Tag: MS-02 Ultra

  • Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: New Refresh with Intel Processor Teased

    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: New Refresh with Intel Processor Teased

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum has introduced a new processor option for the MS-02 Ultra, upgrading to the Core Ultra 9 295HX.
    2. The new processor has not been officially confirmed by Intel and details on its differences from the Core Ultra 9 285HX are unclear.
    3. The Core Ultra 9 295HX is anticipated to be part of Intel’s upcoming Arrow Lake HX Refresh series.
    4. The new model is expected to have a higher clock speed than the previous Core Ultra 9 285HX.
    5. The MS-02 Ultra’s new version retains most original features, but the 25 Gbps Ethernet port from the previous model is missing.

    Minisforum has made some changes to the MS-02 Ultra by introducing a new processor option, just about six weeks after launching the mini workstation worldwide. Initially, the MS-02 Ultra was available with Intel’s Arrow Lake-HX series processors: Core Ultra 5 235HX, Core Ultra 7 255HX, and Core Ultra 9 285HX, priced at $1,499.90 on Amazon.

    New Processor Addition

    For CES 2026, the MS-02 Ultra has been upgraded to feature the yet-to-be-released Core Ultra 9 295HX. As of now, Intel has not confirmed that this processor exists. Minisforum is also being quite secretive about how the Core Ultra 9 295HX differs from the current Core Ultra 9 285HX.

    Expectations from the New Model

    Historically, it seems that the Core Ultra 9 295HX is likely part of the upcoming Arrow Lake HX Refresh series from Intel. However, this series was absent from CES 2026, making it a bit of a mystery for the time being. It is expected that the Core Ultra 9 295HX will at least have a higher clock speed compared to the Core Ultra 9 285HX.

    Minisforum hasn’t yet put the new MS-02 Ultra up for sale on their website. Most features from the original version are still included, such as dual USB4 V2 ports and a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for GPU upgrades. Interestingly, the 25 Gbps Ethernet port that was present in the Core Ultra 9 285HX version seems to be missing from the MS-02 Ultra’s new Core Ultra 9 295HX update.

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  • Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: RTX 5060 Runs Cyberpunk 2077 at 160 FPS

    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: RTX 5060 Runs Cyberpunk 2077 at 160 FPS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Significant Upgrades: The MS-02 Ultra has improved features over the MS-01, including high-end processors, support for up to 256 GB DDR5 RAM, four M.2 SSD slots, and a PCIe 5.0 ×16 slot for desktop GPUs.

    2. Enhanced Design and Cooling: It comes in a larger 4.8-litre chassis that supports better cooling, a more powerful 350W PSU, and upgraded connectivity options like USB4 v2 and 25 GbE networking.

    3. Simple Setup: The internal setup is user-friendly, requiring only two screws for access, with limited space for components but well-organized RAM and storage slots.

    4. Performance Benchmarks: The MS-02 Ultra achieves notable scores in Geekbench 6 and Cinebench R24, though it shows slightly lower performance compared to higher-end CPUs in its class.

    5. Gaming Capability: The system demonstrates solid gaming performance at 1440p, averaging over 70 FPS in Red Dead Redemption 2 and around 75 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 with DLSS enabled, showcasing its capabilities even with a compact GPU.

    The MS-02 Ultra was unveiled by Minisforum during Japan Autumn IT Week 2025 and was released as a barebones unit priced at $949 shortly after, in November 2025. Compared to its predecessor, the MS-01, the MS-02 Ultra features significant improvements, including new high-end processors, the ability to support up to 256 GB of DDR5 RAM, much larger storage with four M.2 SSD slots, and three PCIe slots, notably a PCIe 5.0 ×16 slot that can fit desktop GPUs.

    Upgraded Design and Connectivity

    The MS-02 Ultra is designed in a bigger 4.8-litre chassis, which Minisforum claims enhances cooling efficiency, supports a more robust 350W PSU, and introduces better connectivity options like USB4 v2 and 25 GbE networking, which are clear upgrades from the previous MS-01 model.

    To evaluate the new design and features, YouTuber ETA Prime set up their Minisforum MS-02 Ultra equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 285HX, 64 GB of DDR5 RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 low-profile card that has 8 GB of GDDR7 VRAM.

    Easy Setup and Space Management

    In the video, the YouTuber kicks off with a teardown of the MS-02 Ultra, noting that the process is surprisingly simple—just two screws need to be removed for the internal frame to slide off. Inside, the CPU cooler and the 350W PSU take up most of the room, leaving limited space for a low-profile GPU, and as shown in the image, the RTX 5060 LP fits rather snugly.

