MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Mini Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How alternatives compare to MS-01

MINISFORUM Core i9 Mini Workstation

This MINISFORUM model arrives pre-configured with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, removing the need for manual assembly required by the barebone MS-01. It retains the Core i9 processor and 10G networking focus, making it ideal for users who want immediate performance without sourcing components. You trade the ability to add a dedicated GPU for a plug-and-play experience. If you prioritize raw CPU power and fast wired connections in a compact black chassis, this unit offers a ready-to-use solution. It weighs 3 pounds and keeps the DeskMini form factor, ensuring it fits small spaces while delivering workstation-grade processing for engineering or data tasks.

Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny Core i9 PC

The Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny provides a dedicated GPU in a 1-liter chassis, addressing the MS-01’s reliance on integrated graphics or separate card installation. It includes 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, offering a complete package for professionals needing enterprise security features. While it lacks the MS-01’s 10G SFP+ ports, it compensates with a compact design measuring 7 inches wide and 1.5 inches high. This pick suits users who need strong graphics performance for design work without managing PCIe expansion slots. The trade-off is less networking flexibility and lower RAM capacity, but the integrated GPU makes it a practical choice for portable professional workstations.

ACEMAGIC Core i9 Mini PC

The ACEMAGIC M5 delivers a Core i9-13900HX processor with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD in a small form factor. It focuses on high CPU power and fast storage, similar to the MS-01, but omits the specialized 10G networking ports. This unit is best for professionals who prioritize processing speed and memory over connectivity options. It provides a pre-built experience, unlike the MS-01’s barebone approach. You give up the ability to expand storage via U.2 drives or add a dedicated graphics card. If your workflow demands heavy computational tasks and large datasets without requiring ultra-fast LAN connections, this compact workstation offers strong value and performance.

GEEKOM Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC

The GEEKOM A9 Mega stands out with 128GB of RAM, far exceeding the MS-01’s typical configurations, making it ideal for local AI development and creative work. It includes a 2TB SSD and features a compact silver-grey chassis measuring 5.2 inches wide. Unlike the MS-01, it lacks dedicated networking ports and GPU expansion slots, focusing instead on massive memory capacity for data privacy and intensive multitasking. This pick suits developers and creatives who need to run large models locally. You trade high-speed networking and graphics flexibility for unparalleled memory bandwidth. It is a specialized tool for users who prioritize computational capacity and compact size over traditional workstation connectivity.

Thermaltake Versa RTX 5070 Core i9 Gaming PC

The Thermaltake Versa RTX 5070 offers a dedicated RTX 5070 graphics card, providing significantly higher graphical performance than the MS-01’s integrated or optional GPU. It features liquid cooling and a white compact design, appealing to users who prioritize visual style and thermal efficiency. While it shares the Core i9 processor, it lacks the 10G networking ports and PCIe expansion slots found in the MS-01. This unit is best for gaming or creative tasks requiring high-end graphics rather than workstation networking. You gain superior graphics performance and a stylish build but lose the flexibility to add custom storage or high-speed wired connections. It fits users who want a pre-built gaming PC in a small footprint.

HP Z2 Mini Core i7 Desktop PC

The HP Z2 Mini G4 offers 32GB of RAM and a 1TB HDD, providing ample storage and memory for office or design work. It uses a Core i7 processor, which is less powerful than the MS-01’s Core i9, but it focuses on capacity and stability. The unit measures 8.5 inches wide and 2.28 inches high, offering a slightly larger footprint than the MS-01. It lacks 10G networking and GPU expansion, making it less suitable for high-performance computing. This pick is ideal for users who need reliable workstation performance with high RAM and storage capacity without requiring the latest CPU speeds or specialized connectivity. It is a practical option for design tasks where raw speed is less critical than data availability.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Mini Workstation

Best for: networking and GPU expansion

Processor

Intel Core i9-13900H

Graphics Card

Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Use

Workstation

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Mini Workstation Affiliate link

The MINISFORUM MS-01 is a compact i9-13900H workstation built for heavy compute tasks. It features dual 10G SFP+ ports and two 2.5G RJ45 connections for high-speed networking. You get three display outputs, including USB4 supporting 8K video. The chassis includes a PCIe x16 slot for GPU expansion and multiple M.2 SSD slots for storage. This barebone unit requires your own RAM and drive.

Pros

• Intel Core i9-13900H processor with up to 5.4 GHz boost
• Dual 10G SFP+ ports for high-speed wired networking
• PCIe x16 slot allows for discrete graphics card expansion
• Three display outputs including USB4 for 8K@30Hz video

Cons

• Sold as a barebone system without RAM or storage
• Integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics limit gaming performance
• Requires separate purchase of compatible components

Good fit if

• You need 10G networking for professional data transfers
• You want to install your own high-end GPU
• You require multiple 8K display outputs for work

Skip if

• You want a fully assembled system ready to use
• You need dedicated graphics for modern gaming
• You prefer a standard desktop tower over a mini form factor

Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-01 i9 Mini Workstation is a specialized mini PC for users who need 10G networking and the flexibility to add their own GPU and storage. It suits professionals who build their own systems rather than buying pre-configured units.

