Tag: Strix Halo

  • AMD Strix Halo Mini PC Teaser: FEVM FA-EX9 Revealed

    AMD Strix Halo Mini PC Teaser: FEVM FA-EX9 Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD’s Ryzen AI Max Strix Halo processors are expanding to more desktops, attracting attention from lesser-known OEMs like GMKTec, Sixunited, and FEVM.
    2. The FEVM FA-EX9 mini PC can be equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, featuring 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units.
    3. The FA-EX9 supports up to 128 GB of memory, with 96 GB available for GPU use, suitable for AI training tasks.
    4. The FA-EX9 includes multiple ports: micro SD card reader, USB 4.0, USB-A, Oculink, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and Ethernet.
    5. FEVM is actively promoting the FA-EX9 on BiliBili, indicating their intent to compete in the mini PC market.

    Ever since Lisa Su, the CEO of AMD, announced that the company would expand its Ryzen AI Max Strix Halo processors to a wider range of desktops, several lesser-known OEMs have started showcasing their products. Among them, Chinese manufacturers like GMKTec and Sixunited are stepping up alongside Framework. Recently, FEVM has joined the competition with its new FA-EX9 model.

    Specifications Overview

    The FEVM FA-EX9 is capable of being outfitted with a powerful AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, which boasts 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units. Similar to other Strix Halo models, it can support a maximum of 128 GB of memory, with up to 96 GB dedicated for the GPU, which can be utilized for AI training tasks. The details about the storage capacity of this mini PC are not mentioned, but it does come with a 240 Watt GaN charger included in the package.

    Ports and Connectivity

    On the front side, the FEVM FA-EX9 features a micro SD card reader, a USB 4.0 40 Gbps Type-C port, along with two USB-A ports. The rear I/O includes an Oculink port for connecting an external GPU, an RJ-45 Ethernet port, three USB Type-A ports, another USB 4.0 port, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a DisplayPort 1.4 port. As for the pricing of the FA-EX9, FEVM has yet to reveal any numbers, but we can expect more details to surface in the following weeks.

    More Insights on FEVM

    FEVM has shared more about their product on BiliBili, providing additional insights that might be of interest to potential buyers. It’s clear that they are looking to make a mark in the mini PC market alongside other established brands.

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    AMD Strix Halo Mini PC Teaser: FEVM FA-EX9 Revealed
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  • GMKtec Launches World’s First AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC

    GMKtec Launches World’s First AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC

    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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    GMKtec Launches World's First AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC
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  • Zen 6 Medusa Halo iGPU: 20% More CUs, 50% Wider Bus

    Zen 6 Medusa Halo iGPU: 20% More CUs, 50% Wider Bus

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 in the Strix Halo APU features 16 Zen 5 cores and the powerful Radeon 8060S iGPU, making it the fastest x86 iGPU available today.
    2. AMD plans to release the Zen 6-based Medusa Halo APU next year, which is expected to offer significant CPU and GPU performance improvements.
    3. Medusa Halo may include up to 24 Zen 6 cores and a 50% increase in CPU performance compared to Strix Halo.
    4. The iGPU in Medusa Halo is expected to have 48 Compute Units (CUs) and a 384-bit wide bus, potentially improving performance by 30% to 50%.
    5. While exciting, the information about Zen 6 products is still speculative and should be treated with caution until more details are confirmed.

    After a lot of waiting, the first reviews of AMD’s Strix Halo came out last month. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which is the quickest Strix Halo APU, really impressed us with its excellent CPU abilities, featuring 16 Zen 5 cores, and the super-fast iGPU performance powered by a 40 CU Radeon 8060S. In fact, the Radeon 8060S is the fastest x86 iGPU available today and can compete with an RTX 4070 laptop GPU that has a TDP of 65-75 W.

    Performance Highlights

    So, Strix Halo is a clear victory when it comes to pure performance. Nonetheless, AMD looks to be preparing to surpass Strix Halo next year with their Zen 6-based Medusa Halo, an APU that promises to deliver extraordinary boosts in both CPU and GPU performance.

    According to Moore’s Law Is Dead, AMD is set to release the Medusa Halo APU next year featuring up to 24 Zen 6 cores thanks to two 12-core CCDs. We previously mentioned that AMD plans to use this 12-core CCD in both desktop and mobile processors. This means that the desktop Zen 6 Medusa Ridge, mobile Medusa Point, and workstation Medusa Halo will utilize either a single or multiple 12-core CCDs.

