A few months ago, a testetavis.com subscriber purchased a mini PC, primarily to save space on his desk. At first, everything seemed perfect: compact, quiet, and responsive enough for everyday use—browsing, office work, streaming—no complaints.
But a problem quickly emerged: the limited power of its graphics chip . For slightly more demanding 3D applications, such as previewing in modeling software or slicing before 3D printing, the mini PC showed its limits. Slowdowns became frequent, and some tasks took much longer than expected.
While looking for an alternative, he came across the Minisforum AI1 , which promised to combine compactness and power. What particularly appealed to him were two key features :
Integrated dedicated GPU , for graphics performance far superior to my previous mini PC.
Oculink technology , allowing you to connect an external graphics card. In practice, this transforms the mini PC into a real graphics workstation if necessary, while retaining the advantage of a compact format.
After a few weeks of use, the results are convincing. The AI1 handles heavier 3D tasks without any problems, and slicing becomes fluid. The mini PC remains discreet on the desk and silent, even when fully exploiting the GPU. In short, for someone looking for graphics power in a smaller format, it's a very interesting solution.
Table of Contents
The Minisforum AI X1 Pro features the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 SoC, a latest-generation processor capable of handling a variety of tasks smoothly. Combined with 64GB of DDR5 RAM at 5,600 MT/s, it ensures exemplary responsiveness, whether for multitasking, content creation, or intensive work. Thanks to the revisited Zen 5 architecture, the integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics chip allows you to play light titles or enjoy a quality multimedia display, thus offering a mini PC that is both powerful and versatile.
Design and features: a familiar format, unique advantages
The Minisforum AI1 features a sleek, compact design that immediately brings to mind the Mac Mini . Its compact size makes it ideal for small workspaces without sacrificing connectivity.
On the front, there are two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a USB 4 port with Power Delivery, as well as a jack and microphone socket, perfect for quickly connecting headphones or a microphone. A small practical detail: the SD card reader is not on the front, but on the side, an advantage for photographers and videographers who regularly import their files.
On the back, the connectivity is ultra-complete: 2.5G LAN port, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2 and the famous Oculink, which allows you to connect an external graphics card. This configuration offers the possibility of connecting up to four screens simultaneously, a real plus for productivity or multitasking workflows.
When it comes to upgradeability, the AI1 is very practical. Simply remove the bottom panel to access the two RAM sticks and the M.2 SSD. This simplified opening makes storage and memory upgrades quick and accessible, even for a non-expert user.
The Minisforum AI1 mini PC: moderate but efficient power
The mini PC tested is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 2600 , 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD , all for a price of €699. Graphics performance is provided by a Radeon 780M , a dedicated chip that significantly outperforms integrated solutions like the Intel Iris Xe used on the previous mini PC.
A benchmark conducted with the Far Fourmk 2 confirms this superiority: the Minisforum AI1 obtains a score of 1628, compared to only 584 for the Intel chip. This performance is close to that of a gaming graphics card from a few years ago, such as the GTX 1050 , which reaches 1867 in the same test.
This power boost is sufficient for demanding but occasional graphics tasks. In the 3D slicing software Prusa Slicer , processing a complex model is still a bit slow, but the experience is much smoother than on the old mini PC. Similarly, in 3D modeling in Blender , the AI1 can manipulate scenes with more than a million polygons without stuttering, showing that its GPU can really handle serious design projects.
Specific uses: AI and advanced office automation
Choosing a Ryzen processor optimized for artificial intelligence is no small feat. For those like me who like to test AI models locally, this mini PC offers an ideal environment. The LM Studio , which allows you to run AI models like a personal assistant without an internet connection, runs smoothly, with a satisfactory response time.
For more traditional creative tasks, the Minisforum AI1 also performs very well. Vectorizing images in Illustrator or using software like Lightburn for laser engraving is done without any noticeable slowdown. These tests demonstrate a versatility that goes far beyond simple office work.
For casual gamers, the mini PC holds its own. On demanding titles like Borderlands 3 in 1440p, it averages 28 to 30 frames per second, which is still playable. On less demanding games like World of Warcraft , it can even reach 60 frames per second, the limit of my monitor.
The pros and cons of this mini PC unlike any other
- Compact and elegant: ideal for small spaces.
- Radeon 780M GPU: Superior graphics performance over integrated.
- Oculink technology: ability to connect an external graphics card.
- Full connectivity: USB4, 2.5G LAN, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2, up to 4 displays.
- Upgradeable: Easily replaceable RAM and SSD.
- High price for a mini PC with dedicated GPU.
- Limited GPU: Not up to the standard of high-end cards for heavy 3D.
- Side SD reader: less practical than on the front.
- May require additional investment to operate Oculink.
