MINISFORUM MS-A2
The MINISFORUM MS-A2 represents a significant leap forward in the mini PC workstation category, packing desktop-class performance into a compact 1.7-liter chassis. At its heart lies the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX processor with 16 cores and 32 threads, delivering performance that rivals full-sized desktop systems. This isn’t your typical compact PC for light office work; it’s a serious machine designed for virtualization, homelabs, content creation, and professional workloads that demand both power and portability. The MS-A2 builds upon the success of MINISFORUM’s popular MS-01, addressing previous limitations while adding AMD’s latest Zen 5 architecture for substantially improved performance.
Pros and Cons of the MINISFORUM MS-A2
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional 16-core/32-thread CPU performance (2.5x faster than MS-01) | No USB4 or Thunderbolt support |
| Dual 10G SFP+ ports for enterprise-grade networking | Integrated Radeon 610M graphics are weak for GPU tasks |
| Triple 8K display output via HDMI 2.1 and dual USB-C | Fans are audible under load (~50 dBA) |
| PCIe x16 slot supports discrete GPUs up to 75W | Large 240W external power brick |
| Supports up to 96GB DDR5-5600 RAM with ECC capability | Premium pricing for configured models |
| Tool-less chassis design for easy upgrades | Higher idle power (25-30W) due to Intel X710 NIC |
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MINISFORUM MS-A2 Comparison Chart
 MINISFORUM MS-A2 | MINISFORUM MS-A2 | MINISFORUM MS-A2 | |
| Price | List Price: $839.90 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $1699.90 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $1348.90 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... |
| Version | Barebone | 32GB/1TB | 64GB/1TB |
| Perfomance Rating | 11.4 | 12.1 | 12.3 |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro |
| Processor | Sixteen-core 2.50 Ghz (max 5.40 Ghz) AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX | Sixteen-core 2.50 Ghz (max 5.40 Ghz) AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX | Sixteen-core 2.50 Ghz (max 5.40 Ghz) AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX |
| GPU | Integrated AMD Radeon 610M | Integrated AMD Radeon 610M | Integrated AMD Radeon 610M |
| RAM | 0 GB DDR5 SO-DIMM (Without RAM/SSD/OS - configure your own) | 32 GB DDR5 SO-DIMM (32GB DDR5-5600) | 64 GB DDR5 SO-DIMM (64GB DDR5-5600) |
| Internal Storage | 0 GB | 1 TB | 1 TB |
| Dimensions width x length x thickness | 7.44 x 7.72 x 1.89 inches (188.98 x 196.09 x 48.01 mm) | 7.44 x 7.72 x 1.89 inches (188.98 x 196.09 x 48.01 mm) | 7.44 x 7.72 x 1.89 inches (188.98 x 196.09 x 48.01 mm) |
| Weight | 3.2 lbs (1.45 kg) | 3.2 lbs (1.45 kg) | 3.2 lbs (1.45 kg) |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Ethernet | 4 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps | 4 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps | 4 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps |
| HDMI | 1 2.1 Port | 1 2.1 Port | 1 2.1 Port |
| DisplayPort | 2 DisplayPorts (Via USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode (8K@60Hz)) | 2 DisplayPorts (Via USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode (8K@60Hz)) | 2 DisplayPorts (Via USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode (8K@60Hz)) |
| VGA | No VGA Ports | No VGA Ports | No VGA Ports |
| USB Ports | 2 USB 2.0, 6 USB 3, 2 USB-C | 2 USB 2.0, 6 USB 3, 2 USB-C | 2 USB 2.0, 6 USB 3, 2 USB-C |
| Thunderbolt Ports | No | No | No |
| Internal SATA Ports | No SATA ports | No SATA ports | No SATA ports |
| Card Reader | SD | SD | SD |
| Headphone Jack | -- | -- | -- |
| Fanless | No | No | No |
| VESA Mount | No | No | No |
| In the Box | -- | -- | -- |
| Expandability | PCIe x16 slot (x8 bandwidth, PCIe 4.0) for discrete GPU or expansion cards. Supports split into 2x PCIe 4.0 x4 for dual cards. Up to 96GB DDR5-5600 RAM via dual SO-DIMM slots. | PCIe x16 slot (x8 bandwidth, PCIe 4.0) for discrete GPU or expansion cards. Supports split into 2x PCIe 4.0 x4 for dual cards. Up to 96GB DDR5-5600 RAM via dual SO-DIMM slots. | PCIe x16 slot (x8 bandwidth, PCIe 4.0) for discrete GPU or expansion cards. Supports split into 2x PCIe 4.0 x4 for dual cards. Up to 96GB DDR5-5600 RAM via dual SO-DIMM slots. |
Detailed Insights into the MINISFORUM MS-A2
The MS-A2’s build quality reflects its workstation ambitions with an all-metal chassis measuring just 196mm x 189mm x 48mm, roughly the size of a thick hardcover book. MINISFORUM has implemented a tool-less design that makes accessing the internals remarkably easy, a feature reviewers consistently praised for upgradeability. The dual-fan cooling system with four heat pipes keeps the Ryzen 9 9955HX running at sustainable temperatures, though it does produce noticeable noise under heavy loads. The compact footprint makes it ideal for desk deployment or rack mounting in homelab environments where space is at a premium.
