Minisforum M2 Elite Mini Air-304 Launches at $263 with Intel Core 3

Minisforum has introduced the M2 Elite Mini Air-304, a compact desktop that brings Intel's Wildcat Lake platform to buyers seeking a low-cost entry point. This release matters because it offers a new, affordable option for users who need a small form factor without paying premium prices for high-end components. The device targets budget-conscious consumers and light office workers who prioritize size and connectivity over raw processing power.

Compact desktop features dual 2.5GbE and expandable DDR5 memory

The system centers on the Intel Core 3 304 processor, which provides five CPU cores and five threads for basic multitasking. Minisforum pairs this chip with integrated Intel Graphics, which handles display output and light media tasks without a dedicated GPU. The chassis measures just 0.47 litres, making it one of the smallest options available for a full desktop experience with expandable memory.

Specifications

• Processor: Intel Core 3 304 (5 cores, 5 threads)
• Memory: Up to 64 GB DDR5-6400 SO-DIMM (single slot)
• Storage: Up to 2 TB via M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4
• Chassis Volume: 0.47 litres
• Networking: Dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4

Under the hood, the M2 Air-304 supports up to 64 GB of DDR5-6400 memory through a single SO-DIMM slot. Storage capacity reaches 2 TB via an M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 slot, allowing for fast read and write speeds on compatible SSDs. Connectivity is robust for the class, featuring dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports for stable wired networking alongside Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connections.

I/O options include dual HDMI outputs for multi-monitor setups and a USB4 port that also supports power input for charging peripherals. The barebones model starts at $263, allowing users to build their own system with preferred components. A pre-configured variant with 16 GB of RAM and a 500 GB SSD is available for $559, though the storage capacity in this configuration appears to be a typo in the source listing.

Shipping for the M2 Elite Mini Air-304 is scheduled to begin in early September, giving buyers a clear timeline for delivery. We looked at the Minisforum MS-03 Brings Intel Panther Lake in our earlier coverage of the vendor's recent hardware releases. The Air-304 fills a specific niche for those who need a tiny, wired-ready machine at a sub-$300 price point.

Source: NotebookCheck