System76 updated their Meerkat mini PC. Fans of small footprint powerhouses out of the box with Linux will appreciate this new update. This update carries with it an elevated rank in specs-to Meteor Lake processors. It has been something one has kept in view-a compact, powerful desktop computer that would serve with the same or much force.
Under the Hood: Meteor Lake Magic
System76 Meerkat Mini PC
The processor bump is the big story. The new Meerkat now features Intel Core Ultra chips. You can start with a Core Ultra 5 125H. This isn't your grandpa's mini PC. Meteor Lake brings a modern architecture. It is supposed to give a good kick in everyday task performance and even more demanding workloads. A Core Ultra 7 155H option is available for even more oomph.
Key Features
- Memory: Starting at 16GB of DDR5-5600 RAM, it goes up to 96GB. This provides lots of overhead for multitasking or memory-hungry apps.
- Storage: A 500GB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD gets you going. Options go all the way to 16TB if you mix an 8TB M.2 with an 8TB 2.5" SATA SSD. Storage will not be a bottleneck anytime soon.
- Connectivity: Dual 2.5 GbE LAN ports are included. This is not a common feature in mini PCs. It is a welcome addition for network enthusiasts or those needing fast wired connections. WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 are also onboard. You can skip the wireless card if preferred.
- Ports: Despite its small size, the Meerkat includes many ports:
- 1 x Thunderbolt 4 (future-proof and fast)
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
- 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
- 2 x HDMI 2.1 (dual display support)
- 1 x 3.5mm audio jack
The Price of Penguin Power
The 2025 Meerkat starts at $799. That is a bit steep for an entry-level configuration with a Core Ultra 5, 16GB of RAM, and a 500GB SSD. Maxing out the Meerkat with the best CPU, RAM and storage will increase the price. It is likely not the most affordable mini PC on the market. You could build something similar yourself or grab a less brand-specific NUC and install Linux. However, you are paying for more than just hardware with System76. You are supporting a company dedicated to Linux. This ensures hardware compatibility and avoids giving dollars to the Windows ecosystem.
The Bottom Line: A High-End Linux Mini PC
The refreshed System76 Meerkat seems like a great option. It is for anyone looking for a modern-spec, compatibility-focused, and out-of-the-box Linux mini PC. The Meteor Lake upgrade brings it up to date. The dual LAN ports are nice touches. If you are looking for a high-end, compact Linux desktop experience, the Meerkat is worth considering. Be mindful of the price as you add upgrades. For the convenience, guaranteed compatibility, and to support open-source-focused companies, Linux enthusiasts may find the price of the System76 Meerkat justified. If you are purely budget-driven, you might explore DIY options.
