Minisforum MS-A2 Launch News

The Minisforum MS-A2 represents a significant leap in small form factor computing, packing desktop-class performance into a compact 1.78-liter chassis. As the successor to the popular MS-A1, this mini PC features either AMD's cutting-edge Ryzen 9 9955HX (Zen 5) or the powerful Ryzen 9 7945HX (Zen 4) processor, both offering 16 cores and 32 threads of processing power.

Priced from $639 (barebones) to $1,103 (fully configured), the MS-A2 targets professionals, homelab enthusiasts, and power users who need serious computing performance in a space-saving package. With its innovative cooling system, PCIe expansion slot, and support for up to 96GB RAM, this mini PC blurs the line between compact systems and full-sized workstations.

1. Processor Options: Zen 5 vs Zen 4

The MS-A2 offers two processor variants: the Ryzen 9 9955HX (Zen 5) with a boost clock up to 5.4GHz and the Ryzen 9 7945HX (Zen 4) also boosting to 5.4GHz. Benchmarks show the Zen 5 model delivers approximately 38% better performance than its Zen 4 counterpart, making it the premium choice for demanding workloads.

2. Memory & Storage Flexibility

The MS-A2 supports:

• Up to 96GB DDR5 RAM via two SO-DIMM slots (5600MHz for Zen 5, 5200MHz for Zen 4)
• Three M.2 slots (one supporting U.2 NVMe up to 15TB) for up to 23TB total storage
• RAID 0/1 support with speeds up to 13,000MB/s in RAID 0 configuration

3. Expansion & Connectivity

What sets the MS-A2 apart is its exceptional connectivity:

• PCIe 4.0 x8 slot for low-profile GPUs or network cards
• Dual 10GbE SFP+ ports and dual 2.5GbE RJ45 ports for high-speed networking
• Multiple display outputs including HDMI 2.1 and USB-C with DP Alt Mode

1. CPU Performance

Independent tests show impressive results for the Ryzen 9 9955HX variant:

• Geekbench 6: 3,197 (single-core), 18,301 (multi-core)
• Cinebench R24: 128 (single-core), 1,767 (multi-core)
• 38% faster than the 7945HX in multi-threaded workloads

2. Thermal Management

Minisforum implemented an advanced cooling system:

• Triple copper heat pipes with phase-change material
• Turbine fans providing 30% increased airflow
• Three fan modes (quiet, balanced, performance) for different usage scenarios

Under load, the CPU maintains reasonable temperatures of 81°C average (92°C peak) despite the compact form factor.

As of May 2025, the MS-A2 is available in several configurations:

• Barebones (no RAM/SSD): $639 (7945HX) / $839 (9955HX)
• 32GB RAM + 1TB SSD: $799 after discounts
• 64GB RAM + 1TB SSD: $1,103

Early adopters can use coupon code MSA230 for additional $30 off.

The MS-A2 excels in several professional scenarios:

• Homelab servers: With 10GbE networking and ECC memory support
• Content creation: Handling 4K/8K video editing with ease
• Virtualization: Running multiple VMs simultaneously
• Network applications: As a powerful router or firewall

While the integrated Radeon 610M graphics are limited, the PCIe slot allows adding a discrete GPU for gaming or GPU-accelerated workloads. The lack of USB4/Thunderbolt might disappoint some users, but the comprehensive networking options more than compensate.

The Minisforum MS-A2 redefines what's possible in a mini PC, offering unprecedented core counts and expansion options in a 1.78-liter package. While not cheap, its combination of Zen 5 performance, 10GbE networking, and PCIe expansion makes it uniquely capable for professionals who value both power and space efficiency.

Would you choose the 9955HX for maximum performance or the 7945HX for better value? Share your thoughts below!