Key Takeaways
The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra is a new mini workstation available for pre-order with various configurations, competing with models like the MS-S1 Max and AMD Strix Halo mini-PCs.
The high-end Core Ultra 9 285HX model achieves over 37,000 points in Cinebench R23, offering a 3.5% performance boost over the Ryzen AI Max+ 395.
Pricing starts at $949 for a barebones version with a Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, and can go up to $2,899 for high-end configurations with 192 GB of ECC RAM and a 2 TB SSD.
Key features include 25 Gbps networking, a 350 W power supply, a PCIe x16 slot for dual-slot graphics cards, four M.2 slots, USB v2 ports, and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.
The MS-02 Ultra is available for pre-order in multiple countries, including Australia, Canada, the EU, and the UK, with specific features like ECC RAM support exclusive to the Ultra 9 285HX models.
Minisforum has introduced the MS-02 Ultra, which is now up for pre-order in various configurations. Marketed as a mini workstation, the MS-02 Ultra competes with the company's recent MS-S1 Max and other AMD Strix Halo mini-PCs, such as the GMKtec EVO-X2 (currently $2,199 on Amazon), utilizing Intel's Alder Lake HX platform.
Performance Insights
Minisforum claims that the high-end Core Ultra 9 285HX models should achieve over 37,000 points in Cinebench R23, offering about a 3.5% performance boost compared to the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. Additionally, the MS-02 Ultra is equipped with 25 Gbps networking, a built-in 350 W power supply, and a PCIe x16 slot that can accommodate dual-slot graphics cards. On top of that, it boasts four M.2 slots, USB v2 ports, and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.
Pricing and Options
At the moment, the MS-02 Ultra starts at $949 for a barebones version featuring a Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, which can be discounted by $50 at checkout using the code MS0250. A more affordable Core Ultra 5 235HX version will be available later for $719. Meanwhile, the Core Ultra 9 285HX model begins at $1,119 and can go up to $2,899 when configured with 192 GB of ECC RAM and a 2 TB SSD. It's important to know that only the Core Ultra 9 285HX variants come with dual 25 Gbps Ethernet ports.
Additional Features and Availability
Other features, such as ECC RAM support, are exclusive to the Ultra 9 285HX models. For more information on the differences, check the image below. As usual, Minisforum is launching this new product in various countries beyond just the US. For example, the MS-02 Ultra is already available for pre-order in Australia, Canada, the EU, and the UK, among other regions. For further details, please visit the Minisforum website.
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