The Beelink GTi14 Ultra, a compact yet powerful mini PC, is making waves with its innovative design featuring an integrated 145W power supply and a unique PCIe x8 interface for connecting external graphics cards. In this Beelink GTi14 Ultra review, we will find out if it is a versatile option for users seeking high performance in a small form factor.
Mini PC Design and Build
We start the Beelink GTi14 Ultra review with a closer look at the design and ports. The Beelink GTi14 Ultra features a compact yet slightly larger design compared to typical mini PC with Intel processor, measuring 158 x 158 x 56mm (6.2″ x 6.2″ x 2.2″). Its aluminum housing gives it a premium feel and durability, with a design reminiscent of the Mac Mini. The device weighs more than standard mini PCs due to its integrated 145W power supply, eliminating the need for an external adapter. On the front panel, users will find a power button with an integrated fingerprint sensor, a status LED light, and an SD card reader.
The GTi14 Ultra boasts an impressive array of ports, including one Thunderbolt 4 (40 Gbps), one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (10 Gbps), five USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (10 Gbps) ports, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4a, two 3.5mm audio jacks, and two 2.5 GbE Ethernet. These are essential for many small form factor PCs, including those from Beelink. Uniquely, the bottom of the device houses a PCIe x8 interface hidden behind a small door, allowing for direct connection to an external graphics card dock This feature sets the GTi14 Ultra apart from most mini PCs, offering enhanced graphics capabilities without compromising its compact form factor
Hardware Specifications
We continue our Beelink GTi14 Ultra review with an inspection of the hardware inside. The Beelink GTi14 Ultra boasts impressive hardware specifications, offering high performance in a compact form factor. It features Intel’s latest Meteor Lake processors, with options up to the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H. The integrated GPU is Intel Arc Graphics, providing improved graphics performance over previous generations. For memory, the GTi14 Ultra supports dual-channel DDR5 5600MHz RAM, expandable up to 96GB. Storage options include dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots, supporting up to 8TB of fast internal storage. Communication capabilities are robust, with an Intel BE200 wireless card supporting WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. The device also features two 2.5 GbE Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections.
Power consumption is relatively efficient, with the GTi14 Ultra using around 30W when idle on the desktop and maxing out at a little over 80W under heavy CPU and GPU load during gaming. The integrated 145W power supply unit ensures stable operation at 65W TDP. Notably, the GTi14 Ultra mini PC for home office operates quietly, with a near-silent 32dB noise level, thanks to its efficient bottom air intake cooling system.
Beelink GTi14 Ultra Technical Specifications
Here is a concise table of the technical specifications for the Beelink GTi14 Ultra mini PC:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H Intel Core Ultra 9 185H |
| Graphics | Integrated Intel Arc Graphics |
| RAM | Up to 96GB DDR5 5600MHz (dual-channel) |
| Storage | 2x M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots (up to 8TB total) |
| Wireless | WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Ethernet | 2x 2.5 GbE ports |
| USB Ports | 1x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 5x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A |
| Video Outputs | 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4a |
| Other Ports | SD card reader, 2x 3.5mm audio jacks |
| Special Feature | PCIe x8 slot for external GPU |
| Power Supply | Integrated 145W PSU |
| Dimensions | 158 x 158 x 56mm (6.2″ x 6.2″ x 2.2″) |
| Noise Level | 32dB (near-silent operation) |
System Benchmark Performance Analysis
As part of our Beelink GTi14 Ultra review we performed a range of benchmarks. The Beelink GTi14 Ultra demonstrates impressive performance across various benchmark tests. In Geekbench, it achieved a single-core score of 2,270 and a multi-core score of 11,834, showcasing strong CPU performance. The integrated Intel Arc GPU scored 37,460 in Geekbench’s GPU benchmark, indicating very good performance for an integrated solution.
In Furmark, a GPU stress test, the GTi14 Ultra scored 1,920, though GPU temperature data was unavailable. 3DMark benchmarks further highlight the system’s capabilities, with scores of 12,862 in Sky Diver, 3,283 in Fire Strike, and 1,437 in Time Spy. These results suggest the GTi14 Ultra can handle demanding tasks and even gaming, especially when paired with an external GPU through its PCIe x8 interface. The benchmarks were conducted with surprisingly quiet fan operation, indicating efficient thermal management
Internal and External GPU Gaming Performance Benchmarks
And as this mini PC can game, we will as part of the Beelink GTi14 Ultra review, run some more benchmarks. The Beelink GTi14 Ultra demonstrates impressive gaming capabilities, especially when paired with an external GPU. Benchmark tests reveal significant performance improvements when utilizing the PCIe x8 interface for an external graphics card. With the integrated Intel Arc Graphics, the GTi14 Ultra achieves respectable frame rates in less demanding titles.
In Counterstrike, with graphics settings at Very High, the system manages over 60 fps using just the integrated GPU. However, the true gaming potential of the GTi14 Ultra is unlocked when an external GPU is connected, particularly for playing 4K video games. Using a XFX Radeon RX 6600 GPU through the PCIe x8 interface, gaming performance sees a dramatic boost:
- Counterstrike: Frame rates jump to over 200 fps at Very High settings, more than tripling the performance of the integrated GPU.
