Chuwi HeroBox 2023 is yet another Intel Processor N100 mini PC equipped with 8GB LPDDR5 memory and a 256GB M.2 NVMe SSD, but it may offer some extra features compared to competitors with space for a 2.5-inch SATA drive, five USB ports, and HDMI and VGA video output ports for $159 plus shipping.
Chuwi HeroBox 2023 N100 specifications:
- SoC – Intel Processor N100 Alder Lake-N quad-core/quad-thread processor @ up to 3.4 GHz (Turbo) with 6MB cache, 24EU Intel HD graphics @ up to 750 MHz; TDP: 6W
- System Memory – 8GB LPDDR5 soldered-on board
- Storage
- 256 GB M.2 2280 PCIe SSD (replaceable)
- 2.5-inch SATA bay for HDD or SSD
- MicroSD card socket
- Video Output – 1x HDMI 2.0 port up to 4Kp60, VGA output
- Audio – 3.5mm audio jack, digital audio output via HDMI
- Networking
- Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 wireless module
- USB – 2x USB 3.0 ports, 2x USB 2.0 ports, 1x USB 3.0 Type-C port
- Misc – Power button, Reset pinhole, heatsink and fan for active cooling
- Power Supply – 12V/3A via DC jack (5.5/2.5mm)
- Dimensions – 187.6 x 138.3 x 37.3 mm
- Weight – 505 grams
- Surface material – Plastic (PC+ABS injection molding+black matte material)
The mini PC comes pre-loaded with Windows 11 and ships with a 12V/3A power adapter, a VESA mount, a multi-lingual user manual, a certificate of conformity, and a quality certificate. I used to write Linux should run fine on this type of mini PC since we could install Ubuntu 22.04 in the Beelink EQ12 (Processor N100) mini PC review, and most other mini PCs run just fine with Linux, but our recent review of the Blackview MP80 mini PC shows it’s not always the case, and while Ubuntu 22.04 would boot we could not install it on that specific mini PC with Blackview then replying Linux was not supported at this time…
Chuwi also has a mixed history with Linux support. I wrote instructions to install Ubuntu 17.04 on the Chuwi LapBook 14.1 in 2017, but the company changed the hardware design while keeping the same specifications, and removed the Linux option in the BIOS, so a few months later Ubuntu was not compatible with the laptop anymore.
The good thing about having so many companies introduce Alder Lake-N mini PCs is that they have to compete, so there are some decent deals and the $159 price tag for the Chuwi HeroBox 2023 N100 is not too bad, and the pocket-sized Blackview MP80 mini PC is currently sold for $139 albeit for a limited time. More details may also be found on the product page.
Via Liliputing
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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Not using USB-C PD for power is a big fail. I would assume the power brick is as usual larger than the PC. Also no mention whether the casing is metal or plastic.
I’ll try to find info about he enclosure material and add it to the post.
It’s easy to cheat PD to output 12V
The MicroSD card slot is a plus, not found on many otter boxes using this processor.
USB 2.0 though? Not for me, especially when I can get 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 and 2 elsewhere.
I’m not sure if VGA is a selling point, with an additional HDMI likely being more desirable.
Once I factor in shipping and VAT, it still doesn’t offer the same value that I can get from other manufacturers and being delivered locally from the jungle store.
LarkBox X 2023 from the same store is probably a better choice.
I bought an earlier Herobox and it became my primary PC. The basic storage is too low but adding a 1 tb SSD solved that. What really appeals is the zero noise with no fan and SSD. Good value no serious issues.