Key Takeaways
1. GMKtec will launch the EVO-X2 mini PC with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 on March 18, 2025.
2. The design of the new Strix Point mini computer may resemble the EVO-X1 but could feature changes in connector arrangement for better cooling.
3. Strix Halo mini PCs are expected to have a maximum TDP of up to 140 W, significantly higher than the EVO-X1’s 70 W.
4. Performance for Strix Halo mini PCs is predicted to be much better than previous versions, with successful testing in 1440p gaming.
5. High-end Strix Halo mini PCs may start at over $1,000, reflecting a premium pricing strategy similar to the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 models.
AMD officially introduced the Strix Halo series at CES 2025, and many brands have revealed plans for products equipped with the latest Zen 5 APUs, including several mini PCs. However, these compact devices have yet to become available, but it looks like the wait is almost over.
Launch Announcement
GMKtec has shared that it will unveil the ‘world’s first’ AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 mini PC, named the EVO-X2, in China on March 18, 2025. The announcement was somewhat vague regarding the specifics of the new Strix Point mini computer, but it did suggest that the overall design will closely resemble the EVO-X1, which is one of the tiniest mini PCs to feature the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.
Design and Layout Changes
The promotional material also implies that there might be alterations to the connector arrangement, possibly due to a more powerful cooler. While this hasn’t been confirmed, it’s reported that mini PCs using this AMD Strix Halo APU may reach up to 140 W. For comparison, the EVO-X1 has a peak TDP of 70 W.
Performance Expectations
No matter the maximum TDP, the Strix Halo mini PCs are predicted to deliver a significant boost in performance compared to their Strix Point versions. Recently, ETA Prime tested a prototype mini PC with the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and found it performed quite well in 1440p gaming, benefiting from the Radeon 8060S iGPU.
Pricing Insights
This indicates that the high-end Strix Halo mini PCs will be excellent choices for gaming systems without a discrete GPU, yet they are likely to come with a hefty price tag. For context, the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 models were launched starting at over $900 (with the Minisforum AI370 currently priced at $935.99 on Amazon), hinting that the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 models could begin at over the $1,000 threshold.
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