The FIREBAT T8 Pro Plus Mini PC offers versatile performance with Intel Celeron N5095/N100 processors, 8GB/16GB DDR4/DDR5 RAM, and 256GB/512GB storage. Designed for compact gaming and multitasking, it supports WiFi5 and BT4.2 connectivity. While not a high-end gaming rig, it handles light gaming and productivity tasks efficiently, making it a budget-friendly option for home offices and casual users.
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Top 5 Mini PCs in 2025
Rank | Model | Processor | RAM | Storage | Price | Action |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | GEEKOM Mini IT12 (Best Performance) | Intel i5-12450H (8C/12T) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD | $379.00 | Check Price |
2 | GMKtec N150 (1TB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD | $191.99 | Check Price |
3 | KAMRUI GK3Plus (Budget Pick) | Intel N95 (3.4GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB M.2 SSD | $169.99 | Check Price |
4 | ACEMAGICIAN N150 (Cheapest 16GB) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $139.99 | Check Price |
5 | GMKtec N150 (512GB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe SSD | $168.99 | Check Price |
What Are the Key Specifications of the FIREBAT T8 Pro Plus?
The T8 Pro Plus features Intel Celeron N5095 (quad-core, up to 2.9GHz) or N100 (Alder Lake-N) CPUs, 8GB/16GB DDR4/DDR5 RAM, and 256GB/512GB M.2 SSD storage. It includes dual HDMI 4K outputs, USB 3.0/2.0 ports, and supports WiFi5/Bluetooth 4.2. The compact 5.9×5.9×1.6-inch chassis uses passive cooling for silent operation.
How Does the Intel Celeron N5095 Compare to the N100 Processor?
The N5095 uses older Gemini Lake architecture with 10nm process, while the N100 employs modern Alder Lake-N design with Intel 7 process. The N100 offers 20% better single-core performance and improved power efficiency. However, the N5095 remains sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing and document editing, whereas the N100 better handles light photo/video editing.
Benchmark tests reveal distinct performance differences: the N100 scores approximately 1,150 points in PassMark CPU tests compared to the N5095’s 900 points. Power consumption is another key differentiator—the N100 operates at 6W TDP versus the N5095’s 15W, making it more efficient for always-on applications. Users prioritizing multitasking capabilities should opt for the N100 variant, as its hybrid architecture better manages background processes. For example, the N100 maintains smoother performance when running 10+ Chrome tabs alongside a 1080p video stream, while the N5095 may experience occasional lag.
Feature | N5095 | N100 |
---|---|---|
Architecture | Gemini Lake | Alder Lake-N |
Process Node | 14nm | Intel 7 |
TDP | 15W | 6W |
Can This Mini PC Handle Modern Gaming Titles?
With Intel UHD Graphics (16EU on N5095/24EU on N100), the T8 Pro Plus runs older AAA titles at 720p/low settings (30-40 FPS) and esports titles like League of Legends at 1080p/60fps. It’s unsuitable for modern GPU-intensive games but works for cloud gaming services via its Gigabit Ethernet port. Dedicated gaming PCs outperform it significantly.
What Connectivity Options Does the T8 Pro Plus Offer?
Connectivity includes dual HDMI 2.0 ports (4K@60Hz), 4x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 3.5mm audio jack, and microSD slot. Wireless features include WiFi5 (867Mbps) and Bluetooth 4.2. The RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port ensures stable network connections. Missing USB-C and WiFi6 limit future-proofing but meet basic peripheral and display needs.
The port selection supports simultaneous connections to two 4K monitors, a wired keyboard/mouse combo, and external storage drives. Users can create a dual-screen office setup while maintaining a USB 3.0 external SSD for quick file transfers. However, the lack of USB-C means slower data transfers compared to modern standards—copying a 20GB file takes 4 minutes via USB 3.0 versus 90 seconds with USB 3.2 Gen 2. The WiFi5 limitation becomes apparent in crowded networks, where download speeds may drop to 120Mbps when multiple devices are connected. For best results, use the Ethernet port for latency-sensitive applications like video conferencing.
Port Type | Quantity | Max Speed |
---|---|---|
HDMI 2.0 | 2 | 18Gbps |
USB 3.0 | 4 | 5Gbps |
USB 2.0 | 2 | 480Mbps |
How Upgradeable Is the FIREBAT T8 Pro Plus Hardware?
Users can upgrade RAM (supports up to 16GB DDR4-2933/DDR5-4800) and storage (M.2 2280 SSD slot + 2.5″ SATA bay). The soldered CPU cannot be replaced. Thermal design allows for potential SSD upgrades but lacks space for dedicated GPUs. Openable chassis enables basic component swaps without professional tools.
Does the Cooling System Prevent Thermal Throttling?
The fanless design keeps noise below 22dB but limits sustained performance. Stress tests show CPU temperatures reaching 85°C during extended workloads, causing minor throttling. For casual use, thermal performance remains adequate. Adding a USB cooling pad improves thermals by 6-8°C during gaming sessions.
What Software Ecosystem Supports This Mini PC?
The T8 Pro Plus ships with Windows 11 Pro (64-bit) and supports Linux distributions like Ubuntu. Pre-installed software includes basic drivers and a system monitoring utility. Lack of proprietary optimization software means users must manually adjust power profiles for performance/battery balance. Compatible with mainstream productivity suites and emulators up to PlayStation 2 era.
“The T8 Pro Plus fills a niche in the sub-$300 mini PC market. While it won’t replace gaming rigs, its hardware configuration offers exceptional value for HTPC setups and secondary workstations. The N100 variant particularly stands out as an energy-efficient option for 24/7 home servers.” — Michael Chen, Mini PC Analyst at TechTopia
Conclusion
The FIREBAT T8 Pro Plus Mini PC delivers competent performance for its price bracket, balancing casual gaming capabilities with everyday productivity. While limited by entry-level processors and older connectivity standards, its upgradeability and compact design make it a practical choice for users prioritizing space efficiency over raw power.
FAQs
- Q: Can it run dual 4K monitors?
- A: Yes, through HDMI 2.0 ports supporting 4K@60Hz simultaneously.
- Q: Does it support Bluetooth headphones?
- A: Yes, BT4.2 works with most wireless peripherals, though audio latency may occur in gaming.
- Q: Is the power supply included?
- A: Yes, a 12V/3A DC adapter comes bundled with the unit.