The latest Windows 10 Mini PC from Chuwi is the Herobox. A fanless passively cooled Celeron N4100, however with a few differences. This one is using a 12W TDP (Power limit 1) double the normal or default power limit from Intel. So performance is better than others I’ve reviewed as a result, and the RAM 8GB of it is running in dual channel config which also helps. But due to that increased power limit, it does generate more heat when pushed as you’ll see in the below video review of the Chuwi Herobox.
Chuwi Herobox specs:
- Intel “Gemini Lake” Celeron N4100. Four cores. 2.4Ghz max single thread or 2.3Ghz all 4 cores.
- 8GB of DDR4 RAM in dual channel
- 180GB Intel SSD (Sata3 22x80mm, M2)
- 2.5″ SSD/HDD bay for adding more storage
- Intel Wireless AC 3165 + BT 4.2
- Realtek Gigabit LAN
- 2 x USB 3.0 Type-A
- 1 x USB 3.0 Type-C
- 2 x USB 2.0
- VGA, HDMI 2.0A
- 3.5mm out with mic support
- MicroSD slot (USB 2.0 spec)
- Windows 10 Home
- Selling for $179 at Banggood with coupon BGSPCW
The Good:
- Overall thanks to the dual-channel RAM and more importantly the 12W power limit set in the bios the Chuwi Herobox can hold 2.3Ghz across all 4 cores, also the Intel HD 600 integrated GPU will hold better clocks providing better GPU performance than others tested.
- Demanding 4k 140Mpbs HEVC 10bit files run great on this little unit as long as you use Kodi.
- Linux runs well (Linux Mint tested)
- VGA is handy for those running old monitors or projectors. But I would have preferred another HDMI out instead.
The Bad:
- No internal microphone for Cortana.
- Because of the 12W TDP when pushed hard it will hit 99 degrees C but not throttle. (TJ Max is 105 degrees)