This is not a typical mini PC. It is designed as a storage powerhouse that also functions as a capable desktop computer. Imagine a small box housing up to four 3.5-inch hard drives. That is the WTR Pro.
Under the Hood: Performance and Power
AOOSTAR improved the WTR Pro with a minor but notable upgrade. The previous model had an Intel N100 processor. The latest version features the new Intel N150 chip. Expect a modest performance difference. Both processors are power-efficient, ideal for NAS tasks and light desktop activities.
NAS Galore: Capacity
Storage is the defining feature of the WTR Pro. It is primarily designed for NAS usage. The small cabinet accommodates:
- Four 3.5" SATA HDDs for extensive data storage. This allows for terabytes of backups, large media libraries, and more.
- One M.2 2280 SSD for faster boot times and application loading, complementing the HDD storage.
AOOSTAR markets it as a NAS, but it is a general-purpose mini PC with storage flexibility. You are not limited to specific NAS software.
More Than Just Storage: Mini PC Functionality
Despite its NAS focus, the WTR Pro is a fully functional computer. It comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, offering a familiar desktop environment. However, its capabilities extend beyond Windows.
As a regular PC, it supports other operating systems. For a dedicated NAS OS, you can easily install:
- TrueNAS
- OpenMediaVault
- Unraid
- Various other Linux-based distributions
Connectivity and Expansion
The WTR Pro offers surprising connectivity for its size:
- Networking: Dual 2.5 GbE LAN ports (Intel i226-V) for fast network speeds and link aggregation.
- Display Outputs: HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort for monitor connections.
- USB: USB Type-C, 2x USB 3.0 Type-A, and 2x USB 2.0 Type-A for peripherals.
- Audio: 3.5mm audio jack.
- Memory Expansion: Single SODIMM slot supporting up to 32GB of DDR4-3200 RAM.
- Other: microSD card reader.
It includes a 120W power supply and compact dimensions of 228 x 150 x 185mm.
Pricing and Availability
The AOOSTAR WTR Pro with Intel N150 specs is currently available for pre-order. The barebones version starts at $315 from the AOOSTAR store, or slightly more at $339 on Amazon. Amazon offers potentially faster shipping and straightforward returns.
Final Verdict
The AOOSTAR WTR Pro occupies a niche. It is not the most powerful mini PC, nor is it solely a high-end NAS appliance. It blends both into a harmonized configuration. The Intel N150-powered WTR Pro is a compelling and flexible storage hub. It suits those seeking compact, energy-efficient computing with ample hard drive capacity.