Mini PC case: a slightly more generous, but neat format
The Minisforum AI X1 Pro is slightly larger than most mini PCs on the market. This design allows the power supply to be integrated directly inside the case, while also housing two stereo speakers, thus offering a complete and compact solution. In terms of materials, the manufacturer intelligently combines aluminum and plastic: the brushed aluminum upper chassis impresses with its solidity and premium finish, while the lightweight plastic underside ensures stability and practicality. The design remains harmonious and elegant, even with this combination. Finally, the case is designed for flexibility: it can be positioned vertically via a stand or attached to a screen thanks to VESA compatibility, for discreet and ergonomic use on a desk.
Mini PC Customer Reviews
An analysis of feedback on platforms like Trustpilot , Reddit , and specialized forums reveals overall satisfaction with the Minisforum AI1 . Users highlight several strong points. The build quality is regularly highlighted: the case is robust, the design is simple but neat, and the finishes are impeccable for a mini PC. The performance/price ratio is also appreciated, especially by those looking for a compact solution without sacrificing power.
Thermal management is another plus. Users note that the AI1 remains quiet even during demanding tasks like 3D rendering or laser engraving, and that heat dissipation is efficient, allowing for long-term work without overheating. Ease of installation and updates is also often mentioned: easy access to the SSD and RAM, quick installation of software and peripherals, and no hassle for non-expert users.
Many reviews highlight the Oculink connection . Those who have tested an external graphics card report a dramatic performance boost , whether for recent games, video editing, or 3D modeling. Some users even report that the AI1, combined with an external graphics card, rivals some traditional towers for specific uses.
Finally, many customers appreciate the device's versatility . Whether for casual gaming, advanced office applications, or local AI testing, the mini PC adapts to different uses without showing any major weaknesses. The compact size is regularly cited as a major advantage for those with limited workspace.
Competition from Minisforum AI1
In the high-performance mini PC , the Minisforum AI1 competes with models such as the Beelink GTR7 or the Geekom A7 . These machines offer similar performance for advanced office work , light 3D modeling , or casual gaming . The Beelink GTR7, for example, offers the latest generation of Ryzen processors and comprehensive connectivity, while the Geekom A7 offers a good balance of CPU and GPU power for a slightly lower price.
For those looking for more affordable and less powerful solutions, models like the Geekom A5 remain interesting. With a modest processor and integrated graphics card, it's ideal for office work, multimedia, and everyday use, but it shows its limitations when it comes to 3D tasks or demanding games.
The AI1's distinguishing feature remains Oculink technology , which allows you to connect an external graphics card without the power or case constraints of a traditional tower. This feature gives the AI1 unique scalability in the mini PC segment , allowing it to scale up as needed. This is something that direct competitors don't offer, even on higher-end models, and makes the AI1 a particularly attractive option for demanding users.
Who is this mini PC for?
The Minisforum AI1 is primarily aimed at users looking for a balance between compactness, power, and expandability . Its small form factor makes it an ideal choice for those with limited desk space, in a workshop or creative studio , while requiring more robust performance than a typical integrated graphics chip.
This mini PC is particularly suitable for content creators working on photo editing, video editing or laser engraving, as well as for designers and architects who manipulate 3D models or do light rendering. It is also suitable for 3D modeling and slicing enthusiasts for 3D printing , who need a machine capable of handling complex scenes without having to invest in a bulky and expensive gaming tower.
The AI1's strength lies in its scalability . Users can easily add RAM, replace or upgrade the SSD, and, thanks to Oculink , plug in an external graphics card to transform the mini PC into a modular graphics workstation . This flexibility makes it a durable and scalable , capable of keeping up with changing needs without having to buy a complete computer.
Finally, it is suitable for casual gamers , advanced office enthusiasts and new technology enthusiasts who want to test AI locally or experiment with more demanding software, while remaining in a compact and silent format. The AI1 is therefore aimed at those who want a versatile solution , combining compactness, power and longevity, while remaining financially accessible for a high-end mini PC.
Conclusion: a mini PC designed for evolution
The Minisforum AI1 is a real surprise in the world of mini PCs. It addresses the main flaw of many compact models by offering sufficient graphics performance for 3D tasks, light video editing, or creative software that was a problem on my previous mini PC. It manages to combine the power of a small workstation with the compactness of a desktop computer , making it ideal for tight spaces.
It's not a PC for the most demanding games or intensive video rendering comparable to high-end towers, but for everyday and creative use, it proves very convincing. The AI1 stands out above all for its modularity and scalability Oculink technology , it is possible to add an external graphics card and increase its capabilities without changing the machine, thus offering a sustainable investment for users with evolving needs.
In summary, if you are looking for a powerful, discreet mini PC that can grow with your projects , the Minisforum AI1 is a serious candidate. It combines flexibility, reliability and compactness , while allowing you to achieve a level of power that far exceeds that of conventional mini PCs of this size.
Our best tests and reviews of mini PCs
