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The X86-P6 Pocket NAS is a tiny computer with a versatile design that lets you pack up to four SSDs and up to 32GB of DDR5-4800 memory into chassis that measures just 100 x 100 x 58.5mm (3.94″ x 3.94″ x 2.3″).
It’s a follow-up to the X86-P5, and the new model is similar in most respects, but the key difference is that it’s now available with up to an Intel Core 3 N355 Twin Lake processor, while earlier models topped out at Core i3-N305 Alder Lake-N chips. The new X86-P6 is available from Amazon or AliExpress with prices starting at around $200 for a barebones system with an Intel N150 processor or $315 for a Core 3 N355 model.
Since the little computer has a SODIMM slot for memory and four M.2 2280 slots for storage, you can either buy a model that comes with some of each pre-configured or bring your own.
One thing to keep in mind is that while this system is positioned as a device you can use as a compact network-attached storage system, it’s not going to offer the fastest storage available due to the fact that Intel Twin Lake processors only have 9 lanes of PCIe 3.0.
You can get PCIe 3.0 x4 speeds if you remove the breakout board that gives you four M.2 2280 slots and just use a single SSD. But if you want to use four SSDs you’ll be limited to PCIe 3.0 x1 speeds.
That said, this could still be an interesting solution if you’re looking to put large amounts of storage or plenty of redundant storage into the little computer. And it offers a decent set of I/O capabilities including:
- 2 x 2.5 GbE LAN (Intel i226-V)
- 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A (10 Gbps)
- 2 x HDMI 2.0
- M.2 B-Key slot with support for WiFi 6/WiFi7 + Bluetooth modules
Other features include a 12V DC power input jack, a cooling system that includes an aluminum radiator and fan below the mainboard for active cooling. There are also screw holes in the top cover that you can use to add an optional fan on top of the case.