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The SZBOX AC8-N is a compact desktop computer with support for up to three displays, two Ethernet ports, and a 6-watt Intel Alder Lake-N processor.
It’s not the most powerful mini PC on the market, but it’s fairly versatile system with a fanless design for silent operation. And it’s pretty cheap: as I’m writing this, prices start at $144 for a barebones model from AliExpress, and it only costs a little more to get a fully-configured system with memory and storage.
Entry-level configurations come with an Intel Processor N100 chip, which is a 4-core, 4-thread processor featuring 12th-gen Intel Efficiency CPU cores. But you can also configure the system with a slightly faster Intel Processor N200 chip, up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of PCIe NVMe solid state storage.
Both the memory and storage are user upgradeable. The little computer has an M.2 2280 slot for a SATA or NVMe SSD and a single SODIMM slot for DDR4-2600 or 3200 MHz memory.
Ports include:
- 1 x HDMI 2.0
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 1 x VGA
- 2 x RJ45 Ethernet
- 4 x USB 3.0 Type-A
- 1 x microSD card reader
- 1 x 3.5mm mic input
- 1 x 3.5mm audio out
The computer also supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 and while it seems like it’s probably designed for commercial applications (I mean, who uses a VGA connector at home these days), with support for features like Wake on LAN, RTC Wake, and Auto Power On, it could also be used as a home media or file server, among other things.
The AC8-N measures 4.8″ x 4.8″ x 1.7″, making it about the size of an Intel NUC Pro (R.I.P... but not really).
via AndroidBox.tv
I think that is neat and – seemingly – at a low price. I have read of stories of Ali Express but not always good. I wonder if one will get what it says at that price or something that one wasn’t expecting.
Im not seeing 144$ price , whats your region ill switch to vpn and check
(I mean, who uses a VGA connector at home these days)….
Pretty lousy statement!!!
Very true lol
Many digital enthusiasts and serious gamers enjoy the high definition image that a VGA connection offers.
HDMI supports both video and audio signals in a single cable, providing better image quality and sound compared to VGA. It also supports higher resolutions, including Full HD (1080p) and even 4K, making it suitable for modern high-definition displays.
VGA, on the other hand, is an older analog technology that only carries video signals. It has lower resolution capabilities, typically up to 1920×1200 pixels, and may not deliver the same level of image quality as HDMI, especially on larger and high-resolution displays.
In terms of which is better, HDMI is generally considered superior due to its digital nature, higher resolutions, and ability to carry both video and audio signals in a single cable. VGA is older and less capable in terms of image quality and compatibility with modern devices. If possible, using HDMI for computer monitors is recommended for a better overall experience.
Signal purity trumps so called digital resolution. When speed is the need, or image depth is desired, VGA rules.