eSIM Studios
The MeLE Quieter 4C, a compact, fanless mini PC with pocketable dimensions, offers versatile application capabilities. Supporting triple-display connectivity, up to 32GB of onboard RAM, and user-replaceable PCIe 3.0 NVMe storage via an M.2 2280 slot, it provides substantial functionality. Initially launched in 2024 with an Intel N100 Alder Lake-N processor, the device has recently received a specification upgrade, now featuring the Intel N150 Twin Lake processor.. At time of publication, you can pick up a new model with an N150 chip, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD from Amazon for $252 when you use the code 9JFE7Q0Z6XBM at checkout.
Amazon provides a 32GB/512GB configuration for $270 (utilizing the same promotional code). Alternatively, MeLE's website offers the product for $350 and above; however, the rationale for choosing this option is unclear.
In last year's review, Ian highlighted the Quieter 4C's advantageous port selection within a compact form factor, along with its silent operation. He observed that MeLE prioritized thermal management, resulting in some performance compromises to prevent overheating. While Intel's Alder Lake-N and Twin Lake processors generate minimal heat, active cooling proves beneficial in compact enclosures.
Therefore, it is pertinent to determine whether the enhanced performance of newer models incorporating N150 chips is realized, or if MeLE's power limitations negate any functional improvement between the N100 and N150 processors in the Quieter 4C.
The Intel N150 chip is essentially an N100 with marginally increased CPU and GPU clock speeds. No architectural modifications exist; therefore, performance gains, if any, will be minimal. However, given the recent industry shift by most mini-PC manufacturers from Alder Lake-N to Twin Lake processors, Intel's eventual discontinuation of the older chips is anticipated.
The updated MeLE Quieter 4C retains the same specifications as its predecessor, except for the processor, explaining the unchanged model number.
The mini PC measures 131 x 81 x 18mm (5.2″ x 3.2″ x 0.7″) and features LPDDR5 memory, support for WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1, and a set of ports that includes:
The computer comes with a VESA mount that lets you attach it to the back of a display and MeLE says the Quieter 4C supports Wake on LAN, PXE, RTC Wake, and Auto Power On functionality.
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