Banana Pi BPI-R3 Mini Review: A Tiny & Fast 2.5GbE router board

Case design

The Banana Pi BPI-R3 Mini’s metal CNC machine case measures ▢69×33.5 mm, making it both compact and powerful. Crafted from high-quality aluminum alloy, this case offers unparalleled durability and efficient cooling capabilities. Experience peace of mind knowing that the internal components are shielded from physical harm, while the superior heat dissipation guarantees optimal performance. Through the CNC machining process, each cut is executed precisely, contributing to the overall sophisticated appearance of the case. The impeccable metal construction not only enhances its sturdiness but also guards against accidental drops and impacts, ensuring the device’s reliability.

Moreover, the metal case serves as an efficient heat sink by extracting heat from the internal elements and dispersing it into the nearby surroundings. This not only prevents overheating but also guarantees exceptional performance, even during extended usage or demanding tasks. The company’s team has intelligently integrated strategically positioned venting slots and apertures on both the sides and bottom of the casing.

Exhaust fan

To enhance the cooling mechanism of this compact case, a small fan has been cleverly installed on the top cover, despite the lack of specific ventilation holes. Its main purpose is to effectively circulate the hot air within the case and draw in additional hot air from the fan’s side vents. This intelligent design ensures that the PCB stays cool even during demanding tasks that put a heavy load on the system. Thanks to the precise control of PWM, the fan’s rotation speed is adjusted according to the CPU core loads and temperatures, guaranteeing optimal performance. As the CPU temperature rises rapidly during intense operations, the fan works tirelessly to maintain a cool environment. When the temperatures are lower, it slows down its RPM.

Regarding the color options for the case, it undergoes a remarkable anodizing coating process, allowing for a wide range of choices, including green, blue, black, and more. We have received the green edition for our testing, and its appearance is truly impressive.

For users seeking a compact and reliable mini computer or router, this metal case is the perfect choice. It provides dependable and efficient cooling, which is superior compared to not using any available cooling solution. If you’re considering buying only the board, it’s highly recommended you also get a good heat sink and create a suitable housing for it.

A Closer Look

The case boasts ventilation holes cleverly placed on both the right and bottom sides, ensuring optimal airflow. What’s more, the Sinovoip team has thoughtfully included additional antenna mounting holes, perfect for effortlessly installing 4G/5G modules.

Dive deeper into the internals of the case (Grey Color Edition)

Sinvoip offers a three-wire brushless 5V fan as part of their kit or sold as a separate item. However, this fan tends to produce considerable noise. Fortunately, it features PWM support, which means it doesn’t spin constantly. During times of heavy CPU usage, particularly at night, the fan may start spinning loudly, causing significant annoyance. On the positive side, you have the freedom to consider alternative choices and replace it with a quieter fan.