Minisforum is set to launch its most powerful mini PC yet, the MS-S1 Max, featuring AMD’s top-tier Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU. This new workstation boasts impressive specifications, including a high TDP limit, advanced cooling, and cutting-edge connectivity, positioning it as a formidable option for AI tasks and demanding workloads.
Key Takeaways
- Powerful APU: Equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 (Strix Halo) APU, offering 16 Zen 5 cores and a potent Radeon 8060S iGPU.
- High TDP: Pushes the APU to its limits with a 160W TDP, exceeding typical configurations for enhanced performance.
- Advanced Cooling: Features a dual-fan cooling solution with six heat pipes to manage the increased thermal output.
- Cutting-Edge Connectivity: Includes dual USB4 V2 connectors, offering up to 80 Gbps bandwidth, comparable to Thunderbolt 5.
- Expandability: Comes with a PCIe x16 slot for users who wish to add a dedicated GPU.
- Ample RAM Support: Expected to support up to 128GB of LPDDR5X RAM.
- High-Speed Networking: Integrates 2x 10 GbE NICs for fast wired network connectivity.
Unveiling the Minisforum MS-S1 Max
Minisforum is pushing the boundaries of mini PC performance with its upcoming MS-S1 Max. At its heart lies AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, a powerful processor built on the Zen 5 architecture. This APU is designed to excel in AI workloads, thanks to its integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of delivering up to 50 TOPS of AI performance, with an overall AI performance reaching up to 126 TOPS. The chip also features a robust Radeon 8060S integrated GPU, promising significant improvements in graphics-intensive tasks.
Pushing Performance Limits
What sets the MS-S1 Max apart is Minisforum’s decision to allow the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU to operate at a maximum TDP of 160W. This is a notable increase compared to the 120W or 140W TDP limits seen in other mini PCs utilizing the same APU. This higher wattage is expected to unlock the full potential of both the NPU and the iGPU. To ensure stable operation under such demanding conditions, Minisforum has implemented a sophisticated cooling system, comprising dual fans and six heat pipes, along with ample ventilation.
Next-Generation Connectivity and Expandability
The MS-S1 Max is also set to be one of the first mini PCs to feature USB4 V2 connectors. These ports offer a substantial bandwidth of up to 80 Gbps, rivaling the latest Thunderbolt 5 standard. This high bandwidth will be beneficial for high-resolution, high-refresh-rate displays and ultra-fast data transfers. Furthermore, the mini PC includes a full-size PCIe x16 slot, providing users with the flexibility to install a dedicated graphics card for even greater performance, though clearance for larger GPUs may be limited.
Memory and Networking
While official specifications are still pending, leaks suggest that the MS-S1 Max will support a substantial amount of RAM, with options for 64GB, 96GB, and up to 128GB of soldered LPDDR5X memory. For networking, the device is equipped with dual 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10 GbE) NICs, ensuring rapid wired network connectivity. The system also includes a built-in 320W power supply to adequately power its high-performance components.
Availability and Pricing
The Minisforum MS-S1 Max is anticipated to be released in the second half of 2025. Pricing details have not yet been announced, but given the high-end specifications, particularly the 128GB RAM configuration, it is expected to exceed $3,000.
Via Minisforum