    Upcoming Enhancements

    With a 24-core Zen 6 CPU, MLID anticipates that Medusa Halo will achieve up to 50% better CPU performance compared to Strix Halo.

    What’s even more exciting is the news about Medusa Halo’s UDNA iGPU. MLID has reported that AMD will be increasing the Compute Units (CUs) from 40 to 48, which is a 20% increase. Some Medusa Halo SKUs might also feature a 384-bit wide bus, making it 50% wider than the 256-bit bus on Strix Halo. This increase in CU count and additional bandwidth should lead to a significant improvement in iGPU performance; MLID predicts the uplift could be between 30% to 50%.

    Performance Comparisons

    To give some context to this iGPU performance, a 30% increase on top of the Radeon 8060S would mean the Medusa Halo’s iGPU could match the desktop RTX 4060 Ti. If it reaches a 50% increase, Medusa Halo would easily surpass the desktop RTX 3070 Ti, based on our 3DMark Time Spy Graphics results.

    That being said, it’s still too early to make any definite claims about the specs and performance of the Zen 6 products. So, while the information from MLID is thrilling, it’s wise to take this leak with a grain of salt.

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    Zen 6 Medusa Halo iGPU: 20% More CUs, 50% Wider Bus
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  • AMD Strix Halo CPUs: Affordable Framework Desktop with Customization

    AMD Strix Halo CPUs: Affordable Framework Desktop with Customization

    Key Takeaways

    1. Integration of Strix Halo into Framework products includes a new mini-PC called the Framework Desktop.
    2. The top-tier model features an AMD Ryzen AI Max 395+ Strix Halo processor with 16 Zen 5 cores and 128 GB of LPDDR5x memory.
    3. The Framework Desktop has customizable front ports and supports additional storage via two NVMe slots, but RAM is not expandable.
    4. It includes a 120 mm cooler, a Noctua fan, and offers modular design options for appearance customization.
    5. Pricing starts at $1,099 for the entry-level model, with pre-orders available now and shipping expected in Q3 2025.

    AMD’s Frank Azor subtly hinted at the integration of Strix Halo into Framework’s products. The exciting news is that this has happened, and it comes in a new form factor: a desktop. The Framework Desktop is more of a mini-PC, but it features a PCIe Gen4 slot along with a variety of I/O options, including 2x USB 4.0 ports, 2x DisplayPort ports, 1x HDMI port, and 5 Gb/s Ethernet. True to Framework’s design philosophy, the front ports are customizable.

    Specifications Overview

    The top-tier model is equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI Max 395+ Strix Halo processor, boasting 16 Zen 5 cores, 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units, and 128 GB of LPDDR5x memory on the package. There’s also a lower-end model with an 8-core Ryzen AI Max 385 available. However, RAM cannot be expanded, but you can increase storage by adding up to 16 GB through two NVMe slots. Additionally, the Framework Desktop comes with a built-in Wi-Fi 7 module. Powering this setup is a 400 Watt Flexi-ATX power supply unit.

    Performance and Cooling

    Although Strix Halo is not extremely power-hungry compared to other desktop chips, it can consume as much as 86 Watts at full load. To manage this wattage, Framework has included a 120 mm cooler and a Noctua fan to maintain optimal temperatures for the mini-PC. If you prefer a different cooling solution, you’re welcome to use that. The Framework Desktop also features 21 modular tile-like blocks that allow for customization in appearance. Plus, you can attach a carrying handle for easier transport. Essentially, all you need to provide is a power supply and the motherboard from Framework; the rest is customizable, which is a common theme in the company’s products.

    Pricing and Availability

    The high-end Framework Desktop with the 16-core Strix Halo CPU and 128 GB of RAM will cost $1,999. This price is significantly lower than what Asus charges, although some might argue that the premium is warranted since Asus offers a fully functional laptop instead of just a mini-PC. The entry-level model with the 8-core CPU and 32 GB of RAM is priced at $1,099, which is also a reasonable price point. Pre-orders are available now, but shipping will only start in Q3 of 2025, so there’s plenty of time to save up some money.

