System76 Revamps Meerkat Mini PC: Intel Core Ultra 7 Power and 96GB RAM for Linux Enthusiasts


Denver-based Linux hardware specialist System76 has supercharged its popular Meerkat mini PC, transforming the compact desktop into a powerhouse capable of rivaling full-sized workstations. The refreshed lineup now features Intel’s cutting-edge Core Ultra 7 255H "Arrow Lake" processor and support for up to a staggering 96GB of DDR5 memory—a massive leap for a device smaller than a paperback book.

The new Meerkat shatters expectations for small-form-factor Linux machines. Intel’s 16-core/22-thread Core Ultra 7 255H CPU brings hybrid architecture with dedicated AI acceleration, while the 96GB RAM ceiling enables serious multitasking—think virtual machines, 4K video editing, and complex compilations without breaking a sweat. The integrated Intel Arc graphics also deliver surprising muscle for creative workloads.

Despite its 4.9 x 4.5 x 1.6-inch footprint, the Meerkat doesn’t compromise on connectivity:

  • Dual 4K display support via HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4
  • 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3
  • Four USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports and two USB4 Type-C ports
  • Tool-free access for dual NVMe SSD upgrades

System76 ships the Meerkat with their Ubuntu-based Pop!_OS pre-installed, featuring seamless driver support and the COSMIC desktop environment. For Windows-compatible workloads, the hardware also supports mainstream operating systems.

Want to dive deeper? Here’s the full scoop:

Pricing starts at $699 for a Core 5 150U/8GB RAM configuration, scaling to $1,899 for the maxed-out Core Ultra 7/96GB/8TB NVMe build. The Meerkat targets developers, homelab enthusiasts, and anyone craving desktop-grade performance without cable clutter. As one Reddit user quipped: "It’s not a meerkat anymore—it’s a honey badger that doesn’t care about your size constraints."

With this refresh, System76 reinforces that Linux hardware can lead—not follow—in performance innovation. The new Meerkats are shipping now.


Correction: An earlier version misstated the GPU as discrete; it utilizes integrated Intel Arc graphics. We regret the error.


Related Posts


Post a Comment

Previous Post Next Post