Beelink has introduced the EQi Intel Wildcat Lake mini PC, bringing Intel's latest entry-level silicon to the compact desktop market. The product provides a modern, upgradeable platform for users seeking more performance than a basic stick PC while avoiding the cost of high-end gaming rigs. The system is designed for users who prioritize connectivity and expandability over maximum processing speed.
Dual 10G LAN and Thunderbolt 4 define the connectivity profile
The mini PC is built around the Intel Core 3 304 processor, which serves as the entry-level option within the Wildcat Lake series. Beelink designed this chassis to accommodate both soldered and swappable memory configurations depending on the tier you choose. The base model locks memory to the motherboard, while mid-tier and upper-end versions allow users to install standard DDR5 modules.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core 3 304 (Wildcat Lake)
- Storage: 512GB UFS 3.1
- Expansion Slots: 2x M.2 (one PCIe 4.0 x2, one PCIe 4.0 x1), up to 4TB per slot
- Memory: LPDDR5 (base, soldered) or DDR5 (mid/upper configurations, swappable)
- Connectivity: 2x Thunderbolt 4, 1x 10Gbps USB Type-C, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x 2.5G LAN, 1x 10G LAN, 2x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1x HDMI (4K 60Hz), 1x 3.5mm audio, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
Under the hood, the system ships with 512GB of UFS 3.1 flash storage, which delivers theoretical read speeds up to 2.1 GB/s. This storage type sits between traditional eMMC and faster NVMe drives in terms of performance. For those needing more space, the unit includes two M.2 slots that support SSDs up to 4TB each, though bandwidth is limited to PCIe 4.0 x2 and x1 respectively.
Connectivity is a strong point for this compact form factor, featuring two Thunderbolt 4 ports and a dedicated 10Gbps USB Type-C port. The rear I/O panel also includes a 2.5G LAN port, a 10G LAN port, and a standard USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A connector. The system includes dual Gigabit-class networking options, a feature uncommon for mini PCs in this price segment.
Pricing reflects the tiered memory strategy, with the 16GB LPDDR5 base configuration starting at $509. The 24GB DDR5 model costs $659, and the top-tier 32GB version is priced at $739. Beelink is currently accepting pre-orders for these global configurations, with no specific release date listed beyond the pre-order window.
The release adds a Wildcat Lake option to the mini PC market, emphasizing storage speed and network flexibility over maximum CPU performance. The inclusion of dual 10Gbps-class LAN ports and Thunderbolt 4 support differentiates it from lower-cost competitors that often reduce I/O options. Buyers looking for a quiet, efficient desktop with room for SSD upgrades will find this configuration relevant.
Source: Beelink, NotebookCheck
Discussion
0 comments