    AMD Strix Halo CPUs: Affordable Framework Desktop with CustomizationAMD Strix Halo CPUs: Affordable Framework Desktop with CustomizationAMD Strix Halo CPUs: Affordable Framework Desktop with CustomizationAMD Strix Halo CPUs: Affordable Framework Desktop with Customization
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  • AMD Strix Halo Gen 2 Hardware Launch on February 25 Event

    AMD Strix Halo Gen 2 Hardware Launch on February 25 Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Framework is hinting at the release of its 2nd Gen hardware, potentially a gaming laptop or handheld focused on repairability.
    2. AMD’s involvement in Framework’s launch event on February 25 has been confirmed, featuring the Strix Halo Ryzen AI Max 395+ APU.
    3. Teasers suggest the new hardware may include gaming-grade components, with comparisons to the Asus ROG Flow Z13’s performance.
    4. The possibility of a gaming handheld exists, but it seems less likely given Framework’s history of focusing on productivity devices.
    5. The 2nd Gen hardware reveal will take place on YouTube on February 25.

    Framework has hinted at the release of its 2nd Gen hardware several times, the latest being a cryptic message filled with emojis that got fans buzzing about a possible gaming laptop or even a gaming handheld that aligns with Framework’s focus on repairability.

    AMD’s Involvement Confirmed

    Recently, AMD Ryzen made a post on X, which was shared by Frank Azor, AMD’s head of consumer and gaming marketing. This announcement has made it clear that AMD will be part of Framework’s launch event on February 25. Azor, who has been deeply involved in marketing for AMD’s Strix Halo and RDNA 4, indicates that Framework and AMD could unveil a product featuring AMD’s Strix Halo Ryzen AI Max 395+ APU.

    Gaming Hardware Hints

    The earlier teasers from Framework seem to align with the idea of gaming-grade hardware. The emojis used in the teaser might also point towards something adaptable, with the yoga emoji often interpreted online as a clue towards a 2-in-1 device. Interestingly, this APU is similar in both type and form to the Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025), which recently wowed us with its integrated GPU performance that competes closely with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060. The Radeon 8060S integrated GPU has 40 compute units and runs at a clock speed of 2,900 MHz.

    Possibility of a Gaming Handheld

    There’s also a chance that the teased AMD product could be one of the AMD Ryzen Z2 series. If that’s the case, it could indicate that Framework is indeed planning to launch a gaming handheld. However, considering Framework’s past hardware releases, which mainly consisted of productivity laptops and multimedia devices, the idea of a gaming handheld being a primary offering in the 2nd Gen hardware launch seems less likely. This notion is strengthened by the current affordability of gaming handhelds, like the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme, which is currently priced at just $449.99 at Best Buy.

    In any case, Framework is expected to reveal its 2nd Gen hardware on YouTube on February 25.

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  • GMK Unveils First Mini PC with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

    GMK Unveils First Mini PC with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

    AMD has announced the Strix Halo range at CES 2025, with the most powerful model being the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. This APU offers 16 cores, 32 threads, and comes with the Radeon 8060S integrated GPU. The integrated graphics boasts 40 Compute Units (CUs), which is a significant upgrade compared to the Strix Point series.

    Performance Comparison

    In comparison, the leading Radeon 890M integrated GPU in the Strix Point has only 16 CUs. This model shows a clear performance increase over the previous 780M in gaming. With the enhanced CPU and integrated GPU setup, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 is expected to be a highly efficient Zen 5 APU, making its way into the mini PC market shortly.

    Upcoming Mini PC

    According to GMK’s recent announcement, they will be the first to release a mini PC equipped with the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. The company also indicated that it will offer systems with the standard Ryzen AI Max APUs as well. The Chinese announcement suggests that the launch is anticipated in the first or second quarter of 2025.

    Speculations on Features and Pricing

    GMK has not disclosed additional details about this Strix Halo mini PC, and the exact name remains uncertain. However, since the company aims to achieve a “new leap,” the configuration is expected to be improved, if not identical, to the recently released Evo X1.

    Furthermore, since the GMK Strix Halo mini PC is projected to be more powerful than the Evo X1, the pricing is likely to be higher. For reference, the Evo X1 with 32 GB RAM and 1 TB storage is priced at $919, while the Beelink Ser 9 is currently listed at $999 on Amazon.

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  • AMD Strix Halo CPU Launches on Geekbench with RTX 4060 Performance

    AMD Strix Halo CPU Launches on Geekbench with RTX 4060 Performance

    If the latest buzz is true, AMD plans to unveil its all-Zen 5 core Strix Halo series of laptop processors during CES 2025. Earlier information hinted that these chips would carry the Ryzen AI Max label to set them apart from standard Strix Point CPUs. A fresh listing on Geekbench has seemingly confirmed this, revealing essential specifications for a new Strix Halo model. Previously, we witnessed the near-flagship Ryzen AI Max 390 in action. Now, we’re getting a glimpse of its top-tier sibling.

