Ubuntu

Vorke V2 Mini PC Appears (Plus a Presale Offer)

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There hasn’t been much happening in the world of Windows/x86 Mini PCs lately, with most of the new releases focusing on Android. However, GeekBuying have recently listed the new Vorke V2 mini PC which looks interesting.

The Vorke V2 is the reasonably named followup to the Vorke V1 (which left me with some very positive impressions). Powered by Ubuntu out of the box (but also supporting Windows though you’ll need to bring your own licence), it’s a compact PC with everything you need to get started.

Thanks to its small form factor (and an included VESA bracket), you’ll even be able to mount it behind your compatible monitor for a minimalist setup.

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In terms of specifications, the Vorke V2 comes in several variants powered by Intel’s Skylake architecture. You can choose between either the Intel Core i5-6300U or the more powerful Core i7-6500U, both of which include Intel HD 520 graphics for improved gaming performance.

You’ll also need to decide whether you want 128GB or 256GB of SSD storage.

The rest of the specs are equally solid, featuring 8GB of DDR3 RAM, support for 2.5″ SATA hard drives for additional storage, 2 USB 3.0 ports, a USB Type C port, Gigabit Ethernet, and Wireless AC. There’s no mention of Bluetooth connectivity however.

That USB Type C port is important, as you’ll be able to use the Vorke V2 in dual monitor setups by purchasing a USB-C adapter, in addition to the various other features USB Type C enables.

Inside the box, you’ll get the Vorke V2 Windows Mini PC, HDMI cable, power adapter, VESA bracket and a user manual.

Where to Buy the Vorke V2

The Vorke V2 is currently on presale over at GeekBuying starting at $349.99.

Use the below coupons to get the special presale prices:

  • Core i5-6200U with 128 GB SSD – $349.99 using coupon VORKEV220
  • Core i5-6200U with 256 GB SSD – $399.99 using coupon VORKEV230
  • Core i7-6500U with 128 GB SSD – $399.99 using coupon VORKEV230
  • Core i7-6500U with 256 GB SSD – $449.99 using coupon VORKEV220

VX2 Windows Mini PC Features Celeron J1900, Gigabit Ethernet, Wireless AC

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A mini PC called the VX2 has been listed by GeekBuying, powered by either the Intel Celeron J1900 or J1800 processor. Reading through the spec list is like reading through a HTPC wish list.

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VX2 Mini PC Technical Specifications

  • Chipset: Intel Celeron J1900/J1800 quad core processor with Intel HD graphics
  • RAM: 2 GB DDR3
  • Storage: 500GB
  • Video & Audio Output: VGA, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio
  • Audio Input: Microphone In
  • Connectivity: 802.11 b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0
  • USB: 1x USB 3.0 port, 3x USB 2.0 port
  • OS: Windows 8.1 with Bing

The VX2 comes pre-installed with Windows 8.1 with Bing but offers compatibility with a host of operating systems, including dual booting Windows and Android,  Fedora and Ubuntu. Given the strong Linux support implied, running OpenELEC should be a possibility.

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The VX2’s hardware is impressive for the price too. It features USB 3.0, Wireless AC, Gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth 4.0, VGA output and a 500gb hard drive. It also has an IR port.

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There are a couple of questions however. Inspecting the photos and specifications list (RTS5159 is a Realtek card reader), it seems that there is a microSD slot so I’ll be trying to confirm this as soon as possible. There’s also a few photos out there of a black version but I don’t know if this was a manufacturing sample only.

The Intel Celeron J1900 should perform far better than the Intel Z3730 family chipsets seen in devices such as the PiPO X7 and MINIX NEO Z64. This could be a great solution for those wanting to play more powerful codecs such as H.265 or Hi10p but some testing will be required.

Geekbuying have the device listed from $229 at the time of writing.  Click here for the latest price.