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The MINISFORUM M2 Pro is a fast, unusually well-connected mini PC, but “good value” depends on what you need. In Notebookcheck’s September 16, 2026 review, the tested Core Ultra X7 358H model delivered strong CPU and integrated-graphics performance while staying quiet. Its 32GB of soldered memory, $1,439 US price for the reviewed 32GB/1TB configuration, and lack of OCuLink make it a more compelling fit for demanding small-office or creator workloads than for buyers seeking the lowest-cost upgradeable PC.
What the M2 Pro costs—and what that price covers
Notebookcheck reported a US price of $1,439 for the configuration it reviewed: Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, 32GB of memory, and a 1TB SSD. Its European review listed €1,519 for that configuration. These are regional price snapshots, not a currency conversion or a guarantee of current stock. MINISFORUM’s product page also lists the 32GB/1TB configuration at $1,439, with a struck-through $1,799 reference price; treat the listing as a changeable manufacturer offer, not a permanent price or market average. Check the MINISFORUM M2 Pro product page for the current offer.
Availability changed over 2026: TechRadar reported on May 17 that the M2 Pro had not shipped, while MINISFORUM later listed it and Notebookcheck published a hands-on review on September 16. Those later listings establish that it became an available product; they do not establish present stock at every retailer or in every region.
At this price, the value case rests on a combination of CPU speed, capable integrated graphics, quiet operation, three internal SSD slots, 10GbE, and three USB4 ports. The trade-off is that you pay a substantial amount for a compact system whose memory cannot be upgraded and whose graphics remain integrated.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Next-Gen AI Computing: Intel Core Ultra X7 358H】The MINISFORUM M2 Pro-358H Mini PC is engineered with the cutting-edge Intel Core Ultra X7 358H processor, packing 16 Cores and 16 Threads with a Max Turbo Frequency of up to 4.8GHz. Backed by an advanced built-in NPU delivering 50 TOPS and an Intel Arc B390 GPU pounding out a peak 122 TOPS, this high-efficiency system provides an exceptional foundation for local hardware AI acceleration, complex programming, and intensive digital workflows.
- 【Massive Storage Potential: 32GB RAM & 3× M.2 Slots】These modern Mini Computers come pre-installed with dual-channel 32GB high-speed LPDDR5X memory running at a blistering 7500 MT/s (fixed/non-upgradable). Please note that solid-state drive (SSD) and operating system are NOT included and must be purchased separately. It uniquely houses a robust storage architecture with 3× M.2 NVMe SSD slots, with each individual slot supporting an impressive DIY expansion upgrade of up to 8TB (supporting up to 24TB total storage space).
- 【Enterprise-Grade Networking: 10G & 2.5G Dual LAN】This compact Mini Desktop PC dominates your server and virtualization environments with an elite wired and wireless network lineup. It combines 1× 10GbE RJ45 high-speed LAN port (Realtek RTL8127) and 1× 2.5GbE LAN port (Intel i226-V) for rock-solid network stability and secure link aggregation. Coupled with the latest Intel Wi-Fi 7 (BE211) and Bluetooth 6.0, it delivers unparalleled bandwidth for fast remote server data transmission.
- 【Quad-Display Output: High-Refresh Productivity】This performance Mini Computer is fully engineered to drive up to 4 independent monitors simultaneously with zero latency to maximize your workspace. It features an unmatched next-gen interface lineup: 1× HDMI 2.1 (supporting up to 4K@144Hz high refresh rate), 1× DisplayPort 1.4 (4K@144Hz), and 3× full-featured USB4 ports (40Gbps, supporting Alt DP 2.1 visuals). Expand vast creative workspaces seamlessly.
- 【Biometric Security & Comprehensive I/O Connectivity】This secure Micro PC features a premium top-panel Fingerprint lock for instant biometric login and enterprise data protection, alongside an independent side-panel Copilot button for smart AI task management. It provides a rich array of I/O interfaces including multiple USB ports, an Audio Combo Jack, a Kensington Lock, and a built-in SD card reader (USB 2.0) to seamlessly connect all your external peripherals.
