MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255

The MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255 represents a compelling entry in the high-performance mini PC market, built around AMD’s Ryzen 7 255 processor with integrated Radeon 780M graphics. This compact machine measures just 130 x 126 x 47.2mm (roughly 5 x 5 x 2 inches) and weighs only 0.67kg, making it one of the more portable options in the performance mini PC category. What sets it apart from typical budget mini PCs is its impressive connectivity options, including dual USB4 ports and an included OCuLink adapter for external GPU expansion. Whether you’re looking for a capable home office workstation, a compact gaming system, or a versatile HTPC, the X1 Lite-255 aims to deliver desktop-class performance without the desktop-sized footprint.

Pros and Cons of the MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255

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MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255 Comparison Chart

	MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255
Price	List Price: $639.00 Amazon Prices: Loading prices...
Version	32GB/1TB
Perfomance Rating	9.0
Operating System	Windows 11 Pro
Processor	Octa-core 3.80 Ghz (max 4.90 Ghz) AMD Ryzen 7 H 255
GPU	Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
RAM	32 GB
Internal Storage	1 TB
Dimensions width x length x thickness	5.12 x 4.96 x 1.86 inches (130.05 x 125.98 x 47.24 mm)
Weight	1.48 lbs (0.67 kg)
WiFi	Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)
Bluetooth	Bluetooth 5.2
Ethernet	1 Ethernet port at 2.5 Gbps
HDMI	1 HDMI Port
DisplayPort	1 DisplayPort
VGA	No VGA Ports
USB Ports	1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3, 2 USB 4
Thunderbolt Ports	No
Internal SATA Ports	No SATA ports
Card Reader	No Card Reader
Headphone Jack	combo
Fanless	No
VESA Mount	Yes
In the Box	Mini PC, 19V 120W power adapter, HDMI cable, VESA mounting bracket with screws, M.2 to OCuLink adapter, user manual
Expandability	RAM upgradable to 128GB via 2x DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM slots, storage expandable via 2x M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 slots (up to 8TB total), OCuLink support for external GPU via included adapter

Detailed Insights into the MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255

The X1 Lite-255 features a premium build quality with an aluminum alloy top and sides paired with a plastic base and back panel. The silver metallic finish is fingerprint-resistant, which is a thoughtful touch for a device that’s likely to be handled frequently. The front panel houses two USB 3.2 Gen2 ports running at 10Gbps, a 3.5mm combo audio jack, and a power button. Around back, you’ll find the dual USB4 ports (both supporting DisplayPort Alt Mode, with one handling power delivery), a single USB 2.0 port, HDMI 2.1 FRL, DisplayPort 1.4, and 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet. The port layout is logical and well-spaced, though the limited USB-A count means most users will want to keep a hub handy.

The AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor is essentially a refresh of the popular Ryzen 7 8745HS, built on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture with 8 cores and 16 threads capable of boosting up to 4.9GHz. In benchmarks, reviewers have recorded Cinebench R23 multi-core scores around 16,000-17,000 and Geekbench 6 scores exceeding 12,000 in multi-core tests. The integrated Radeon 780M graphics punch well above their weight class, delivering playable framerates in popular esports titles: CS2 runs at 90+ FPS on low settings, Valorant exceeds 200 FPS, and even more demanding titles like Street Fighter 6 maintain a steady 60 FPS at 1080p low. Multiple reviewers noted that the 780M outperforms Intel’s Core Ultra integrated graphics in gaming scenarios.

Connectivity and expansion options are where the X1 Lite-255 truly shines for its category. The dual USB4 ports running at 40Gbps each provide substantial bandwidth for external displays, storage, and accessories. More notably, MINISFORUM includes an M.2 to OCuLink adapter in the box, allowing users to connect an external GPU enclosure for significantly enhanced graphics performance. Reviewers measured approximately 45% better eGPU performance via OCuLink compared to USB4 connections. The system supports up to 128GB of DDR5-5600 RAM across two SO-DIMM slots and offers two M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x4 slots for storage, though using the OCuLink adapter does sacrifice one storage slot. WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 handle wireless connectivity, with 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet available for wired connections.

