The Nipogi AM02 Pro promises to be a standout in the competitive world of mini-PCs with its remarkable price-performance ratio. Equipped with the AMD Ryzen 7 5800U, this compact unit comes priced at just 300 Euros, aiming to dethrone the current budget king in the market. Our detailed review reveals whether it lives up to the high expectations set in this segment.

Impressive Performance in a Compact Package

Nipogi has consistently delivered exceptional value with their mini-PCs, and the AM02 Pro is no exception. It houses a powerful Ryzen 7 5800U CPU, paired with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, making it ideal for both office tasks and light gaming. The robust cooling solution ensures no thermal throttling, maintaining steady performance under load.

The device offers a variety of connectivity options including HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C, supporting up to 4K at 60Hz. Wireless capabilities are up-to-date with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, making it a modern choice for network connectivity.

Hardware Overview

In terms of hardware, the Nipogi AM02 Pro features the Ryzen 7 5800U, an octa-core processor that impresses with its speed and efficiency. The CPU, though based on the older Vega-8 graphics architecture, provides a solid balance for productivity needs. Memory is expandable up to 64GB, and the SSD can be upgraded to up to 2TB, providing great flexibility for future upgrades.

The array of ports includes essential connectivity and expansion options, making it a versatile choice for various uses. However, it lacks dual Ethernet ports for more advanced networking applications like a firewall appliance.

Performance Metrics

In benchmark tests, the AM02 Pro demonstrates robust performance. It scores notably in PCmark 10 and 3Dmark Time Spy, outperforming similar models in its category. While it's not a gaming powerhouse due to the older integrated graphics, it still manages average frame rates in certain games like Anno 1800 at low settings.

Acoustic Performance

A common challenge with mini-PCs is noise levels. The AM02 Pro is surprisingly quiet under full load, thanks to its effective cooling system. While it remains relatively silent in operation, the idle fan noise is noticeable. Thankfully, adjustments can be made within the BIOS settings to manage fan profiles better.

Built Quality

The build quality of the Nipogi AM02 Pro is impressive for its price range. With a compact form factor and robust aluminum construction, it feels premium and durable. The thoughtful design includes efficient air intake options, keeping the internals well-ventilated even under heavy usage.

Pricing and Availability

Priced at 300 Euros with a discount code, the AM02 Pro is positioned as a cost-effective solution in the mini-PC market. It's competitively priced against alternatives like the Ouvis AMR5 and offers configurations with up to 32GB RAM at slightly higher prices.

Conclusion

The Nipogi AM02 Pro strikes a remarkable balance between cost and performance, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a powerful mini-PC. While the fan noise at idle can be a drawback, the overall package delivers exceptional value, confirming it as a new frontrunner in its class.

For further insights and comparisons, check out the original review on TechStage.