    To maximize space, two SODIMM RAM slots are located on the opposite side of the motherboard, along with two M.2 slots.

    After adding the RTX 5060 LP, the PL1 for the Core Ultra 7 285HX reduces to 90 W while the PL2 drops to 110 W. Without the Nvidia GPU, the PL1 can reach 100 W, with the PL2 said to peak at 140 W.

    Performance Metrics

    Testing kicks off with Geekbench 6 single and multi-core benchmarks, where the Minisforum MS-02 Ultra achieves scores of 2,957 in single-core and 17,992 in multi-core. It’s important to note that these results reflect CPU performance with a dedicated GPU, which likely contributes to the lower scores. For perspective, Notebookcheck’s data shows the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX with a median single-core score of 3,026 (around 2% higher) and a multi-core score of 20,758 (about 13% higher).

    Next, in Cinebench R24, the MS-02 Ultra scores 128 in single-core and 1,938 in multi-core. In comparison, Notebookcheck’s figures indicate the CPU scores 129 in single-core and 1,974 in multi-core. During 3DMark Time Spy testing, the MS-02 Ultra achieves a total score of 13,672, which is below the median score of 14,072 recorded in our database.

    Gaming Performance

    The YouTuber then transitions to real-world gaming tests. In Red Dead Redemption 2, using a blend of ultra, high, and medium settings without DLSS, the system averages slightly over 70 FPS at 1440p. Both CPU and GPU temperatures remain lower than anticipated, primarily due to the ventilation design and triple-fan cooling on the graphics card. Shadow of the Tomb Raider is assessed next at 1440p on very high settings, yielding an average of 121 FPS with no upscaling.

    Cyberpunk 2077 is also examined at 1440p on Ultra settings. With DLSS Quality enabled, the system averages around 75 FPS, and activating DLSS 4 frame generation at X4 boosts this to over 160 FPS. The YouTuber mentions that many buyers might not opt for an RTX 5060, but the test illustrates the system’s capabilities even with a compact GPU. For a more detailed look at the machine, you can check out the complete video linked below.

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  • Minisforum Launches MS-02 Ultra with 25 Gbps Ethernet, 192GB RAM

    Minisforum Launches MS-02 Ultra with 25 Gbps Ethernet, 192GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. 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.

    2. 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.

    3. 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.

    4. 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.

    5. 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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    Minisforum Launches MS-02 Ultra with 25 Gbps Ethernet, 192GB RAM

     

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  • Pre-Launch Discount on MS-02 Ultra Mini PC by Minisforum

    Pre-Launch Discount on MS-02 Ultra Mini PC by Minisforum

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum is set to launch the MS-02 Ultra mini PC on November 20, 2025, with a focus on performance and flexibility.
    2. A special pre-launch offer includes a $50 discount for users who sign up for updates on the MS-02 Ultra teaser page.
    3. The MS-02 Ultra features an Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor from the Arrow Lake series and a 4-core Arc iGPU.
    4. It includes one PCIe 5.0×16 and one PCIe 4.0×16 slot for a dual-slot discrete GPU and USB4 v2 ports for high-performance eGPUs.
    5. The mini PC supports up to 16 TB of NVMe storage and is compatible with 256 GB DDR5 RAM.

    Minisforum is preparing to unveil the MS-02 Ultra, a mini PC designed with performance in mind and intended to provide users with significant flexibility. The company has officially shared details about the system, with an anticipated launch on the horizon. Although the exact price has yet to be disclosed, a pre-launch discount has been introduced for those interested in purchasing.

    Special Discount Offer

    In a recent announcement, Minisforum mentioned that signing up for product updates via the MS-02 Ultra teaser page will allow potential buyers to receive a $50 discount. This is a great opportunity for those looking to get a deal before the official release.

    Launch Date and Availability

    For anyone who didn’t catch our earlier updates, the MS-02 Ultra is set to hit the market on November 20, 2025. However, it’s unclear if this will be the launch date worldwide, as typically, Minisforum products are launched in China first before expanding to global markets.

    Technical Specifications

    Focusing on the technical aspects, the Minisforum MS-02 Ultra is equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX, a processor from the Arrow Lake series aimed at performance. It features a 4-core Arc iGPU, which, while not the most advanced integrated GPU from Intel, should suffice for most users of this mini PC.

    The MS-02 Ultra includes one PCIe 5.0×16 and one PCIe 4.0×16 slot, capable of accommodating a dual-slot discrete GPU. Additionally, the USB4 v2 ports allow for connection with high-performance eGPUs. Other notable features consist of support for up to 16 TB of NVMe storage (currently, a 1 TB Crucial P310 is priced at $89.99 on Amazon), an array of ports, and compatibility with 256 GB DDR5 RAM. For further information about the system, you can refer to our earlier posts.

