Azulle Byte3 Fanless Mini Desktop PC Review

Here at ThinkComputers we are often focused on the best of the best, the top of the line, the highest performing hardware. But every now and then we find ourselves in need of a specialized system for a certain task or use case. This could be anything from something like a Raspberry Pi for some sort of maker project, to a dedicated home theater PC. And sometimes we just need a small, yet decently powerful system to perform day to day tasks without breaking the bank or taking up a ton of space. It is this last scenario we will be focusing on today as we take a look at the Azulle Byte3 Fanless Mini Desktop PC. The Byte3 is a mini-PC that has been designed to offer a lightweight, yet powerful system, capable of keeping up with the day to day tasks of an average user. That isn’t to say that the Byte3 is a slouch, as it offers support for 4K video at 60fps, and enough horsepower for a bit of light gaming as well. Follow along as we take a closer look at the Azulle Byte3 Fanless Mini Desktop PC.

Special thanks to Azulle for supplying us with the Byte3 review sample!

Specifications

Processor: Intel Apollo Lake J3355 Dual-Core 2.0Ghz to 2.5Ghz/J3455 Quad-Core 1.5Ghz to 2.3Ghz
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro/Linux
RAM: 2GB/4GB/8GB
Storage: eMMC 32GB/64GB, 2.5″ & M.2 Supported
WiFi: Dual-Band 2.4Ghz/5.0Ghz
GPU: Intel HD Graphics 500
Ethernet: 1Gbps
Bluetooth: 4.0
VGA Output: 1080p
HDMI Output: 2.0, 4K @ 60fps
USB Ports: 3 x 3.0, 1 x 2.0, 1 x Type-C
SD Card Slot: Up to 256GB
M.2 Slot: 2280 SATA up to 320GB
SATA: 2.5″ SSD up to 512GB
Audio Output: 3.5mm Audio jack
Power Supply: 12V
Dimensions: 5.6in (W) x 4in (D) x 1.5in (H)

The Byte3 is available with a few different configuration options, which is nice to see, as it lets you pick and choose a bit with regards to price and performance. CPU options include either the dual-core J3355 or the quad-core J3455, neither of which support hyperthreading, but each supporting 2MB of cache and a 10W TDP. Keep in mind that this system is completely fanless, so the 10W TDP is probably all Azulle could get away with without some active cooling. Other options include a mix of 2GB-8GB of system memory, paired up with either 32GB or 64GB of eMMC flash storage. Windows 10 Pro or an open-source Linux OS are available, and the ability to bundle with wireless peripherals and webcams is also available. You can even select new or used when purchasing directly from the Azulle website.

Packaging

The Byte3 comes packed in a very bright blue box with a bit of product imagery and branding. You won’t find any technical information or specifications here, which we found refreshing.

Azulle Byte3 Fanless Mini Desktop PC

The backside of the box does provide a small list of specifications as well as a short description about the Byte3. Azulle’s social media accounts are also listed here (@azulletech on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook), as well as an angled image of the Byte3 itself.

Azulle Byte3 Fanless Mini Desktop PC

Opening up the magnetically latched lid of the box reveals a shaped foam insert keeping the Byte3 in its place, and a foam pad on top keeps it safe on the topside.

Azulle Byte3 Fanless Mini Desktop PC

There is also a small boxed compartment on the left side of the box that houses the Byte3’s power supply, included remote, and accessories kit.

Azulle Byte3 Fanless Mini Desktop PC