Mini PCs are often praised for their size but criticized for limited power and expandability. The Minisforum MS-S1 Max challenges that assumption with high-end specs, but the question remains: can it balance performance, price, and usability for demanding users?
Minisforum recently introduced a new 64GB RAM variant of its MS-S1 Max, priced at $2,639. This is a more accessible option compared to the original 128GB model, which typically costs around $3,199. Both versions maintain a 2TB SSD, preserving ample storage for professional workloads or content libraries.
- The 64GB RAM model offers strong multitasking without the premium price of 128GB.
- Ports include dual 80Gbps USB4 v2 and two 10GbE LAN for versatile connectivity.
- An available PCIe 4.0 x16 slot supports discrete GPUs but runs at x4 speeds with limited ventilation.
- Internal cooling is effective but can become noticeably loud when idle.
More RAM Choices Without Sacrificing Storage
The original MS-S1 Max launched with a hefty 128GB of LPDDR5x RAM, targeting power users with intensive multitasking or virtualization needs. The new 64GB option suits those who still require high memory capacity but want to reduce costs. Both configurations share the same 2TB SSD, which is fast and ample for most professional and creative tasks.
One downside to the reduced RAM is the maximum VRAM allocation for the Radeon 8060S iGPU drops from 96GB to a lower amount. Users planning to rely heavily on integrated graphics for rendering or gaming may find this limiting.
Ports and Expandability Cater to Power Users
The MS-S1 Max stands out with its port selection. Two USB4 v2 ports support data speeds up to 80Gbps, ideal for fast external drives or displays. Dual 10GbE LAN ports offer networking options rarely seen in mini PCs, making it attractive for workstations requiring robust wired connections.
The inclusion of a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot allows users to add a dedicated GPU. However, the slot operates at x4 speed, which can limit GPU bandwidth. Additionally, the slot’s location and limited ventilation may cause thermal throttling, so users should consider cooling solutions if planning GPU upgrades.
Cooling and Noise: The Trade-Off
Minisforum’s internal cooling system is designed to handle the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and Radeon 8060S iGPU under load. Still, testing revealed the system can become quite loud, even at idle. This is an important consideration for noise-sensitive environments like offices or studios.
The chassis is easy to open for maintenance or upgrades, which adds to the appeal for tech-savvy users who want to customize their mini PC.
Does the Price Match the Use Case?
At $2,639, the 64GB MS-S1 Max is positioned as a premium mini PC for professionals needing a compact yet powerful machine. The price reflects high-end components and connectivity but may be steep for casual users or those solely focused on gaming.
Availability and pricing may vary internationally, so buyers should compare local options. The trade-off is capacity and cost: 64GB RAM reduces price without compromising storage, but limits maximum VRAM for integrated graphics.
Consider it if you need a compact workstation with strong multitasking, fast networking, and port variety. Skip it if noise is a major concern or if you require full x16 PCIe GPU bandwidth for heavy graphics workloads.
(Via)
