The Intel 13th Gen i7-1355U/i5-1335U Mini PC combines cutting-edge performance with ultra-compact design. Featuring dual DDR4 RAM slots, dual M.2 NVMe SSD support, Windows 11, 4K UHD output, WiFi6, Thunderbolt 4, and fanless operation, it excels in multitasking, energy efficiency, and silent operation. Ideal for home offices, media centers, and industrial applications, it balances power and portability.
Table of Contents
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 |
How Does the Dual DDR4 Memory Enhance Performance?
Dual DDR4 memory channels double data transfer rates, enabling faster application loading, smoother multitasking, and improved integrated GPU performance. With support for up to 64GB RAM, this Mini PC handles memory-intensive tasks like video editing, virtualization, and 3D rendering effortlessly while maintaining low power consumption.
Modern workflows increasingly demand parallel processing capabilities. For instance, content creators working with 8K video timelines or data scientists running machine learning models will notice significant reductions in rendering times. Dual-channel memory also improves frame rates in GPU-bound scenarios by up to 15%, as shown in benchmarks for applications like Blender and DaVinci Resolve. Additionally, the DDR4-3200MHz compatibility ensures backward flexibility with older RAM modules.
| Configuration | Bandwidth | Application Load Time |
|---|---|---|
| Single Channel | 25.6 GB/s | 9.2 seconds |
| Dual Channel | 51.2 GB/s | 5.1 seconds |
When Is a Fanless Design Advantageous?
A fanless design eliminates mechanical failure risks and noise, making it ideal for quiet environments (e.g., libraries, recording studios) and dusty industrial settings. The aluminum chassis acts as a heat sink, dissipating heat efficiently without throttling performance, even under sustained workloads.
In industrial automation, fanless systems reduce maintenance costs by avoiding dust-clogged vents. For example, digital signage installations in subway stations benefit from 24/7 operation without acoustic disruption. Thermal testing shows the chassis maintains CPU temperatures below 80°C during continuous 4K video encoding, thanks to precision-machined heat pipes and graphene thermal pads. Users in humid climates also appreciate the IP54-rated variants that resist moisture ingress.
| Environment | Noise Level | Max Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Office | 0 dB | 72°C |
| Industrial | 0 dB | 79°C |
Why Choose Dual M.2 NVMe SSD Slots for Storage?
Dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots provide RAID 0/1 support, achieving read/write speeds up to 7,000 MB/s. This setup ensures rapid boot times, near-instant file transfers, and redundancy for critical data. Users can configure one drive for OS operations and another for storage, maximizing workflow efficiency.
Which Applications Benefit from 4K UHD and Thunderbolt 4?
4K UHD output supports high-resolution video editing, gaming, and media streaming, while Thunderbolt 4 enables 40 Gbps data transfer, dual 4K monitor setups, and docking with eGPUs. Creative professionals, gamers, and power users gain seamless connectivity and future-proof expandability.
Can This Mini PC Handle Heavy Workloads?
Yes. The 10-core (2P+8E), 12-thread i7-1355U and 10-core (1P+9E) i5-1335U CPUs deliver up to 5.0 GHz Turbo speeds. Combined with Intel Iris Xe graphics, it handles 4K video editing, CAD software, and moderate gaming (e.g., CS:GO at 60 FPS) without lag.
Does Windows 11 Optimize This Hardware?
Windows 11 enhances performance with DirectStorage for faster game loading, Auto HDR for vibrant visuals, and improved multitasking via Snap Layouts. The OS also natively supports Thunderbolt 4 and WiFi6, ensuring seamless integration with peripherals and networks.
Are There Upgrade Limitations?
While RAM and SSDs are user-upgradable, the soldered CPUs and lack of PCIe x16 slots limit GPU upgrades. However, Thunderbolt 4 allows external GPU enclosures for gaming or rendering tasks, mitigating this constraint.
Expert Views
“Intel’s 13th Gen U-series chips redefine compact computing. The hybrid architecture efficiently balances performance and power draw, while Thunderbolt 4 and dual NVMe slots future-proof these systems for prosumers.”
“Fanless designs are no longer synonymous with compromise. Advanced thermal engineering in this Mini PC ensures sustained performance, making it a game-changer for industrial IoT and digital signage.”
Conclusion
The Intel 13th Gen i7-1355U/i5-1335U Mini PC is a versatile powerhouse for professionals and enthusiasts. Its blend of upgradability, silent operation, and cutting-edge connectivity positions it as a top contender in the ultra-compact PC market.
FAQ
- Q: Can it run AAA games?
- A: While not a gaming rig, it handles older titles (e.g., GTA V) at medium settings. Use an eGPU via Thunderbolt 4 for modern AAA games.
- Q: Is Linux supported?
- A: Yes, Ubuntu and Fedora work flawlessly, though Thunderbolt 4 may require additional drivers.
- Q: What’s the power consumption?
- A: Idles at 8W, peaks at 28W under load—40% lower than desktop counterparts.