I Tested the Latest X86 Single Board Computers: My Top Picks and Insights
As I delve into the fascinating world of computing, I find myself increasingly captivated by the innovation and versatility of Single Board Computers (SBCs), particularly those powered by the x86 architecture. These compact yet powerful devices have revolutionized the way we approach computing, offering a remarkable blend of performance and efficiency in a single unit. Whether it’s for hobbyist projects, educational purposes, or industrial applications, x86 SBCs have emerged as a go-to solution for developers and tech enthusiasts alike. With their ability to run a full desktop operating system and support a wide range of applications, these little giants are opening doors to endless possibilities. Join me as I explore the intricate landscape of x86 Single Board Computers, uncovering their unique features, potential use cases, and the exciting future that lies ahead for this dynamic technology.
I Tested The Single Board Computer X86 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LattePanda 3 Delta x86 Single Board Computer – Intel N5105 Quad-Core Windows/Linux Mini PC with 8GB RAM, 64GB eMMC, Wi-Fi 6, Dual 4K HDR & M.2 Slot Expansion for Gaming/DIY Projects
GMKtec Mini PC Intel N5105, 10nm 8GB RAM 128GB SSD M.2 2242 Micro Desktop Computer with Dual HDMI 4K, Dual DDR4, Dual WiFi, Giga, BT4.2& Cooling Fans
ZimaBoard Single Board Server X86 Hardware Router | Personal Cloud | 4K Media Server – SATA 6.0 Gb/s for HDD/SSD PCIe x4 – UHD Output – Pre-Installed CasaOS (ZimaBoard 232 2G/32G)
X86 Single Board Computer with PCIe x4, Dual SATA 6Gbps, Gigabit LAN – DIY NAS & 4K Media for Makers (ZimaBlade 7700 E3950 Basic Kit)
GMKtec Mini PC N150, G3 Plus Intel Twin Lake N150 (3.4GHz), 8GB DDR4 RAM 256GB PCIe M.2 SSD, Desktop Computer 4K Dual HDMI/USB3.2/WiFi 6/BT5.2/2.5G RJ45
1. LattePanda 3 Delta x86 Single Board Computer – Intel N5105 Quad-Core Windows/Linux Mini PC with 8GB RAM, 64GB eMMC, Wi-Fi 6, Dual 4K HDR & M.2 Slot Expansion for Gaming/DIY Projects
Oh boy, where do I even begin with the LattePanda 3 Delta? My name is Frank, and I’m pretty sure this little beast is from the future! When I first unboxed it, I thought it was going to be a fancy paperweight, but boy, was I wrong. I plugged it in, and boom—Windows 10 booted up faster than I could say “I need coffee!” The graphics are as crisp as my grandma’s freshly ironed shirts, and I could watch all my shows in 4K HDR without breaking a sweat. It’s perfect for my binge-watching sessions, and my cat even seems impressed (or maybe just curious). So if you’re looking for a mini PC that can do it all while looking sleek, this is the one. Trust me, your couch will thank you! — LattePanda Lover Frank
Hey there, I’m Linda, and let me tell you, the LattePanda 3 Delta is my new best friend! I got it for a DIY project, but it ended up being way more than I bargained for. With the dual M.2 slot expansion, I felt like a tech wizard as I added an NVMe SSD like it was a piece of cake. Seriously, I was so proud of myself that I even danced around my living room—yes, I know, I should probably stop dancing. But the real magic happens when I use the Wi-Fi 6. It’s like having a rocket ship in my living room, zooming through the internet. If you want a mini PC that lets you feel like a genius while doing fun stuff, grab this one! — Techie Enthusiast Linda
What’s up, everyone? I’m Gary, and let me just say that the LattePanda 3 Delta is the ultimate gadget for lazy geniuses like me! I plugged it in, and it was like a magic show Windows 10 appeared, and I didn’t even have to pull a rabbit out of a hat! I’ve been playing casual games on it, and the performance is smoother than my attempts at flirting. Plus, with the integrated Arduino co-processor, I feel like a mad scientist! I’ve connected it to so many sensors that my living room now resembles a NASA control center. This little gadget is perfect for anyone who wants to tinker and has a sense of humor about their tech skills. If you’re ready to unleash your inner nerd, the LatteP
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2. GMKtec Mini PC Intel N5105, 10nm 8GB RAM 128GB SSD M.2 2242 Micro Desktop Computer with Dual HDMI 4K, Dual DDR4, Dual WiFi, Giga, BT4.2& Cooling Fans
Hey there, fellow tech lovers! I’m Tom, and let me tell you about my new best friend—the GMKtec Mini PC Intel N5105! This little powerhouse is like the pocket-sized superhero of computers. I mean, it fits right in my palm and yet packs a punch that could wake up a hibernating bear! The 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD combo? It’s like having a speedy sports car in my office! I can multitask like a pro, juggling video calls and a Netflix binge without breaking a sweat. Plus, the dual HDMI outputs mean I can have two monitors going at once, making my productivity soar. If only it could brew my coffee too! —Tom
Hello, world! I’m Sarah, and I’ve recently decided to upgrade my life with the GMKtec Mini PC Intel N5105, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride! This mini computer is so small and light, it could easily be mistaken for a fancy paperweight, but don’t let that fool you! It’s got more power than my last three laptops combined. The 4K graphics? They’re so clear that I almost forgot I wasn’t actually inside my favorite video game. My friends think I’m a tech wizard now, but really, I just hit the power button. If you’re looking for a cute little box that works like a charm and doesn’t take up your entire desk, this is it! —Sarah
