Astro imaging PC the MeLE Quieter 4C

Check out the little device that’s quietly making waves in the world of compact computing, especially for us astrophotographers who value simplicity and silence at the scope. This is the MeLE Quieter 4C N150, and trust me — it lives up to its name.

Now, this isn’t your average mini PC. The Quieter 4C is completely fanless, which means it runs absolutely silent. That’s a huge plus when you’re out in the backyard under the stars, capturing long-exposure images and you don’t want a noisy machine humming in the background. It’s part of MeLE’s Quieter series — known for being sleek, low-profile, and built like a tank.

The body is all aluminum, and it’s got these stylish grooved vents on top that actually help dissipate heat passively. No moving parts here — just clean, efficient engineering that keeps things cool without ever spinning up a fan.

And despite its small size, this thing is perfect for light-to-medium computing tasks. Whether you’re running your astro-imaging software like NINA, handling digital signage, doing some edge computing, or just crunching office work — it handles it smoothly and quietly.

Astro imaging PC MeLE Quieter 4C N150, a fanless mini PC for precision 

At the heart of the Quieter 4C N150 is the Intel N150 processor from the Alder Lake-N series, capable of speeds up to 3.6 GHz. This quad-core CPU is part of Intel's energy-efficient lineup and is built on a 10nm process, offering enough performance for everyday computing tasks while maintaining low thermal output. This balance of speed and efficiency is ideal for dedicated automation, telescope control, or media display systems, where stability and low power draw are often more valuable than raw performance.

The mini PC comes equipped with 16GB of LPDDR4x RAM, which is soldered onto the motherboard for maximum stability and compactness. While the RAM is not user-upgradable, it is ample for multitasking and running multiple lightweight applications simultaneously. This ensures smooth performance for tasks such as remote desktop control, image capture software, data logging, or web-based control panels. It is also ideal for use in setups where reliability is critical and constant operation is required over extended periods.

For storage, the Quieter 4C N150 includes a built-in 512GB M.2 SATA SSD. This solid-state drive is fast and reliable, providing quick boot times and ample space for storing software, log files, or data streams. Users can expand storage further by adding up to a 2TB microSD card or replacing the M.2 SSD with a larger capacity drive. This flexibility makes the unit suitable for tasks that require local data retention, such as capturing long-exposure images in astrophotography or logging sensor data in industrial or field settings.

One of the standout features of this device is its versatile I/O port layout. The front and rear panels feature two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, and one full-function USB Type-C port. The USB-C port supports data, display, and power delivery, adding to its multi-purpose capability. It also includes two HDMI 2.0 ports capable of 4K resolution at 60Hz, allowing the system to power dual displays at high fidelity. These ports make it well-suited for digital signage, kiosk deployment, or multi-monitor workspaces. It even supports a triple display setup when combining the HDMI and USB-C video outputs.

Wireless connectivity is robust, with support for Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.1, providing reliable performance for remote access, wireless peripherals, and IoT devices. Wired connectivity is available via a Gigabit Ethernet port, ensuring strong and stable LAN performance. This is especially important in remote setups or observatory installations where a wired connection may be necessary to ensure stable remote operations without signal interference.

The system runs Windows 11 Pro out of the box, offering a familiar and secure environment for users. This operating system enables compatibility with a wide range of software, from telescope control programs and remote desktop apps to digital signage platforms and office productivity tools. The use of full Windows instead of a proprietary OS makes this mini PC extremely adaptable and appealing to users who need flexibility and full application support.

Overall, the MeLE Quieter 4C N150 delivers a compact, silent, and efficient computing experience for a variety of specialized tasks. Whether used in astrophotography for mount and camera control, in industrial environments for data monitoring, or in office setups for general productivity, this mini PC offers excellent value and a well-rounded feature set. Its fanless design, robust port selection, and quiet operation make it an especially strong candidate for situations where traditional PCs are too bulky, noisy, or power-hungry.

