MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro
The MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro represents a significant step forward in the mini PC market, combining AMD’s cutting-edge Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor with a design that prioritizes expandability and clean cable management. Unlike most compact systems that rely on external power bricks, the AI X1 Pro integrates a 135W power supply directly into its chassis, resulting in a setup that only requires a standard power cable. This flagship machine targets professionals and enthusiasts who need substantial computing power for AI development, content creation, and productivity workloads without sacrificing desk space.
Pros and Cons of the MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 with 12 cores/24 threads and 50 TOPS NPU | Larger than typical mini PCs at 7.68” x 7.68” x 1.87” |
| Exceptional expandability with 3x M.2 slots (up to 12TB) and 128GB RAM | SODIMM DDR5-5600 is slower than LPDDR5X, limiting iGPU gaming performance |
| Built-in 135W PSU eliminates external power brick | Only 3 USB-A ports may limit peripheral connectivity |
| OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x4 port for high-speed external GPU | SD card reader performance reported as slow |
| Dual 2.5GbE LAN ports for networking flexibility | Some reviewers noted Wi-Fi reliability issues |
| Excellent cooling keeps temps under 60C during gaming | NPU software ecosystem still maturing |
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MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro Comparison Chart
 MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro | MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro | MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro | MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro | |
| Price | List Price: $899.90 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $1,059.90 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $1,249.90 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $1,449.90 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... |
| Version | Barebone | 32GB/1TB | 64GB/1TB | 96GB/2TB |
| Perfomance Rating | 9.5 | 10.1 | 10.4 | 5.9 |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro |
| Processor | Twelve-core 2.00 Ghz (max 5.10 Ghz) AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Twelve-core 2.00 Ghz (max 5.10 Ghz) AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Twelve-core 2.00 Ghz (max 5.10 Ghz) AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Twelve-core 2.00 Ghz (max 5.10 Ghz) AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 |
| GPU | Integrated AMD Radeon 890M | Integrated AMD Radeon 890M | Integrated AMD Radeon 890M | Integrated AMD Radeon 890M |
| RAM | 0 GB DDR5 SO-DIMM | 32 GB DDR5 SO-DIMM | 64 GB DDR5 SO-DIMM | 96 GB DDR5 SO-DIMM |
| Internal Storage | 0 GB | 1 TB | 1 TB | 2 TB |
| Dimensions width x length x thickness | 7.68 x 7.68 x 1.87 inches (195.07 x 195.07 x 47.5 mm) | 7.68 x 7.68 x 1.87 inches (195.07 x 195.07 x 47.5 mm) | 7.68 x 7.68 x 1.87 inches (195.07 x 195.07 x 47.5 mm) | 7.68 x 7.68 x 1.87 inches (195.07 x 195.07 x 47.5 mm) |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) | 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) | 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) | 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Ethernet | 2 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps | 2 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps | 2 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps | 2 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps |
| HDMI | 1 Full-Size HDMI Port | 1 Full-Size HDMI Port | 1 Full-Size HDMI Port | 1 Full-Size HDMI Port |
| DisplayPort | 1 DisplayPort (DisplayPort 2.0) | 1 DisplayPort (DisplayPort 2.0) | 1 DisplayPort (DisplayPort 2.0) | 1 DisplayPort (DisplayPort 2.0) |
| VGA | No VGA Ports | No VGA Ports | No VGA Ports | No VGA Ports |
| USB Ports | 1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3, 2 USB 4 | 1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3, 2 USB 4 | 1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3, 2 USB 4 | 1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3, 2 USB 4 |
| Thunderbolt Ports | No | No | No | No |
| Internal SATA Ports | No SATA ports | No SATA ports | No SATA ports | No SATA ports |
| Card Reader | Full-size SD | Full-size SD | Full-size SD | Full-size SD |
| Headphone Jack | combo | combo | combo | combo |
| Fanless | No | No | No | No |
| VESA Mount | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| In the Box | AI X1 Pro unit, power cable, HDMI cable, vertical stand, VESA bracket, 2x M.2 heatsinks with thermal pads, user manual | AI X1 Pro unit, power cable, HDMI cable, vertical stand, VESA bracket, 2x M.2 heatsinks with thermal pads, user manual | AI X1 Pro unit, power cable, HDMI cable, vertical stand, VESA bracket, 2x M.2 heatsinks with thermal pads, user manual | AI X1 Pro unit, power cable, HDMI cable, vertical stand, VESA bracket, 2x M.2 heatsinks with thermal pads, user manual |
| Expandability | RAM: 2x DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM slots (up to 128GB). Storage: 3x M.2 2280 slots (max 12TB total). OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x4 for external GPU. Built-in 135W PSU. | RAM: 2x DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM slots (up to 128GB). Storage: 3x M.2 2280 slots (max 12TB total). OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x4 for external GPU. Built-in 135W PSU. | RAM: 2x DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM slots (up to 128GB). Storage: 3x M.2 2280 slots (max 12TB total). OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x4 for external GPU. Built-in 135W PSU. | RAM: 2x DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM slots (up to 128GB). Storage: 3x M.2 2280 slots (max 12TB total). OCuLink PCIe 4.0 x4 for external GPU. Built-in 135W PSU. |
Detailed Insights into the MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro
The AI X1 Pro’s design language takes clear inspiration from Apple’s Mac Mini, featuring a square aluminum-topped chassis with rounded corners and a silver finish. At 7.68 inches square and 1.87 inches tall, it’s notably larger than competing mini PCs, but this extra volume accommodates the internal power supply and impressive cooling system. The build quality is substantial, with reviewers describing it as “hefty” and “well-built” despite the plastic lower portion. Port layout is thoughtfully arranged with the most frequently used connections on the front panel, including two USB-A 3.2 Gen2 ports, a USB4 port with 15W Power Delivery, a full-size SD card slot, and a fingerprint sensor with Windows Hello support.
