How Fast Is the Minisforums MS-A1 Mini PC With GPU Support?

TL;DR

The Minisforums MS-A1 is a gaming-oriented Mini PC with strong expansion options, including Oculink support for an external graphics card. The tested bundle has a Ryzen 7 8700G with eight cores, 16 threads, 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, and integrated 780M graphics, while the bare-bones model costs under $300. Read on for its storage, connectivity, gaming, and upgrade details.

Transcript

all right so today we're going to be checking out a new Mini PC from mini fors called the msa1 and I would say it's a successor to the ms01 Mini PC now judging by the looks it looks very similar to the msl1 and I really like the style of the look of this Mini PC because it reminds me of those older style think pads or it's not as flashy as some of ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍💻 The MSA1 strikes a balance between classic design and modern performance, appealing to traditional tech enthusiasts and gamers alike.
• 🗯️ Its affordability and customizable nature make it an attractive option for those looking to build a gaming rig without breaking the bank.
• 🧘 The powerful hardware, including a Ryzen 7 CPU and DDR5 RAM, positions the MSA1 as a competitive player in the mini PC market, particularly for gaming.
• 👻 Storage versatility is enhanced through multiple M.2 slots, allowing users to tailor their storage primarily to their gaming or server needs.
• 🚙 Extensive connectivity options, including USB 4 and Ocul Link, broaden its utility by enabling additional peripherals and graphics enhancements.
• 👾 The decision to bundle with Windows 11 ensures that users can start gaming immediately without additional setup challenges.
• 🍵 The MSA1's performance benchmarks indicate it can handle demanding applications, making it suitable beyond just casual gaming.

Questions & Answers

Q: How fast is the Minisforums MS-A1 Mini PC?

The tested bundle uses a Ryzen 7 8700G with a 4.2 GHz base clock, a turbo boost up to 5.1 GHz, eight cores, and 16 threads. It also has 32 GB of DDR5 RAM and integrated 780M graphics, which the presenter describes as slightly faster than the Steam Deck's graphics.

Q: What hardware comes with the bundled Minisforums MS-A1?

The bundle includes a Ryzen 7 8700G AM5 Zen 4 processor and 32 GB of DDR5 RAM. Its processor includes integrated 780M graphics and an NPU rated at up to 12 TOPS.

Q: How much does the bare-bones Minisforums MS-A1 cost?

The bare-bones MS-A1 is available for under $300 according to the presenter. Because it uses a desktop CPU, buyers can install their preferred compatible CPU and DDR5 RAM.

Q: Does the Minisforums MS-A1 support an external GPU?

Yes. Its rear Oculink connection can connect an external device such as a graphics card, and the included base can hold a small-form-factor power supply and a graphics card.

Q: Is the Minisforums MS-A1 suitable for gaming?

The presenter considers the MS-A1 more of a gaming Mini PC than a home-lab or server system because of its hardware. He installed Camera OS, described as an installable version of Steam OS, and planned to use the computer as a console.

Q: What storage expansion does the Minisforums MS-A1 offer?

The MS-A1 has four M.2 slots, with two on the top and two on the bottom, providing substantial room for NVMe storage. One slot can also be replaced with a plate that accommodates an SSD.

Q: What ports are available on the Minisforums MS-A1?

The front has a power button, a 3.5 mm jack, one USB 2 port, and two USB 3 ports. The rear includes two 2.5 RJ45 connections, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 4 Type-C, two USB Type-A ports, and Oculink.

Q: Can the Minisforums MS-A1 be used as a server?

It can be used as a server, although the presenter views it as more gaming-focused than the earlier MS01. Its NPU, rated at up to 12 TOPS, could be useful for server workloads involving images or PhotoPrism, while the presenter says it is not really used for the gaming setup.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Mini Fors MSA1 is a successor to the MS01 Mini PC and features a sleek design reminiscent of older ThinkPads, striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality.

• With customizable hardware options, including a powerful Ryzen 7 8700G processor and ample storage capacity via four M.2 slots, this PC is optimized for gaming rather than server use.

• Key features include extensive connectivity options, such as USB 4 Type-C and an Ocul Link for external GPUs, making it a versatile choice for gamers looking to expand their setup.