The Geekom AS 6 is a compact and powerful mini PC that has been generating buzz as a potential rival to Apple’s Mac Mini. In this review, we will explore the features, performance, and value of the Geekom AS 6 to determine if it truly stands up as a worthy competitor to the Mac Mini.
Design and Build
The Geekom AS 6 sports a sleek and minimalist design, with a compact form factor that measures only 4.9 x 4.9 x 1.6 inches. The aluminum alloy chassis not only adds durability but also gives the device a premium feel. The small footprint allows it to fit seamlessly into any workspace, making it an ideal choice for users with limited desk space.
On the front of the unit, you’ll find two USB 3.0 ports, a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a power button. The rear side houses an HDMI port, two additional USB 3.0 ports, an Ethernet port, and a power input. The variety of ports ensures that you’ll have plenty of connectivity options for peripherals and displays.
Hardware and Performance
The Geekom AS 6 is powered by an Intel Core i5-8259U processor, which is a quad-core, eight-thread CPU with a base clock speed of 2.3 GHz and a turbo boost frequency of 3.8 GHz. This processor is paired with 8GB of DDR4 RAM, which can be upgraded to 16GB for users who require more memory for multitasking.
For storage, the device comes with a 256GB M.2 SSD, providing fast boot times and quick access to frequently used applications. Users who need additional storage can easily upgrade the SSD or connect an external hard drive via one of the USB 3.0 ports.
In terms of graphics, the Geekom AS 6 relies on the integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655, which is capable of handling everyday tasks such as web browsing, office applications, and media consumption. While it’s not designed for heavy gaming or professional 3D rendering, it can handle light gaming and basic photo and video editing tasks.
When it comes to performance, the Geekom AS 6 holds its own against the Mac Mini. The Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM ensure smooth multitasking and solid performance in everyday tasks. Although it may not match the performance of the Mac Mini’s M1 chip in certain benchmarks, the Geekom AS 6 provides more than enough power for the average user.
Operating System and Software
The Geekom AS 6 comes with Windows 10 pre-installed, offering a familiar and user-friendly operating system. Windows 10 provides a vast array of software compatibility, ensuring that you’ll have access to all the applications you need for work, entertainment, and productivity.
While the Mac Mini offers the macOS experience, users who prefer the Windows ecosystem or require specific Windows-only applications will find the Geekom AS 6 to be a suitable alternative.
Price and Value
One of the key selling points of the Geekom AS 6 is its competitive price. With a starting price of around $699, it is significantly more affordable than the base model Mac Mini, which starts at $999. This price difference makes the Geekom AS 6 an attractive option for budget-conscious users who still want a powerful and compact mini PC.
Conclusion
The Geekom AS 6 offers an impressive combination of performance, design, and value, making it a formidable competitor to the Mac Mini. While it may not outperform the Mac Mini’s M1 chip in every aspect, it provides more than enough power for everyday tasks and comes at a significantly lower price point.
For users who prefer the Windows ecosystem or are looking for a more budget-friendly mini PC, the Geekom AS 6 is a compelling alternative to the Mac Mini. With its sleek design, powerful hardware, and competitive price, the Geekom AS 6 is definitely worth considering for those in the market for a compact and capable mini PC.