Where the MS-A2 truly shines is in its networking capabilities, which set it apart from consumer-focused mini PCs. The system includes dual 10G SFP+ ports powered by an Intel X710 NIC, alongside dual 2.5G RJ45 ports using Intel I226-V and Realtek RTL8125 controllers. This four-port networking configuration makes the MS-A2 exceptionally well-suited for virtualization clusters, software-defined storage, and network-intensive applications. The Ryzen 9 9955HX delivers Cinebench R23 multi-core scores of around 29,600, which is approximately 2.5 times faster than the Intel-based MS-01, making it a genuine productivity powerhouse.
Storage and expansion options are equally impressive, with three M.2 slots including U.2 drive support for enterprise SSDs up to 15TB. All slots operate at PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds, and the system supports M.2 2280 and 22110 form factors. The PCIe x16 slot provides x8 bandwidth, enough for discrete graphics cards up to 75W TDP, though you’ll need a half-height card to fit. Connectivity includes WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, plus the triple 8K video output capability through HDMI 2.1 and dual USB-C ports with DisplayPort Alt Mode.
Reviewer Insights on the MINISFORUM MS-A2
ServeTheHome’s Perspective
ServeTheHome positions the MS-A2 as the near-perfect homelab node, praising its combination of powerful AMD processing with enterprise networking features. Their review highlighted the excellent serviceability compared to previous generations, noting that the tool-less design makes RAM and storage upgrades straightforward. They particularly appreciated the dual 10G SFP+ ports, calling it “the absolute perfect home lab node” for users building virtualization clusters. The reviewer cautioned about the idle power consumption of 25-30W, which is higher than expected due to the Intel X710 networking chip, but concluded that the MS-A2 represents a significant upgrade over the MS-01 for serious homelab enthusiasts.
Level1Techs’ Perspective
Level1Techs delivered an enthusiastic review, declaring the MS-A2 “the most powerful, mighty Mini PC” they’ve tested from MINISFORUM or any other manufacturer. Their testing confirmed that the system can handle up to 128GB of DDR5-5600 RAM with proper configuration, exceeding the official 96GB specification. The reviewer demonstrated Geekbench 6.4 scores of 3,183 single-core and 17,845 multi-core, positioning it as a legitimate workstation replacement. They noted that thermal management keeps the CPU around 70C during normal operation, spiking to 92C under stress testing. For users planning to run this as a mini server, Level1Techs emphasized it’s “hugely powerful and very power frugal” compared to traditional server hardware.
Craft Computing’s Perspective
Craft Computing focused on the value proposition of the MS-A2, highlighting that the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX is “basically the exact same silicon from the Ryzen 9950x desktop CPU just tuned down a bit to 75 watts.” Their Cinebench R23 testing showed the MS-A2 scoring 29,607 multi-core, which is approximately 2.48 times faster than the Intel-based MS-01. The reviewer recommended the barebone configuration at $869 as the best value, allowing users to source their own DDR5 RAM and NVMe storage for substantial savings. They concluded that the MS-A2 is “light years faster and more efficient than either of the previous models” while remaining competitively priced.
Written Reviews
According to ServeTheHome’s written review, the MS-A2 delivers on its promise as a homelab-focused workstation, though they noted the need for three different network drivers due to the mixed Intel and Realtek controllers. NotebookCheck awarded a 65% score, acknowledging the strong CPU performance while criticizing the weak integrated Radeon 610M graphics and thermal throttling under sustained loads. They emphasized that serious workstation users should plan to install a discrete GPU. NASCompares gave an 8.4/10 rating, calling it “the MS-01 killer” and praising its positioning for professionals needing multi-threaded performance and advanced networking.
The consensus across reviewers is clear: the MS-A2 excels as a compact workstation or homelab node for users who prioritize CPU performance and networking over integrated graphics. The lack of USB4/Thunderbolt and the weak Radeon 610M are its primary limitations, but for virtualization, development, and server applications, these drawbacks are largely irrelevant.
