Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Photo of Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

The Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC is a flexible and compact computing solution powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor. It is designed for users who need a balance between high performance and space efficiency, capable of efficiently handling demanding applications and multitasking. Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, this Mini PC is ready for a modern and streamlined user experience. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM and comes with a 512GB NVMe SSD, expandable to 2TB, offering generous storage and memory options. With integrated AMD Radeon Graphics, it can drive up to three 4K displays at 60Hz, catering to multi-monitor setups. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensures fast and reliable wireless connectivity.

Pros and Cons of the Beelink SER5 MAX

Pros Cons
Compact design supporting three 4K displays Noticeable fan noise under heavy load
Strong AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor Integrated graphics may not suffice for intensive tasks
Upgradable RAM and storage Some user concerns about product longevity
High-speed Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 Potential slow QLC NVMe write speeds during heavy loading

Detailed Information about the Beelink SER5 MAX

The Beelink SER5 MAX combines performance with user-centric design. Its chassis, primarily plastic with a metal bottom plate, ensures durability without sacrificing style, featuring a fabric-like material on top for a distinctive look. Effective airflow is maintained through mesh sides, which is crucial for cooling the powerful internal components.

Connectivity is a standout feature, with various ports, including USB 3.2, USB-C that supports data and video, HDMI, DisplayPort, LAN, and a combo headphone jack. These options allow for various peripherals and displays, promoting an efficient and productive workspace. The included VESA mount also enables the Mini PC to be discreetly installed behind monitors or TVs.

Internally, the SER5 MAX is built for future upgrades. Easy access to RAM modules, NVMe storage, and a 2.5-inch SATA drive bay allows for storage expansion. The included NVMe drive delivers satisfactory performance for most tasks, and the swappable Wi-Fi module adds to the system's longevity. Despite its size, the SER5 MAX rivals many desktop PCs in performance-to-size ratio, an attractive proposition for those with space constraints.

Reviewer Insights on the Beelink SER5 MAX

Robtech's Analysis: Performance and Design

Robtech's review of the Beelink SER5 MAX highlights the device's hardware capabilities, particularly the Ryzen 5800H CPU's 54-watt configuration, which outperforms the SER5 Pro. The design, featuring a plastic body and a metal bottom plate, is appreciated, though an all-metal chassis would be preferred. The SER5 Max's port selection, including a DisplayPort, is commended. Quality internal components like AZW-branded memory and a Crucial P3 Plus NVMe drive are noted.

The SER5 Max is recognized for its 20% improvement in multi-core CPU workloads compared to the Pro model, though it trails behind the latest Ryzen CPUs by about 13%. The integrated graphics need to be updated, with minimal improvement over the Pro model. However, the SER5 Max excels in CPU-intensive tasks like emulation and gaming. The trade-off for increased power is higher power consumption and fan noise, which Robtech considers a drawback. The review concludes by acknowledging the SER5 Max's competitive price but points out that newer CPU options present intense competition. Robtech's review

Tech4All's Take: A Mini PC Masterpiece

Michael from Tech4All describes the Beelink SER5 Max as a "mini PC masterpiece," offering impressive Ryzen 7 performance at a competitive price. The design, mesh sides for airflow and the array of ports are praised for functionality and convenience. The SER5 Max's upgradability, particularly the ease of accessing internal components, is a highlight. The performance is slightly boosted due to the full utilization of the CPU's TDP, which also benefits the integrated GPU.

The device handles 1080p gaming and multimedia tasks effectively, but Michael notes that video editing and other intensive tasks may be limited by the absence of a dedicated GPU. Fan noise is mentioned as a con, but it can be managed in the BIOS. Michael concludes the SER5 Max is a solid value for those seeking Ryzen 7 performance with reasonable power consumption. However, he does not recommend it as an upgrade for current Pro model owners due to the marginal performance increase. Tech4All's review

FishBee Productions' Evaluation: Strong Everyday Performance

Brian from FishBee Productions evaluates the Beelink SER5 MAX, emphasizing its strong performance for everyday tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and gaming. The device's build quality and design, including the fabric-like material on top, are commended. Good results in Geekbench and 3DMark Time Spy benchmarks and the ability to handle 4K video playback and gaming at acceptable frame rates are praised.

The mini PC's cooling system, which includes a dual-fan design, effectively manages heat without excessive noise. Brian notes that the SER5 MAX, marketed as an upgrade from the Surf 5 Pro with a 10% performance boost, showed performance nearly identical to the Pro model in his tests. In conclusion, the SER5 MAX is recommended as one of the better mini PCs tested, suitable for various tasks, and offering good value. FishBee Productions' review

Customer Feedback on the Beelink SER5 MAX

Customer reviews of the Beelink SER5 MAX generally reflect satisfaction with the device's performance and design. The compact size enables a tidy workspace without compromising computing power. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800 model is noted for its swift setup and clean operating system, valued for its efficiency.

Users report performance improvement when upgrading from older systems, with the Beelink SER5 MAX easily handling applications like Photoshop. Windows 11 Pro's customization features are well-received, and the mini PC's affordability and expansion potential are significant benefits.

However, a customer experienced a product failure after the warranty period, leading to dissatisfaction with the power supply issues and replacement process. Beelink's refund of the shipping costs for the replacement partially redeemed the situation.

While most reviews are positive, some concerns about product durability and customer service are noted. One customer suggests purchasing directly from Beelink for better service.

Conclusion

The Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC is an excellent choice for users looking for a compact yet powerful computing solution. Ideal for video editing, graphic design, and multitasking with demanding applications, it also supports multiple 4K displays, making it great for complex workspace setups.