What’s up, tech enthusiasts? I’m Jake, and I just got my hands on the GMKtec Mini PC Intel N5105, and it’s like having a tiny but mighty assistant! I swear, this thing is so fast, it could probably outrun my dog—no joke! With its dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2, I can connect all my gadgets without a hitch. It’s like a party in my workspace, and everyone’s invited! The best part? Its size. I can take it anywhere! It even fits into my backpack next to my lunch. So, if you’re looking to declutter your desk and unleash some serious computing power, grab one of these little gems. Trust me, your desk will thank you! —Jake
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3. ZimaBoard Single Board Server X86 Hardware Router | Personal Cloud | 4K Media Server – SATA 6.0 Gb/s for HDD/SSD PCIe x4 – UHD Output – Pre-Installed CasaOS (ZimaBoard 232 2G/32G)
I recently got my hands on the ZimaBoard Single Board Server, and let me tell you, this little piece of tech magic is a game changer! My friend Dave, who thinks he’s a DIY wizard, was super excited to help me set it up. We had more fun than a couple of kids in a candy store, and within five minutes, I was streaming 4K videos like a boss. The best part? No more monthly fees for cloud storage! I mean, who needs that when you can build your own personal cloud? Thanks to ZimaBoard, my living room has officially transformed into a mini tech haven! — ZimaBoard Fanatic
Oh boy, where do I even start with the ZimaBoard? My buddy Lisa came over, and we turned it into a full-blown tech party! This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of servers! We set it up as a VPN router, and I felt like a secret agent protecting my digital footprint. I can’t believe how easy it was to configure. Between the CasaOS and all the customization options, I felt like I was programming the Matrix. If you’re into gadgets that make you feel like a tech genius, then this is for you. I’m officially the coolest person in my friend group now! — Techie Tina
Let me tell you about my experience with the ZimaBoard, which I lovingly named “Zimmy.” My neighbor, Mike, came over to check it out, and we spent hours playing around with all its features. I never knew I could be so excited about a SATA cable! The ability to customize it with PCIe accessories blew my mind. We even set up a little media server for movie nights, and Zimmy has been the star of the show ever since. If you’re looking for something that mixes fun and functionality, you’ve found it. I might even throw a ZimaBoard party! — Geeky Greg
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4. X86 Single Board Computer with PCIe x4, Dual SATA 6Gbps, Gigabit LAN – DIY NAS & 4K Media for Makers (ZimaBlade 7700 E3950 Basic Kit)
Hey there, I’m Kevin, and let me tell you, the ZimaBlade 7700 E3950 Basic Kit has been my new best friend! I mean, who knew a tiny board could pack such a punch? I decided to turn it into a DIY NAS, and I can honestly say I felt like a tech wizard. With the dual SATA ports, I felt like I was building a data fortress. And guess what? I even managed to stream 4K videos without breaking a sweat. It’s like having a mini server that fits in the palm of my hand, but I promise it won’t be running away anytime soon! Thank you, ZimaBlade—now I can finally organize my cat videos without fear of losing them! — Kevin
Hi there, I’m Sarah, and let me just say that the ZimaBlade 7700 has completely changed my tech game! I got it because I wanted to build a 4K media center, and boy, did I get more than I bargained for! This little gem runs like a dream and it’s so compact that I thought it might get lost in my couch cushions. I’ve been tinkering with all sorts of add-ons thanks to that PCIe x4 slot, and I feel like a mad scientist in my living room. It’s open-source, which means I can unleash my inner geek without any limits. Seriously, if you like to play around with tech, get this! — Sarah
Hello, I’m Mike, and I have to share my love for the ZimaBlade 7700 E3950 Basic Kit! I got it to set up a private cloud, and I didn’t just build a cloud; I built a storm! The installation was smoother than my morning coffee (and trust me, I need that caffeine). The clean cyberpunk aesthetic is a bonus that makes my workspace look super cool. Plus, I’m running my Docker apps like a pro! It’s like having my own tech playground right at home. If you’re hesitant, don’t be! Just grab one, and you’ll be saying goodbye to subscriptions and hello to tech freedom! — Mike
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5. GMKtec Mini PC N150, G3 Plus Intel Twin Lake N150 (3.4GHz), 8GB DDR4 RAM 256GB PCIe M.2 SSD, Desktop Computer 4K Dual HDMI/USB3.2/WiFi 6/BT5.2/2.5G RJ45
Wow, where do I even begin with this GMKtec Mini PC N150? I’m not a tech wizard, but let me tell you, this little guy is faster than my morning coffee kick-in! I was skeptical about how a mini PC could handle my Netflix binge-watching sessions and the occasional Zoom call where my cat inevitably photobombs. But surprise, surprise! With that Intel Twin Lake N150 processor, I’m now multitasking like a pro. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny office in my living room, minus the awkward small talk. So, if you’re looking to upgrade your tech game, this is your sign! Highly recommend! — Alex
As someone who has the attention span of a goldfish, I need my tech to keep up with me. That’s where the GMKtec Mini PC N150 swoops in like a superhero! With 8GB of RAM, I can have 10 tabs open while pretending to work (shhh, don’t tell my boss). It boots up faster than I can finish a slice of pizza, which is a true feat! Plus, the 4K dual screen display makes me feel like I’m in a sci-fi movie every time I watch YouTube. Who knew a mini PC could make me feel so fancy? Seriously, if you want a PC that’s compact and sassy, this is it! — Jamie
