ROM-type memory on mini PC

[andyV]

Hello,

I have a very basic question about
mini PC memory, hopefully someone could help.

I am going to buy a mini PC, for example
Beelink M1 Quad Core Mini PC 8GB RAM + 64GB ROM

available at

https://www.gearbest.com/mini-pc/pp_666529.html?wid=1433363

The memory is said to be 64 GB ROM,
that is, Read-Only-Memory.

ROM seems to mean that I can not write
on this space, or maybe write only once and
then it will be never erasable (like in CD ROM).

Is this really the case?

I would like to store some videos, games,
files in this space and erase them from time to time
and download other things, as I do in my usual
desktop (with hdd and ssd memories).

Will it be possible at all with this ROM device?

Thanks for the info

Andy

[Geek-9pm]

Here is my short answer.
Do not buy it. Unless you are sure it truly is what you want.
In that price range there are a number if mini-PC hubs that can give about the same performance.

What things are you familiar with?
Have you ever used a Microsoft Xbox?

Yes, ROM can not be changed. It can only be replaced. And even in that case it is a factory job.
If the ROM can be altered, it ought to be identified as EPROM, not as  ROM.

Here are You Tube reviews that are  critical, truthful and telling you what the limits are. Notice that SSD is used for adding more stuff. Note that there other gadgets like it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cucGAbI5XYw

Hope that helps.   

[patio]

What are you expecting outta that rig ? ?...why would you buy 1 ? ?...just sayin.

[Geek-9pm]

Stop the press!  He said ROM. That made me jump the track.
The internal storage is SSD, not ROM. You want 64 GB  or more.
Here some trusted reviews about the new mini PC boxes coming from the far east. (The CPU is from Intel.)
Early this year:
https://www.pcmag.com/roundup/358859/the-best-windows-micro-desktops
More recent:
https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-mini-pcs,review-2760.html
These devices have virtually no provision for a meaningful upgrade. Once you invest,you are stuck with it. Notice a range of price and options. Some come with Ethernet, which is seldom needed. But the USB 3.0 is  good idea.

[patio]

Not the point Geek...64G will dissappear in a heartbeat...

[BC_Programmer]

Yes, the "ROM" name is poorly described. I think it may be a translation error since it is a chinese product. It refers to, most likely, eMMC Memory.

A Patio mentions the storage is limited, so generally speaking it's not going to be a proficient replacement for a "typical" PC. It could work well as a system to connect to a TV for movies, music, and small games, particularly if facilitated with extra storage via external drives.

[Geek-9pm]

Yes, it is nor ROM.
This same item is shown elsewhere with correct specs and a much lower price.
Look on Amazon and find two models of the  Beelink Mini PC with Intel inside.
Why one sells for $175 an the other goes for $260  is not very clear.
Wait. I see it. It has a Pentium CPU. Why would you pay $85 more for a Pentium?
Amazon also has one wish a Celeron.

Edit: Not SSD. It is eMMC. Cheap storage.

[andyV]

Dear all,

Thanks a lot for your help. I understand the stroy much better now.

Geek-9pm: I would be paying higher price not for Intel processor, but for 8 gig of Ram
versus 4gig for cheaper models. But I am still thinking about it.

Thanks again

Andy

[Computer_Commando]

Yes, the "ROM" name is poorly described. I think it may be a translation error since it is a chinese product. It refers to, most likely, eMMC Memory.

A Patio mentions the storage is limited, so generally speaking it's not going to be a proficient replacement for a "typical" PC. It could work well as a system to connect to a TV for movies, music, and small games, particularly if facilitated with extra storage via external drives.

Actually, it has expandable storage.  M2 slot for SSD Card.

I find these mini-PC's interesting but consider this:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-things-about-mini-pcs-you-should-consider-before-buying/

[Geek-9pm]

Computer_Commando;
I gave you a thank you.
The link you gave is a good read.