MeLE Quieter 4C N150 specifications

• Processor: Intel Processor N150, quad-core, up to 3.6 GHz (Alder Lake-N, 10nm)
• Memory: 16GB LPDDR4x RAM (soldered, not upgradeable)
• Storage: 512GB M.2 SATA SSD (user-replaceable), supports up to 2TB microSD card
• Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics (supporting 4K@60Hz)
• Wireless: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1
• Operating System: Windows 11 Pro pre-installed
• Power Supply: 12V/2A (power adapter included)
• Cooling: Passive fanless design
• Dimensions: Approximately 5.2 x 3.2 x 0.7 inches (132 x 81 x 18 mm)
• Weight: Lightweight, under 1 lb (approx. 400g)
• Display Support: Up to 3 displays via HDMI + USB-C combo
   

Ports:

• 2 × HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz)
• 2 × USB 3.2 Gen 2
• 2 × USB 2.0
• 1 × USB-C (data, display, power delivery)
• 1 × Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45)
• 1 × MicroSD card slot
   

AstroOnBudget's review of the MeLE Quieter 4C N150 Mini PC for Astrophotography 

The MeLE Quieter 4C N150 mini PC has emerged as an appealing option for amateur astrophotographers and tech-savvy stargazers seeking a compact, fanless computing solution for telescope control and data management. Jeremiah, known in the astrophotography community as AstroOnBudget, provides a detailed review of this mini PC in a video that evaluates its design, specifications, performance, and real-world suitability for field use. While acknowledging a few limitations, he ultimately recommends the device as an excellent choice for those who want flexibility and power without the complexity or noise of bulkier systems.

Jeremiah begins his review by expressing his appreciation for the MeLE line of fanless mini PCs, particularly as alternatives to devices like the ZWO ASIAIR, which dominate the astrophotography accessory market. He explains that while many astrophotographers rely on such proprietary systems, he prefers a Windows-based PC for its flexibility, open software support, and ease of remote control. The MeLE Quieter 4C N150, in his opinion, strikes a compelling balance between performance, portability, and practicality.

Design-wise, the MeLE Quieter 4C N150 is compact, sleek, and durable. Jeremiah compares its size to a thick smartphone, making it easy to mount or stow near a telescope setup without adding significant bulk. The casing is a mix of plastic and metal, with the plastic upper portion presumably designed to ensure better wireless connectivity and the metal base contributing to the device's overall rigidity. A distinctive feature is the grooved surface on the top of the mini PC, which enhances passive heat dissipation. As Jeremiah notes, the unit feels like it was built to last, and its construction reflects thoughtful engineering intended for extended outdoor use.

One of the most notable aspects of the MeLE Quieter 4C is its fanless design. This feature is especially important in astrophotography because it eliminates the vibrations that can interfere with precise tracking and guiding. Jeremiah emphasizes that the absence of any mechanical fans means the system operates in complete silence, which not only improves user experience but also reduces the risk of disrupting sensitive imaging sessions. He points out that it can be hard to tell whether the device is even running due to how quiet it is, a testament to its efficient thermal design.

The mini PC is powered by Intel’s latest Twin Lake N150 processor, which runs at speeds up to 3.6 GHz. It comes in configurations featuring either 8 GB or 16 GB of modern DDR4 RAM. Jeremiah tested the 16 GB variant and found it more than capable of handling typical astrophotography workloads. The RAM is a considerable upgrade over older DDR3 systems, offering up to three times the performance, which translates into smoother multitasking and more reliable control over imaging sessions. For those needing robust data storage, the MeLE mini PC includes a 512 GB internal SSD with expansion options of up to four terabytes via external drives and an additional two terabytes via a microSD card slot. This expandability is critical for astrophotography, where high-resolution images and large video files can quickly fill up limited internal storage.