How much performance does it deliver?
CPU performance
The reviewed M2 Pro uses the 16-core, 16-thread Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, specified by MINISFORUM for boost speeds up to 4.8GHz. Notebookcheck measured 1,093 points in Cinebench 2024 multi-core and 123 points single-core in its default balanced profile. In the review’s multi-core comparison, it landed near the Khadas Mind Pro and below higher-scoring systems such as the Minisforum MS-02 Ultra. These are results from Notebookcheck’s test unit and conditions, not guaranteed outcomes for every workload or configuration. See the Notebookcheck M2 Pro review and test results.
Integrated graphics
The processor includes Intel Arc B390 integrated graphics. Notebookcheck found a substantial improvement over AMD Radeon 890M graphics in many of its comparisons. That does not make the M2 Pro equivalent to a mini PC with a discrete graphics card: demanding games may require reduced settings or other compromises. MINISFORUM advertises a peak GPU figure of 122 TOPS (Int8), but that is a manufacturer specification, not a gaming benchmark or proof of application performance.
Rank #2
- 【Desktop RTX 5060 Graphics】Equipped with a full-power 145W NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 featuring 3840 CUDA cores, 8GB GDDR7 memory, and 614 TOPS AI performance, this system delivers desktop-class graphics for AAA gaming and GPU-intensive workloads, offering approximately 25% higher overall performance compared to RTX 4060 and enhanced realism through 4th Gen RT Cores, 5th Gen Tensor Cores, and DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation.
- 【Ryzen 9 8945HX Flagship CPU】Powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX with 16 cores, 32 threads, up to 5.4GHz boost clock, and 80MB combined cache, it handles competitive gaming, content creation, and heavy multitasking with consistent high-frequency performance, delivering measurable multi-core advantages within its class based on internal lab testing.
- 【245W Total Performance Release】With a 145W GPU and up to 100W CPU sustained power, supported by a 3rd-Gen Glacier Cooling System rated for up to 300W dissipation, five copper heat pipes, dual-side exhaust, and a 350W built-in PSU, the system maintains stable output under single and dual-load stress for sustained peak performance.
- 【AI-Accelerated Creation & Expansion】Featuring 614 TOPS AI computing power and NVIDIA Studio support, it accelerates over 130 creative applications across video editing, 3D rendering, generative AI, and design workflows, while supporting up to 96GB DDR5 memory and dual M.2 SSD expansion up to 8TB for scalable professional workloads
- 【Advanced Connectivity & Quad 4K Output】Designed for high-productivity setups with 5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, multiple USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, and up to five display outputs including 3×DP and 2×HDMI supporting quad 4K displays, all housed in a compact 3.8L vertical chassis with customizable RGB lighting and dedicated control software for performance and system management
Noise under load
Notebookcheck described the system as consistently quiet. Its measurements were 31 dBA at idle and 33 dBA under load, taken at 15 cm. MINISFORUM publishes separate noise figures measured at 50 cm in an anechoic chamber; those measurements use a different method and should not be compared directly with Notebookcheck’s results.
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Three internal SSD slots
The M2 Pro has three M.2 2280 NVMe slots: two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots and one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot. MINISFORUM lists support up to 8TB per slot. Notebookcheck’s reviewed 1TB configuration had two slots free, providing a substantial way to add internal storage without replacing the supplied drive. The x1 slot has less PCIe bandwidth than the x4 slots, so consider which drive will serve the most demanding work before installing multiple SSDs.
Rank #3
- 【AI-Accelerated Processor】 Equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 processor (up to 5.2 GHz, 12 cores, 24 threads), this system delivers local AI performance of up to 86 TOPS. This enables low-latency AI workloads directly on the device, reducing reliance on the cloud and providing reliable computing power for productivity and intelligent applications.
