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The Minisforum M2 Pro is a compelling small desktop if you want strong CPU performance, unusually capable integrated graphics, and quiet operation—but its memory is soldered, and its GPU still calls for compromises in demanding games. Notebookcheck’s September 16, 2026 review found the tested 32 GB RAM / 1 TB SSD configuration well-rounded, but its listed prices are historical review-time figures, not current quotes.
What did Notebookcheck test?
Notebookcheck reviewed a Minisforum M2 Pro configured with an Intel Core Ultra X7 358H processor, integrated Intel Arc B390 graphics, 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory, and a 1 TB YMTC SSD. The review lists the memory at 7,467 MT/s and the processor at 16 cores and 16 threads. The review unit was supplied by Minisforum, as disclosed by Notebookcheck.
The tested system ran Windows 11 Pro. Notebookcheck lists a 195 × 195 × 47.5 mm chassis, a weight of 1.37 kg, built-in speakers, and an internal 134 W power adapter. These details describe the reviewed configuration; they should not be assumed to describe every M2 Pro listing or bundle.
How fast is the M2 Pro?
Notebookcheck found strong CPU performance from the Core Ultra X7 358H and a substantial step forward in integrated graphics. In the review’s comparisons, the Arc B390 often outperformed AMD Radeon 890M graphics. That is a summary of Notebookcheck’s testing, not a guarantee that every game or graphics workload will show the same result.
#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.
The processor’s listed power figures are 45 W PL1 for sustained operation and 65 W PL2 for short bursts, according to Notebookcheck. These ratings help describe the processor’s configured power limits; they are not direct measures of application speed or a promise of fixed performance in every workload.
Is it good for gaming?
The Arc B390 makes the M2 Pro more capable for graphics workloads than a typical low-power integrated GPU, but it does not turn the mini-PC into a no-compromise gaming system. Notebookcheck cautions that more demanding games may require limitations. Expect to adjust settings or accept other compromises rather than treating the review’s graphics results as evidence of high-end gaming 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
For a compact PC used for general work, media, and some gaming, the graphics capability is a notable strength. If demanding games are the priority, compare tested performance in the specific titles and settings you care about before buying; the review does not establish that every such game will run well.
Is it quiet?
Quiet operation is one of Notebookcheck’s main positives. Reviewer Sebastian Bade wrote: “In testing, the Minisforum M2 Pro impresses above all with a successful combination of high performance, extensive features, and surprisingly quiet operation.” This is the reviewer’s assessment of the tested device, not a measured noise figure for every room, workload, or production unit.
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.
What can you upgrade?
Memory is not replaceable
The reviewed 32 GB LPDDR5X is soldered to the system board. Minisforum lists onboard LPDDR5X up to 32 GB, so buyers should choose a memory capacity that will meet their needs for the life of the system; there is no basis to expect a later RAM upgrade.
Storage has three M.2 slots
Minisforum specifies three M.2 2280 NVMe SSD slots: two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots and one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot. That offers storage expansion potential separate from the soldered memory. The manufacturer’s listed storage support is not a claim that Notebookcheck tested every capacity or drive combination.
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.
What features and connections does Minisforum list?
Minisforum’s product page lists Wi-Fi 7, both 2.5 GbE and 10 GbE Ethernet, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and three USB4 ports. It also lists a 50 TOPS NPU and peak GPU performance of 122 TOPS (Int8). These are manufacturer specifications; TOPS figures describe peak capability and do not, by themselves, establish how fast a particular application will run.
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Was the review-time price fair?
Notebookcheck listed the tested 32 GB RAM / 1 TB SSD configuration at $1,439 and showed €1,519 in its verdict and specification context. Those are prices reported with the review, published September 16, 2026, not current offers or a guarantee of equivalent pricing across regions. At that level, the value case rests on the blend of CPU and integrated-GPU performance, quiet operation, and connectivity—not on upgradeable memory or unrestricted gaming performance.
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.
Should you buy the Minisforum M2 Pro?
The M2 Pro makes the most sense for someone who wants high performance in a compact desktop, values quiet operation, and can live with a fixed memory capacity. Its SSD slots provide a path to add storage, but the soldered RAM makes upfront configuration important. The Arc B390 is a meaningful integrated-graphics strength, while Notebookcheck’s gaming caveat matters if demanding games are central to the purchase.
Availability also needs checking at the time you shop: Minisforum’s official product page displayed an out-of-stock notice when accessed on October 7, 2026. That was a dated observation, not confirmation of its current stock status.
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.
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