Exploring the Topton D13: A Compact and Affordable Mini PC with OCuLink Support
The Topton D13 stands out as one of the smallest and most affordable mini PCs available, featuring an innovative OCuLink port. Measuring just 108 x 108 x 60mm (4.25″ x 4.25″ x 2.36″), this compact desktop computer is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS ES processor and boasts 32GB of LPDDR5-6400 onboard memory. With three M.2 2280 slots for PCIe 4.0 x4 storage, it offers substantial upgrade potential.
Key Features of the Topton D13
What truly sets the Topton D13 apart is its OCuLink support, enabling an external PCIe connection for graphics docks and other accessories. Priced starting at around $400 on AliExpress, this mini PC is an attractive option for users looking for powerful computing in a small package. However, it's worth noting that the “ES” designation in the processor indicates it is an engineering sample, which may lead to potential performance issues.
The entry-level model comes with 32GB of RAM but lacks storage and an operating system. Fortunately, you can opt for configurations that include up to 6TB of PCIe NVMe storage, perfect for those who prefer a ready-to-go system.
Connectivity and Design
The D13's OCuLink port provides a robust 64 Gbps connection for external graphics cards or docking stations. Beyond this feature, the D13 impresses with support for up to three displays, high-speed network connections, and ample storage options, making it a versatile choice for various tasks.
The Topton D13 is housed in a sleek black metal chassis topped with a wooden cover that features ventilation holes. Inside, active cooling fans ensure optimal performance.
Ports and Wireless Capabilities
The mini PC is equipped with a variety of ports, including:
- 1 x USB4 (40 Gbps)
- 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
- 2 x HDMI 2.1
- 2 x 2.5 GbE LAN (Intel i226-V)
- 1 x 3.5mm audio jack
Additionally, it supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring fast wireless connectivity for all your devices.
Performance Considerations
While the AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS processor is nearly two years old, it remains a powerful option designed for high-performance laptops and mini PCs. With a TDP of 35-54 watts, it features 8 Zen 4 CPU cores and Radeon 780M integrated graphics with 12 RDNA 3 GPU compute units, making it suitable for demanding applications.
For those looking to enhance their graphics performance, Topton offers a bundle option with the MINISFORUM DEG1 eGPU dock, allowing users to add a discrete graphics card. However, it’s more cost-effective to purchase the DEG1 dock directly from MINISFORUM for $99.
In summary, the Topton D13 mini PC is an impressive combination of size, performance, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for a variety of applications. With its OCuLink support and robust connectivity options, this compact PC is well-equipped to handle everything from casual use to more demanding tasks. If you're in the market for a mini PC that packs a punch without breaking the bank, the Topton D13 is definitely worth considering!