Minisforum launches Deskmini U850 and U820 Windows 10 and Linux PCs
Large desktop computers are so unsightly. Nowadays, consumers seem happier to purchase a laptop or diminutive desktop. I recently bought a M1 Mac mini, and it is amazing to see how much power is packed into such a small body. It's a computer I recommend to anyone that likes macOS.
Unfortunately, the new M1 Mac mini cannot run Windows, but if you prefer Microsoft's operating system, there is no shortage of tiny desktops that run the OS. For instance, Intel's diminutive NUC machines are quite nice. Of course, Intel is not the only company focusing on small PCs. Another manufacturer, Minisforum, has been delighting customers with its little machines too. Today, that company launches two new models -- the Deskmini U850 and U820.
For the most part, these two computers are seemingly the same, with the only real difference being the processor. The U820 is powered by an 8th gen Core i5 chip, while the 850 has a newer 10th gen Core i5 CPU. Both come with Windows 10 by default, but they will absolutely run desktop Linux operating systems such as Ubuntu and Manjaro without issue.
ALSO READ: MINISFORUM EliteMini BOX X400 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 4650G
"Although small in size, this mini computer does not lose to the traditional desktop in terms of memory. Deskmini U820/U850 is equipped with dual-channel DDR4 which supports up to 64GB of memory in total. U820/U850 also support 3 different types of storage expansions -- 2.5-inch hard disk drive (HDD), M.2 M.2 2280 PCle SSD solid state drive and 2.5 inch SATA HDD Slot×2 (SSD up to 2TB). You can expand the DIY content easily according to your needs," says Minisforum.
The computer-maker further says, "Minisforum U820/U850 supports 4K easily connecting three monitors, which can simplify and double your work efficiency, incredible clarity and maximum productivity in your workflow with excellent triple display solutions using HDMI, DisplayPort as well as USB-C output. The Minisforum U820/U850 has built-in 2.4G/5Ghz Dual-Band Wi-Fi, BT 5.1 pre-install, quick to connect your Bluetooth device such as phone, tablet, wireless keyboard, mouse, gamepad, earphone, speaker and so on."
Minisforum shares specifications below.
| Processor (U820) | Intel Core i5-8259U Processor, 4 Cores/8 Threads (6M Cache, up to 3.80 GHz) |
| Processor (U850) | Intel Core i5-10210U Processor, 4 Cores/8 Threads (6M Cache, up to 4.2 GHz) |
| Memory | DDR4 8GB×2 Dual channel (SODIMM Slots×2) |
| Storage | M.2 2280 256GB or 512GB PCIE SSD |
| Storage Expansion | 2.5 inch SATA HDD Slot×2 (SATA 3.0 6.0Gb/s) |
| Wireless Connectivity | M.2 2230 Wi-Fi support (Dual-Band Wi-Fi, BT 5.1 pre-install) |
| Ethernet | ① 1000Mbps LAN ② 2500Mbps LAN |
| Video Output | ① HDMI (4K@30Hz) , ② DisplayPort(4K@60Hz) , ③ USB-C Port(4K@60Hz) |
| Audio Output | HDMI , DisplayPort , 3.5mm Audio Jack |
| Peripherals Interface | RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Port×1 , RJ45 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Port×1 , USB 3.1 Port×4(Gen2 Blue) , USB-C Port×1(Full Featured , In Front) , USB-C Port×1( Power Supply Only , The Back) , Digital MIC x1 , Clear CMOS |
| Power | DC 19V (adapter included) , via USB-C |
| System | Windows 10 Pro |
| Product Dimension | 127×127×53.1mm |
If you are interested in buying a Minisforum Deskmini U850 or U820, you can do so immediately here. Pricing starts at $599, and that includes the 8th gen chip, 16GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD. Upgrading the processor and/or the SSD capacity will obviously cause the price to increase. Inside the box you will also get an HDMI cable, DisplayPort cable, and VESA mount.