Thoughts on this set up?

[bjwest]

Hi all,

I am thinking about setting up a system with a Minix NEO Z83-4 (mini PC) and 2x 8bitdo bluetooth NES30 Pro controllers with built in re-chargable batteries.

I want to emulate platforms such as N64, Dreamcast, PSX and Saturn.

Would this do the job?

The specs for the Minix are as follows:

Processor	Intel X5-Z8300 (64-bit)
GPU	Intel HD Graphics
Memory	4GB DDR3L
Internal Storage	32GB eMMC 5.0
Wireless Connectivity	802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5.0GHz), Bluetooth 4.2
Operating System	Windows 10 (64-bit)
Video Output	Mini DP + HDMI 1.4
Audio Output	3.5mm Stereo Jack
Peripheral Interface	RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet
	USB 2.0 port x 3, USB 3.0 port x 1
	Kensington lock ready, microphone & headphone jack (combined)
Power	DC 12V, 3A adapter included (CE, FCC certified)

[Lordmonkus]

With that CPU @ 1.84 GHz you may run into some issues with Dreamcast, Saturn and possibly N64 emulation depending on the emulators you want to use. Retroarch cores, Demul and Mednafen are definitely out of the question though you may have some better luck with SSF for Saturn, ePSXe for PSX and NullDC for Dreamcast.

Keep in mind though I have no experience with this specific CPU so your mileage may be better than expected. I just know from previous experience with processors at that speed emulating those systems can be problematic.

[SentaiBrad]

Yea, I don't have much experience either, but assuming it's the same or less performance as a laptop, that won't do much past SNES, Genesis, CD and some mid to late 90's Arcade. Up to GBA may run well too. If you're getting this thing for $100, and don't mind, potentially, not being able to emulator N64, PS1 and Saturn well (if at all), then get it and try. LaunchBox and Big Box may have some performance issues as well with a decent sized library. Slimming down your install and turning off transitions will help. If you're not expecting much, I say go for it and return it if you hate the thing. If not, I would personally say to avoid this thing. If you had that hardware in a handheld form, I could see being all over that, but the CPU and RAM leave something to be desired.