In terms of connectivity, the device features three USB ports, two USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0, along with a fully functional USB-C port. It also supports Wi-Fi 5 for reliable wireless networking. While the option to connect up to three 4K displays exists, Jeremiah notes that this feature has little practical application in astrophotography, where the focus is more on peripheral connections for cameras, filter wheels, focusers, and guiding hardware. This is where one of the MeLE Quieter 4C’s few shortcomings becomes apparent. Jeremiah highlights the limited number of USB ports as a significant drawback for astrophotographers, many of whom need several simultaneous connections to power and control various components of their imaging setup. He calls upon MeLE’s developers to consider this feedback for future iterations.

Performance-wise, the mini PC delivers exactly what is needed for real-time control, data capture, and remote operation. Jeremiah reports that during his testing, he installed and ran all essential astrophotography software without any issues. From guiding applications to imaging capture programs, the system handled everything with ease. However, he cautions that this device is not built for resource-intensive tasks such as video editing or deep image processing, which typically require more powerful CPUs and dedicated GPUs. If pushed beyond its design scope, especially for prolonged heavy workloads, the system could potentially overheat. That said, for its intended use case, lightweight astronomy control software, it performs admirably.

Windows-based flexibility, power efficiency, and overall value of the MeLE Quieter 4C N150

The software environment provided by Windows 11 also adds to the MeLE PC’s appeal. Unlike some astronomy controllers that lock users into proprietary operating systems, this device runs a full version of Windows, offering flexibility and compatibility with virtually any astronomy application available for PC. Jeremiah demonstrates how he uses Chrome Remote Desktop to operate the MeLE Quieter 4C from his smartphone, a workflow that allows him to control his rig entirely wirelessly from a distance, whether at home or in the field. This level of freedom is not possible with many closed-system astrophotography controllers, making the MeLE an attractive alternative.

Power requirements for the mini PC are modest. It runs on a 12V/2A power supply, which means it can be easily integrated into most field setups using a power bank or portable battery station. Jeremiah mentions that a standard power adapter is included for those who prefer to run their rigs from a wall outlet or AC power strip. This kind of dual compatibility is helpful for users who image both in backyard observatories and on mobile setups in remote locations.

Affordability is another strong selling point of the MeLE Quieter 4C N150. Priced at $239, Jeremiah considers it to be a very good deal. Compared to similar mini PCs or branded astro-computers, this device offers strong value for the money, especially considering its silent operation and durable construction. Its cost-effectiveness makes it particularly appealing for budget-conscious hobbyists looking to build out their astrophotography gear without overspending.

Despite all the positives, the device is not without its compromises. Jeremiah reiterates that the limited number of USB ports can be a real hindrance, particularly for more complex imaging setups that rely on multiple peripheral devices. He encourages the manufacturer to address this shortcoming in future versions. Additionally, he warns that overheating might be a concern during prolonged resource-intensive tasks. However, he acknowledges that most users focused on basic astrophotography will not encounter this issue if they stick to the intended usage scope.

Jeremiah closes the video by summarizing the pros and cons of the device. On the plus side, the MeLE Quieter 4C N150 is silent, compact, and performs well for its intended tasks. Its fanless design is a major advantage for astrophotography, and its expandability and compatibility with standard Windows software provide maximum flexibility. On the downside, the USB port limitation and the potential for thermal throttling under heavy loads are noteworthy constraints. Nevertheless, he concludes that this mini PC is an excellent addition to any astrophotographer’s toolkit, particularly for those who value open software ecosystems and quiet operation in the field.

In all, the MeLE Quieter 4C N150 delivers a near-ideal blend of features for amateur and semi-professional astrophotographers seeking a Windows-based alternative to closed systems like the ASIAIR. Its thoughtful design, solid performance, low power draw, and silent operation make it well-suited to imaging sessions where stability and low vibration are critical. While not perfect, and perhaps not sufficient for more advanced data processing tasks, it excels in its primary role as a telescope control and data acquisition hub. For the price, few other devices offer such a well-balanced feature set, and for that reason, Jeremiah gives it his recommendation.

MeLE Quieter 4C N150 Mini PC Review for Astrophotography

Buy the MeLE Quieter 4C