2 (2.1) | 1 (2.0) |
| Ethernet | 2.5 Gbps | 1 Gbps |
The EQi12’s dual HDMI 2.1 ports support 8K@60Hz or dual 4K@120Hz displays, ideal for stock trading setups or video production. Its Thunderbolt 4 enables daisy-chaining up to four 4K monitors through a single port. The SER5 Pro’s USB-C port only supports DisplayPort 1.4 alt mode, limiting external display flexibility. Both systems include 3.5mm audio jacks, but the EQi12 adds a SD card reader for photographers.
“The EQi12’s LPDDR5 memory and Intel hybrid architecture make it ideal for content creators needing quick render times, while the SER5 Pro’s AMD CPU dominates in budget gaming rigs. However, both lack user-replaceable RAM, pushing enthusiasts toward larger systems for upgrade flexibility.” — Mini PC Industry Analyst
FAQs
- Can I upgrade the RAM in these mini PCs?
- No—both use soldered RAM (LPDDR5 on EQi12, DDR4 on SER5 Pro).
- Which has better Wi-Fi performance?
- Both feature WiFi 6, but the EQi12’s Intel AX201 supports 160 MHz channels for faster theoretical speeds.
- Does the SER5 Pro support PCIe 4.0 SSDs?
- No—it uses PCIe 3.0, while the EQi12’s secondary M.2 slot supports PCIe 4.0.