The Breakdown
The Chuwi LarkBox S mini PC sets a new benchmark for entry-level computers with its robust design, premium materials, and impressive features. Its combination of portability, solid performance, and upgradeable options makes it a fantastic choice for both personal and professional use. Let’s take a closer look at what this compact machine from Chuwi has to offer.
Key Takeaways
- Pros: Premium build, upgrade options, solid office performance, multi-display support
- Cons: Limited gaming capabilities, storage capped at 1TB
Build Quality and Design
From the moment you pick up the LarkBox S, you can tell it’s built to last. The mix of plastic and metal in its outer casing gives it a premium feel, far exceeding expectations for its price point. Weighing just 478g and measuring 118 × 118 × 41.3mm, this mini PC is one of the most compact and durable in its category.
The satin-finish surface and subtle inlaid graphics add a touch of style, while the LED lighting array on the front gives it a modern, almost gaming-PC-like vibe. Though decorative, these lights can be turned off via firmware settings if you prefer a more understated look. The thoughtful layout of ports and ventilation ensures functionality matches its sleek design.
Specifications and Performance
The LarkBox S is powered by an Intel Core i3-1220P processor with 10 cores and 12 threads, paired with 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB PCIe 3.0 SSD storage. While this isn’t a high-end configuration, it’s more than capable of handling most office tasks, multimedia applications, and light creative work.
Key Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i3-1220P (up to 4.4 GHz)
- GPU: Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM: 16GB DDR4, expandable up to 64GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD, expandable up to 1TB via M.2 slot
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: Includes USB Type-C, HDMI, and USB Type-A options
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home pre-installed
Everyday Performance
For general office use, the LarkBox S excels. Microsoft Office applications like Excel and Word run smoothly, and multitasking between web browsing, email, and video streaming is seamless. Impressively, it also supports 4K video playback, making it suitable for multimedia consumption.
When tested with DaVinci Resolve for light video editing, it handled simple tasks well but struggled with heavy rendering or complex effects. Similarly, Adobe Photoshop performed adequately for basic image edits, though large projects with multiple layers pushed the limits of its capabilities.
Gaming Capabilities
As expected for an entry-level machine, the LarkBox S isn’t designed for gaming. While older or less graphically intensive titles like Portal 2 run without issue, modern games such as Hogwarts Legacy proved too demanding. Even reducing settings to the lowest resolution yielded suboptimal results.
Upgradeability
One of the standout features of the LarkBox S is its upgrade potential. It supports up to 64GB of RAM via two SO-DIMM slots, and the storage can be expanded to 1TB using the M.2 PCIe slot. These options make it a versatile choice for users who may need additional capacity in the future.
Connectivity and Multi-Display Support
The LarkBox S offers a variety of ports, including:
- Two HDMI ports for up to 4K resolution at 60Hz
- One USB Type-C port supporting 4K at 144Hz
- Two USB 3.2 Type-A ports for peripherals
- Gigabit LAN for reliable wired connections
The ability to connect up to three displays simultaneously is particularly noteworthy, making this mini PC a great fit for multitasking in an office or creative environment.
Cooling and Durability
Despite its small size, the LarkBox S features excellent cooling with an active fan, heat pipes, and efficient vents. This ensures that it remains quiet and cool even during prolonged use. Its robust build also means it can withstand daily wear and tear, making it suitable for environments like workshops or portable setups.
Pricing and Availability
The Chuwi LarkBox S is available now for $250 / £250 through the official Chuwi website and online retailers like Amazon. While it’s slightly more expensive than other entry-level options, its build quality, upgradeability, and features justify the price.
Final Verdict
The Chuwi LarkBox S is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, compact mini PC for day-to-day tasks. Its premium build, expandability, and versatile connectivity make it stand out in the entry-level market. While it’s not suitable for heavy gaming or intensive video editing, it’s perfect for office work, browsing, and light multimedia use.
Priced at $299 and with the special discount code GIZCHINAGLBOXS, it’s an unbeatable choice for 2025.
