The ACEMAGIC S1 Mini PC, adorned with an integrated LCD display, emerges as a tech chameleon, gracefully adapting to diverse needs and encapsulating a complete PC experience within its compact form factor. As we delve into its dimensions, this mini PC proves to be more than just a small tiny computer; it's a versatile companion for unleashing your creative projects.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Mini PCs, ACEMAGIC's offering stands out, not just for its diminutive size but for its distinctive features. With an array of ports, including two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0, it accommodates various peripherals seamlessly, from game controllers to additional storage devices. Moreover, the inclusion of two HDMI ports supporting dual 4K Displays enhances its versatility. Our review takes you on a journey through its intricacies, exploring its adaptability and envisioning the boundless possibilities it presents. Join us in unlocking the full potential of the ACEMAGIC S1 Mini PC!
Specifications
- Current Price: $249.95 (Amazon) - Use Code: JFC08D6M - 8% off + $30 discount
- CPU: Intel N97
- Memory: 16GB Lexar S0-DIMM DDR4 2666
- Storage: 512GB MasonSemi NVMe M.2 2280
- Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 1.20 GHz
- Network:
- Dual Gigabit Lan
- Wi-Fi 802.11ac 2.4G + 5G Dual band
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: 4.87 X 5.03 x 1.61 inches
- Weight: 2.42 lbs.
- Ports:
- 2x USB 2.0 Ports
- 2x USB 3.0 Ports
- 2x HDMI Ports
- 1x Aux
- 2x Network Ports
- 1x Kensington lock
- 1x DC-IN port
- Display: Onboard LCD Panel
Editor's Note: ACEMAGIC has extended MMORPG.com readers a special discount on this model. Use code JFC08D6M for $30 off your order plus an additional 8% discount! We would like to thank ACEMAGIC for providing this discount to our readers.
ACEMAGIC S1 - Design and Features
The ACEMAGIC S1 Mini PC boasts an attractive aesthetic that seamlessly complements any desk setting. Its compact form factor, measuring 4.87 X 5.03 x 1.61 inches, is subtle yet impactful, featuring a magnetic side panel for easy access to the SO-DIMM slot and M.2 2280 slot. The black chassis with gray trim is versatile enough to blend with various setups, and its magnetic base allows for vertical placement. What truly distinguishes the ACEMAGIC S1 Mini PC is its built-in LCD display, offering customizable data readouts through the pre-installed software. With options for themes, backgrounds, and other personalization, this Mini PC stands out among the crowd.
The screen's displayed data, though limited, serves as a valuable source of information, including CPU temperature, load, power, memory load, time, data, and fan speed. Its utility depends on the Mini PC's specific use, making it particularly advantageous for scenarios like deploying it as a PfSense firewall. With dual network ports and a data readout, this Mini PC excels in providing essential information for specific applications.
It's essential to note that in the event of an operating system reinstallation, the preloaded software controlling the front screen isn't readily available for download on the acemagic.com website. For assistance, users may need to reach out to their support services.
ACEMAGIC S1 - Performance
Straight out of the package, the S1 was primed for action, equipped with Windows 11 Pro. Following a standard Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) setup, I swiftly delved into exploration. The S1 Mini PC operates seamlessly for everyday tasks, from web browsing on Chrome to crafting articles in Word. Its capacity extends beyond the ordinary, prompting me to transform it into a retro gaming hub using RetroArch for NES, SNES, Sega, and even some PS1 titles, handling each effortlessly. Seeking to gauge its performance, I ran benchmarks, garnering a verified 3162 in PCMARK 10 and scoring 2865 pts for Multi-Core and 963 Pts for Single-Core in Cinebench R23.
Commencing with 3DMark Time Spy, the S1 Mini PC garnered an overall score of 547, with the CPU achieving an impressive 2519 while the GPU score experienced a minor setback at 481. My quest for thorough evaluation led me to Fire Strike, where the S1 earned a score of 1534. Notably, the GPU scored 1667, and the physics score reached a commendable 6558.
These results are middle of the road as far as PCs go but demonstrate that the S1 has potential for solid performance for browsing, productivity, emulation, and even some light creative work. It will not be the fastest for video rendering but it’s able to handle 1080p video and photo editing, provided you don’t mind waiting a bit longer on renders. It can also handle some light gaming, especially if you enjoy indie games or retro titles.
Throughout my benchmarking sessions, the thermal performance of the S1 proved to be consistently robust, maintaining a stable temperature of 70 degrees Celsius even under heavy loads. It was simple to track using the built-in LCD panel. This impressive thermal management is attributed to the implementation of copper heat pipes, enhancing heat conduction, coupled with a well-thought-out bottom ventilation design. Noteworthy is the S1's ability to remain notably quiet even when subjected to demanding workloads.
In a confined space within my entertainment center, where airflow was somewhat restricted, the S1 exhibited a minor impact on temperature, showing an increase of merely 0.5-1 degree. This underscores the effectiveness of its thermal design, ensuring reliable performance in various environmental conditions.
ACEMAGIC S1 - Connectivity
Within its compact dimensions, the S1 Mini PC unfolds a striking array of IO possibilities. Boasting two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 ports, users enjoy seamless connections for game controllers or extra storage devices. The S1 further extends its versatility with dual 4K display support through two HDMI ports, catering to diverse computing demands. The inclusion of dual gigabit network ports, though typically surplus for daily use, opens possibilities for projects like transforming it into a NAS or Firewall, capable of managing incoming and outgoing traffic.
ACEMAGIC S1 - Upgradeability
The ACEMAGIC S1 Mini PC comes equipped with a MasonSemi MC3000 512GB NVMe drive, employing PCIe 3.0x4 for commendable speed, albeit a few generations behind the latest. With a storage capacity supporting up to 2TB and operating at Gen 3 speeds, it offers ample space for various applications. Accompanied by 16GB of Lexar 1Rx8 PC4-3200 SO-DIMM RAM in a single slot configuration, this memory configuration strikes a balance between capacity and current hardware standards. While the Intel N97 chipset supports a maximum of 16GB, the potential for faster DDR5 remains untapped, as it wasn't tested. This versatile setup ensures the S1 Mini PC's adaptability to a wide array of projects, guaranteeing scalability to meet future demands.
Final Thoughts
The ACEMAGIC S1 Mini PC stands out as a remarkable solution in the realm of compact computing, offering a blend of versatility and cost-effective performance. Its compact design conceals a powerhouse capable of handling diverse tasks, whether you're aiming for a discreet computing setup, a versatile NAS, a robust firewall, or any number of other innovative projects. The S1 Mini PC doesn't just meet expectations; it exceeds them with its adaptability and impressive cost-to-performance ratio.
For those in search of a project box or a reliable PC for the living room, the ACEMAGIC S1 rises to the occasion, offering a comprehensive solution at an appealing price point of $249.95 -- or less. As of this writing, the PC can be had for less than $200! And don't forget, you can also benefit from the $30 + 8% discount by using code JFC08D6M. It's not just a mini-PC; it's a gateway to endless possibilities in a compact form factor.
The product described in this article was provided by the manufacturer for evaluation purposes. Products purchased through our links may result in a small commission for the site; however, authors are not compensated based on clicks or commissions.
