Chatreey IT12-12900H

Updated on January 26, 2026

The Chatreey IT12-12900H represents an interesting proposition in the mini PC market, combining workstation-grade mobile silicon with a compact form factor that can fit virtually anywhere. With its Intel Core i9-12900H processor delivering 14 cores and 20 threads, this system targets users who need genuine computational muscle without the bulk of a traditional desktop.

What sets the IT12 apart from many mini PCs in its class is the inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, opening up the possibility of connecting an external GPU for graphics-intensive workloads. The dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports make it particularly attractive for networking enthusiasts and homelab setups, though buyers should be aware that DRAM prices have surged significantly in recent months, affecting memory upgrade costs. The combination of dual M.2 slots and a 2.5-inch SATA bay provides substantial storage flexibility for those who need local capacity.

Detailed Insights

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The Chatreey IT12 houses its components in a compact aluminum chassis measuring approximately 6.5 by 5.2 by 2.5 inches. While not the smallest mini PC available, this size allows for adequate thermal management of the power-hungry i9-12900H processor. The build quality follows the typical pattern for Chinese-manufactured mini PCs at this price point, featuring solid construction with functional port placement that prioritizes accessibility over aesthetics. The lack of VESA mount support is notable, meaning desk placement or a third-party mounting solution would be required for behind-monitor installations.

Performance from the Intel Core i9-12900H processor should satisfy demanding users. This 12th-generation Alder Lake mobile chip features a hybrid architecture with 6 Performance cores and 8 Efficient cores, capable of boosting to 5.0 GHz under favorable thermal conditions. With a PassMark score of approximately 28,524, this processor outperforms many desktop chips from previous generations and handles multi-threaded workloads like video encoding, compilation, and virtualization with ease. The 32GB of DDR4 RAM in the reviewed configuration provides ample headroom for most productivity tasks, and the system supports upgrades to 64GB for those requiring even more memory capacity.

Connectivity stands out as one of the IT12’s strongest attributes. The Thunderbolt 4 port delivers 40 Gbps bandwidth, making external GPU enclosures a viable option for users who need discrete graphics performance on demand. Users in the eGPU community have successfully paired the IT12 with cards like the RTX 4060 Ti through Thunderbolt docking solutions, demonstrating real-world expandability. The dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports provide network redundancy or link aggregation possibilities, while WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 handle wireless connectivity. Display output options include two HDMI ports and one DisplayPort, supporting multi-monitor configurations common in professional environments.

Storage expansion options cater to users with growing data needs. The dual M.2 slots accept NVMe drives, with one offering PCIe 4.0 speeds and the other running at PCIe 3.0. The additional 2.5-inch SATA bay accommodates either an SSD or traditional hard drive, providing a cost-effective way to add bulk storage for media libraries or backup archives. This triple-storage capability is uncommon in mini PCs at this price point and adds genuine value for users who prefer local storage over cloud-based solutions.

Reviewer Insights

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Coverage of the Chatreey IT12 in Western tech media remains limited, reflecting the brand’s primary focus on Asian markets. However, the available information provides useful context for potential buyers.

NotebookCheck’s Coverage

NotebookCheck’s product announcement highlighted the IT12 as a mini PC “now available with a significantly more powerful processor,” noting that buyers can “select up to 64 GB of RAM and a 4 TB SSD.” Their coverage confirmed the dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet configuration, Thunderbolt 4 support, and the combination of PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots. While not a full review with benchmarks, the coverage validates the key specifications and positions the IT12 as a capable workstation alternative.

Community Feedback

The eGPU enthusiast community has documented successful builds using the IT12 with external graphics cards. One notable build on the egpu.io forums paired the system with an RTX 4060 Ti through a Thunderbolt 4 enclosure, confirming that the port delivers the promised 40 Gbps bandwidth necessary for reasonable external GPU performance. This real-world testing provides valuable validation for users considering the IT12 specifically for its Thunderbolt expandability.

Discussions on the ServeTheHome forums include the Chatreey IT12 among comparable mini PCs from manufacturers like Topton and Kingnovy, which often share similar ODM origins. Forum members have noted the competitive specifications relative to pricing, though direct comparisons with better-known brands like GEEKOM or Minisforum remain difficult due to limited head-to-head testing.

Customer Reviews

User feedback for the Chatreey IT12 presents a mixed but generally positive picture. The compact form factor receives consistent praise from those using the system in home office environments, with users appreciating the ability to tuck substantial computing power into limited desk space. The dual Ethernet ports have attracted particular attention from homelab enthusiasts running virtualization platforms or network services.

