MINIX has introduced a new compact desktop PC aimed at users who want a small, efficient system with modern Intel hardware and built-in AI capabilities. The new model, called the MINIX N304-AI Mini Host, is based on Intel’s Wildcat Lake platform and uses the Intel Core 3 304 processor.
The launch comes as more manufacturers begin adopting Wildcat Lake chips for mini PCs, compact workstations, and everyday desktop systems. With the N304-AI, MINIX is targeting buyers who need an affordable, space-saving computer for productivity, web use, media, light creative work, and entry-level local AI tasks.
At the center of the MINIX N304-AI Mini Host is the Intel Core 3 304 processor. This chip sits at the lower end of Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 family, but it still brings a modern hybrid CPU design. It features a 1+4 core configuration, combining one Cougar Cove performance core with four Darkmont low-power efficiency cores.
While it is not designed for heavy workstation-class workloads, the Core 3 304 is built to deliver solid everyday performance while keeping power usage low. The processor can boost up to 4.3 GHz and operates with a 15W TDP, making it well suited for compact systems where heat, noise, and power efficiency matter.
One of the key highlights of the Core 3 304 is its AI performance. The processor can deliver up to 15 TOPS of INT8 AI compute, allowing the mini PC to handle basic local AI workloads without relying completely on cloud-based services. This makes the system useful for users experimenting with AI tools, lightweight machine learning tasks, productivity enhancements, and AI-assisted applications.
The integrated graphics also add to the AI capability of the system. The chip includes Intel graphics with 2 Xe3 cores, offering up to 9 TOPS of AI performance. While this is not a gaming-focused GPU, it should be capable enough for display output, media playback, general graphics acceleration, and light creative use.
The MINIX N304-AI Mini Host comes with 16 GB of LPDDR5X memory running at 6400 MT/s. Since this is integrated memory, it is designed to offer fast performance in a compact and power-efficient package. For storage, the system includes a 512 GB PCIe Gen 3.0 SSD, giving users enough space for Windows, productivity software, documents, media files, and frequently used apps.
These specifications place the N304-AI firmly in the entry-level mini PC category, but with a modern feature set that makes it more capable than many basic office desktops. It is designed for common daily tasks such as web browsing, email, video streaming, Microsoft Office work, online meetings, document editing, and light photo editing in apps like Photoshop. The added AI support also gives it an advantage for users interested in running simple AI workloads locally.
Connectivity is another strong point of the MINIX N304-AI. The system includes WiFi 6 for faster and more reliable wireless networking, along with Bluetooth 5.3 for connecting wireless keyboards, mice, headphones, speakers, and other accessories.
For wired networking, the mini PC includes dual 1 GbE LAN ports. This is one of its most practical features, especially for users who want stable internet performance, small office networking, firewall setups, home lab use, or more flexible network configurations. Dual LAN ports are not always common on entry-level mini PCs, so this gives the N304-AI extra appeal for business and advanced home users.
Display connectivity includes HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, allowing users to connect modern monitors, TVs, or multi-display setups. The system also ships with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, which makes it ready for business, productivity, and home use right out of the box.
The compact size of the MINIX N304-AI Mini Host makes it a good option for users who want a clutter-free desk setup. It can fit into small workspaces, home offices, reception desks, classrooms, kiosks, or media centers without taking up much room. Its low-power Intel processor also makes it suitable for always-on tasks where efficiency is important.
MINIX has not yet confirmed the pricing or release date for the N304-AI Mini Host. However, given its specifications, it is expected to compete in the affordable mini PC segment while offering newer Intel Wildcat Lake hardware and entry-level AI performance.
Overall, the MINIX N304-AI Mini Host looks like a practical compact PC for users who need a modern, efficient, and AI-ready desktop for everyday computing. With the Intel Core 3 304 processor, 16 GB LPDDR5X memory, 512 GB SSD, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, dual LAN, and Windows 11 Pro, it could become an attractive choice for home users, small businesses, and anyone looking for a small PC with solid connectivity and low power consumption.