Customer Reviews of the MINISFORUM MS-A2
Amazon customers have given the MS-A2 a 4.5-star rating based on 117 reviews, reflecting strong overall satisfaction with this compact workstation. Users consistently praise the exceptional processing power and the versatility of having enterprise-grade 10G networking in such a small package. Many reviewers are homelab enthusiasts running Proxmox or ESXi, and they report excellent performance for running multiple virtual machines simultaneously. The build quality and thermal management receive positive mentions, with users noting the system runs cooler than expected given its power density.
The most common criticism relates to fan noise, with several users noting that the dual-fan cooling system is audible under moderate to heavy loads. Some customers also mention the learning curve for optimizing DDR5 memory settings in the BIOS, particularly for those pushing beyond 64GB. The large external power brick receives occasional complaints for desk clutter, though users acknowledge this is a necessary tradeoff for the system’s 240W power delivery capability. Overall, customers who understand this is a workstation-class device, not a silent media center PC, express high satisfaction with their purchase.
Conclusion
The MINISFORUM MS-A2 delivers on its promise of desktop-class workstation performance in a remarkably compact form factor. It’s an ideal choice for homelab enthusiasts running virtualization clusters, developers who need local processing power for containerized workloads, or professionals seeking a powerful secondary workstation that doesn’t dominate desk space. The combination of the 16-core Ryzen 9 9955HX, dual 10G SFP+ networking, and PCIe expansion creates a genuinely capable platform that can handle demanding professional applications.
However, the MS-A2 isn’t the right fit for everyone. Users who need strong graphics performance for content creation or gaming should look elsewhere unless they plan to install a discrete GPU, and the audible fan noise under load rules it out for ultra-quiet environments. The barebone configuration at $839.90 offers the best value, allowing you to source your own DDR5 RAM and NVMe storage, while the pre-configured 64GB/1TB model at $1,348.90 provides a ready-to-go solution at a premium. For those looking to compare options, Starry Hope’s Mini PC Comparison Chart provides a valuable resource for evaluating the MS-A2 against alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What processor does the MINISFORUM MS-A2 use?
The MS-A2 features the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX processor, which has 16 cores and 32 threads based on the Zen 5 architecture. It can boost up to 5.4GHz and delivers performance comparable to desktop Ryzen 9 processors while operating within a 75W thermal envelope.
Can you install a graphics card in the MS-A2?
Yes, the MS-A2 includes a PCIe x16 slot with x8 bandwidth (PCIe 4.0). It supports half-height discrete graphics cards up to 75W TDP, allowing you to upgrade from the integrated Radeon 610M for better graphics performance in professional applications.
How much RAM does the MS-A2 support?
The MS-A2 officially supports up to 96GB of DDR5-5600 RAM via two SO-DIMM slots. Some users have successfully installed 128GB configurations, though this exceeds the official specification. The system supports ECC memory for error-correcting capability in server applications.
What networking options does the MS-A2 have?
The MS-A2 includes exceptional networking with dual 10G SFP+ ports (Intel X710 NIC) and dual 2.5G RJ45 ports (Intel I226-V and Realtek RTL8125). This four-port configuration makes it ideal for virtualization clusters, software-defined storage, and network-intensive homelab applications.
Is the MS-A2 fanless or silent?
No, the MS-A2 uses a dual-fan cooling system with four heat pipes. It measures approximately 38-39 dBA at idle and around 50 dBA under load. While not silent, the cooling keeps the 16-core processor running at sustainable temperatures even during demanding workloads.
How does the MS-A2 compare to the MS-01?
The MS-A2 is approximately 2.5 times faster than the Intel-based MS-01 in multi-threaded workloads, thanks to the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX’s 16 cores versus the MS-01’s Intel processors. Both share similar networking capabilities, but the MS-A2 benefits from AMD’s more efficient Zen 5 architecture and improved thermal design.
What storage options are available in the MS-A2?
The MS-A2 includes three M.2 slots: one U.2/M.2 slot supporting enterprise drives up to 15TB, and two M.2 2280/22110 slots supporting drives up to 4TB each. All slots operate at PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds, providing up to 23TB of total storage capacity.
Is the barebone MS-A2 a good value?
Yes, the barebone configuration at $839.90 offers excellent value for users comfortable sourcing their own DDR5 RAM and NVMe storage. You can often achieve better specifications for less money compared to pre-configured models, though you’ll need to install Windows or another operating system yourself.