- 【Flexible Graphics Expansion】 Equipped with an integrated Radeon 890M graphics card, this system easily handles daily creative tasks and multimedia applications. The OCuLink interface supports connecting external dedicated graphics cards for more demanding rendering and gaming workloads without performance loss.
- 【Large Storage】 Supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 memory and three M.2 SSD slots with a total capacity of up to 12 TB. Ideal for running local AI models, 8K video editing, and efficiently handling complex multitasking scenarios.
- 【Powerful Connectivity & Quad Display Support】Equipped with USB 4.0, DP 2.0, HDMI 2.1, and OCuLink ports, it supports up to four 4K displays. Combined with Wi-Fi 7 and two 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, it enables the creation of a stable and powerful professional workstation.
- 【Stabilized Cooling and Integrated Design】 Thanks to phase-change materials, dual copper heat pipes, and active cooling technology, it delivers stable performance and controlled noise levels even under full load. The integrated design includes a built-in power supply, fingerprint sensor, microphone, and dual speakers. This eliminates cable clutter and the need for external devices.
Ports and networking
Connectivity is a particular strength: the system combines 10GbE and 2.5GbE Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, three USB4 ports, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, an SD card reader, an audio jack, and a Kensington lock. Notebookcheck notes that there are only three USB-A ports, which may be limiting if you rely on several legacy peripherals.
The SD reader is another weak point. Notebookcheck recorded 22.8 MB/s in a JPG copy test and 23.67 MB/s in a maximum sequential-read test, describing it as slow. Photographers who frequently ingest cards may prefer a faster external reader.
Rank #4
- 【Powerful Ryzen 9 8945HS】MINISFORUM UM890 Pro is equipped with a new-generation AMD AI Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, with 8 cores and 16 threads, 16 MB L3 cache, a maximum acceleration frequency of 5.2 GHz and an integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics card with an operating frequency of up to 2,800 MHz, offering excellent graphics processing power for multitasking and gaming needs. Equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU) to handle certain AI-related tasks.
- 【Large Memory & Storage Support】UM890 Pro is equipped with DDR5 32GB RAM,a SODIMM slot, frequency of up to 5600 MHz, and can be expanded up to 96 GB. In terms of storage, it provides two M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD slots, supports rapid removal, and can be expanded up to 8 TB, facilitating rapid upgrading and replacement.
- 【Quad-Screen Display】Mini Pc Ryzen 9 8945HS UM890 Pro is equipped with HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4 , and 2 x USB4, supporting maximum resolution of 8K at 60Hz/4K at 144Hz, providing a variety of video output options and with more flexible and efficient work space.
- 【Various Peripheral Interfaces】Including 2 x 45.2G RJ5 Ethernet ports, 1 x Oculink port, 4 x USB3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, 2 x USB4 ports (supports Alt PD, 65-100W PD input, 15W PD output), 1 × HDMI 2.1, 1 × DP 1.4, 1 × audio jack, 1 × DMIC, 1 × Clear CMOS button, providing comprehensive connection options to meet various peripheral needs.
- 【Efficient Heat Dissipation System】Equipped with two 8mm high-performance heat pipes and a high-density offset blade fan to provide efficient heat dissipation. It is also equipped with an active DDR&SSD heatsink fan and liquid gold CPU cooling material to ensure that noise remains at a low level of 43 dB in performance mode.
External graphics and missing OCuLink
Notebookcheck says USB4 can support an external graphics card, but the review did not validate a particular enclosure-and-card combination. Treat that as a possible expansion route, not a guaranteed plug-and-play setup. The M2 Pro does not include OCuLink, so buyers who specifically need that connection should look elsewhere.
What cannot be upgraded?
The tested 32GB LPDDR5X memory is soldered to the board and cannot be upgraded. MINISFORUM lists 32GB as the available maximum, so choose a configuration with enough memory for your expected applications and workload rather than counting on a later RAM upgrade. Notebookcheck reviewer Sebastian Bade put the trade-off plainly: “The mini-PC is less flexible when it comes to RAM, which is soldered in place and therefore cannot be upgraded.”
