Intel Processor N150 Mini PCs

The Intel Processor N150 represents the next step in Intel’s budget-friendly mini PC lineup, arriving in late 2024 as a modest but meaningful upgrade to the popular N100. Codenamed “Twin Lake,” the N150 builds on the same efficient quad-core architecture while pushing clock speeds higher and improving integrated graphics performance. With a maximum turbo frequency of 3.6 GHz and Intel UHD Graphics clocked at up to 1.0 GHz, it delivers approximately 10-15% better CPU performance and up to 20% better graphics compared to its predecessor while maintaining the same 6-watt base TDP.

The N150 uses four efficiency cores like its predecessor, but Intel has refined the manufacturing process to Intel 7 (7nm equivalent) from the N100’s Intel 7 (10nm SuperFin). This allows the higher clock speeds without proportionally higher power consumption, though the N150 can draw up to 25 watts when pushed hard under sustained loads. The processor includes 6MB of L3 cache and supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, giving manufacturers flexibility in their designs. Like the N100, it is limited to single-channel memory with an official maximum of 16GB, though some systems work with higher capacities.

For buyers considering whether to choose an N150 over an N100, the answer depends largely on pricing. At similar price points, the N150 is the better choice for its improved graphics performance and higher boost clocks. However, if N100 systems are significantly cheaper, the 10-15% performance difference may not justify the premium. The N150 represents evolution rather than revolution, making it ideal for new buyers entering the budget mini PC market.

Performance

The Intel N150 scores approximately 5,478 in CPU Mark benchmarks, placing it in the same performance tier as the N100’s 5,643 score. Real-world testing shows the N150 pulling slightly ahead in sustained workloads thanks to its higher turbo frequency, with improvements more noticeable in tasks that stress the processor for extended periods. In Geekbench 6, the N150 achieves around 1,258 in single-core and 3,010 in multi-core tests, indicating solid everyday computing capability.

The more significant improvement comes from the integrated graphics. The Intel UHD Graphics in the N150 runs at up to 1.0 GHz compared to 750 MHz in the N100, representing a 33% clock speed increase. Reviewers have measured a 20-25% improvement in graphics benchmarks and light gaming scenarios. Games that were borderline playable on the N100, like older titles at 720p, run more smoothly on the N150. PlayStation 2 and GameCube emulation at full speed is more consistently achievable, and GPU-accelerated tasks like video transcoding see modest gains.

Real-world usage shows the N150 handling everyday tasks smoothly: web browsing with many tabs, 4K video playback with hardware decoding for modern codecs including AV1 and VP9, office productivity applications, and video conferencing. The processor supports triple 4K displays at 60Hz on systems with the right port configuration. Power consumption typically ranges from 6-12 watts at idle to around 15-25 watts under heavy load, making N150 systems efficient enough for always-on applications while remaining cool and quiet.

Ideal Use Cases

The Intel N150 shines in the same scenarios as its N100 predecessor, with slightly better performance headroom. Home office workstations benefit from its compact size and quiet operation, particularly in VESA-mounted configurations behind monitors. The improved graphics make it marginally better for users who occasionally need to run light games or graphics applications. Media center builds take advantage of the 4K output and hardware video decoding, with smooth playback of high-bitrate content.

Home lab enthusiasts have embraced N150 mini PCs for lightweight server tasks, particularly models offering dual Ethernet ports. The processor handles Docker containers, Proxmox virtualization for light VMs, file sharing, and network services without generating significant heat. The higher clock speeds compared to N100 provide small but welcome improvements for these always-on workloads. Firewall deployments running pfSense or OPNsense work well on N150 systems with dual 2.5 gigabit Ethernet.

Where the N150 falls short remains similar to N100 limitations. Professional video editing, software compilation, and 3D modeling will hit the ceiling quickly. Modern AAA gaming is not realistic, though retro gaming and emulation up to Wii U era are achievable with the right settings. The single-channel memory configuration limits performance in memory-intensive tasks. Users with demanding multitasking needs should consider stepping up to Intel Core i3-N305 systems or AMD Ryzen alternatives.

What to Look For

When shopping for N150 mini PCs, memory configuration significantly impacts everyday responsiveness. Systems with DDR5 memory at 4800MHz provide noticeably smoother multitasking than DDR4 alternatives, and some manufacturers like GMKtec have adopted LPDDR5 in compact designs. While 8GB remains adequate for light use, 16GB provides comfortable headroom for browser-heavy workflows and multitasking.

Storage expandability varies considerably among N150 systems. Premium options like the ASUS NUC 14 Essential offer M.2 NVMe slots with PCIe 3.0 x4 speeds, while budget models may use slower SATA interfaces. Look for systems with at least one NVMe-capable M.2 slot; dual storage slots add flexibility for separating OS and data drives. Some models include eMMC storage for the operating system with an NVMe slot for user storage, which works adequately but limits future flexibility.

Connectivity distinguishes N150 mini PCs at similar price points. Wi-Fi 6 or 6E and Bluetooth 5.2+ are standard on quality systems. Dual Ethernet ports appear on models targeting home lab users, with 2.5 gigabit speeds increasingly common. USB-C ports with DisplayPort capability enable triple monitor setups on some models. Pricing for N150 mini PCs typically ranges from $160 to $360, with the sweet spot around $200-250 for 16GB RAM and 512GB storage configurations. At these prices, they offer excellent value for users who understand their capabilities and limitations.