Beelink SER9

The Beelink SER9 is a compact Mini PC designed for users who demand high performance in a small form factor. Powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, it boasts 12 cores, 24 threads, and integrated Radeon 890M graphics based on RDNA 3.5 architecture. This combination delivers impressive results for gaming, multitasking, and professional workloads. With 32GB of soldered LPDDR5X RAM and dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots supporting up to 8TB of storage, the SER9 offers robust specifications for modern computing needs.

Its sleek design houses advanced connectivity options, including USB 4, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.4, enabling support for multiple 4K displays. Additionally, the SER9 integrates AI capabilities, making it a forward-looking choice for users exploring AI-assisted workflows. While its soldered memory limits expandability, the SER9’s performance and versatility make it a strong contender in the Mini PC market.

Detailed Look at the Beelink SER9

The Beelink SER9 is powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, a cutting-edge chip featuring 12 cores (4 Zen 5 performance cores and 8 Zen 5c efficiency cores) and 24 threads. With a base clock speed of 2.0 GHz and a boost up to 5.1 GHz, this processor delivers exceptional performance for demanding tasks like gaming, 4K video editing, and AI-assisted workflows. The integrated Radeon 890M GPU, based on RDNA 3.5 architecture, offers graphics performance comparable to entry-level discrete GPUs, making it capable of running modern games at 1080p with smooth frame rates. Additionally, the 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM, clocked at 7500 MT/s, enhances system responsiveness and supports GPU-intensive applications, though the soldered memory limits future upgrades.

Storage is another strong point for the SER9, with dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots that accommodate up to 8TB of SSD storage. This flexibility is ideal for users who need ample space for large files or applications. Connectivity options are robust, including USB 4 with Thunderbolt 3, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.4, allowing the SER9 to simultaneously support up to three 4K 120Hz displays. Including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensures reliable wireless connections, though the lack of Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 may disappoint users seeking the latest networking standards.

Despite its compact size, the SER9 has a well-designed cooling system that keeps noise levels low, even under heavy workloads. The device also features a sleek, minimalist design, lacking a VESA mount for flexible placement. While the SER9’s soldered RAM and high price point may deter some users, its performance, storage expandability, and advanced features make it a compelling option for gamers, content creators, and professionals seeking a powerful Mini PC.

What Reviewers Are Saying About the Beelink SER9

ServeTheHome’s Take on the Beelink SER9

Patrick from ServeTheHome describes the Beelink SER9 as a significant leap forward in Mini PC technology, thanks to its AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and Radeon 890M GPU. He highlights the SER9’s ability to deliver a 30-50% improvement in graphics performance compared to its predecessor, achieving 80-90 FPS in esports titles at 4K resolution. Patrick also praises its power efficiency, noting idle power consumption of just 7-9 watts and low noise levels even under stress. However, he criticizes the lack of expandability, particularly the soldered RAM, and the absence of Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7. He also finds the $1,000 price tag steep compared to alternatives like the Beelink SER8 or competing models with better expandability. Patrick concludes that the SER9 is ideal for users prioritizing integrated performance and efficiency but is less appealing to those needing flexibility or a lower price point.

Patrick also appreciates the SER9’s compact design and the addition of features like a dust filter, though he finds accessing the filter cumbersome. He notes that the integrated GPU rivals entry-level discrete GPUs like the NVIDIA GTX 1650 Ti, making it a strong choice for casual gaming and GPU-intensive tasks. However, he points out that the system’s AI-focused NPU, while forward-looking, may not yet have widespread practical applications. In his words, “The new generation of AMD Ryzen AI processors changes our relationship with the CPU and memory, significantly increasing GPU compute, making it a much better system for gaming compared to the previous generation.”

Robtech’s Review Highlights

Robtech, in his review, calls the Beelink SER9 the fastest Mini PC of its size, thanks to its cutting-edge AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 processor and RDNA 3.5 integrated graphics. He emphasizes the SER9’s ability to handle demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 and God of War at 1080p, noting a 20-23% performance improvement over previous AMD models. Robtech praises the SER9’s sleek design, robust connectivity, and quiet operation, but he critiques the lack of Wi-Fi 7 and the soldered RAM, which limits upgradability. He also mentions that the SER9’s price may push some users toward alternatives with discrete GPUs, which offer better gaming performance at similar price points.

Robtech highlights the SER9’s ability to support up to three 4K 120Hz displays and its compatibility with external GPUs via USB 4. However, he notes that the included power supply is bulky, particularly in the Australian version, and lacking a VESA mount is a missed opportunity. Despite these drawbacks, he concludes that the SER9 is an excellent choice for users seeking top-tier performance in a compact form factor. “The Beelink S9 is the fastest Mini PC of this size right now, with class-leading CPU and integrated graphics performance,” he states.

