This video provides a comprehensive and detailed review of the Bosgame E3 Mini PC, highlighting its features, performance, and exceptional value, especially as a timely solution for those facing the Windows 10 end-of-support deadline.
Here is our thorough video review:
This compact computer is a true marvel of modern engineering, roughly the size of just a few cell phones, yet it delivers computing power comparable to a mid-level corporate desktop from about 2019. Its incredibly small footprint allows for versatile placement, including the convenience of mounting it directly to the back of a monitor, which drastically reduces cable clutter and frees up desk space.
Who is Bosgame?
Bosgame, a company established around 2021 in Shenzhen, China, with approximately 300 employees, primarily distributes its products through major online retailers like Amazon. The reviewer acquired this particular unit on sale for an attractive price, making it an even more compelling option for budget-conscious buyers in both Canada and the US.
Under the hood, the Bosgame E3 comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Professional, offering a ready-to-use modern operating system experience.
What is the Intel N150 CPU?
Its core is an Intel N150 CPU, a modern processor specifically designed with efficiency in mind. Unlike older CPUs that relied solely on powerful “Performance” cores, contemporary Intel processors, like the N150, utilize a hybrid architecture. The N150, in particular, is equipped with four “Efficiency” cores.
These E-cores are remarkably capable of handling nearly all day-to-day computing tasks for Windows and basic applications. This means that for activities such as web Browse, word processing, spreadsheet management, email, and video playback, the N150 provides a smooth and responsive experience without needing a power-hungry “Performance” core.
AV1 Codec?
This focus on efficiency not only contributes to the mini PC’s quiet operation but also to its low power consumption, making it an economical choice for continuous use. Furthermore, the Intel N150 CPU boasts hardware decoding capabilities for the AV1 codec, a crucial feature for optimizing high-quality video streams from popular platforms like YouTube and Netflix, ensuring smooth, buffer-free playback even at higher resolutions.
Bosgame E3 Specifications
Beyond the CPU, the Bosgame E3 is well-equipped with 16GB of DDR4 2600 RAM and a spacious 500GB M.2 SSD for rapid data access and ample storage. Both the RAM and the SSD are easily upgradeable, allowing users to expand the memory and replace the SSD with larger capacities, up to a massive 4TB drive, providing significant future-proofing.
Connectivity is robust for such a small device. The E3 features two HDMI 2.0 ports capable of outputting 4K resolution at 60Hz, along with a versatile USB-C port that also supports display output. It includes multiple USB 3.2 ports and super-speed ports for connecting various peripherals, a convenient headphone jack, and a 2.5 Gigabit network port for high-speed wired internet connections.
WiFi 5?
When it comes to wireless connectivity, the unit is equipped with Wi-Fi 5. While Wi-Fi 5 is a perfectly acceptable standard for most home and office environments, providing reliable and fast wireless access, it is somewhat disappointing that the unit doesn’t incorporate the newer Wi-Fi 6 or even Wi-Fi 7 standards.
This is particularly relevant for mini-PCs, as their compact size often means they feature smaller internal antennas, which can sometimes struggle with optimal Wi-Fi signal reception. Newer Wi-Fi standards typically offer improved efficiency, better performance in congested environments, and more robust connections, which would be a beneficial upgrade for a mini-PC.
Vesa 100 Mount
We also show you the unboxing experience, detailing the included accessories such as a mounting bracket, HDMI cable, and power supply. A practical demonstration of how to easily open the unit to access and upgrade the SSD and RAM is also included, highlighting its user-friendly design for internal modifications.
Bosgame E3 Performance and Specifications
The mini PC boasts fast boot-up times and responsive application performance, with common programs like Task Manager and Settings opening without any noticeable lag. While it’s not designed for high-end gaming, it excels in general computing, office tasks, and media consumption, proving its versatility.
The Bosgame E3 Mini PC shines brightly in its benefits: it’s incredibly small and operates exceptionally quietly, making it ideal for any environment. It offers surprising power for its size and price point, delivering a solid computing experience. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro with full Microsoft support is a significant advantage, particularly for those looking for a cost-effective solution to the impending Windows 10 end-of-life problem, as it offers a seamless and officially supported upgrade path. Overall, its value for money is outstanding, especially considering its capable CPU, ample RAM, and fast SSD.
Bosgame E3 Problems
However, no product is without its drawbacks. We note the plastic chassis, which, while functional, doesn’t convey the same premium feel as some higher-priced alternatives like the aluminum bodies often found in Intel NUCs or some Dell OptiPlex Micro models. Technical support can be a challenge, primarily relying on email communication, which could complicate returns or troubleshooting outside of Amazon’s immediate return window. As mentioned, the use of Wi-Fi 5 rather than Wi-Fi 6 or 7 is a minor letdown.
Mini PC Competitors
Despite a few minor limitations, the Bosgame E3 Mini PC stands out as a formidable competitor in the budget mini-PC market, facing off against established names such as Asus/Intel NUCs, HP Z2 Mini, Dell OptiPlex Micro series, MSI Cubi, Beelink models, and numerous other compact form factor PCs.
The Wrap
For anyone seeking an affordable, efficient, and capable mini-PC to handle everyday computing needs and gracefully transition from Windows 10, the Bosgame E3 presents a highly compelling option.
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