Key Takeaways
1. FEVM’s FA65G mini PC features a design inspired by Apple’s Mac Studio and supports desktop Ryzen 9000X3D processors paired with mobile RTX 4080 and RTX 5000 Ada GPUs.
2. The FA65G has a compact size of 167.5 x 167.5 x 96 mm and offers configurations with Ryzen 7 9800X3D, upgradeable to Ryzen 9 9900X3D or 9950X3D, with adjustable TDP settings.
3. The system includes MXM variants of RTX 4080 and RTX 5000 Ada GPUs, equipped with a custom cooling solution and requires a 330W power adapter.
4. Port selection includes USB4, HDMI 2.1, dual 2.5 GbE NICs, and the system supports up to 128 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM with easy access for upgrades.
5. Performance tests show the RTX 4080 LP GPU in MXM form-factor is competitive with desktop GPUs, while the Ryzen 9800X3D maintains acceptable thermal limits during stress testing, although pricing and availability remain unclear.
FEVM is a newer player in the mini PC market hailing from China. The company is recognized for its design that takes cues from Apple’s Mac Studio, modifying it to house desktop-level X86 processors alongside mobile dGPUs in an MXM form-factor. Previously, FEVM successfully integrated Raptor Lake Refresh-S processors with mid-range RTX 4060 mobile GPUs into compact 2.5-liter cases. However, the latest release, the FA65G model, steps it up by accommodating desktop Ryzen 9000X3D processors paired with mobile RTX 4080 and even RTX 5000 Ada GPUs.
Dimensions and Specifications
The revamped Mac Studio design of the FA65G measures 167.5 x 167.5 x 96 mm and weighs 1.85 kg. It features a mini-ITX motherboard based on the B650 chipset, equipped with a desktop-grade AM5 socket that supports the newest Ryzen 9000X3D processors. FEVM provides configurations with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, but users may upgrade to a Ryzen 9 9900X3D or Ryzen 9 9950X3D, as hinted in the advertising video. It’s worth noting that the AM5 socket needs a custom card and cooler to be attached on top of the motherboard’s default socket. FEVM offers various TDP settings for the processor, capping maximum power between 100W and 65W.
Graphics Card Adaptation
When it comes to graphics, FEVM has managed to fit MXM variants of the RTX 4080 and RTX 5000 Ada laptop GPUs, which can be hard to find currently. The MXM GPUs are arranged like desktop GPUs and come with a custom cooling solution that includes a substantial radiator with four heat pipes, cooled by dual fans. To support these GPUs, FEVM provides a 330W adapter weighing around 530g.
Ports and Upgradability
The port selection mirrors that of a Mac Studio, offering USB4, USB 2.0, USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, a full-size SD card reader, and an audio jack at the front. The back includes dual 2.5 GbE NICs, dual HDMI 2.1, dual DP video outputs, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen, 2x USB 2.0, and a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2. There are also two slots available for Wi-Fi antennas.
Storage options consist of 2x M.2 2280 slots with PCIe 4.0 X4 specifications, and the system can support up to 128 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM via two SO-DIMM slots. These components, along with the Wi-Fi module, are easily accessible for upgrades by simply removing the bottom cover.
Performance Insights
In terms of performance, FEVM’s internal tests indicate that the RTX 4080 LP GPU in MXM form-factor, limited to 115 W, performs nearly on par with a desktop RTX 3080 or RTX 4070 and shows a slight edge over the new RTX 5060 Ti. It is also reported that the MXM card outperforms an external RTX 4090 LP connected via USB4.
The Ryzen 9800X3D model, capped at 90 W TDP, peaks at 86° C during stress testing, causing the CPU fan to reach a noise level of 41 dB. Under full load for both CPU and GPU, the CPU can get to 90° C, while the GPU maxes out at 74.3° C, resulting in total system noise reaching 47.3 dB. At a 100 W TDP, the CPU could spike to 95° C, which remains within acceptable limits. In typical gaming scenarios, FEVM asserts the CPU might hit 80° C, the GPU stays below 70° C, and system noise increases to 45 dB.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, there’s no information on pricing or availability. However, considering the limited supply of MXM GPUs, a configuration with an RTX 4080 LP and Ryzen 7 9800X3D could easily surpass $2,000. Similar to most premium models, the FA65G is likely to be available in China initially. Users in the West might consider taking the plunge with an Aliexpress purchase, but they should be aware that MXM GPUs are rare and FEVM might not replace them in case of failure.
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