MINISFORUM is one of the world’s leading Mini-PC manufacturers and in recent years has launched a huge number of versions, mostly for general computing consumption. The latest introduction, the MINISFORUM MS-01, goes beyond the usual norm and is the first compact that the Chinese integrator defines as “Mini WorkStation” class..

This computer maintains the compact dimensions of this type of solution, although it slightly increases its dimensions to 196 x 189 x 48 mm. Very small by desktop workstation standards, but larger than any other mini-PC. In return, the brand makes very good use of that extra space in connectivity, graphics and expansion options.

MINISFORUM MS-01, ‘Mini WorkStation’

This compact claims to be Intel processors with the possibility of fitting models of the 12th or 13th generation up to Core i9-13900Hdevelopment with 14 cores and 20 threads and a working frequency that can reach 5.4 GHz in turbo mode. It has integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, although the manufacturer offers as an option the possibility of installing professional dedicated graphics up to NVIDIA RTX A2000.

It has two SODIMM slots that can be equipped with up to 64 GB DDR5-5200 memoryalthough where it really excels is in the section storage space, with three NVMe M.2 SSD connectors and an expansion slot for enterprise NVMe drives. Also excellent in terms of network connectivityas it has dual 10 GbE Ethernet and two additional 2.5 GbE Ethernet LANs.

Computer also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 and it has a PCIe x16 slot which, according to MINISFORUM, can be used to add additional M.2, networks, USB or for the aforementioned graphics card. It also debuts a new port for connecting USB4 peripherals (40 Gb/s bandwidth via DisplayPort Alt mode) and additional USB 3.2, USB 2.0, HDMI output and 3.5 mm audio jack.

MINISFORUM supports operating systems Windows 11 and Linux and sells it in four price/configuration options available at launch:

• Base Intel Core i9-12900H for $549 (barebone form factor)
• Base Intel Core i9-13900H for $679 (barebone form factor)
• Intel Core i9-12900H / 32GB RAM / 1TB Storage for $699
• Intel Core i9-13900H / 32GB RAM / 1TB Storage for $829

Good prices considering its potential as a “mini” workstation or as a high performance compact for any computer use.