Beelink S12 Pro: Affordable Mini PC Review and Gaming Benchmarks

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Belink S12 Pro: An Overview
   1. Intel Alder Lake Architecture
   2. Specifications of the Belink S12 Pro
3. Unboxing and Design
4. Performance testing
   1. General Performance Tests
   2. Gaming Performance
5. Power Consumption
6. Is the Belink S12 Pro Worth It?
7. Conclusion
8. Highlights
9. FAQ

🖥️ The Belink S12 Pro: A Powerful Mini PC for Budget Users

The Belink S12 Pro is a mini PC that offers impressive performance at an affordable price point. Designed with Intel Alder Lake architecture and packed with a 24-core integrated GPU, this compact powerhouse is capable of handling various tasks, from basic office work to casual gaming. In this article, we will delve into the features and performance of the Belink S12 Pro, assessing whether it is worth the investment.

1. Introduction

When it comes to building a new PC on a budget, options are often limited. However, the Belink S12 Pro provides an enticing solution for those seeking a cost-effective mini PC. With its Intel Alder Lake architecture and powerful integrated GPU, this compact system promises impressive performance at a fraction of the price of traditional desktop setups.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the Belink S12 Pro, examining its specifications, unboxing experience, performance testing, power consumption, and ultimately determining whether it is worth the investment for budget-conscious users.

2. The Belink S12 Pro: An Overview

2.1 Intel Alder Lake Architecture

The Belink S12 Pro is based on the Intel Alder Lake architecture, which is renowned for its efficiency and performance. It features a CPU similar to the atom CPUs once offered by Intel, making it a capable powerhouse within its compact frame.

The integrated GPU boasts a 24-core configuration and supports up to 16 GB of DDR4 3200 or DDR5 4800 memory. Additionally, faster versions of the Belink S12 Pro, such as the N 300 and 3005, are available with eight cores and up to 32 integrated GPU cores.

2.2 Specifications of the Belink S12 Pro

The Belink S12 Pro comes equipped with 16 GB of RAM and a 500 GB NVMe SSD, offering ample memory and storage for various computing needs. While similar models from other brands may be available at lower prices, they often compromise on RAM capacity and storage capacity.

The mini PC itself is remarkably small, featuring two USB ports and an audio connector on the front, along with ventilation on the side. At the back, it offers power input, two HDMI ports, an LAN port, and two additional USB ports. The compact size and variety of ports make it a versatile option for different setups.

3. Unboxing and Design

Upon unboxing the Belink S12 Pro, you will find a compact Package containing the mini PC itself and several accessories. The package includes the necessary power connector, a short HDMI cable, screws, and even two HDMI cables for convenient connectivity.

The mini PC is incredibly tiny and lightweight, making it easy to transport. It comes with a plate for mounting it at the back of a monitor or other suitable surfaces. The ease of installation and portability make it an attractive option for those who require a flexible computing solution.

4. Performance Testing

To accurately assess the performance of the Belink S12 Pro, we conducted a series of tests to evaluate its general performance and gaming capabilities. By comparing it with other systems in a similar price range, we can determine whether the mini PC is a worthy investment.

4.1 General Performance Tests

In terms of general performance, the Belink S12 Pro performs admirably. When compared to systems equipped with the Ryzen 3 4300G and Ryzen 3 4300 processors, it offers competitive results. However, it falls behind in certain benchmarks, with the Ryzen processors outperforming it by up to 30-50%.

Despite these differences, the Belink S12 Pro remains responsive and suitable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, video playback, and basic office work. While it may not match the performance of higher-end systems, it offers an excellent balance of affordability and functionality for budget-conscious users.

4.2 Gaming Performance

When it comes to gaming, the Belink S12 Pro provides a satisfactory experience for less demanding titles. However, it struggles with more graphically-intensive games, particularly those that rely heavily on the CPU and integrated GPU.

In games like APEX Legends and Fortnite, the Belink S12 Pro experiences frame rate drops and stuttering, making for a less enjoyable gaming experience. The integrated GPU, while decent for casual gaming, falls significantly behind dedicated graphics cards like the RX 550.

However, when combined with a discrete GPU like the RX 550, the Belink S12 Pro can deliver playable frame rates in less demanding games like Valorant. Despite this improvement, it still falls short compared to systems with more powerful CPUs and GPUs.

5. Power Consumption

One of the significant advantages of the Belink S12 Pro is its low power consumption. During our tests, the system operated at just 26 Watts during intensive tasks like rendering. When compared to other systems, it consumed significantly less energy.

Even the closest competitor, the HP Pavilion Desktop, used 2.5 times more energy. Overall, the Belink S12 Pro's low power consumption further enhances its appeal for budget users looking for an energy-efficient computing solution.

6. Is the Belink S12 Pro Worth It?

In conclusion, the Belink S12 Pro offers a compelling option for those on a budget who require a compact and efficient mini PC. While it may not match the performance of pricier systems, it provides solid general performance for everyday tasks.

However, users seeking a dedicated gaming system or higher performance should consider investing in a more powerful CPU and GPU. While the Belink S12 Pro can handle less demanding titles, it struggles with graphically-intensive games.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Belink S12 Pro depends on individual needs and budget constraints. For basic office work, video playback, and casual gaming, it offers an excellent combination of affordability, efficiency, and portability.

7. Conclusion

The Belink S12 Pro is a budget-friendly mini PC that offers respectable performance for everyday computing tasks. It leverages Intel's Alder Lake architecture, providing an impressive integrated GPU and ample memory and storage options.

While it may not match the performance of higher-end systems, the Belink S12 Pro excels in power efficiency and portability. Whether you need a compact workstation for the office or a versatile entertainment system, this mini PC presents an attractive option for budget-conscious users.

Overall, the Belink S12 Pro is a reliable and affordable choice, striking a balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness.

8. Highlights

• The Belink S12 Pro combines affordability, performance, and portability in a compact mini PC.
• Powered by Intel's Alder Lake architecture, it boasts a 24-core integrated GPU and supports up to 16 GB of DDR4 or DDR5 memory.
• The mini PC is exceptionally small and lightweight, allowing for easy transport.
• The Belink S12 Pro offers satisfactory general performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, video playback, and office work.
• When it comes to gaming, the Belink S12 Pro is suited for less demanding titles, but struggles with graphically-intensive games.
• The mini PC operates at a remarkably low power consumption of just 26 Watts, making it an energy-efficient option.
• Ultimately, the Belink S12 Pro is an ideal choice for budget users seeking a compact and efficient mini PC for basic computing needs.

9. FAQ

Q: Can I upgrade the RAM and storage in the Belink S12 Pro?

A: Yes, the Belink S12 Pro allows for easy upgrades of RAM and storage. You can add more memory or swap out the existing storage drive for a larger capacity.

Q: What are the advantages of using a mini PC like the Belink S12 Pro?

A: Mini PCs offer several benefits, including space savings, energy efficiency, and portability. They are ideal for users who require a compact and versatile computing solution.

Q: Can the Belink S12 Pro handle video editing and graphic design?

A: While the Belink S12 Pro can handle basic video editing and Graphic Design tasks, it may not provide optimal performance for professional-level projects. Users working with resource-intensive software may benefit from a more powerful system.

Q: Does the Belink S12 Pro come with an operating system pre-installed?

A: No, the Belink S12 Pro does not come with an operating system pre-installed. Users will need to install their preferred operating system, such as Windows or Linux.

Resources:

• Belink Official Website
• Intel Alder Lake Architecture
• Ryzen Processors