Beelink EQi12

The **Beelink EQi12** presents itself as a compact, budget-friendly Mini PC that offers decent specifications for basic office work, media consumption, and light multitasking. Priced starting at $349, the EQi12 comes in two versions: one with an **Intel Core i5-12450H** and another with an **Intel Core i7-12650H**. Both configurations are paired with **24GB of LPDDR5 RAM** and **1TB of SSD storage**, which is suitable for most general use cases. However, while the specs are adequate for basic tasks, they fall short of providing strong performance for more demanding applications or future-proofing compared to similarly priced model.

In terms of processing power, the **Intel Core i5-12450H** and **Intel Core i7-12650H** are part of Intel's **12th Gen Alder Lake** series. These CPUs feature **8 cores (i5)** and **10 cores (i7)**, but both are already somewhat dated in comparison to AMD options, like the **AMD Ryzen 5 6600H** or **Ryzen 7 6800H**. The i5's base clock of **1.2 GHz** and the i7's **1.4 GHz** may be sufficient for light work, but these processors are not designed to compete with more modern and efficient processors available today in the same price range. For users looking for a more cost-effective option with superior performance, AMD's Ryzen 6000-series chips offer a better balance of price and performance.

The **Intel UHD Graphics** found in the EQi12 is another weak point. While it supports **4K 60Hz** playback and can handle light gaming or 3D rendering, it is outdated and cannot compare to dedicated graphics or newer integrated GPUs, like those found in AMD Ryzen-powered systems or Intel's newer Iris Xe Graphics. Users seeking a better graphical experience should consider systems with **AMD Radeon Graphics** or a dedicated GPU if their needs extend beyond basic use, as the EQi12's integrated GPU won't meet the needs of those wanting to game or do more intensive visual work.

The EQi12's **cooling system** is adequate for light use, featuring a heat pipe, fan, and heat fins. However, its compact design limits its ability to handle sustained high loads, and users may experience thermal throttling during extended CPU or GPU-heavy tasks. For users expecting consistent performance under heavy workloads, this could be a limitation. Given the lack of a more robust cooling solution, the EQi12 might not be the best choice for power users or those who need a high-performance mini PC for continuous use.

On the **connectivity front**, the EQi12 offers a decent selection of ports, including **USB 3.2 Gen2**, **USB Type-C**, and **dual HDMI** outputs. However, it lacks **USB4**, which has become increasingly common in newer Mini PCs and offers much higher data transfer speeds. The absence of **USB4** means that the EQi12 falls behind competing models in terms of future-proofing and connectivity flexibility. Additionally, while the **Wi-Fi 6** support is a plus, the lack of advanced ports like **Thunderbolt** or **USB4** may make this system less appealing for users looking for faster data transfer or enhanced peripheral support.

One of the standout features of the EQi12 is its **compact form factor** (126 x 126 x 45.5 mm, 0.726L volume), which makes it easy to fit into small spaces. However, the limited upgradeability (soldered RAM) and dated CPU and GPU mean this is more of a **budget or entry-level** option rather than a future-proof or mid-range choice. Users looking for a machine that will stay relevant for a few years will likely be disappointed, as the EQi12’s hardware may struggle to keep up with more demanding workloads in the near future.

While the Beelink EQi12 does offer a good **value for basic tasks** and has a relatively low price tag, its limitations in CPU performance, GPU capabilities, and lack of USB4 support mean that it is better suited for users with modest needs. For those seeking better graphical performance, greater upgrade potential, and a more future-proof machine, alternatives like systems with **AMD Ryzen 6000-series** processors or other **Intel Core i7/i9** models with **Iris Xe Graphics** would be a better investment. At the current price, the EQi12 struggles to compete with other options that offer better overall performance.

- GhostKeyboard Review.