Hands-on Review: The Khadas Mind 2 is a Game-Changer for Mini PCs (2025)

In a world where PCs are getting smaller and more powerful, the Khadas Mind 2 stands out. It's not just a compact computer; it's a modular system that redefines what a mini PC can be. From its unibody aluminum design to its unique expansion capabilities, this device offers a glimpse into the future of computing. It's a product that doesn't just promise performance—it delivers it in a sleek, minimalist package that enhances your workspace.

First Impressions: Unboxing the Khadas Mind 2

The Khadas Mind 2 arrives in a clean, minimalist package that immediately signals a premium product. The box prominently features the Windows and Intel Core Ultra logos, hinting at the powerful hardware inside. Upon opening, you'll find the Mind 2 unit itself, a C-to-C cable, and a 65W power adapter. While the sample unit came with a specific plug, the retail version offers various plug types, including a Korean-style one, ensuring compatibility no matter where you are. A quick-start manual and warranty card are also included, making the setup process straightforward.

The initial setup is a breeze. The device boots directly into the Windows 11 configuration screen, and with a few simple steps—like connecting to Wi-Fi—you’re ready to go. A dedicated Mind app comes pre-installed, offering convenient controls for power options and easy driver updates, which is a nice touch for a seamless user experience.

Design & Build Quality: A Masterpiece in Miniaturization

The most striking aspect of the Khadas Mind 2 is its design. It's a true unibody marvel, crafted from a single block of anodized aluminum. This gives it a solid, premium feel that rivals products from companies like Apple. The attention to detail is evident in every curve and chamfered edge. It’s compact, fitting snugly in the palm of your hand, and weighs just 435 grams—roughly the same as two smartphones. This minimalist and sophisticated aesthetic makes it an ideal addition to any "deskterior" setup, whether you prefer classic black or a modern silver finish.

One of the biggest advantages of its design is the power delivery. If you have a monitor that supports power delivery via USB-C, you can power the Mind 2 with a single cable, eliminating the need for a separate power brick and creating an incredibly clean, clutter-free workspace.

Performance: Punching Above Its Weight

The Khadas Mind 2 is more than just a pretty face; it packs a serious performance punch. The review model featured an Intel Core Ultra CPU with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, representing the mid-range option. Compared to the previous generation Mind, which was equipped with a 13th-gen Intel CPU, the performance gains are significant.

• Geekbench 6: The multi-core score showed a 35% improvement, a testament to the new Intel Core Ultra CPU's efficiency and power.
• Cinebench R23: The single-core score remained competitive, but the multi-core score saw a remarkable 53% increase, demonstrating its capability for demanding tasks.
• 3DMark (Fire Strike): The integrated Intel Arc graphics delivered an incredible performance boost, scoring 8,118, nearly double the score of its predecessor. This places its graphical performance in a similar league to older, dedicated GPUs like the GTX 1050 Ti or GTX 1060.

Despite its small size and high performance, the Mind 2 handles thermals with surprising grace. During a throttling test, it maintained a stable temperature just above 80 degrees Celsius with a power draw of around 40W. The unit may feel warm to the touch, but the cooling system is highly efficient, allowing the temperature to drop back to the high 40s shortly after the stress test ends. The SSD also performed well, with decent read and write speeds.

Modularity & Expansion: The Mind Link System

This is where the Khadas Mind 2 truly shines. Its most innovative feature is the proprietary Mind Link port on the bottom. This unique connection system allows you to snap the Mind 2 onto a variety of accessories using a magnetic coupling. The link provides power and a high-speed data transfer rate of up to 256GB/s with an 8-lane PCIe 5.0 interface, which is four times faster than the previous version.

With the Mind Link, the possibilities are endless. The Mind Dock, for example, transforms the tiny PC into a powerhouse of connectivity, offering 11 ports and the ability to drive up to four displays. It even includes a built-in SD card reader, headphone jack, volume knob, fingerprint scanner, and speakers.

For those who need even more graphical power, the Mind Graphics module—equipped with an RTX 4060 Ti—is a game-changer. While the combined unit is taller, it can be neatly tucked away on a height-adjustable desk shelf, providing a clean and powerful setup without a bulky PC tower.

A Truly Unique Feature: The Built-in Battery

Another standout feature of the Khadas Mind 2 is its integrated 5.5Wh battery. This isn’t meant for long-term use, but it’s incredibly practical. When you unplug the power cable, the device automatically goes into standby mode. This means you don't have to save your work or wait for Windows to shut down. You can simply grab the unit, move it, and plug it back in at your new location to resume exactly where you left off. The battery holds a charge for about 25 hours in standby, making it perfect for quick relocations or a seamless transition from your office desk to a conference room.

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