However, some users have reported concerns about the included power supply. The 90-watt adapter that ships with the system may prove insufficient during sustained heavy workloads, with reports of unexpected shutdowns when pushing the processor hard while simultaneously running demanding tasks. Users planning intensive computational work may want to investigate higher-wattage power supplies as a precautionary measure.

Build quality opinions remain generally favorable, with the aluminum construction providing adequate heat dissipation during normal operation. Fan noise under load has been described as noticeable but not excessive, following the typical pattern for actively-cooled mini PCs with mobile H-series processors. The packaging and shipping experience from direct importers has been described as satisfactory, though buyers should account for potential warranty complications when purchasing from overseas sellers.

Pros and Cons

Chatreey IT12-12900H Comparison Chart

	Chatreey IT12-12900H
Price	List Price: $769.99 Amazon Prices: Check Price on Amazon
Version	32GB/1TB/Intel i9-12900H
Performance Rating	9.3
Operating System	Windows 11
Processor	Fourteen-core 3.80 Ghz (max 5.00 Ghz) Intel Core i9-12900H
GPU	Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
RAM	32 GB
Internal Storage	1 TB
Dimensions width x length x thickness	6.5 x 5.2 x 2.5 inches (165.1 x 132.08 x 63.5 mm)
Weight	unknown
WiFi	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Bluetooth	Bluetooth 5.0
Ethernet	2 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps
HDMI	2 Full-Size HDMI Ports
DisplayPort	1 DisplayPort
VGA	No VGA Ports
USB Ports	1 USB 2.0, 4 USB 3, 1 USB 4
Thunderbolt Ports	1
Internal SATA Ports	1 SATA port, includes 2.5" drive bay
Card Reader	No Card Reader
Headphone Jack	combo
Fanless	No
VESA Mount	No
In the Box	Mini PC, power adapter, SATA adapter, HDMI cable, user manual
Expandability	Second M.2 SSD slot, RAM upgradeable to 64GB, 2.5-inch SATA bay, Thunderbolt 4 for eGPU

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect an external GPU to the Chatreey IT12?

Yes, the Thunderbolt 4 port supports external GPU enclosures. Community members have successfully used the IT12 with graphics cards like the RTX 4060 Ti through Thunderbolt docks, demonstrating viable eGPU performance for gaming and GPU-accelerated workloads.

How does the i9-12900H compare to desktop processors?

The i9-12900H is a mobile chip that performs comparably to mid-range desktop processors. With a PassMark score around 28,524, it outperforms processors like the Intel Core i5-12400 desktop chip and delivers strong multi-threaded performance for productivity tasks.

Is the 90W power adapter sufficient?

For typical productivity use, the included 90W adapter works adequately. However, some users report shutdowns during sustained heavy workloads that push both CPU and storage simultaneously. Consider a higher-wattage adapter if you plan intensive computational tasks.

Where can I buy the Chatreey IT12?

The Chatreey IT12 is primarily sold through direct import channels and platforms like AliExpress. The model is not widely available through major Western retailers like Amazon US, so buyers should factor in potential import duties and longer shipping times.

Can I upgrade the RAM and storage?

Yes, the IT12 supports RAM upgrades up to 64GB and offers substantial storage expansion through dual M.2 slots (one PCIe 4.0, one PCIe 3.0) plus a 2.5-inch SATA bay for additional drives.

How loud is the fan during operation?

Fan noise is noticeable during demanding tasks but remains acceptable for office environments during normal productivity work. The active cooling system engages more aggressively when the i9-12900H processor runs at higher clock speeds under load.

Conclusion

The Chatreey IT12-12900H occupies an interesting niche in the mini PC market, offering workstation-class performance in a compact package that appeals to power users, homelab enthusiasts, and professionals seeking a space-efficient computing solution. The combination of a 14-core Intel processor, Thunderbolt 4 expandability, dual 2.5GbE networking, and flexible storage options creates a genuinely capable system that punches above typical mini PC weight classes.

The limited Western retail presence and sparse professional review coverage represent the primary drawbacks for buyers accustomed to well-documented products from established brands. Those comfortable with direct importing and willing to accept potential warranty complications will find the IT12 delivers strong specifications at competitive pricing. The documented success of eGPU setups and positive community feedback provide some reassurance, though buyers seeking extensive independent validation may prefer more widely reviewed alternatives from brands like GEEKOM or Minisforum.

For users prioritizing raw capability, networking features, and expandability over brand recognition and support convenience, the Chatreey IT12-12900H represents a compelling value proposition that deserves consideration alongside better-known mini PC options.