Minisforum AI X1

The Minisforum AI X1 enters the crowded mini PC market with a unique proposition: AMD’s Ryzen 7 260 (a rebranded 8845HS) paired with an OCuLink port and 38 TOPS NPU, all at $599 (32GB RAM + 1TB SSD). Unlike the pricier AI X1 Pro (Ryzen 9 HX370), this model shares its core specs with the 8845HS—8 Zen 4 cores (5.1GHz), Radeon 780M iGPU, and dual USB4 ports—but stands out with a sleek white metallic chassis inspired by its Pro sibling. Its direct competitors include Minisforum’s own UM890 Pro (7940HS, 5.2GHz, $649) and UM790 Pro (identical to 8845HS but lacks NPU), both using older designs without OCuLink. External rivals like the GMKtec K8 Plus ($520) undercut it slightly but omit Wi-Fi 7 and the AI X1’s refined aesthetics.

The AI X1’s Radeon 780M iGPU (RDNA 3, 2700MHz) matches the 8845HS’s gaming capabilities—expect 60fps in GTA V (1080p/High) or Elden Ring (720p/Medium)—while its NPU enables efficient local AI tasks (e.g., Windows Studio Effects, Whisper transcription). The inclusion of OCuLink (PCIe 4.0 x4) sets it apart from the Beelink SER8 ($605, no OCuLink), though bandwidth limits high-end GPUs. Storage and RAM upgrades are straightforward (dual M.2 slots, 64GB DDR5 max), but the plastic-reinforced chassis lacks the all-metal build of the UM890 Pro. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 future-proof connectivity, though Realtek’s module may lag behind Intel’s AX210 in real-world use.

Price-wise, the AI X1 straddles the line between budget and premium. The GMKtec K11 (8945HS, $599) offers marginally better CPU clocks, while the GEM12 Pro Max (8845HS, $549) undercuts it by $50 with similar specs. Minisforum’s own UM790 Pro (often discounted below $550) remains a steal for those who don’t need the NPU. If you prioritize AI acceleration, OCuLink expandability, and a modern design, the AI X1 justifies its premium over GMKtec’s options—but budget-focused buyers might prefer the GEM12 or wait for UM890 Pro sales.

- GhostKeyboard Review.