The ZBOX BI325 Mini PC Barebone redefines compact computing by packing desktop-grade components into a chassis smaller than most textbooks. Measuring just 117 x 127 x 43.5mm, this system proves space efficiency doesn’t require performance compromises, supporting full-size storage drives and standard memory modules through clever engineering.
How Much RAM is Recommended for Home Assistant?
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 |
What Hardware Specifications Define the ZBOX BI325?
At its core, the BI325 utilizes Intel’s Alder Lake-N architecture with processor options ranging from the N95 to N100 chips. These 12th Gen CPUs feature up to 4 efficient cores clocking at 3.4GHz, combining x86 performance with exceptional power efficiency. The system supports dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory through two SO-DIMM slots, enabling configurations up to 16GB for smooth multitasking.
| Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel N100 (4-core, 3.4GHz Turbo) |
| Memory | Dual DDR4-3200 SO-DIMM (Max 16GB) |
| Storage | 1x M.2 2280 NVMe + 1x 2.5″ SATA |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics (16 EU) |
Storage flexibility stands out with simultaneous M.2 NVMe and 2.5″ drive support, allowing users to configure a 2TB SSD for OS paired with a 6TB HDD for media storage. Real-world testing shows the NVMe slot delivers 1,800MB/s sequential reads, while the SATA III connection maxes out at 560MB/s. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics handles dual 4K displays at 60Hz, making it suitable for financial traders needing multiple monitors or digital artists requiring color-accurate panels.
What Thermal Management Solutions Does It Employ?
ZBOX’s thermal design combines active and passive cooling elements to maintain performance without excessive noise. A copper heat pipe directly contacts the CPU, transferring heat to an aluminum fin array cooled by a 40mm PWM fan. Under full load, the system maintains CPU temperatures below 80°C while keeping noise levels under 35dB – quieter than most office environments.
| Workload | Temperature | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|
| Idle | 42°C | 22dB |
| 4K Video Playback | 58°C | 28dB |
| CPU Stress Test | 79°C | 34dB |
The BIOS includes three thermal profiles: Silent (fan off below 50°C), Balanced (gradual ramp-up), and Performance (maximum cooling). Users report a 12% improvement in sustained clock speeds when using the vertical orientation stand, which enhances natural convection. For continuous workloads like video encoding, the system maintains 2.8GHz all-core clocks without throttling, outperforming many passively cooled competitors.
FAQs
- Does the BI325 support dual boot setups?
- Yes, the dual storage bays enable separate OS installations. Users commonly run Windows on NVMe and Linux on SATA.
- Can it power external GPUs?
- No, the lack of Thunderbolt ports prevents eGPU connectivity. Integrated graphics are the only option.
- What’s the warranty period?
- ZBOX offers a 2-year limited warranty. Third-party sellers may extend this through protection plans.