Zotac Unveils Zbox Magnus Mini PC to Compete with Mac Studio

Zotac has introduced the Zbox Magnus EN275060TC, a mini PC designed to challenge the Apple Mac Studio in performance. This compact device boasts an impressive configuration, including an Nvidia RTX 5060 graphics card and an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, all packed into a chassis measuring only 210 x 203 x 62.2 mm. Weighing approximately 1.4 kilograms, it is small enough to fit into a jacket pocket while delivering power comparable to many mid-tower desktops.

The Zbox Magnus features a total volume of just 2.65 liters, making it one of the most compact desktop systems equipped with a full desktop-class GPU. Inside, users will find an Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX processor, which includes eight performance and twelve efficiency cores, offering a turbo boost of up to 5.2 GHz and a 30MB cache. Accompanied by the GPU’s 16GB of VRAM, this setup is poised to handle 4K gaming, creative workloads, and AI tasks effectively.

Zotac’s mini PC comes as a barebones kit, allowing users to customize their memory and storage options. It supports up to 96GB of DDR5 memory at speeds of 6400MT/s using CSODIMM or 5600MT/s with standard SODIMM modules. This flexibility lets buyers tailor the system to their specific needs, although it may increase costs once premium components are selected.

Connectivity and Design Features

For connectivity, the Zbox Magnus offers a robust array of ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports and five USB Type-A ports. It also provides dual Ethernet connections and four display outputs, accommodating multiple monitors and peripherals. The system supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connectivity, enhancing its usability in various environments.

The design includes dual M.2 slots, one supporting PCIe 5.0 and the other PCIe 4.0, allowing for flexible SSD installation. While this customizability is appealing, it does require users to manage additional costs associated with premium components. Zotac supplies the necessary Wi-Fi antennas and wall mount hardware, positioning the Zbox Magnus as a viable option for a compact business PC or a portable workstation.

Despite its compact profile, the Zbox Magnus relies on a sizable 330W external power supply, which may detract from its portability. The pricing for the Zbox Magnus in some European markets is around €1,600, translating to approximately $1,555 before taxes. This places it in direct competition with larger desktop systems that offer better cooling solutions and potentially superior sustained performance.

Performance Considerations

While the Zbox Magnus is marketed as a competitor to the Mac Studio, some analysts urge caution in making direct comparisons. The thermal management and sustained performance of the mini PC remain concerns, especially given the confined internal space. As users explore this device’s capabilities, they may find that while it delivers substantial power for its size, it has limitations that could affect long-term performance.

Overall, the Zbox Magnus EN275060TC represents a bold entry into the mini PC market, appealing to those who desire a powerful yet portable computing solution. As technology continues to evolve, this device may prove to be a significant player in the ongoing competition against larger, more established systems.