Beelink GTi14 Mini PC review exploring Intel Ultra 9 power, gaming, and AI features

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Beelink GTi14 Mini PC hits all the right notes when it comes to design. Compact yet sturdy, it feels like a device engineered for both functionality and style. Its sleek silver finish and minimalist form factor make it a perfect fit for any desk setup. I have to admit, I was impressed by how lightweight it is, weighing just 4.33 pounds, yet it doesn’t feel flimsy at all. The inclusion of a built-in power supply eliminates the need for bulky external adapters, which is a huge plus for someone like me who hates cable clutter.

One standout feature here is the integrated fingerprint sensor. It adds an extra layer of security while being extremely convenient. I no longer have to fiddle with passwords every time I log in. The dual built-in speakers are another thoughtful touch. While they don’t replace high-end external speakers for audiophiles, they’re perfectly fine for casual use, and they help keep the desk space neat and tidy.

Performance and Hardware

When it comes to performance, this mini PC is an absolute beast. With an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor that boasts 16 cores and 22 threads, it can handle pretty much anything I throw at it. Whether I’m multitasking with several apps open or editing 4K videos, everything runs smoothly. The 5.1 GHz clock speed ensures lightning-fast performance, and I noticed zero lag even during demanding tasks.

The built-in Intel Arc Graphics deserves a shout-out too. It supports hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which means gaming and visual rendering are an absolute pleasure. I tested it with a couple of graphic-heavy games, and the results were sharp, immersive, and incredibly detailed. For those who dabble in AI computing, the 34.5 TOPS of AI computing power is a game-changer.

Connectivity and Ports

One of the standout features is how many connectivity options this mini PC offers. With dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, I achieved stable and ultra-fast internet speeds that made both gaming and streaming seamless. It even supports Wi-Fi 7, delivering speeds up to 23Gbps, which is just insane. I tested the Bluetooth 5.4 for connecting my wireless peripherals, and the range and reliability were noticeably better than older Bluetooth standards.

The assortment of ports is another highlight. With USB 3.2, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and DisplayPort, I was able to connect multiple devices without any hiccups. The Thunderbolt 4 port particularly impressed me with its 40Gbps data transfer capability. This level of versatility makes it a great choice for professionals and gamers alike.

Storage and Expandability

Storage is another area where this mini PC shines. It comes with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, expandable up to 96GB, and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. Let me tell you, the speed of this SSD is unreal. I transferred a 20GB file in less than a minute. The dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots allow for even more storage, which is perfect for someone like me who works with large media files.

There’s even a PCIe 4.0 x8 slot for external GPU expansion, which adds another layer of flexibility. If you’re into high-end gaming or advanced graphic tasks, this feature is a lifesaver. The inclusion of SD 4.0 support was an unexpected bonus; I used it to quickly transfer files from my camera.

Positives

Here are some of the winning points I noticed during my experience:

• Powerful Intel Ultra 9 Processor with 16 cores and 22 threads for seamless multitasking.
• AI-powered voice interaction and noise reduction for clear communication.
• Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for fast and reliable wireless connectivity.
• Compact design with an integrated power supply to reduce clutter.
• Multiple ports including Thunderbolt 4 for ultra-fast data transfer and connectivity.

Areas for Improvement

While the Beelink GTi14 is impressive, it’s not without its shortcomings:

• The integrated speakers, while convenient, lack the depth and richness of external audio systems.
• Price point might feel steep for casual users, though the features justify it for professionals.
• The fan noise is slightly noticeable under heavy loads, which could bother some users.

Competing Products

Stacking the Beelink GTi14 Mini PC against competitors like the Intel NUC 13 Pro and HP EliteDesk 800 G6, it becomes clear where this device excels. The Intel NUC 13 Pro, for example, offers similar processing power but lacks the extensive port selection and AI voice interaction features. On the other hand, the HP EliteDesk 800 G6 boasts excellent security features, but its design feels bulkier and less modern compared to this mini PC.

One area where the Beelink product holds its ground is in expandability. The inclusion of dual M.2 PCIe slots and a PCIe 4.0 x8 GPU slot is something that neither of these competitors offers. However, the fan noise and speaker quality are areas where the HP EliteDesk edges out slightly, offering quieter performance and better audio output.

Price Worthiness

Evaluating the price to quality ratio, this mini PC feels like a solid investment. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the feature set—AI capabilities, Thunderbolt 4 support, and high-speed connectivity—makes it worth every penny. For professionals, gamers, and even tech enthusiasts, the performance and expandability options make this device a smart choice.

For someone who appreciates cutting-edge technology packed into a compact form, this device ticks most of the boxes. While it’s not flawless, its advanced specs and practical features make it stand out in the crowded mini PC market.

Additional information