Reviewer Insights on the MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255

Rob Tech’s Perspective

Rob Tech provides an in-depth look at the X1 Lite-255, noting that it represents “a more NUC-style mini PC instead of the Mac inspiration of the Pro” model. His testing revealed impressive gaming performance from the Radeon 780M, achieving 91 FPS average in CS2 at 1080p low settings and an impressive 171 FPS in League of Legends at very high settings. He was particularly pleased with the dual USB4 and OCuLink capabilities, calling it “a solid choice for external GPU users who prefer the traditional NUC form factor.” However, he did note some drawbacks: “You’re going to have to sacrifice the second M.2 storage slot if you plan to use an Oculink eGPU,” and the Bluetooth range was weaker than expected. His thermal testing showed the CPU hitting 92C in performance mode with fan noise around 40-44dB.

Mr. Sujano’s Perspective

Mr. Sujano came away highly impressed with the X1 Lite-255’s overall performance, declaring “This thing has excelled for pretty much everything I’ve thrown at it.” He was particularly enthusiastic about the gaming performance, stating that “In my testing it beat the pants off the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H” in integrated graphics benchmarks. His thermal testing showed more moderate temperatures of 60-70C under gaming loads with idle temps around 47C, suggesting some variance between units or testing conditions. He praised the easy upgradeability and silver metallic finish but expressed disappointment with the limited USB port count, noting “I’m a little bit disappointed to see a lack of USB ports on this device.” For home office use, content creation, and light 1080p gaming, he considers it highly recommended.

Hostbor’s Written Review

According to Hostbor, which awarded the system a 7.8/10 score, “The AI X1 255 excels as a portable gaming PC with superior eGPU connectivity via OCuLink.” Their comprehensive benchmark testing recorded Cinebench R23 single-core scores of 1728 and multi-core scores of 16997, along with Geekbench 6 scores of 2584 (single) and 12967 (multi). They noted that “OCuLink provides 45% better eGPU performance vs USB4,” making this a compelling option for users planning to expand with an external graphics card later. However, they cautioned about thermal concerns, noting the system “reaches 92C under sustained loads” and mentioned some factory quality control issues with thermal pad installation.

All three reviewers agree on the X1 Lite-255’s core strengths: excellent CPU performance, surprisingly capable integrated graphics, and standout expansion options via OCuLink. The consistent criticism across reviews is the limited USB-A port count, which most users will need to address with a hub.

Customer Reviews of the MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255

Early Amazon customer reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with the product currently holding a perfect 5.0-star rating from 11 reviews. Customers frequently praise the compact form factor and powerful performance, with many highlighting how the small size doesn’t compromise on capability. The included OCuLink adapter and VESA mounting bracket are mentioned as welcome additions that add value to the package.

The most common positive themes center on the system’s performance-to-size ratio and the quality of the aluminum construction. Several customers coming from older systems or budget mini PCs express pleasant surprise at how well the Radeon 780M handles casual gaming without a dedicated GPU. The quiet operation under normal workloads is another frequently mentioned benefit.

Given the limited number of reviews so far and the product’s recent release, it’s worth watching for longer-term feedback on thermal performance and reliability. The $639 price point for the 32GB/1TB configuration positions it competitively against similar Ryzen 7-based mini PCs, though the OCuLink adapter inclusion adds genuine value for users interested in future GPU expansion.

Conclusion

The MINISFORUM X1 Lite-255 carves out a compelling niche for users who want serious computing power in a truly compact package. The combination of AMD’s 8-core Ryzen 7 255 processor, capable Radeon 780M graphics, and the included OCuLink adapter makes it particularly attractive for users who might want external GPU expansion down the road. For productivity work, home office tasks, and even light 1080p gaming, the integrated graphics deliver better performance than most Intel alternatives in this form factor.

This mini PC is ideal for power users who prioritize a small footprint, enthusiasts interested in eGPU setups, content creators who need portable workstation performance, and anyone seeking a capable HTPC or home server that won’t take up much desk space. The 128GB RAM ceiling and dual M.2 slots provide genuine upgrade headroom that budget mini PCs simply can’t match.

However, prospective buyers should consider alternatives if they need more than five USB ports without a hub, require sustained heavy workloads (given the thermal limitations), or specifically want AI/NPU acceleration capabilities. The X1 Lite-255 with the Ryzen 7 255 lacks the dedicated NPU found in some competing AMD chips. For those looking to compare options, Starry Hope’s Mini PC Comparison Chart provides a valuable resource for evaluating the X1 Lite-255 against alternatives in this competitive category.

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