The SOYO M2 PLUS 2 Mini PC combines Intel’s Alder Lake N100 processor, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe M.2 SSD in a compact design. Ideal for home offices, media centers, and light gaming, it runs Windows 11 Pro and supports WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0. Its energy efficiency and portability make it a versatile solution for multitasking and space-conscious users.
MSI 2024 Cubi N ADL Mini Desktop
How Does the Intel Alder Lake N100 Processor Enhance Performance?
The Intel Alder Lake N100, a 4-core, 4-thread CPU with a 6MB cache and 6W TDP, delivers efficient multitasking and 4K video playback. Its hybrid architecture balances power and efficiency, making it suitable for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and streaming without overheating. Benchmarks show a 20% performance boost over previous-generation Celeron processors.
This processor leverages Intel’s 10nm SuperFin technology to optimize thermal performance, maintaining temperatures below 60°C even during sustained workloads. Users can expect seamless performance when running multiple Chrome tabs alongside productivity apps like Microsoft Office. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics also supports hardware-accelerated video decoding for popular codecs including H.265 and VP9, reducing CPU utilization during 4K streaming. While not designed for intensive tasks like 3D rendering, the N100 efficiently handles background updates and security scans without noticeable lag.
What Are the Storage and Memory Capabilities of This Mini PC?
Equipped with 16GB DDR4 RAM (expandable to 32GB) and a 512GB PCIe M.2 SSD, the SOYO M2 PLUS 2 ensures swift app launches and smooth multitasking. The SSD supports NVMe for read/write speeds up to 2,000 MB/s. Users can add a 2.5-inch SATA SSD or HDD for extra storage, making it ideal for media libraries or backups.
Intel Core i5-8250U for Gaming
Can the SOYO M2 PLUS 2 Handle Gaming or Creative Work?
While not designed for AAA gaming, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics (24 EUs) supports casual titles like Minecraft or Among Us at 720p. For creative tasks, it handles photo editing and 1080p video rendering in apps like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro. External GPUs are unsupported due to limited PCIe lanes.
What Connectivity Options Does the SOYO M2 PLUS 2 Offer?
- Ports: 3x USB 3.0, 1x USB-C, HDMI 2.0, Ethernet, 3.5mm audio
- Wireless: WiFi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 for peripherals
- Dual Monitor Support: HDMI and USB-C enable dual 4K@60Hz displays
How Energy-Efficient Is This Mini PC?
With a 6W TDP processor and no dedicated GPU, the SOYO M2 PLUS 2 consumes under 15W under load—90% less than traditional desktops. Its fanless design in low-power modes reduces noise, making it ideal for bedrooms or libraries. Annual energy costs average $5-$8, based on 8-hour daily use.
The device employs intelligent power scaling that dynamically adjusts clock speeds between 1.0GHz and 3.4GHz depending on workload demands. In sleep mode, power consumption drops to 0.5W, allowing quick resume times while conserving energy. Environmental testing shows it produces 85% less CO2 annually compared to standard office PCs. Businesses deploying multiple units could see substantial reductions in both electricity bills and cooling requirements for workspaces.
Is the SOYO M2 PLUS 2 Easy to Upgrade or Repair?
The tool-free chassis allows easy access to the SSD and RAM. However, the Wi-Fi card and processor are soldered, limiting upgrades. Users can replace the M.2 SSD with drives up to 2TB and expand RAM to 32GB. SOYO provides a 1-year warranty, but third-party component upgrades may void coverage.
What Operating System and Software Are Pre-Installed?
Windows 11 Pro comes pre-loaded, offering BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, and Hyper-V virtualization. Bloatware is minimal, with only a driver utility included. Users can install Linux distributions like Ubuntu, though driver support for WiFi/Bluetooth may require manual updates.
How Does It Compare to Competitors Like Beelink or MINISFORUM?
| Feature | SOYO M2 PLUS 2 | Beelink SEi12 | MINISFORUM HX90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel N100 | Intel i5-12450H | Ryzen 9 5900HX |
| Price | $249 | $449 | $699 |
| Best For | Budget users | Mid-range tasks | High-end workloads |
“The SOYO M2 PLUS 2 redefines budget computing with its N100 efficiency. While not a powerhouse, it’s perfect for users prioritizing affordability and compactness over raw performance.” — TechRadar Hardware Team
“Its silent operation and dual 4K support make it a sleeper hit for digital signage and kiosk deployments.” — IT Solutions Magazine
Conclusion
The SOYO M2 PLUS 2 Mini PC excels as a budget-friendly, energy-efficient solution for everyday computing. While limited in upgradeability and gaming prowess, its portability, Windows 11 Pro features, and robust connectivity justify its $249 price tag. Ideal for students, remote workers, and media enthusiasts seeking a clutter-free setup.
FAQs
- Q: Does it support Linux?
- A: Yes, but WiFi/Bluetooth drivers may require manual installation on some distributions.
- Q: Can it run dual monitors?
- A: Yes, via HDMI and USB-C ports at up to 4K@60Hz.
- Q: Is the RAM DDR4 or DDR5?
- A: DDR4-3200MHz, upgradable to 32GB.