October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
World desk5 min

MINISFORUM M2 Pro: Is This High-Performance Mini PC Worth Its Price?

The M2 Pro pairs a 16-core Intel processor, Arc B390 graphics, three SSD slots and 10GbE with quiet operation—but its RAM is soldered and the price is high.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The MINISFORUM M2 Pro packs a 16-core Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, integrated Arc B390 graphics, three M.2 SSD slots, 10GbE networking and three USB4 ports into a compact desktop. In Notebookcheck’s September 16, 2026 review, the tested 32GB/1TB configuration was listed at $1,439 in the US. Its performance and connectivity make it compelling for demanding work in a small, quiet system, but soldered RAM and the high upfront price mean it is not automatically good value for every buyer.

What does the M2 Pro cost, and is it available?

MINISFORUM lists the M2 Pro with a Core Ultra X7 358H and a 32GB RAM/1TB SSD configuration. The manufacturer’s US page showed $1,439 against a struck-through $1,799 reference price when checked for this article; Notebookcheck also reported $1,439 for its reviewed US configuration and €1,519 in its European review. These are snapshots for different regions, not a permanent price or a currency conversion. Check the current offer, stock and exact configuration before buying: MINISFORUM’s M2 Pro product page and Notebookcheck’s September 16, 2026 review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Availability changed over time. TechRadar reported on May 17, 2026 that the M2 Pro had not shipped; by September 16, MINISFORUM listed it and Notebookcheck had published a hands-on review. The later evidence supports treating it as an available product, but does not establish stock at any particular retailer today.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How much performance does it deliver?

CPU performance

The reviewed system uses Intel’s Core Ultra X7 358H, a 16-core, 16-thread processor with a manufacturer-listed boost frequency of up to 4.8GHz. Notebookcheck measured 1,093 points in Cinebench 2024 multi-core and 123 points single-core using its default balanced profile. In the publication’s multi-core comparison, the M2 Pro was close to the Khadas Mind Pro and below higher-scoring systems such as the Minisforum MS-02 Ultra. Those results describe that review’s test conditions; they are not a guarantee of performance in every application or unit.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
MINISFORUM M2 Pro-358H Mini PC Intel Core Ultra X7 358H (16C/16T), Intel Arc B390 GPU, 32G RAM (No SSD/OS) Desktop Workstation, HDMI/DP/USB4 Quad Display, 10G+2.5G LAN, 3xM.2 Slot, Fingerprint, WiFi 7
  • 【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.

Integrated graphics

Graphics come from the integrated Intel Arc B390. Notebookcheck found it a substantial step forward over AMD Radeon 890M in many comparisons, but demanding games may still call for reduced settings or other compromises. This is not a substitute for a desktop with a discrete graphics card if high settings or consistently demanding gaming performance are essential.

MINISFORUM advertises peak figures of 122 TOPS (Int8) for the GPU and 50 TOPS (Int8) for the NPU. Those are manufacturer specifications, not measurements of gaming speed or proof that a particular AI application will run well. Judge those workloads by application-specific testing rather than peak TOPS alone.

Rank #2
MINISFORUM G1 Pro Mini PC, Ryzen 9 8945HX, 16C/32T up to 5.4GHz, GeForce RTX 5060 8GB GDDR7,32GB DDR5, 1TB SSD, 5GbE, Wi-Fi 7, Quad 4K, 245W Performance Gaming PC
  • 【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

What do you get for the price?

The case measures 195 × 195 × 47.5 mm and weighs 1.37 kg, according to Notebookcheck. Within that footprint, the M2 Pro combines fast networking, several high-speed expansion options and three internal SSD slots—features that can be valuable in a workstation, media setup or compact office where desk space matters.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  • Networking: 10GbE and 2.5GbE Ethernet, plus Wi-Fi 7. Bluetooth version differs between the reviewed unit and the current manufacturer specifications: Notebookcheck lists 5.4, while MINISFORUM lists 6.0. Confirm the version for the specific unit or region if it matters to you.
  • Display and peripherals: HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, three USB4 ports, an SD card reader, an audio jack and a Kensington lock. There are only three USB-A ports, so users with several older USB peripherals may need a hub.
  • Noise: Notebookcheck measured 31 dBA at idle and 33 dBA under load at a distance of 15 cm, and described the system as consistently quiet. MINISFORUM also publishes noise figures, but measured at 50 cm in an anechoic chamber; the two methods should not be treated as directly comparable.

