Bmax B6

The Bmax B6 Mini PC is a compact computing solution that stands out for its balance between performance and size. Equipped with an Intel Core i3-1000NG4 processor, the Bmax B6 offers a solid performance foundation for everyday tasks. It includes 12GB of LPDDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, providing ample memory and fast storage. The Mini PC supports dual HDMI for 4K displays at 60Hz, catering to users who require high-resolution outputs. While it operates on the latest Windows 11 Pro, there is a notable discrepancy regarding the system's compatibility with the OS, specifically concerning the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) requirements. The Bmax B6 also features Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, although these are not the latest versions.

Detailed Information about the Bmax B6

The Bmax B6 Mini PC is designed for users who need a space-saving computer without compromising performance. The Intel Core i3-1000NG4 processor, with a base speed of 1.10 GHz and a max turbo frequency of 3.20 GHz, is a notable upgrade from the typical Celeron and N-series processors in many mini PCs. This processor, combined with Intel Iris Plus Graphics, makes the Bmax B6 suitable for various tasks, including light photo editing and media consumption.

Regarding connectivity, the Bmax B6 offers a variety of ports, including two HDMI ports, three USB 3.0 ports, and one USB-C port, providing users with multiple options for peripherals and displays. Including Ethernet and Wi-Fi 5 ensures that users can connect to the internet via cable or wirelessly, although the absence of the latest Wi-Fi 6 may be a drawback for some.

The Bmax B6's small footprint, measuring 4.9 inches in width, 4.4 inches in length, and 1.4 inches in thickness, makes it an ideal choice for environments where desk space is at a premium. Despite its compact size, the Bmax B6 offers additional storage expansion through its two M.2 NVMe slots, allowing users to increase storage capacity or add a high-speed drive for improved performance. However, potential buyers should note that the RAM is soldered onto the motherboard, which means memory is not upgradeable, potentially limiting the Mini PC's lifespan for more demanding applications in the future.

Reviewer Feedback on the Bmax B6 Mini PC

CareyHolzman's Take on the Bmax B6 Plus

CareyHolzman's review of the Bmax B6 Plus Mini PC on his YouTube channel highlighted several key aspects of the device. He was initially impressed by the competitive pricing and the specifications, which include an Intel Core i3 processor, 12GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and a 512GB NVMe SSD. These features positioned the B6 Plus above many other mini PCs in its price range, especially considering its ability to support three 4K displays at 60Hz. Holzman expressed his enthusiasm about the deal, stating, "That's an incredible deal for what you're getting," and "It's a crazy good deal."

However, Holzman's review took a critical turn when he discovered that the B6 Plus, despite being sold with Windows 11 Pro installed, did not meet the Windows 11 system requirements due to the absence of a TPM. This raised serious concerns about the legitimacy of the product and its compatibility with Windows 11, leading him to remark, "This is a very serious problem, one that should not be taken lightly." Holzman's attempts to enable a TPM in the BIOS were unsuccessful, indicating a potential lack of a TPM module or incorrect BIOS configuration. His disappointment with BMAX was evident as he described the situation as "unacceptable" and "disgraceful." He concluded his review by advising viewers to avoid BMAX products advertised with Windows 11 until the manufacturer clarifies further. You can watch the full review here.

Jim KJ3N's Creative Solution for the Bmax B6 Plus

In another YouTube review, Jim KJ3N tackled the Bmax B6 Plus mini-PC, which also came with Windows 11 installed despite not being officially supported. Instead of focusing on this issue, Jim repurposed the device into a home NAS using XigmaNAS, an open-source storage platform. He found including two NVMe slots under the cover an exciting feature and set up the mini-PC with two 4TB NVMe drives in a RAID 1 configuration. Jim's review was both a critique of the misleading advertising and a demonstration of the device's versatility. He explained the setup process in detail, from disabling Secure Boot to configuring network settings and managing the device through the XigmaNAS web interface.

Jim was pleased with the resulting solid-state NAS's transfer speeds and compactness. He concluded his review by showcasing the completed setup and discussing the potential uses for the NAS, such as network backups. His overall satisfaction with the project was clear, and he encouraged viewers to share their thoughts on this "neat project." Jim's full review can be viewed here.

Both reviewers highlighted the Bmax B6 Plus's impressive hardware for its price point but raised significant concerns about the pre-installed Windows 11 Pro and its compatibility. While Holzman focused on the potential deception and its implications, Jim KJ3N bypassed the issue by transforming the mini-PC into a different yet practical application. These reviews provide valuable insights for potential buyers, emphasizing the importance of verifying system requirements and exploring alternative uses for the hardware.

Customer Reviews of the Bmax B6 Mini PC

The Bmax B6 Mini PC has garnered attention from customers for its compact size and hardware specifications. Users have shared their experiences with the device, highlighting its strengths and areas where it falls short.

Many customers appreciate the Bmax B6 for its ample RAM and storage capacity, with 12GB of LPDDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, which is quite generous for a mini PC. The ability to support three 4K displays is also a feature that has been well-received, making it suitable for multitasking and media consumption.

However, concerns have been regarding the pre-installed Windows 11 Pro operating system. Some users have reported that the Bmax B6 needs to meet the official Windows 11 system requirements, specifically the absence of a TPM 2.0, which is necessary for running the OS securely. This discrepancy has led to doubts about the legitimacy of the Windows 11 Pro installation and has prompted users to consider alternative operating systems like Windows 10 or Linux.

Despite this, the overall sentiment among customers is that the Bmax B6 offers good value for money, especially for those looking for a budget-friendly mini PC with robust performance for everyday tasks. Tech-savvy users have found ways to work around the Windows 11 issue by downgrading the OS or using the device for other purposes, such as a home NAS setup.

In summary, while the Bmax B6 has received praise for its performance and value, the concerns regarding the operating system have been a notable point of contention among customers. Those interested in the Bmax B6 should know the potential need to address the OS issue to ensure a smooth and secure computing experience.

Conclusion

The Bmax B6 Mini PC, with its Intel Core i3-1000NG4 processor, 12GB LPDDR4 RAM, and 512GB NVMe SSD, presents a compelling option for users seeking a compact yet capable computing solution. Its ability to support three 4K displays and the inclusion of multiple USB ports enhance its versatility for various applications, from office work to media consumption.

However, despite lacking TPM support, the Bmax B6's advertised compatibility with Windows 11 Pro is a significant concern. Users requiring a system for sensitive tasks may need to reconsider or opt for alternative operating systems like Windows 10 or Linux to ensure security and stability.

The Bmax B6 is well-suited for users looking for a budget-friendly mini PC with decent performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media streaming. It could also be a compact home server or NAS when repurposed with suitable software. On the other hand, users who prioritize up-to-date security features and official Windows 11 support or who engage in more demanding computing tasks might want to explore other options.

For those interested in comparing the Bmax B6 with other mini PCs on the market, Starry Hope's Mini PC Comparison Tool offers a convenient way to evaluate different models based on specifications and features.