Gigabyte recently updated its BRIX ultra-compact PCs with the latest fourth-generation Intel Core processors. There are four models in this series, providing improved CPU and graphics performance over the previous models, plus native 4K display support to boot. They also now include a front SPDIF jack and expanded USB 3.0 connectivity, making these mini-PCs great for the home theater.
The updated BRIX arrives in a boxy, palm-sized form factor measuring a mere 29.9 x 107.6 x 114.4 mm. A single power button resides at the top, and the front provides two stacked USB 3.0 ports and the headphones/SPDIF jack. On the back, the mini-PC adds another USB 3.0 stacked duo, Gigabit Ethernet, a mini DisplayPort jack, HDMI output and the power jack.
The difference between the four models, obviously, is on the inside. The model numbers hint to what's inside the box: the GB-BXi7-4500 has an Intel Core i7-4500U chip (1.8 GHz – 3 GHz), the GB-BXi5-4200 has an i5-4200U chip (1.6 GHz – 2.6 GHz), the GB-BXi3-4010 has the Core i3-4010U chip (1.7 GHz), and the GB-BXCE-2955 has the Celeron 2955U processor (1.4 GHz), all dual core.
The boxy little rigs also feature two empty SO-DIMM DDR3L slots supporting up to 16 GB of 1333 MHz or 1600 MHz RAM, Realtek ALC269 audio, Intel HD 4400 graphics, one empty mSATA slot and a half-size mini-PCIe slot that's occupied by a Wireless N / Bluetooth 4.0 card. All four are bundled with a VESA bracket so that the device can be mounted behind a monitor or HDTV.
"This new and updated GIGABYTE BRIX builds on the incredible success and popularity of our original compact PC design," said Henry Kao, Vice President of GIGABYTE Motherboard Business Unit. "We're confident end users will enjoy the improved overall performance that the latest Intel Core processors offer, as well as additional upgrades we have made regarding audio and USB connectivity."
Gigabyte has not released details regarding pricing, but expect to see dollar signs around the $300 price point as seen with the previous BRIX generation.