2 Also great

MINISFORUM Core i9 Mini Workstation

Best for: Compact high-performance networking workstations

Processor

Intel Core i9-13900HK

Graphics Card

Intel Iris Xe Graphics

RAM Capacity

32GB

RAM Type

DDR5

Storage Capacity

1TB

Storage Interface

M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0

View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Core i9 Mini Workstation Affiliate link

This mini workstation features an Intel Core i9-13900HK processor and 32GB of DDR5 RAM. It includes a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and dual 10G SFP+ network ports for high-speed data transfer. The system supports three displays via HDMI and USB4 outputs. It is designed for users who need compact power for engineering, scientific calculations, or high-performance office tasks.

Pros

• Intel Core i9-13900HK with up to 5.4GHz boost
• Dual 10G SFP+ ports for ultra-fast wired networking
• 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
• Supports three displays simultaneously via HDMI and USB4

Cons

• Relies on integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• Lacks a dedicated discrete graphics card
• No wireless Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity listed

Good fit if

• You require high-speed wired network connections for servers or NAS
• You need a compact PC for CAD or scientific calculations
• You want expandable storage with U.2 SSD support

Skip if

• You need a dedicated graphics card for gaming
• You require wireless connectivity without adapters
• You want a system with pre-installed operating system

Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-01 i9 Mini Workstation is a compact powerhouse for users who prioritize raw CPU performance and high-speed wired networking over graphics capabilities. It fits engineers and data-focused professionals who need a small footprint with serious expandability.

3 Best 16gb ram

Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny Core i9 PC

Best for: compact professional workstations needing dedicated GPU

Processor

Intel Core i9-14900 vPro

Graphics Card

T400 4GB

RAM Capacity

16GB

RAM Type

DDR5

Storage Capacity

1TB

Storage Interface

PCIe NVMe

View on Amazon: Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny Core i9 PC Affiliate link

The Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny packs an Intel Core i9-14900 vPro into a 1-liter chassis. It includes 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD. A dedicated NVIDIA T400 4GB GPU handles professional graphics tasks beyond standard integrated options. Windows 11 Pro provides enterprise-grade security. This compact workstation suits users needing high performance in a small footprint.

Pros

• Intel Core i9-14900 vPro processor with up to 5.8GHz boost
• Ded NVIDIA T400 4GB graphics card for CAD and rendering
• 16GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD for fast multitasking
• Windows 11 Pro 64-bit operating system with advanced security

Cons

• 16GB RAM capacity is lower than many competitors offering 32GB or more
• Single 1TB SSD storage limit compared to options with 2TB drives
• No mention of included external display or monitor in the package

Good fit if

• You need workstation-grade performance in a compact 1-liter form factor
• You require a dedicated GPU for professional CAD or engineering work
• You want enterprise features like vPro management and Windows 11 Pro

Skip if

• You require more than 16GB of RAM without planning to upgrade
• You need a larger storage capacity than 1TB out of the box
• You prefer a desktop tower over a tiny form factor workstation

Verdict: Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tiny i9 delivers serious workstation power in a portable 1-liter chassis. It fits professionals who need a dedicated GPU and enterprise security in a small space, provided you are comfortable with 16GB of RAM.

4 Also great

ACEMAGIC Core i9 Mini PC

Best for: Compact workstations needing high CPU power

Processor

Intel Core i9-13900HX

RAM Capacity

32GB

RAM Type

DDR4

Storage Capacity

1TB

Storage Interface

PCIe 4.0 NVMe

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

View on Amazon: ACEMAGIC Core i9 Mini PC Affiliate link

The ACEMAGIC M5 packs an Intel Core i9-13900HX processor into a compact chassis. It includes 32GB of DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. This setup handles heavy multitasking and 4K video editing. You get Windows 11 Pro preinstalled. It also features USB4 and WiFi 6E for fast connectivity. This mini workstation suits creators who need power without the bulk of a full tower.

Pros

• Intel Core i9-13900HX with 24 cores and 5.4GHz boost
• 32GB DDR4 RAM expandable to 64GB
• 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
• USB4 port with 40Gbps transfer speeds
• Windows 11 Pro preinstalled

Cons

• Uses DDR4 RAM instead of newer DDR5
• No dedicated graphics card listed
• Limited to mobile-class i9 HX processor

Good fit if

• You need a compact PC for 4K video editing
• You want Windows 11 Pro without extra setup
• You require high-speed USB4 connectivity for peripherals

Skip if

• You need a dedicated GPU for high-end gaming
• You require DDR5 memory for maximum bandwidth
• You prefer a full-size desktop for easy upgrades

Verdict: The ACEMAGIC M5 i9 Mini PC delivers strong mobile processor performance in a small form factor. It fits professionals who prioritize CPU power and fast storage over dedicated graphics capabilities.

