Computers come in all shapes and sizes, but the Khadas Mind Mini PC is a true shape-shifter. The base computer is no bigger than a normal-sized hand, but you can add a dock and a powerful graphics processor unit. There’s even a leather carrying case.
The product costs $799, which seems a bit steep until you realize this is a powerful small computer meant for real office work. The fact that you can add more modules to make it even more powerful and versatile is a boon to productivity and a good practical solution.
I’ve always liked the Mac Mini because it fits so nicely on a desk. The first iterations of the Mac Mini were a bit slow and not exactly ideal for high-end graphics work. Lately, mini computers have overcome all of the doubts when they first launched.
After testing the Khadas Mind Mini PC for a few weeks now, I can say it is every bit as powerful as I would like from a normal office desktop or laptop. Yet, it’s small enough to fit next to my mouse without taking up extra real-estate. And, it is perfectly silent.
I also tested the docking station and found that add-on to be a real game-changer at my desk. I was able to connect an HDMI cable, a webcam that uses USB-C, and an extra storage device. I never had any issues with compatibility or any crashes. My only slight issue during my test period is that the computer would go into a deep sleep at times and I had to press the power button a couple of times to get the Mind Mini PC to power on.
The Mind Graphics eGPU module was the most curious addition, even if I was not able to test it. With this expansion to graphics power, you can connect an 8K display and dive into serious 3D rendering and graphics work. The module is much bigger than the computer itself and also costs more, at $999. The add-on sports a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti Desktop GPU (with 8GB GDDR6) so gamers will also be happy.
I loved the idea of having this type of power to add to the base machine, and a rep at Khadas told me they plan to realize more expansion devices.
The base computer has some nice extras. One is that it can run on internal battery power for up to 25 hours in case there’s an outage. The 13th Gen Intel Core i7 1360P is no slouch. This is a mini computer that’s meant for the modern age of multiple apps running, browsers with a ton of tabs open, and yet power left over for streaming media and graphics editing.
Weighly only about 15 ounces, the Mini PC is also highly portable. I imagined someone could use this computer at work for office productivity chores, then slip it into a pouch and use it at home quite easily. Is a laptop a better way to go? Maybe, but I like the small size and big power better than having a laptop connected to a large display at my desk.
I highly recommend the computer for anyone who wants power and a small size, especially if you are tight on space at your desk. It’s my favorite small PC these days.