TOPC released TA255 mini PC in China, and the biggest highlight is its MCIO port running at PCIe 4.0 x8. In simple terms, it offers 128Gbps bandwidth, which is double what you get from normal OCuLink connections. If you use an external GPU, this makes a real difference.
Now most mini PC’s use OCuLink with PCIe 4.0 x4, which is limited to 64Gbps, as used in GMKtec NucBox K17 mini PC. The TA255 goes a step further with MCIO x8, so more data can move between the processor and an external GPU. That means less performance loss when you connect a powerful desktop graphics card.
Inside, it runs on the AMD Ryzen 7 H 255 processor from the Hawk Point refresh lineup, part of updates covered in AMD Ryzen AI 400 series. It also comes with Radeon 780M integrated graphics. This is good enough for daily work and light gaming, but the real strength of this mini PC comes when you pair it with an external GPU through the MCIO port.
TOPC has also mentioned that this model is limited to PCIe 4.0 speeds because of the processor, while newer storage platforms like Micron PCIe 6.0 SSD push beyond current limits. Future versions could move to PCIe 5.0, which would bring even higher bandwidth.
Memory is built-in LPDDR5 running at 6400MT/s, with options for 16GB or 24GB, similar configurations appear in ASUS ExpertBook B3 G1. There is no storage included, but you get two M.2 2280 slots, and each one runs at PCIe Gen4 x2 speed. You can add SSDs based on your own needs.
For cooling, TOPC offers a vapor chamber, which helps keep temperatures under control even when the mini PC is under load.
Port selection is solid for such a small device, matching compact systems like ASUS NUC 16 Pro. On the front, you get the MCIO port and a 3.5mm audio jack. On the back, there is USB4 (40Gbps), three USB-A ports, two 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and one USB 2.0 port. This gives you plenty of options for displays, networking, and accessories.
Wireless features include Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, so it also keeps up with modern standards. The dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports are useful if you need faster wired internet or local network speeds.
Compared to other mini PC’s with OCuLink, this one focuses on higher bandwidth. Moving from x4 to x8 lanes helps reduce the usual drop in performance when using an external GPU, making it a better choice for gaming or heavy work.
The TA255 is priced at 2,699 yuan (around $395) for the 16GB version and 2,999 yuan (around $438) for the 24GB version. Both versions come without storage, and there is no word yet on global availability.