5 Best premium

GEEKOM Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC

Best for: Local AI development and creative workstations

Processor

AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

Graphics Card

Radeon 8060S

RAM Capacity

128GB

RAM Type

LPDDR5X

Storage Capacity

2TB

Storage Interface

PCIe Gen4 NVMe

View on Amazon: GEEKOM Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC Affiliate link

The GEEKOM A9 Mega is a compact workstation powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor. It features 128GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a Radeon 8060S GPU, allowing you to run large local AI models offline. The system includes a 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD and dual 10GbE ports for fast data transfer. Its small footprint fits well in professional studios or home offices where high performance and privacy are priorities.

Pros

• 128GB LPDDR5X RAM supports large AI models
• Dual 10GbE ports for high-speed network transfers
• Radeon 8060S GPU with up to 96GB shared memory
• Compact dimensions of 5.2 x 5.32 x 1.8 inches

Cons

• No dedicated discrete graphics card listed
• Limited availability of the Strix Halo silicon
• Uses integrated graphics which may limit heavy gaming

Good fit if

• You need to run local AI models offline
• You require high RAM for multitasking and datasets
• You want a compact workstation for creative work

Skip if

• You need a dedicated graphics card for gaming
• You require a standard desktop tower form factor
• You prefer Intel-based processors for vPro features

Verdict: GEEKOM A9 Mega Ryzen AI Workstation is a specialized tool for developers and creatives who need massive memory for local AI tasks. It suits those who prioritize data privacy and compact size over traditional gaming performance.

6 Best rtx 5070

Thermaltake Versa RTX 5070 Core i9 Gaming PC

Best for: compact white gaming builds with liquid cooling

Processor

Intel Core i9-14900KF

Graphics Card

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070

RAM Capacity

32GB

RAM Type

DDR5

Storage Capacity

1TB

Storage Interface

NVMe M.2

View on Amazon: Thermaltake Versa RTX 5070 Core i9 Gaming PC Affiliate link

This Thermaltake desktop pairs an Intel Core i9-14900KF with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RGB memory and a 1TB NVMe SSD. The system uses a closed-loop liquid cooler with a 240mm radiator to manage heat. You get a white compact case with a power cover for cable management. It runs Windows 11 and includes WiFi connectivity for wireless networking.

Pros

• Intel Core i9-14900KF processor for high performance
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 graphics card
• 32GB DDR5 6000MT/s RGB memory
• Closed-loop liquid cooling with 240mm radiator
• 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD storage

Cons

• Only one USB 3.0 port available
• No dedicated Ethernet port listed in specs
• Storage capacity is 1TB, smaller than some competitors

Good fit if

• You need strong CPU and GPU performance in a compact white case
• You prefer liquid cooling for stable thermal performance
• You want RGB memory aesthetics in your build

Skip if

• You require multiple high-speed USB 3.0 ports
• You need a wired Ethernet connection built-in
• You prefer a larger case for easier upgrades

Verdict: Thermaltake LCGS Versa i570S i9 RTX 5070 fits users who want a white, compact gaming PC with liquid cooling and high-end specs. It is ideal for those who prioritize visual style and thermal efficiency over extensive connectivity options.

7 Best budget

HP Z2 Mini Core i7 Desktop PC

Best for: Compact workstation tasks with high RAM needs

Processor

Intel Core i7 8th Gen

RAM Capacity

32GB

RAM Type

DDR4

Storage Capacity

512GB SSD + 1TB HDD

Storage Interface

NVMe M.2

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

View on Amazon: HP Z2 Mini Core i7 Desktop PC Affiliate link

This HP Z2 Mini G4 is a compact workstation powered by an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor. It includes 32GB of DDR4 RAM and dual storage with a 512GB NVMe SSD and a 1TB HDD. The unit runs Windows 11 Pro and features Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. It suits users needing reliable multitasking in a small footprint, though the processor generation is older than current alternatives.

Pros

• 32GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking
• Dual storage: 512GB NVMe SSD plus 1TB HDD
• Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth connectivity
• Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro

Cons

• Uses an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor
• Refurbished condition
• No dedicated graphics card listed

Good fit if

• You need high RAM capacity for workstation tasks
• You prefer dual storage for separate OS and data drives
• You want a compact form factor with Wi-Fi 6E

Skip if

• You require the latest generation CPU performance
• You need a dedicated GPU for gaming or rendering
• You strictly want brand-new hardware

Verdict: HP Z2 Mini G4 Core i7 Workstation offers ample memory and storage in a tiny chassis, making it a practical option for office or design work where raw CPU speed is less critical than capacity.

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Frequently asked questions

See also

• minisforum ms 01 core i9 mini review
• intel intel core i9 desktop alternatives