The world of compact computing has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, with the emergence of powerful mini desktops that pack a punch despite their small form factor. Two notable contenders in this space are the Beelink SEi8 and the Intel NUC 11. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and value proposition of these two mini desktops to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Design and Build
The Beelink SEi8 and Intel NUC 11 boast sleek and compact designs, making them ideal for space-constrained environments. The Beelink SEi8 measures 5.1 x 4.3 x 0.9 inches (130 x 110 x 23 mm) and weighs approximately 1.2 pounds (550 grams). In contrast, the Intel NUC 11 comes in a slightly larger package, measuring 4.6 x 4.4 x 1.5 inches (117 x 112 x 38 mm) and weighing around 1.3 pounds (590 grams). Both devices feature a sturdy aluminum construction, ensuring durability and heat dissipation.
Processing Power
The Beelink SEi8 is powered by an Intel Core i7-10510U processor, which offers a clock speed of up to 4.9 GHz and 8MB cache memory. On the other hand, the Intel NUC 11 comes with a range of processor options, including the Intel Core i3-1115G4, i5-1135G7, and i7-1165G7. The top-of-the-line i7 model boasts a clock speed of up to 4.7 GHz and 12MB cache memory. While both devices offer impressive processing power, the Intel NUC 11's more recent processor architecture provides a slight edge in terms of performance and efficiency.
Memory and Storage
The Beelink SEi8 comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, which provides ample storage for most users. The Intel NUC 11, on the other hand, offers more flexibility in terms of memory and storage configurations. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM and features two M.2 slots for SSD expansion, allowing users to add additional storage as needed.
Graphics and Display
The Beelink SEi8 features Intel UHD Graphics 630, which provides decent graphics performance for general use and casual gaming. The Intel NUC 11, however, offers more advanced graphics options, including Intel Iris Xe Graphics and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti (in select models). This makes the Intel NUC 11 a better choice for gamers and content creators who require more robust graphics capabilities.
Connectivity and Ports
Both mini desktops offer an array of connectivity options, including USB-A ports, USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 3 support, HDMI ports, and Gigabit Ethernet. The Beelink SEi8 also features a headphone jack and a microSD card slot, while the Intel NUC 11 includes an additional USB-C port and supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
Price and Value
The Beelink SEi8 is generally priced lower than the Intel NUC 11, with a starting price around $500-$600. The Intel NUC 11, on the other hand, starts at around $700-$800 for the base model and can go up to $1,200 or more for the top-of-the-line configuration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Beelink SEi8 and Intel NUC 11 are excellent mini desktops that offer impressive performance, compact designs, and a range of features. While the Beelink SEi8 provides great value for its price, the Intel NUC 11 offers more advanced features, better graphics capabilities, and greater flexibility in terms of memory and storage configurations. Ultimately, the choice between these two devices depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a affordable, no-frills mini desktop for general use, the Beelink SEi8 may be the better option. However, if you require more powerful graphics, advanced features, and greater customization options, the Intel NUC 11 is worth considering.
In the world of mini desktops, these two devices represent some of the best options available, offering a perfect blend of performance, portability, and affordability. Whether you're a student, professional, or gamer, there's never been a better time to explore the possibilities of compact computing with the Beelink SEi8 and Intel NUC 11.
