The MINIX Z100-AERO – An Intel N100-Powered Mini PC with 2.5GbE and 1GbE Ethernet Support
The MINIX Z100-AERO is a compact mini PC powered by the Intel N100 CPU, designed to serve efficiently as a router when paired with software like Untangle or OPNsense. This device stands out due to its dual Ethernet ports: a 2.5GbE port managed by the TL8125BG-CG NIC and a 1GbE port handled by the RTL8111H chip.
This mini PC supports DDR4 3200MHz SO-DIMM memory, upgradeable to 32GB, and offers storage options up to 4TB. It features the Wireless-AC 9560 module, providing Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. For high-speed data transfer, there is support for M.2 PCIe 3.0 x1 NVMe SSDs.
The device includes robust connectivity options with an HDMI 2.1 port, one DisplayPort, and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port. Additionally, its anti-static design enhances durability, making the MINIX Z100-AERO a versatile and robust choice for various applications.
In the past, we’ve explored a variety of mini PCs similar to the MINIX Z100-AERO Mini PC,. Notable mentions include the MINIX NEO Z100-0dB, a silent mini PC, that is renowned for its silent operation, the ASUS Mini PC PL64, and the widely acclaimed Pantera Pico PC. If you are interested in mini PCs, we recommend checking out these reviews for a broader perspective on the available options.
MINIX Z100-AERO Mini PC Specification
- Processor: Intel® Alder Lake-N Quad-Core N100 (Base Frequency 0.8 GHz, Max Turbo Frequency 3.40 GHz)
- Graphics Engine: Intel® UHD Graphics
- Display Outputs:
- 1 x HDMI® 2.1, 3840×2160@60Hz
- 1 x DP (4K@60Hz)
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (4K@60Hz)
- Memory Slot: 1 x 260-pin DDR4 3200MHz SO-DIMM 4/8/16GB, upgradeable to 32GB Max
- Storage: 128/256/512GB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x1 NVMe SSD, upgradeable to 4TB Max
- Ethernet:
- 1 x Realtek® RTL8125BG-CG for 2.5G Ethernet
- 1 x Realtek® RTL8111H for 1G Ethernet
- LED Indicators: LEDs for Power, LAN (Active, Status)
- WIFI/BT: Intel® Wireless-AC 9560 Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1
- LAN Ports: 2 x RJ45, 1G + 2.5G Dual Ethernet
- USB-A Ports: 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, support up to 5Gbps
- USB-C Ports: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (data transfer up to 5Gbps, PD-enabled, video output up to 4K@60Hz, Audio)
- DP Ports: 1 x DisplayPort (4K@60Hz)
- Audio Jack: 3.5mm Mic-in and Headphone-out Combo Jack
- Antennas: 2 x External Wi-Fi Antennas
- Buttons:
- 1 x Power Button
- 1 x Clear CMOS Button (Reset BIOS)
- BIOS: AMI EFI X64
- Power Requirement: 12V/3A DC-IN
- Power Consumption: 10-12W (Typical), 25-27W (Turbo)
- Certifications: CE, FCC, RCM, RoHS
- Form Factor: Mini PC
- Enclosure: Plastic Housing
- Weight: 0.8 kg
- Dimensions: 127 x 127 x 43 mm (5″ x 5″ x 1.69″)
The Z100-AERO Mini PC is available in two versions: one with 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD, priced at $219, currently out of stock; and another with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, available for $249 on the MINIX website and Amazon. Both configurations include Windows 11 Professional.