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  • Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Release Date for High-End Mini-PC with USB4 V2

    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Release Date for High-End Mini-PC with USB4 V2

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra was showcased at Japan Autumn IT Week 2025 and is a CES Innovation Awards 2026 Honoree.
    2. The device will be available for purchase starting November 20, but pricing details are currently unknown.
    3. The MS-02 Ultra features an Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor, outperforming AMD Strix Halo options in benchmarks.
    4. It includes PCIe slots for additional graphics cards and USB4 V2 ports for external GPU connectivity.
    5. The device supports up to 32 TB of storage, 256 GB of RAM, and has a compact design measuring 221.5 x 225 x 97 mm.

    Less than a month ago, information about the Minisforum MS-02 Ultra came to light. In that short time, Minisforum has managed to showcase a new version of the device ahead of its official launch. To summarize, the company revealed the MS-02 Ultra at Japan Autumn IT Week 2025 last month and announced last week that it was a CES Innovation Awards 2026 Honoree.

    Marketing Blitz

    For some unknown reason, Minisforum has chosen to highlight once more that the MS-02 Ultra has won a CES 2026 Innovation Award. Putting their marketing ‘milestone’ to the side, the company added an interesting detail regarding the MS-02 Ultra in their latest press release. They’ve confirmed that the device will be available for purchase starting November 20.

    Pricing and Availability

    At this point, the price remains unknown. Additionally, it’s not clear if the November 20 release date is for all markets or just specific ones. However, many specs of the MS-02 Ultra are already public. It will utilize an Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor, which competes against AMD Strix Halo options like the GMKtec EVO-X2 (currently priced at $1,699 on Amazon). According to our benchmarks, it boasts a 13% performance edge over the Ryzen AI Max+ 395.

    Specifications Overview

    Although the Core Ultra 9 285HX has a relatively weak integrated GPU, the MS-02 Ultra compensates for this limitation by offering PCIe slots for adding a graphics card and USB4 V2 ports for connecting external GPUs. Furthermore, the device can support up to 32 TB of storage using four M.2 2280 SSDs, along with 256 GB of RAM and a 350 W Flex PSU, all housed in a compact 4.8-liter case that measures 221.5 x 225 x 97 mm.

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    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Release Date for High-End Mini-PC with USB4 V2Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Release Date for High-End Mini-PC with USB4 V2

     

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  • Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: New Mini-PC Details & CES 2026 Honoree

    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: New Mini-PC Details & CES 2026 Honoree

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum has introduced the MS-02 Ultra mini-PC, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor and support for up to 256 GB of RAM.
    2. The MS-02 Ultra includes four M.2 2280 slots for a total of 32 TB of storage, three PCIe slots, and 25 Gigabit Ethernet.
    3. The mini-PC offers two USB V2 ports with 80 Gbps bandwidth and has a slide-out design for easy maintenance.
    4. The MS-02 Ultra has been recognized as a CES Innovation Awards 2026 Honoree and will be showcased at CES 2026.
    5. Sales for the MS-02 Ultra will not start until early next year.

    Minisforum has recently shared more information about its upcoming MS-02 Ultra mini-PC after launching the MS-R1 mini-PC and the DEG2 eGPU in the meantime. Interestingly, the company now has a more affordable version of its M1-1295 mini-PC available, currently priced at $409 on Amazon.

    Recap of the MS-02 Ultra

    Last month, Minisforum unveiled the MS-02 Ultra at the Japan Autumn IT Week 2025 held in Chiba. While they provided limited global hardware specifications, PC Watch was able to capture some images from the event, revealing features like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor and the option to include as much as 256 GB of RAM.

    Confirmation of Specs

    Minisforum has now confirmed these details through its social media channels. The image shown below indicates that the MS-02 Ultra is equipped with four M.2 2280 slots that can support a maximum of 32 TB of storage. Additionally, the mini-PC features 3 PCIe slots, 25 Gigabit Ethernet, and two USB V2 ports that offer a peak bandwidth of 80 Gbps each. The MS-02 Ultra also has a slide-out design for easy maintenance, all contained in a compact 4.8-liter case.

    Awards and Future Plans

    The MS-02 Ultra has been recognized as a CES Innovation Awards 2026 Honoree in the Computer Hardware & Components category. This announcement strongly suggests that Minisforum will present the MS-02 Ultra at CES 2026 in Las Vegas this coming January. However, it also reveals that the company does not intend to begin selling its so-called ‘Mini AI workstation’ until the start of next year.

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    Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: New Mini-PC Details & CES 2026 Honoree

     

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