- Doom Eternal: With Ultra Nightmare graphics settings and Ray Tracing disabled, the system achieves over 150 fps, approximately 2.5 times better than the integrated GPU performance.
These results highlight the GTi14 Ultra’s versatility as a gaming platform. The ability to switch between power-efficient integrated graphics for everyday tasks and high-performance external GPUs for gaming sessions makes it an attractive option for users seeking a compact yet capable gaming setup. It’s worth noting that the external GPU setup not only improves frame rates but also enhances overall system performance. Users report faster load times and a cooler-running system when using an external GPU, with the PC’s fan running noticeably quieter during gaming sessions.
While these benchmarks showcase impressive performance, it’s important to consider that actual gaming experiences may vary depending on the specific external GPU used and the games being played. Additionally, the availability and pricing of Beelink’s official external GPU dock solution may impact the overall value proposition for gaming enthusiasts.
AI Capabilities and Applications
A new part to our Beelink GTi14 Ultra review is a look at the AI capabilities. The Beelink GTi14 Ultra incorporates advanced AI features in this mini PC for business, leveraging the capabilities of Intel’s latest Meteor Lake processors. These processors integrate a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) alongside the CPU and GPU, enabling efficient AI-powered tasks.
The mini PC’s AI capabilities extend to voice interaction, featuring a built-in microphone powered by an AI chip that supports smart audio pickup. This technology effectively separates voice commands from background noise, allowing for 360° barrier-free voice recognition within a 5-meter range. Practical applications of these AI features found in the Intel compact computer include enhanced video conferencing experiences, where users can conduct meetings without leaving their seats. The AI-powered audio processing ensures clear voice capture even in noisy environments.
Additionally, the NPU can accelerate local AI computing tasks, potentially improving performance in applications such as image and video processing, natural language processing, and machine learning model inference. These features make the GTi14 Ultra suitable for professionals working with AI-enhanced productivity tools, content creators utilizing AI-powered editing software, and users interested in exploring AI applications without relying solely on cloud-based solutions.
Comparison with Previous Models
The Beelink GTi14 Ultra represents a significant leap forward compared to previous Beelink models, particularly in its innovative approach to external graphics support. Unlike earlier mini PCs that relied on Thunderbolt or OCuLink ports for external GPUs, the GTi14 Ultra features a PCIe x8 interface directly on the device’s bottom, allowing for a more efficient connection to desktop graphics cards .
This design, coupled with support for up to Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processors and 96GB of RAM, positions the GTi14 Ultra as a more powerful and versatile option than its predecessors Additionally, the integrated 145W power supply eliminates the need for an external power adapter, streamlining the setup compared to earlier models The inclusion of WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 support also puts the GTi14 Ultra mini Intel desktop ahead of previous generations in terms of connectivity options
User Experience and Feedback
The Beelink GTi14 Ultra has garnered positive attention for its user-friendly features and versatility. Users appreciate the device’s near-silent operation, with its efficient cooling system maintaining a low 32dB noise level even under load. The integrated fingerprint sensor for secure login and the built-in dual speakers for immersive audio have been well-received.
Additionally, the Intel small form factor PCs ultra-portable design, coupled with the ability to connect an external GPU, has been praised for offering flexibility in both office and gaming scenarios. While comprehensive user feedback is limited due to the product’s recent release, early impressions highlight the GTi14 Ultra’s potential to cater to a wide range of computing needs, from everyday tasks to more demanding applications when paired with an external graphics card.
Final Verdict on the Beelink GTi14 Ultra review
Time to sum up our Beelink GTi14 Ultra review. The Beelink GTi14 Ultra represents a significant leap forward in mini PC design, offering a compelling blend of power, versatility, and innovation. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the PCIe x8 interface, which allows for the connection of an external GPU, potentially transforming this compact device into a capable gaming or workstation setup. The integration of Intel’s latest Meteor Lake processors, including AI capabilities and improved integrated graphics, positions the GTi14 Ultra as a formidable contender in the mini PC market.
While the device impresses with its performance and feature set, including near-silent operation and a built-in power supply, it’s not without its drawbacks. The deeply recessed PCIe slot may limit compatibility with standard GPU risers, and the constant power draw even when shut down is a concern for energy-conscious users. Despite these minor issues, the GTi14 Ultra’s combination of powerful hardware, expandability, and innovative design makes it an attractive option for users seeking a versatile and compact computing solution that can adapt to various use cases, from everyday tasks to more demanding applications
Share Your Thoughts
Thank you for reading our Beelink GTi14 Ultra review. We’d love to hear your thoughts on the Beelink GTi14 Ultra mini PC. What do you think about its more unique features, such as the PCIe x8 slot for external GPUs or the integrated AI capabilities? Share your opinions, questions, or experiences in the comments below. Your feedback not only helps other readers make informed decisions but also contributes to the broader discussion on the evolving landscape of mini PCs and their role in modern computing setups.
