MINISFORUM AI X1 PRO Review: The Ultimate Next-Gen Copilot PC Mini PC
The compact PC market is undergoing a significant shift, driven by the demand for local artificial intelligence processing power. The MINISFORUM AI X1 PRO stands at the forefront of this evolution. Powered by the cutting-edge AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, this high-performance mini PC is designed to handle local AI workloads, professional content creation, and gaming in a compact form factor. With its built-in 80 TOPS NPU, OCuLink support, and massive expansion potential, it represents a major leap forward for desktop productivity.
AI-Driven Performance with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
At the heart of the MINISFORUM AI X1 PRO is the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor. This chip features 12 cores and 24 threads, with a base clock of 2.0 GHz and a maximum boost clock of 5.1 GHz. Backed by a 24MB L3 cache, it delivers the raw processing power needed for demanding multitasking, 3D rendering, and software development.
Crucially for modern workflows, the processor includes a dedicated NPU delivering up to 80 TOPS of AI performance. This enables local execution of Copilot PC features—such as real-time translation, AI noise cancellation, and instant recall—without relying heavily on cloud computing.
Graphics are handled by the integrated AMD Radeon 890M, running at 2900MHz. This integrated GPU supports 2GB to 48GB of VRAM allocation, providing smooth frame rates for light to medium gaming and accelerated performance in creative suites.
Industry-Leading Expansion and Storage Capabilities
Unlike many mini PCs that limit upgradeability, the AI X1 PRO offers desktop-class expansion options:
- Memory: Equipped with two DDR5 SODIMM slots, the system supports dual-channel memory up to 128GB running at 5600MHz. This makes it ideal for handling large datasets, video editing, and running virtual machines.
- Storage: The system boasts three M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD slots, allowing for a total storage capacity of up to 12TB (up to 4TB per slot). Slots 0 and 1 operate at PCIe 4.0 x4 speeds (up to 7300MB/s), while Slot 2 operates at PCIe 4.0 x1 (with real-world speeds of 1500–1900MB/s).
- OCuLink Support: For users requiring desktop-grade graphics, the built-in OCuLink port (PCIe 4.0 x4) allows you to connect an external GPU (eGPU), unlocking up to 90% of the external card’s performance for 4K gaming and heavy rendering.
Comprehensive Connectivity and I/O Hub
The MINISFORUM AI X1 PRO is built to serve as a versatile workstation hub. It supports up to four simultaneous display outputs (including 4K/8K resolutions) via its diverse video outputs, which include:
- 1× HDMI 2.1 FRL (supporting up to 4K@120Hz or 8K@60Hz)
- 1× DisplayPort 2.0 (supporting up to 4K@120Hz or 8K@60Hz)
- 2× USB4 ports (supporting Alt PD and data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps)
On the networking front, the system features dual 2.5G RJ45 Ethernet ports, enabling network aggregation, load balancing, or dedicated intranet/extranet configurations. Wireless connectivity is equally future-proofed with support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
Additionally, the side of the chassis features an integrated SD card slot, allowing photographers and videographers to transfer high-resolution media directly without external dongles.
User-Centric Design and Cooling
MINISFORUM has addressed two common pain points of mini PCs: power bricks and thermal management. The AI X1 PRO features an integrated 134.9W (135W class) power adapter inside the chassis. This means you only need to run a single power cable to the wall, keeping your workspace clean and improving portability.
To keep the powerful hardware cool, the unit utilizes a phase-change thermal design, dual copper heat pipes, and two quiet cooling fans. This setup maintains a standby temperature of around 37°C and keeps full-load temperatures below 80°C, while keeping noise levels under 45dB in performance mode.
For ease of use and security, the top of the chassis features a Windows Hello-compatible fingerprint reader for instant, password-free login. There is also a dedicated Copilot button on the front panel to quickly summon Windows AI assistance.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 (12 Cores / 24 Threads, up to 5.1GHz) |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon™ 890M (2900MHz) |
| NPU | 80 TOPS |
| Memory | DDR5 SODIMM × 2 slots (Up to 128GB, 5600MHz) |
| Storage | 3× M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD slots (Up to 12TB total) |
| SD Card Slot | Yes (×1) |
| OCuLink Port | Yes (PCIe 4.0 ×4) |
| USB4 Ports | 2× USB4 (40Gbps, Alt PD support) |
| Ethernet | Dual 2.5G RJ45 Ports |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Video Output | 1× HDMI 2.1 FRL, 1× DP 2.0, 2× USB4 |
| Power Supply | 134.9W (Built-in Power Adapter) |
| OS | Windows 11 |
| Dimensions | 195 × 195 × 42.5 / 47.5 mm |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
Conclusion
The MINISFORUM AI X1 PRO is a highly capable mini PC that bridges the gap between compact computing and desktop-class expandability. With its powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, triple M.2 SSD slots, OCuLink support, and built-in power supply, it is well-suited for creators, developers, and power users alike.
The MINISFORUM AI X1 PRO is currently available at a sale price of ¥119,999 (down from the regular price of ¥149,999).
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