This is a new series looking at the Minisforum AI X1 Pro running Linux. In this series, I examine every aspect of this Mini PC in detail from a Linux perspective. I’ll compare the machine with desktop PC counterparts along the way.
The Minisforum AI X1 Pro is a powerful mini PC based on an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 with integrated Radeon 890M. This is no ordinary processor and no ordinary integrated GPU. It can handle extremely demanding tasks. It’s not only a CPU and GPU powerhouse, it’s also designed for artificial intelligence. The machine came with 64GB of RAM and 1TB NVMe and retails for £929.
Design
A big thumbs up for the mini PC’s design. The machine’s footprint is larger than many mini PCs (measuring 195 x 195 x 47.5mm) but that’s largely because it has an integrated power supply and two speakers. The machine can, if wanted, be set up vertically with the supplied stand or attached using the supplied VESA mounting plate.
The case is predominately made from aluminum and looks very impressive with quality workmanship. The machine has a black plastic base.
Here are images of the front and rear of the machine.
From left to right we have a power button, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, one USB 4 port, 3.5mm audio combo jack, and a dedicated Copilot button.
The rear of the machine hosts an additional USB-A port, an OcuLink interface which offers eGPU support, HDMI port, DisplayPort and another USB 4 Port (supports 100W power input and 15W output). There are also a pair of 2.5 G LAN ports, and a power input connector. The OCuLink port lets you connect external dedicated graphics cards, external storage arrays, and expansion cards.
The top of the machine has a fingerprint sensor. The right side of the unit has an SD card slot (although this only works at USB 2 speed).
I really like the machine’s cooling. The machine has a dual-fan cooling system which keeps the machine running very cool even under sustained heavy workloads. The machine runs extremely quietly (although not silent). Even under full load the fans do not ramp up anywhere near as loud as many other mini PCs (such as the NUC range). It’s definitely a suitable PC for a bedroom or living room.
The machine’s built in 135W adapter dispenses with the need for an external brick that you get with many other powerful mini PCs. It makes for a cleaner setup.
There’s an HDMI cable and a passive cooler for an additional SSD included. The machine came with a UK plug.
Next page: Page 2 – First Impressions running Linux
Pages in this article:
Page 1 – Introduction and Design
Page 2 – First Impressions running Linux
Page 3 – Interrogation of the System
Complete list of articles in this series:
| Minisforum AI X1 Pro | |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Introduction to the series and interrogation of the Minisforum AI X1 Pro |