Performance from the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor puts this machine in elite territory for mini PCs. Based on AMD’s latest Zen 5 architecture, this 12-core, 24-thread chip boosts up to 5.1GHz and delivers approximately 35,000 in CPU Mark benchmarks. The integrated Radeon 890M graphics based on RDNA 3.5 architecture handles 1080p gaming capably, though reviewers note that the SODIMM memory’s higher latency compared to soldered LPDDR5X in competing systems slightly limits peak frame rates. For AI workloads, the chip’s NPU delivers 50 TOPS of processing power, with the total system capable of 80 TOPS when combining CPU, GPU, and NPU resources.
Connectivity options are comprehensive for a device this size. The dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports using Realtek controllers provide redundancy for network-attached workloads or link aggregation possibilities. WiFi 7 support via MediaTek’s MT7925 chipset offers cutting-edge wireless performance, though one reviewer experienced connectivity issues that may be unit-specific. The inclusion of an OCuLink port running at PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds allows connection of external GPUs at higher bandwidth than USB4 or Thunderbolt alternatives, making this a genuinely upgradable platform for graphics-intensive work.
Reviewer Insights on the MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro
ETA PRIME’s Perspective
ETA PRIME provides one of the most comprehensive reviews available, putting the AI X1 Pro through extensive benchmarking and real-world testing. He notes that “This is one of their most interesting PCs they’ve released in 2025 so far” and emphasizes the significance of having user-upgradeable SODIMM RAM in a mobile processor platform: “Since this system is using SODIMM RAM, it is upgradeable and we can go up to 96 gigs.” Thermal performance impressed him particularly, with the system staying well under 80 degrees Celsius even during sustained testing. He concludes that it’s “a really good looking mini PC and the way it’s set up out of the box, it’s a great performer.”
Level1Techs’ Perspective
Level1Techs focuses on the AI capabilities and Linux support of the AI X1 Pro. Wendell highlights a key technical detail: “I wasn’t aware that you could use DDR5 SODIMMs with the mobile processors,” noting this is unusual for the HX 370 platform. His testing reveals “the best cooling of any Minisforum machine that I’ve taken a look at,” and he praises the Linux support, stating “This platform supports Linux quite well.” He also clarifies the purpose of the NPU: “The point of the NPU is not more performance, the point of the NPU is power savings,” providing important context for users interested in local AI development.
Lawrence Systems’ Perspective
Lawrence Systems approaches the review from a business and productivity angle. He describes the build quality as impressive: “This is a hefty unit even though it’s only 3.3 pounds. It’s well-built, it’s sturdy.” For local LLM applications, he found that “the ability to offload to the GPU led to a level of performance that was more than enough to run a local LLM.” The presence of a dedicated Copilot button indicates MINISFORUM’s target market, though Lawrence notes the NPU software ecosystem remains limited.
NotebookCheck Review
According to NotebookCheck, which scored the AI X1 Pro at 83%, the device excels as “an all-round mini PC for the office, multimedia, gaming, and creative tasks.” They praise the premium aluminum case, dual 2.5G LAN ports, and the 36-month warranty. However, they note limitations including only three USB-A ports for traditional peripherals and high DPC latencies that could affect real-time audio and video editing workflows.
NAS Compares Review
NAS Compares awarded an 8.8/10 rating, praising the balance of performance, expandability, and AI acceleration in the compact form factor. Their power consumption testing revealed efficient operation at 19-23W idle and 59-63W under load. They particularly valued the three M.2 expansion slots and OcuLink support, though noted the PSU placement above the SSD slots could affect thermal management during extended operations.
Reviewer consensus highlights the AI X1 Pro’s exceptional expandability and build quality as its primary strengths. The built-in power supply and triple M.2 slots differentiate it from competitors, while the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 delivers flagship performance. The main criticisms center on its larger size compared to competitors and the SODIMM memory’s impact on iGPU gaming performance.
