Aoostar N1 PRO

The Aoostar N1 PRO positions itself as an ultra-compact budget mini PC, featuring Intel's Twin Lake N150 processor (6M Cache, up to 3.6GHz) and 12GB of non-upgradable LPDDR5-4400 RAM in a palm-sized 89×89×42mm chassis weighing just 0.22kg. Priced at $139 for the no-storage configuration, it undercuts most competitors while offering surprising connectivity: dual 2.5GbE ports (Intel i226-V NICs), three USB 3.2 ports, and DisplayPort/HDMI 2.0 outputs via its USB-C (DP Alt Mode) port. The N150's single-core performance (Geekbench 6 ST=1230) proves adequate for basic tasks like web browsing and office work, though its multi-core limitations (MT=2703) and soldered RAM make it unsuitable for virtualization or intensive workloads.

Where the N1 PRO truly stands out is in networking applications. The dual 2.5GbE ports achieve 2.35Gbit/s throughput in iperf3 tests, making this $139 device a compelling option for lightweight router builds or as a compute node in NAS-dependent virtualization setups. However, its storage limitations are glaring—the single M.2 2242 slot (supporting NVMe/SATA SSDs up to 2TB) uses slower SATA protocol by default, and 2242 drives remain scarce and expensive compared to standard 2280 NVMe SSDs. The Realtek 8821CE WiFi 5 module also feels outdated in 2025, with Bluetooth 4.2 lagging behind current 5.x standards. Thermal performance is acceptable (74°C peak in benchmarks) though the active cooler becomes audible in quiet environments.

Value-wise, the N1 PRO's $139 base price makes it one of the most affordable LPDDR5-equipped mini PCs available. It outperforms DDR4-based N100 systems in memory bandwidth (AIDA64 shows 4400 MT/s vs typical DDR4-3200), but the non-upgradable RAM and niche 2242 storage limit long-term flexibility. Compared to pricier alternatives like the Beelink EQ12 (N100, ~$169), the Aoostar sacrifices upgradability and WiFi 6 for cost savings. For users needing a silent, ultra-compact PC for basic tasks or specialized networking roles, the N1 PRO delivers unique value—but most buyers would benefit from spending slightly more for upgradable systems with better storage options and wireless connectivity.

- GhostKeyboard Review.