However, there may be better options for gaming enthusiasts or those who need silent operation. Users can explore options using Starry Hope's Mini PC Comparison App for a broader range of Mini PCs.

Related Videos

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC

Price

List Price: $439.00

Amazon Prices:

List Price: $459.00

Amazon Prices:

List Price: $479.00

Amazon Prices:

List Price: $499.00

Amazon Prices:
Version16GB/512GB/Ryzen 7 5800H16GB/1TB/Ryzen 7 5800H32GB/512GB/Ryzen 7 5800H32GB/1TB/Ryzen 7 5800H
Perfomance Rating7.67.68.58.5
Operating SystemWindows 11 ProWindows 11 ProWindows 11 ProWindows 11 Pro
ProcessorOcta-core 3.20 Ghz (max 4.40 Ghz)
AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
Octa-core 3.20 Ghz (max 4.40 Ghz)
AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
Octa-core 3.20 Ghz (max 4.40 Ghz)
AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
Octa-core 3.20 Ghz (max 4.40 Ghz)
AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
GPUIntegrated AMD Radeon GraphicsIntegrated AMD Radeon GraphicsIntegrated AMD Radeon GraphicsIntegrated AMD Radeon Graphics
RAM16 GB DDR4 SO-DIMM, 2-channel (Can upgrade to 64GB, 2 x 32GB, Max 3200MHz)16 GB DDR4 SO-DIMM, 2-channel (Can upgrade to 64GB, 2 x 32GB, Max 3200MHz)32 GB DDR4 SO-DIMM, 2-channel (Can upgrade to 64GB, 2 x 32GB, Max 3200MHz)32 GB DDR4 SO-DIMM, 2-channel (Can upgrade to 64GB, 2 x 32GB, Max 3200MHz)
Internal Storage512 GB m.2 NVMe1 TB m.2 NVMe512 GB m.2 NVMe1 TB m.2 NVMe
Dimensions
width x length x thickness
4.96 x 4.45 x 1.65 inches
(125.98 x 113.03 x 41.91 mm)
4.96 x 4.45 x 1.65 inches
(125.98 x 113.03 x 41.91 mm)
4.96 x 4.45 x 1.65 inches
(125.98 x 113.03 x 41.91 mm)
4.96 x 4.45 x 1.65 inches
(125.98 x 113.03 x 41.91 mm)
Weightunknownunknownunknownunknown
WiFiWiFi 6WiFi 6WiFi 6WiFi 6
Bluetooth5.25.25.25.2
Ethernet1 Ethernet port at 1 Gbps1 Ethernet port at 1 Gbps1 Ethernet port at 1 Gbps1 Ethernet port at 1 Gbps
HDMI1 Full Sized HDMI Ports1 Full Sized HDMI Ports1 Full Sized HDMI Ports1 Full Sized HDMI Ports
DisplayPort1 DisplayPort1 DisplayPort1 DisplayPort1 DisplayPort
VGANo VGA PortsNo VGA PortsNo VGA PortsNo VGA Ports
USB Ports1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 1 USB-C
Type-C port supports data and video
1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 1 USB-C
Type-C port supports data and video
1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 1 USB-C
Type-C port supports data and video
1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 1 USB-C
Type-C port supports data and video
Thunderbolt PortsNoNoNoNo
Internal SATA Ports1 SATA port, includes 2.5" drive bay1 SATA port, includes 2.5" drive bay1 SATA port, includes 2.5" drive bay1 SATA port, includes 2.5" drive bay
Card ReaderNo Card ReaderNo Card ReaderNo Card ReaderNo Card Reader
Headphone JackCombo Headphone/Mic JackCombo Headphone/Mic JackCombo Headphone/Mic JackCombo Headphone/Mic Jack
FanlessNoNoNoNo
VESA MountYesYesYesYes
In the BoxMini PC, 2 x HDMI Cables, Power Adapter, VESA Mount with Screws, User ManualMini PC, 2 x HDMI Cables, Power Adapter, VESA Mount with Screws, User ManualMini PC, 2 x HDMI Cables, Power Adapter, VESA Mount with Screws, User ManualMini PC, 2 x HDMI Cables, Power Adapter, VESA Mount with Screws, User Manual
ExpandabilityRAM expandable up to 64GB, m.2 storage expandable up to 2TB, 2.5" SATA SSD/HDD bay.RAM expandable up to 64GB, m.2 storage expandable up to 2TB, 2.5" SATA SSD/HDD bay.RAM expandable up to 64GB, m.2 storage expandable up to 2TB, 2.5" SATA SSD/HDD bay.RAM expandable up to 64GB, m.2 storage expandable up to 2TB, 2.5" SATA SSD/HDD bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What operating system does the Beelink SER5 MAX Mini PC come with?

It comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, providing a rich feature set.

Can I upgrade the RAM on the Beelink SER5 MAX?

Yes, the Mini PC supports RAM upgrades up to 64GB with two DDR4 SODIMM modules.

Does the Beelink SER5 MAX support multiple monitors?

It supports up to three 4K displays at 60Hz through its HDMI and DisplayPort outputs.

Is the storage on the Beelink SER5 MAX expandable?

It features a 500GB NVMe SSD expandable up to 2TB and a 2.5" SATA bay for additional storage.

What kind of cooling system does the Beelink SER5 MAX use?

The Mini PC uses a dual-fan design to cool the CPU and system components efficiently.

How does the Beelink SER5 MAX handle gaming?

It can manage casual gaming and some AAA titles at 1080p, but the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics may need more high-end gaming.

Is the Beelink SER5 MAX fanless?

No, it has a dual-fan cooling system to manage the heat from its powerful Ryzen 7 processor.