Customer Reviews of the MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro
Amazon customers rate the AI X1 Pro at 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 59 reviews, indicating strong satisfaction among buyers. Customers frequently praise the build quality and performance, noting the system handles demanding workloads smoothly. The fingerprint reader and internal power supply receive particular appreciation for improving the daily user experience and reducing desk clutter. Several reviewers mention successful local AI and LLM deployments using the abundant RAM capacity.
Common concerns from customers include the device’s weight and size relative to other mini PCs, though many note this is an acceptable trade-off for the internal PSU. A few users report initial issues with WiFi connectivity that required driver updates to resolve. The price point generates mixed reactions, with some viewing it as premium pricing justified by the specifications, while others compare it unfavorably to self-built small form factor PCs with similar capabilities.
Overall, customers who purchase the AI X1 Pro appear to be informed buyers who specifically sought its combination of high-end processing power, AI capabilities, and expansion options. The majority express satisfaction with their purchase, particularly those using it for professional applications or AI development where the 96GB RAM capacity and NPU prove valuable.
Conclusion
The MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro carves out a distinctive position in the mini PC market by prioritizing expandability and user upgradability over absolute compactness. With its AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, up to 128GB of user-installable RAM, three M.2 storage slots, and OCuLink for external GPU connectivity, it offers genuine workstation capabilities in a form factor that still fits neatly on a desk. The integrated 135W power supply eliminates cable clutter, and the dual 2.5GbE ports plus WiFi 7 provide flexible networking options.
This machine is ideal for AI developers, content creators, and professionals who need substantial local processing power and memory for demanding workloads. The ability to run local LLMs, handle video editing, or compile code while having room to grow storage and RAM makes it a compelling long-term investment. Those prioritizing iGPU gaming performance may want to consider alternatives with soldered LPDDR5X memory, which offers lower latency than the SODIMM configuration here.
For buyers weighing their options, the AI X1 Pro’s combination of flagship AMD silicon, exceptional expandability, and thoughtful design details like the built-in PSU and fingerprint reader represent strong value at its price points. For those looking to compare options, Starry Hope’s Mini PC Comparison Chart provides a valuable resource for evaluating this and other high-performance mini PCs side by side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and how powerful is it?
The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is AMD’s flagship mobile processor based on the Zen 5 architecture. It features 12 cores and 24 threads with boost clocks up to 5.1GHz, scoring approximately 35,000 in PassMark’s CPU benchmark. The chip also includes a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) delivering 50 TOPS for AI workloads, making it one of the most capable processors available in a mini PC form factor.
Can I upgrade the RAM and storage in the AI X1 Pro?
Yes, the AI X1 Pro is highly upgradeable. It uses two DDR5 SO-DIMM slots supporting up to 128GB of RAM at 5600MHz speeds. For storage, there are three M.2 2280 slots (two running at PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds and one at PCIe 4.0 x1) supporting up to 12TB total capacity. This is exceptional expandability for a mini PC.
What is OCuLink and why is it useful?
OCuLink is a high-speed external connection standard running at PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds (approximately 64Gbps), which is faster than Thunderbolt 4 or USB4. The AI X1 Pro includes an OCuLink port that allows connection of external GPUs with less bandwidth bottleneck than other connection types. This makes it possible to add desktop-class graphics performance when needed for gaming or GPU-accelerated workloads.
Does the AI X1 Pro require an external power brick?
No, the AI X1 Pro features a built-in 135W power supply unit, which is unusual for mini PCs. This means you only need a standard power cable to connect to a wall outlet, eliminating the external power brick that typically accompanies compact computers. This design choice contributes to the unit’s larger size but results in a cleaner desk setup.
How many displays can I connect to the AI X1 Pro?
The AI X1 Pro supports up to four displays simultaneously. It includes one HDMI 2.1 port, one DisplayPort 2.0 port, and two USB4 ports that support DisplayPort Alt Mode. This makes it suitable for multi-monitor productivity setups without requiring additional adapters or docking stations.
Is the AI X1 Pro good for gaming?
The AI X1 Pro can handle 1080p gaming thanks to its AMD Radeon 890M integrated graphics based on RDNA 3.5 architecture. However, reviewers note that the SODIMM DDR5 memory configuration results in slightly lower gaming performance compared to competing systems with soldered LPDDR5X memory. For serious gaming, the OCuLink port allows connection of an external GPU to achieve desktop-class graphics performance.
What is the Copilot button on the AI X1 Pro?
The AI X1 Pro includes a dedicated Copilot button that provides quick access to Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant in Windows 11. Combined with the NPU’s 50 TOPS of AI processing power, the system is designed for AI-enhanced productivity workflows. However, some reviewers note that switching to alternative AI assistants like ChatGPT or DeepSeek from this hardware button isn’t straightforward.
Does the AI X1 Pro support Linux?
According to Level1Techs’ review, the AI X1 Pro “supports Linux quite well.” The AMD hardware platform generally has good Linux compatibility. Users planning to run Linux should verify driver support for specific features like the fingerprint reader and NPU, as these may have varying levels of support depending on the distribution.