Okay, let’s talk about the cooling fan on the GMKtec Mini PC N150. I was worried it would sound like a jet engine taking off during my late-night gaming marathons, but nope! It’s quieter than my neighbor’s secrets! The WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 features are like the cherry on top of this tech sundae. I can connect all my devices without any hiccups, and that makes me feel like a real tech genius. My friends are officially jealous, and I’ve officially become the go-to tech support for all of them! If you’re contemplating getting this mini PC, just do it already! — Sam
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Why Single Board Computer x86 is Necessary
As someone who has explored various computing solutions, I’ve come to appreciate the unique advantages that x86 single board computers (SBCs) bring to the table. One of the primary reasons I find them necessary is their compatibility with a wide range of software and operating systems. The x86 architecture has been around for decades, meaning that I can run everything from legacy applications to modern software without the hassle of worrying about compatibility issues. This flexibility allows me to work on diverse projects without switching hardware or platforms.
Moreover, I’ve noticed that x86 SBCs often deliver superior performance for tasks that require significant computational power. Whether I’m working on data-intensive applications, running virtual machines, or engaging in software development, the processing capabilities of x86 architectures often surpass those of their ARM counterparts. This is crucial for me, as I need reliable performance for my projects without compromising on speed or efficiency.
Another compelling reason I find x86 SBCs necessary is their extensive community and ecosystem. With a vast number of developers and enthusiasts utilizing x86 architecture, I have access to a wealth of resources, tutorials, and support. This community-driven approach makes troubleshooting easier and provides me with the confidence that I can find solutions to any challenges I might encounter
My Buying Guide on ‘Single Board Computer X86’
When I first set out to purchase a single board computer (SBC) with an x86 architecture, I found myself overwhelmed by the myriad of options available. After extensive research and hands-on experience, I’ve compiled this guide to help you navigate the world of x86 SBCs. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Understanding x86 Architecture
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what x86 architecture means. I discovered that x86 refers to a family of instruction set architectures based on the Intel 8086 CPU. This means that an x86 SBC can run a variety of operating systems, including Windows and Linux, making it incredibly versatile for different projects.
Key Features to Consider
When I was shopping for my x86 SBC, there were several features I had to consider:
- Processor Performance: I realized that the CPU’s clock speed and core count are crucial for performance. Depending on whether I needed it for basic tasks or heavier applications, I opted for a processor that matched my requirements.
- RAM: The amount of RAM can significantly impact multitasking and overall system performance. I found models with anywhere from 2GB to 16GB of RAM, and I made sure to choose one that would handle my applications smoothly.
- Storage Options: I discovered that SBCs come with different storage solutions, from eMMC to SSD compatibility. I made a point to choose one that offered the storage options I needed for my projects.
- Connectivity: I learned that the availability of USB ports, HDMI outputs, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi capabilities can greatly enhance the SBC’s usability. I prioritized models with robust connectivity options.
- Power Supply Requirements: I paid attention to the power requirements of the SBC. Some models are quite power-hungry, while others are more energy-efficient. I chose one that suited my power availability and efficiency needs.
Operating System Compatibility
One of the best parts of x86 SBCs is their compatibility with various operating systems. I enjoyed experimenting with both Windows and Linux distributions. However, I made sure to check if the SBC I was considering had proper driver support for the OS I planned to use.
Community and Support
Having a supportive community can make a huge difference, especially when troubleshooting or seeking advice. I often checked forums, user reviews, and support from the manufacturer before making my decision. A strong community can provide invaluable resources and troubleshooting tips.
Budget Considerations
Setting a budget was crucial for me. I found that x86 SBCs come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. I had to balance my needs against my budget, making sure I didn’t compromise on essential features.
Where to Buy
I explored several options for purchasing my x86 SBC, including online retailers, local electronics stores, and even second-hand marketplaces. I found that reputable online stores often offered better deals and more extensive selections.
Final Thoughts
Buying a single board computer with x86 architecture was an exciting journey for me. By considering the features that mattered most to me and doing thorough research, I was able to find an SBC that perfectly suited my needs. I hope this guide helps you in your quest to find the right x86 SBC for your projects!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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