Overview
This video reviews the Beelink SER5 mini PC equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 5700U, focusing on its suitability for home lab virtualization tasks, key hardware features, performance, and network adapter limitations.
Hardware Specifications and Features
- The Beelink SER5 uses a Ryzen 7 5700U processor with 8 cores and 16 threads (laptop variant).
- Supports up to 64 GB dual-channel DDR4 memory using two DIMM slots.
- Contains a single 2280 NVMe slot and space for a 2.5-inch SSD.
- Features a Realtek network adapter limited to 1 gigabit.
- Build quality is sturdy with all ports located on the back for better cable management.
- Includes front USB-A ports, clear CMOS pinhole, and power button; back has LAN, additional USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, and power connector.
Network Adapter Considerations
- Beelink SER5 comes with a Realtek network adapter, not Intel.
- Realtek adapters are compatible with Proxmox and XCP-ng but not natively supported in VMware ESXi 7 or later.
- VMware ESXi users must use USB adapters for networking if using Realtek, which limits network speed and utility.
Performance in Home Lab Scenarios
- Unit tested with 27 Ubuntu server VMs and one Windows 10 VM showed low CPU and RAM usage (24% memory with 2GB per VM).
- The system remains responsive under typical workloads such as running updates and container deployments.
- Well-suited for Proxmox, LXC containers, Windows instances, and moderate home lab virtualization needs.
Build and Usability Highlights
- Easy to disassemble for upgrades due to thoughtful design (e.g., pull tab on bottom plate).
- Internal access to SSD, memory, and NVMe slots is straightforward.
Recommendations / Advice
- For Proxmox, XCP-ng, or Linux hypervisors, this mini PC offers excellent value and performance.
- Unsuitable for VMware ESXi 7+ users due to Realtek network adapter incompatibility.
Decisions
- Recommend for home lab virtualization except VMware ESXi 7+.
- Not recommended for VMware ESXi 7+ users due to network limitations.