Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U could be a budget HTPC NAS Combo

Few days back, I presented my choice for the low-power budget HTPC NAS Combo for the total cost of $380. The other system I strongly considered was the Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U. While it does not have the same level of flexibility as as full-blown HTPC / NAS combo, it may be sufficient for most home users. With low energy consumption (<25 Watts) and processor powerful enough for home server, Plex server, or Kodi, it could be a nice candidate to build a HTPC NAS Combo on.

It comes in comes pre-built with Windows 8.1 or as barebones. If you are building a NAS HTPC Combo, I suggest getting the barebones systems Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U and customizing it to your liking.

Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U Specifications

The specs are a little bit better than the Raw Mini PC that I reviewed recently. However, the this box is bigger than the Mini. [Read: 5 Must have Android apps for HTPC or Home Server control]

• CPU Type: Intel Celeron 2957U 1.4GHz
• Memory: 2 x 204Pin SO-DIMM (DDR3L 1600)
• Max Memory: 16GB
• Serial ATA: SATA 6.0Gb/s
• Graphics: Onboard Video Intel HD Graphics Integrated by CPU
• Audio: 8 Channel
• LAN: 10/100/1000Mbps
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.0
• Drive Bays: One 2.5" Internal Bay
• Card Reader: 6-in-1 Memory card reader
• Microsoft DirectX 11 compatible
• Front USB: 2 x USB 2.0 (1 Top, 1 Front)
• Back Panel Ports:
  • HDMI - 1
  • VGA - 1
  • DVI - 1
  • USB 3.0 - 4
  • RJ45 - 1
  • Smartfan

Recommended HTPC / Home Server Builds:

• Best Home Theater PC Build 2017 to do it all (Plex, Kodi, NAS, Gaming)
• Best Emby Server builds 2018 – Pre-built and DIY options
• Medium Budget 4K HTPC Build 2017 for Kodi, Plex and Gaming
• Cheap 4K HTPC Build for Kodi, OpenELEC, and LibreELEC 2017
• Low Power Home Server Build 2017 for Network File and Media Storage
• Best HTPC for Kodi with 4K on a Medium Budget 2017 (~$400)
• Energy efficient budget HTPC-NAS combo build 2016

Pros and Cons for a HTPC NAS Combo

Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U Mini-PC - Pros

• Latest Haswell architecture with integrated graphics
• Inexpensive - was available for as low as $89 for Black Friday
• Energy Efficient (25 Watts or less)
• Nearly silent
• Easy assembly
• Small form factor - perfect for entertainment consoles

Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U MiniPC - Cons

• No Wifi or miniPCIe slot
• Cheap plastic construction
• Only one SATA port - so only one SATA HDD or SSD possible
• Only one 2.5" HDD drive bay
• No front USB 3.0 ports
• Decent processor / graphics for XBMC or Kodi but definitely not a gaming HTPC
• Intel board - better Linux support

Definitely not mind blowing specifications but with a 2 TB 2.5" inch SSH, it could be a great starter HTPC NAS combo. The only reason I did not go for it was the limited number of SATA ports (only 1) which limits the number of components and future expandability. If you already have a central server then this could be a standalone HTPC with SSD that streams videos from your server. In this case, the limited number of SATA ports is not a problem. Otherwise, Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U is a great mini HTPC for the price. Hope this short Zotac ZBOX-BI320-U review helps people who may be looking into this great little box.