Best Value
- 【Powerful Performance】The MINISFORUM G1 Pro Mini PC is powered by the high-performance AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX processor (16 cores, 32 threads, up to 5.4GHz). It delivers exceptional speed to smoothly handle heavy computing workloads and multitasking with ease. Ideal for gaming, image and video editing, web browsing, media streaming, programming, and more.
- 【Stunning Graphics Performance】Features a dedicated GeForce RTX 5060 8GB graphics card for outstanding visual performance. Supports real‑time ray tracing and DLSS super‑resolution technology, producing highly realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections for an immersive gaming experience. Built on the Ada Lovelace architecture, it maximizes ray‑tracing efficiency and accurately simulates real‑world light behavior. DLSS 4, an advanced AI‑powered graphics technology, boosts performance significantly by generating high‑quality additional frames, perfectly optimized for next‑generation high‑efficiency gaming.
- 【Five Outputs for Four Displays】The G1 Pro Mini PC comes with 2x HDMI and 3x DisplayPort, it supports you to connect four ultra high definition monitors simultaneously. Expand your workspace and greatly improve work efficiency. Suitable for high performance computing and graphics intensive applications such as digital signage, securities trading, CAD, engineering design, scientific computing, animation production, and film and television post production—perfect for professional users and industry experts.
- 【Wired & Wireless Connectivity】Equipped with a 5G RJ45 Ethernet port for stable wired networking, plus Wi‑Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for ultra‑fast wireless connections. Compared to Wi‑Fi 6’s maximum 8×8 spatial streams, Wi‑Fi 7 supports up to 16×16 spatial streams, greatly enhancing network speed, stability, and overall system performance.
- 【Expandable Storage】This Mini Computer has pre-installed 32GB DDR5-5200MT/s RAM and 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 SSD. However, you could expand the DDR5 RAM up to 64GB and 2TB for the SSD. There is another M.2 2280 PCIe4.0 slot available for expanding the storage. Without worrying about lack of capacity, you can run software smoothly, watch and storage large-scale movies, photos without any stress.
Storage is much more flexible: unlike the memory, the three M.2 slots provide room to add drives. The reviewed system also weighs 1.37kg and measures 195 × 195 × 47.5mm, according to Notebookcheck—compact for a high-performance desktop, but not a pocket-sized PC.
Who is likely to find it good value?
A strong fit
- People who need strong CPU performance in a compact desktop and value a quiet system.
- Users who benefit from 10GbE, multiple USB4 ports, or several internal NVMe drives.
- Buyers whose graphics needs fit capable integrated graphics, including lighter gaming or GPU-assisted tasks that do not demand a discrete card.
A weaker fit
- Anyone who expects to upgrade RAM later, or needs more than the listed 32GB capacity.
- Buyers seeking the best gaming performance per dollar from a system with a discrete GPU.
- Users who need OCuLink, more USB-A ports, or fast built-in SD-card transfers.
- Budget-focused buyers who do not need the M2 Pro’s high-end networking, USB4, or storage expansion.
Before comparing it with another mini PC, match the exact configuration and current local price, then compare performance in your actual applications. Also weigh noise, memory upgradeability, SSD-slot count and speed, Ethernet needs, USB4, and any requirement for OCuLink. The M2 Pro’s mix of 10GbE and three USB4 ports may be valuable to one buyer and unnecessary expense to another.
Verdict
The MINISFORUM M2 Pro makes a credible case for its price if you need high performance, quiet operation, broad connectivity, and room for multiple internal SSDs in a compact system. Notebookcheck reviewer Sebastian Bade summarized the review’s strengths as “a successful combination of high performance, extensive features, and surprisingly quiet operation.” But soldered 32GB memory, integrated graphics, a slow card reader, and the high purchase price narrow its audience. It is best judged as a feature-rich specialist mini PC—not a universal bargain.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
