The launch of the Minisforum MS-A2 marks the brand’s foray into the workstation segment, showcasing a compact mini PC designed for performance with the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX processor. While the device excels in overall system capability, it falls short in 3D performance, limiting its effectiveness for graphics-intensive tasks without additional hardware. The MS-A2 is distinguished by its versatile connectivity options and the ability to accommodate a dedicated low-profile GPU, although Minisforum does not offer pre-configured models with a graphics card included.
One notable concern with the MS-A2 is its noise level. The powerful processor can quickly push the cooling system to its limits, resulting in an audible fan even during idle periods. Although the case remains cool, the system must throttle performance under sustained heavy loads, which could affect user experience. Despite these limitations, the Minisforum MS-A2 offers strong performance and flexible configuration options, making it suitable for users seeking high computing power in a compact design.
Pricing for the barebone version starts at 939 euros, while a fully equipped model featuring 64GB RAM and a 1TB SSD costs around 1239 euros. When ordered directly from the manufacturer, the price for the barebone version is 1169 euros. For users looking for enhanced graphical capabilities, the option to install a dedicated GPU can elevate this mini PC into a more robust workstation.
Design and Connectivity Features
The design of the MS-A2 resembles that of industrial PCs, such as Lenovo’s ThinkCentre series. Constructed from metal with a sturdy plastic front panel, the device weighs 1.5 kg (plus a 788 g power supply), making it heavier than many competitors. It occupies more desk space than typical mini PCs, yet offers extensive connectivity options, including seven USB ports—two of which are USB-C—and an HDMI port. Enhanced networking capabilities further support its role as a compact workstation.
A significant feature is its PCIe x16 slot, which connects via PCIe 4.0 x8 and supports lane splitting. The MS-A2 package includes a 240-watt power supply, an HDMI cable, and a U.2 adapter, although it remains unclear if the PCIe card with an OCuLink connection will be part of the standard retail offering.
The MS-A2 is designed for straightforward maintenance, allowing users to access components without tools, though basic tools are required for RAM or SSD installation. The SO-DIMM memory slots are located beneath the CPU fan, and SSDs can be mounted on the underside after removing a metal cover. It supports only PCIe SSDs, but a U.2 drive can also be fitted using the supplied adapter.
Performance Insights
Equipped with the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX, the MS-A2 delivers strong performance across both single-core and multi-core workloads. This makes it a suitable choice for demanding tasks such as content creation and professional multitasking. However, testing revealed that the processor cannot maintain peak performance over extended periods. Under stress testing conditions, power consumption gradually drops to around 75 watts, which results in reduced performance during prolonged heavy workloads.
While the MS-A2 generally performs well, certain benchmarks reveal that it lags behind competing devices, primarily due to the limitations of its integrated GPU. The Radeon 610M iGPU provides minimal graphics capabilities, rendering the device unsuitable for 3D applications or intensive graphical tasks. To address these shortcomings, users can install a low-profile dedicated GPU or connect an external graphics solution via OCuLink, which offers greater bandwidth than USB4 and enhances overall performance.
The cooling system of the MS-A2 operates at high speeds under load, making it audible even during light use. The case construction allows for even heat distribution, preventing noticeable hotspots. While power consumption peaks at almost 150 watts, it remains well within the limits of the included 240-watt power supply, allowing for potential upgrades in graphics and storage.
In summary, the Minisforum MS-A2 stands out with its strong CPU performance, versatile connectivity, and robust build quality. Its primary weaknesses lie in limited integrated graphics and a cooling system that can struggle under heavy loads. Nevertheless, the device remains a capable and compact workstation solution for demanding tasks, particularly when paired with a dedicated graphics card.