Digital Foundry’s Perspective

Digital Foundry’s review praises the Beelink SER9 for its compact design, quiet operation, and solid performance. Powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, the SER9 delivers strong gaming performance, particularly in CPU-heavy titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man. However, the review notes diminishing returns in performance at higher power levels, with only a modest improvement when moving from 30W to 65W. Digital Foundry also highlights the SER9’s limitations in memory bandwidth, which constrain its potential in graphically demanding games like Alan Wake 2.

The review appreciates the SER9’s premium build quality and robust connectivity options, including USB 4 and dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots. However, the lack of Thunderbolt support and eGPU compatibility are drawbacks. Digital Foundry concludes that while the SER9 is an impressive Mini PC, its high price and incremental improvements over previous AMD processors make it a niche product. “The Beelink SE9 is a highly capable, quiet, and compact Mini PC with impressive performance for its size,” they note but suggest that users seeking a true generational leap may need to wait for future advancements.

TechTablets’ Insights

TechTablets’ review highlights the Beelink SER9’s exceptional performance and robust build quality, calling it one of the best Mini PCs they’ve tested. The reviewer praises the integrated Radeon 890M GPU, which delivers smooth frame rates in demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher 3. They also commend the SER9’s ability to handle 4K video editing and media playback easily. However, they note that the soldered RAM and issues with eGPU compatibility may deter some users.

The review also appreciates the SER9’s quiet operation and efficient cooling system, which keeps temperatures manageable even under heavy loads. While the high price is a drawback, TechTablets concludes that the SER9 is a compelling option for users seeking cutting-edge performance in a compact form. “We finally reached that point with mini PCs where you can play a game at 1080p, like The Witcher 3, at 60 frames per second,” they state, emphasizing the SER9’s capabilities.

PhilsComputerLab’s Verdict

Phil from PhilsComputerLab is highly impressed with the Beelink SER9, calling it the fastest Mini PC he has tested. He highlights its ability to deliver over 23,000 points in Cinebench R23 and achieve smooth frame rates in games like Shadow of the Tomb Raider. Phil also praises the SER9’s quiet operation and robust cooling system, which ensures stable performance even during demanding tasks like 4K video rendering.

However, Phil notes some limitations, including the soldered RAM and minor discrepancies in display port specifications. He also mentions that the SER9’s high price may be a barrier for some users. Despite these drawbacks, Phil strongly recommends the SER9 for gamers, content creators, and professionals seeking top-tier performance in a compact form factor. “The SE9 is not only a performance powerhouse, it is also whisper quiet,” he states, underscoring its appeal.

What Customers Are Saying About the Beelink SER9

Customer reviews for the Beelink SER9 are overwhelmingly positive, with users praising its performance, compact design, and versatility. Many highlight its ability to handle demanding tasks such as gaming, multi-monitor setups, and Linux-based workflows. One user noted, “I am using this with 3 monitors where each is doing 4K @ 60Hz, and there is no lag. The GPU is cool and quiet.” This makes the SER9 an excellent choice for productivity and creative professionals.

The SER9’s AI capabilities are also mentioned, though some users admit they are unsure of its practical impact. The device’s compatibility with Linux operating systems like Ubuntu and Fedora is another standout feature, with one reviewer calling it the “best Linux Mini PC in 2024.” However, some users found upgrading the SSD challenging due to the placement of screws, rubber plugs, and a fragile ribbon cable. Despite this, the overall sentiment is that the SER9 offers excellent value for its price, with one customer stating, “It’s just so quiet and silent that it feels unfair. Incredible technology.”

While the soldered RAM and high price point are common concerns, most users agree that the SER9’s performance and features outweigh these drawbacks. Gamers, in particular, appreciate its ability to run AAA titles smoothly, provided they focus on one game at a time. For those seeking a powerful, compact Mini PC, the SER9 has proven reliable and versatile.

Conclusion

The Beelink SER9 is a high-performance Mini PC that excels in gaming, multitasking, and professional workflows. Its AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and Radeon 890M GPU deliver impressive results, making it a strong choice for gamers, content creators, and professionals who need a compact yet powerful system. The dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots and robust connectivity options further enhance its appeal, while its quiet operation and sleek design make it suitable for home or office use.

However, the SER9’s soldered RAM limits expandability, and its high price may deter budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, users who prioritize future upgrades or need features like Wi-Fi 6E or eGPU compatibility might find other Mini PCs more suitable. For those seeking a balance of performance, compactness, and advanced features, the Beelink SER9 is an excellent option.

To explore more Mini PCs and compare their features, visit Starry Hope’s Mini PC Comparison Tool.