    Strix Halo CPU Details

    The 16-core Strix Halo CPU has appeared on the benchmarking site, identified as the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 395. The inclusion of ‘Pro’ indicates that this version is likely targeted at business devices. However, whether a standard version will also be released is still uncertain. It’s clear this is not a final production unit, as suggested by its boost clock of 4.4 GHz. The listing indicates that this was part of an AMD testing setup rather than a laptop ready for consumers.

    Performance Insights

    On the Geekbench platform, the Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 395’s 40 CU Radeon 8060S (or whatever it was previously called) GPU performs well in the Vulkan benchmark, achieving a score of 67,004. This places it between the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 (63,264) and RTX 4070 (73,707), aligning with prior expectations. With future firmware and driver updates, we can anticipate that its performance might edge closer to the RTX 4070. However, it likely won’t excel in gaming, as it appears to be designed primarily for enterprise-focused tasks.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 395 seems to be shaping up as a powerful addition to the Strix Halo lineup, though its gaming capabilities may not be its strong suit. As CES 2025 approaches, more details regarding this CPU and its potential variants will likely emerge, providing further insight into AMD’s strategy in the laptop market.

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  • AMD Chipset Driver Confirms Ryzen AI Max 300 for Strix Halo

    AMD Chipset Driver Confirms Ryzen AI Max 300 for Strix Halo

    The Strix Point series from AMD has made its debut with two Zen 5 APUs, both categorized under the Ryzen AI 300 series. Recently, AMD introduced the AI Pro 300 series aimed at business customers, and now they have revealed the naming conventions for the upcoming Strix Halo series.

    Naming Confirmation

    As earlier speculated, Strix Halo APUs will be part of the Ryzen AI Max 300 series. This was confirmed through the latest AMD chipset driver (V6.10.02.1849). Although AMD has yet to provide more details, recent leaks indicate that the new series will launch with three APUs.

    Top-of-the-Line Specs

    The premier model in this lineup is expected to be the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, boasting 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and an RDNA 3.5 integrated graphics processor (iGPU) with 40 compute units (CUs). In comparison, the higher-end Radeon 890M found in the existing Strix Point series has 16 CUs and can run most games smoothly at 1080p with medium to high settings.

    With its 40 CUs, the upcoming RDNA 3.5 iGPU in the Strix Halo could deliver an even superior gaming experience. It may even rival the performance of dedicated GPUs found in upper mid-range gaming laptops, like the Alienware m16 R2, currently priced at $1,451.99 on Best Buy.

    Additional Models

    In addition to the AI Max+ 395, the Ryzen AI Max 300 series is believed to include two other APUs. One of these is the AI Max 390, which is said to have 12 Zen 5 cores and the same iGPU as the flagship model. The entry-level option is rumored to be the AI Max 385, featuring an 8-core CPU and a 32 CUs iGPU, which doubles the GPU cores compared to the Radeon 890M.

    AMD has not officially confirmed these specifications, nor have they provided a launch timeline. However, earlier reports suggest that the Strix Point series might officially launch at CES 2025.

    HXL on X via: Wccftech

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  • AMD Strix Halo Lineup Leaked with New Max Branding

    AMD Strix Halo Lineup Leaked with New Max Branding

    Golden Pig Upgrade, a well-known leaker on Weibo, has disclosed details about AMD’s entire Strix Halo series. This lineup features three models and introduces a new naming structure that includes ‘larger numbers’ as previously anticipated. Here’s the breakdown:

    Flagship Model Unveiled

    The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 stands out as the flagship option, boasting 16 Zen 5 CPU cores distributed across two CPUs, along with a 40 CU RDNA 3.5 GPU. This top-tier SKU is designed for premium laptops.

    Additional Models

    Following this, the Ryzen AI Max 390 is equipped with 12 cores and a 40 CU integrated GPU. Lastly, the Ryzen AI Max 385 features 8 CPU cores and a 32 CU integrated GPU. It’s possible that this model appeared on Geekbench earlier this year, indicating these are the initial three models to launch.

    Memory and Compatibility

    The leaker also notes that Strix Halo can support up to 96 GB of VRAM out of the total 128 GB available (256-bit LPDDR5X-8000). This capacity will likely be reserved for high-end enterprise models and may not reach the consumer market. Currently, one confirmed product featuring Strix Halo technology is Asus’ ROG Flow Z13.

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