Star Labs (Linux PC manufacturer) is now accepting pre-orders for its latest creation, the Byte MK II. This compact desktop computer features an Intel N200 chip based on the energy-efficient Alder Lake-N architecture, supporting up to 16GB of RAM and two storage devices. The Star Labs Byte MK II will sell for $595 and up when it hits the streets in September, but customers who pre-order now can pick one up for as little as $452.
Star Labs Byte MK II Linux Mini PC Details
Measuring just 127 x 127 x 43mm (5″ x 5″ x 1.7″) and featuring a sleek polycarbonate and nickel chassis, the Byte MK II is impressively compact. The base configuration includes 8GB of DDR4-3200 memory and a 480GB PCIe SSD.
Users can further upgrade the Byte MK II with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1.92TB of storage. It provides a SODIMM slot for memory, an M.2 2280 slot for storage, and supports a 2.45-inch hard drive or SSD using an included connector.
At its core, the latest Mini PC is powered by the Intel N200 chip a 4-core, 4-thread processor with a base frequency of 1GHz and boost speeds up to 3.7GHz. With a power consumption level of only 6 watts, the chip is designed for energy efficiency. It also includes 750MHz Intel UHD graphics. The Byte MK II comes with a 36-watt DC power adapter.
While it offers slightly less power than its predecessor, the first-gen Star Labs Byte, which featured an AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor, the Byte MK II comes at a more affordable price point. Pre-order prices for the original Byte started at $753, while the Byte MK II starts at $595.
The new Star Lab’s Linux Mini PC features USB-C, USB 3.0 Type-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, 3.5mm audio, and Ethernet ports. It also includes an Intel 9560 wireless card with support for WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1.
See also: Morefine M9 is an Intel Processor N100 Mini PC for $199 and up
What makes the Byte MK II stand out is its software. It ships with open-source firmware based on Coreboot and TianoCore EDK II. Users can choose from popular GNU/Linux distributions such as Elementary OS, Linux Mint, Manjaro, MX Linux, Ubuntu, and Zorin OS.
While primarily aimed at Linux enthusiasts, customers can also opt to have Windows 11 Home or Professional installed for an additional cost of $158 or $290, respectively. However, for those specifically seeking a Windows-based mini PC, alternative options may be more suitable. The Star labs offers an affordable and customizable solution for a compact Linux-based desktop computer, catering to a wide range of users with its compact design, energy efficiency, and software flexibility.
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