Can you expand memory and storage?

Memory is fixed

The tested configuration has 32GB of onboard LPDDR5X memory, which is soldered and cannot be upgraded. Choose the capacity you expect to need for the computer’s useful life; you cannot add RAM later if larger projects, virtual machines or other workloads outgrow it.

Rank #3
MINISFORUM AI X1 Pro-470 Mini PC, AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX470 (12C/24T, up to 5.2 GHz), Radeon 890M, 32 GB DDR5 RAM, 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, 4K Quad-Display, Dual 2,5G LAN, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, OCuLink
  • 【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.

Three internal SSD slots

The system has three M.2 2280 NVMe slots: two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots and one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot. MINISFORUM lists support for drives up to 8TB in each slot. Notebookcheck’s 32GB/1TB test configuration left two slots free, giving owners a way to add storage without replacing the installed drive. Check the slot’s speed, drive capacity, cooling needs and physical fit when choosing an SSD.

External graphics and other limitations

Notebookcheck says an external graphics card can be connected over USB4, 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 configuration. The M2 Pro lacks OCuLink, which may matter to buyers who specifically want that connection. Its SD card reader is another weak point: Notebookcheck recorded 22.8 MB/s in one JPG-copy test and 23.67 MB/s in a maximum sequential-read test, describing the reader as slow.

Rank #4
MINISFORUM UM890 Pro Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS (up to 5.2GHz) Mini Computers, 32GB DDR5 5600MHz RAM&1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, Mini Desktop Quad Display HDMI/DP1.4/USB-C, AMD Radeon 780M/Dual LAN 2.5G
  • 【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.

Who should buy the M2 Pro?

It makes sense if

  • You need substantial CPU performance in a compact desktop and value quiet operation.
  • You can use its combination of 10GbE, three USB4 ports and multiple internal SSD slots.
  • 32GB of soldered memory is sufficient for your expected workload.

Look elsewhere if

  • You need memory that can be upgraded, OCuLink, more USB-A ports or a fast built-in SD reader.
  • Your work or games call for a discrete GPU, or you need tested evidence for a specific USB4 graphics setup.
  • The price is difficult to justify for your workload, especially if a less expensive system or one with upgradeable RAM would meet your needs.

Sebastian Bade, Notebookcheck’s reviewer, summarized the tested system this way: “In testing, the Minisforum M2 Pro impresses above all with a successful combination of high performance, extensive features, and surprisingly quiet operation.” He also noted that “The mini-PC is less flexible when it comes to RAM, which is soldered in place and therefore cannot be upgraded.” The review states that MINISFORUM provided its test device.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

How to judge its value

The M2 Pro’s value depends on whether its particular strengths solve a real need. Its tested performance, quiet operation, 10GbE and three USB4 ports are useful in a small-form-factor machine; its fixed RAM and $1,439 US review price are significant trade-offs. Notebookcheck considered the package interesting for buyers prioritizing high performance, features and quiet operation in a compact system. That is a qualified judgment, not proof that it is the best-value mini PC across countries, configurations or changing prices. Compare current local pricing and relevant workload results before deciding.

Best Value
MINISFORUM G1 Pro Mini PC AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX(16C/32T, up to 5.4GHz) 32GB DDR5 1TB PCIe4.0 SSD Desktop Computer, 2xHDMI|2xDP2.1|DP1.4 Outputs, 5G LAN, WiFi7, BT5.4, RTX 5060 Graphics Gaming PC
  • 【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.

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.