Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of compact computing, Blackview has made a significant entry with its MP100 Mini PC. Known primarily for their rugged smartphones and tablets, Blackview has now ventured into the mini PC market with a device that promises to deliver impressive performance in a small form factor. The MP100 is designed to cater to both productivity and entertainment needs, making it an intriguing option for those seeking a versatile and space-saving computing solution.
Description
The Blackview MP100 Mini PC is a compact yet powerful computing device that measures just 127 x 127 x 45 mm. It features a sleek design with a small RGB LED strip, adding a touch of flair to its appearance. At the heart of this mini PC lies the AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor, an 8-core, 16-thread chip that offers a balance of performance and energy efficiency. The MP100 comes in various configurations, with options for 16GB or 32GB of DDR4 RAM and 512GB or 1TB of SSD storage, catering to different user needs and budgets.
Features
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 4.3GHz)
- Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega 8
- Memory: Up to 32GB DDR4-3200MHz (expandable to 64GB)
- Storage: Up to 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD (PCIe 3.0), with space for an additional 2.5″ SATA drive
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
- Ports: 2x USB-C 3.2 (one with video output), 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, 1x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x Gigabit Ethernet, 1x 3.5mm audio jack
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro (Linux compatible)
- Additional Features: VESA mount support, RGB lighting, triple display output capability
Review
The Blackview MP100 Mini PC impresses with its compact design and powerful internals. The AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor, while not the latest chip on the market, still offers excellent performance for most productivity tasks and even light gaming. The Radeon RX Vega 8 integrated graphics can handle casual gaming and media playback with ease.One of the standout features of the MP100 is its expandability. With two RAM slots supporting up to 64GB and space for an additional 2.5″ drive, users have the flexibility to upgrade their system as needed. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensures fast and reliable wireless connectivity.The port selection is generous for a mini PC, with a good mix of USB-C and USB-A ports, along with multiple display outputs. This allows for easy connection of peripherals and support for up to three displays, making it suitable for multi-monitor setups.The built-in cooling system seems to be effective, with reports suggesting that the MP100 remains relatively quiet even under load. However, as with many mini PCs, sustained heavy workloads may lead to some thermal throttling.While the MP100 comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, its Linux compatibility opens up options for users who prefer alternative operating systems.
How to Use
- Unbox the Blackview MP100 and connect the power adapter.
- Connect your monitor(s) using HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C.
- Attach your keyboard and mouse to the available USB ports.
- Press the power button to boot up the system.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Windows 11 Pro.
- Install your preferred applications and enjoy your new mini PC.
For those looking to expand:
- To upgrade RAM, carefully open the case and insert compatible DDR4 SODIMMs.
- For additional storage, connect a 2.5″ SATA SSD or HDD to the available slot.
Where to Buy
The Blackview MP100 Mini PC is available through various online retailers:
- Official Blackview website
- AliExpress (with launch promotions available)
- Amazon (availability may vary by region)
Always ensure you’re purchasing from authorized sellers to guarantee warranty and support.
Positive and Negative Aspects
Positives:
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor
- Compact and sleek design with RGB lighting
- Expandable RAM and storage options
- Generous port selection including USB-C with video output
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for fast wireless connectivity
- Triple display support
- Quiet operation under normal loads
Negatives:
- Uses older DDR4 RAM instead of newer DDR5
- Integrated graphics may not satisfy demanding gamers
- No built-in fingerprint sensor for added security
- Lack of Thunderbolt support
- Some users may prefer a more recent processor generation
Conclusions
The Blackview MP100 Mini PC represents a solid entry into the compact computing market. It offers a good balance of performance, expandability, and connectivity in a small form factor. The AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor provides ample power for most productivity tasks and light gaming, while the expandable RAM and storage options allow users to customize the system to their needs.The inclusion of multiple display outputs and a variety of ports makes the MP100 versatile enough for home office, entertainment, or even light business use. The addition of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensures that the mini PC is future-proofed for wireless connectivity.While it may not satisfy the needs of hardcore gamers or those requiring the absolute latest in processor technology, the MP100 offers excellent value for its price point. It’s particularly well-suited for users looking for a compact, capable machine for everyday computing tasks, media consumption, and light content creation.The ability to run both Windows and Linux operating systems adds to its flexibility, making it an attractive option for a wide range of users. However, potential buyers should consider their specific needs, particularly in terms of graphics performance and future upgradeability.Overall, the Blackview MP100 Mini PC is a commendable effort from a brand new to the mini PC market. It demonstrates that Blackview has the potential to become a significant player in this space, offering a compelling alternative to more established brands. For those in the market for a compact, powerful, and versatile mini PC, the MP100 is certainly worth considering.
