In the market for a mini PC that offers excellent value for its price? The Beelink U59 has been garnering attention as one of the best options for budget-conscious users. Combining compact design, respectable performance, and a variety of useful features, the Beelink U59 makes for an ideal choice for everyday computing. Below, we provide a detailed review of its features, advantages, and potential limitations to help you determine if it’s the right mini PC for you.
Overview of Beelink U59 Features
The Beelink U59 has been specifically designed for users seeking an affordable yet reliable mini PC. It balances a small footprint with enough power to handle basic computing tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media playback. Here are the standout features that make this model appealing:
- Processor: The Beelink U59 is powered by the Intel Celeron N5105. This quad-core processor runs at a base frequency of 2.0 GHz, with a turbo boost up to 2.9 GHz, ensuring a smooth user experience during standard tasks.
- Graphics: Equipped with Intel UHD Graphics 605, the mini PC provides decent graphical performance for less resource-intensive tasks such as video streaming and casual applications.
- RAM and Storage: The system offers multiple configurations, with 8GB or 16GB DDR4 RAM and an M.2 2280 SATA SSD storage option that supports up to 512GB. Both the RAM and storage can be upgraded, which adds to its flexibility.
- Operating System: It comes pre-installed with a licensed version of Windows 11 Pro, ensuring you’re ready to use the latest Microsoft OS right out of the box.
Connectivity Options
One of the most significant advantages of the Beelink U59 is its extensive connectivity, which makes it versatile for both home and office setups:
- Dual HDMI ports: Supporting up to two external displays, the Beelink U59 is ideal for multitasking setups.
- USB-C and USB 3.0 ports: Multiple USB 3.0 ports are included for high-speed data transfers, and the addition of a USB-C port further enhances its utility.
- Dual Gigabit Ethernet jacks: For users who require wired internet connectivity, the dual Ethernet jacks ensure reliable network performance, with options for backup connectivity.
- Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.0: While the Beelink U59 uses slightly older wireless standards, its Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.0 capabilities still provide solid, dependable performance.
Pros of the Beelink U59
Compact and Space-Saving Design
At just 124 mm x 113 mm x 42 mm, the Beelink U59 is incredibly compact, allowing it to fit seamlessly into any setup. Its small footprint makes it perfect for environments with limited desk space. Despite its size, it’s robust enough to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without lag.
Energy Efficiency
The Beelink U59 is designed with energy efficiency in mind. The low thermal design power (TDP) of 15W means it consumes very little power compared to traditional desktops, making it both eco-friendly and economical. This is ideal for users looking for a device that can stay powered on for long periods without consuming large amounts of electricity.
Expandability
One of the strengths of the Beelink U59 is its expandability. Users can easily upgrade both the RAM and storage to suit their needs. The device is built with accessibility in mind, allowing for quick upgrades, which significantly extends its lifespan as your demands evolve.
Decent Performance for Everyday Tasks
While the Beelink U59 may not be suitable for high-performance computing tasks, it excels in basic applications such as web browsing, document processing, email management, and media consumption. Thanks to its quad-core processor, it provides smooth multitasking for general productivity without hiccups.
Cons of the Beelink U59
Limited Graphics Capabilities
One of the primary drawbacks of the Beelink U59 is its lack of dedicated graphics. The Intel UHD Graphics 605 provides just enough power for basic tasks like video playback and web browsing. However, it’s unsuitable for gaming or heavy-duty graphic applications, making it a poor choice for users who need advanced graphical processing.
SATA-Only SSD Slot
While the Beelink U59 includes an M.2 2280 slot for storage, it’s worth noting that this slot only supports SATA SSDs, which offer lower data transfer speeds compared to NVMe SSDs. If storage speed is a priority, this may be a limiting factor in your decision.
Older Connectivity Standards
The Beelink U59’s use of Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.0 could be seen as a disadvantage when compared to devices that support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, which offer faster speeds and greater range. While these standards are adequate for most tasks, they may not meet the expectations of users requiring cutting-edge wireless performance.
Price and Value for Money
One of the key selling points of the Beelink U59 is its affordability. Priced at around $209, it offers exceptional value for those in need of a reliable, everyday computing solution. Its cost-effectiveness, combined with its solid performance, makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers. While higher-end mini PCs come with more powerful processors and advanced features, the Beelink U59 strikes an excellent balance between cost and functionality for general-purpose use.
Who Should Buy the Beelink U59?
The Beelink U59 is an excellent choice for users looking for a budget-friendly mini PC capable of handling basic computing tasks. It’s perfect for those who require a small form-factor device for web browsing, media streaming, and office applications without needing to break the bank. Additionally, it’s a great solution for home offices, businesses, or educational environments where cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency are top priorities.
However, users who require advanced graphics processing or want the latest in wireless technology may want to consider other options. For casual users, the Beelink U59 offers everything you need in a compact, energy-efficient, and cost-effective package.
Final Thoughts on the Beelink U59
The Beelink U59 shines as one of the best budget-friendly mini PCs currently on the market. Its compact design, solid performance, and affordable price make it a practical option for users seeking an entry-level device for general computing tasks. While it may not suit high-end gaming or resource-intensive applications, it excels in everyday tasks like document editing, media consumption, and light multitasking. For those on a budget or those in need of a secondary computer, the Beelink U59 is an option well worth considering.