The tech world is buzzing with excitement over the latest release from Minis Forum, the X1 AI mini PC. With the growing popularity of compact and powerful computing solutions, many are curious about how this device stacks up against Apple’s Mac Mini M4. In this article, we will delve into an unboxing of the X1 AI, comparing its specifications, design, and performance to the Mac Mini, and determining if it truly stands as a worthy rival.
As we explore the features of the Minis Forum X1 AI, it’s essential to note that this mini PC is equipped with the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, which boasts impressive capabilities. Let’s dive into the unboxing experience and see what this machine has to offer.
Unboxing the Minis Forum X1 AI
Upon opening the compact box of the Minis Forum X1 AI, users are greeted with a sleek mini PC that occupies the entire space within the packaging. Its design is reminiscent of the classic Mac Mini, with a minimalist aesthetic that appeals to many tech enthusiasts.
Inside the box, you will find:
- A power cable
- An HDMI cable for connecting to external monitors
- NVMe upgrade components
- A mounting bracket for attaching the PC to the back of a monitor
This thoughtful inclusion of accessories enhances the overall value of the product.
Design and Comparison with Mac Mini
When placed side by side, the similarities between the Minis Forum X1 AI and the older Mac Mini models are striking. Both devices showcase a compact and stylish design, but there are notable differences in port availability and overall size.
The X1 AI features a more extensive range of ports, including:
- Multiple USB-A and USB-C ports
- An SD card slot
- Two Ethernet ports
In contrast, the Mac Mini, particularly the older models, lacks many of these features. The new Mac Mini, while smaller, does not offer the same level of connectivity as the Minis Forum X1 AI.
Specifications Breakdown
The heart of the Minis Forum X1 AI is its AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, which includes:
- 12 cores and 24 threads
- A base clock speed of 2 GHz, boostable to 5.1 GHz
- Radeon 890M integrated GPU
This powerful combination allows for significant multitasking and smooth operation, especially when dealing with demanding applications.
Memory-wise, the X1 AI supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM, with storage options for three PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs, making it a flexible choice for users who need to expand their device’s capabilities over time. It also runs on Windows 11, which provides an extensive range of software compatibility.
Performance Benchmarks
To truly assess the performance of the Minis Forum X1 AI, it is essential to compare it against the Mac Mini M4. Here are some key performance metrics:
- Geekbench 6: The X1 AI scored 2,914 in single-core performance and 15,437 in multi-core performance, putting it slightly ahead of the Mac Mini M4 in multi-core tasks.
- Cinebench 2024: The Mac Mini excelled in single-core performance with a score of 178, while the X1 AI scored 119. However, in multi-core performance, the X1 AI outperformed the Mac Mini with a score of 1,238 to 962.
- Graphics Performance: In OpenCL tests, the X1 AI achieved an impressive score of 52,763 compared to the Mac Mini’s 37,05, showcasing its superior graphic capabilities.
Gaming and Creative Work
For users interested in gaming or content creation, the performance in real-world applications is crucial. Testing with popular titles revealed significant differences:
- Cyberpunk 2077: The X1 AI delivered 46 FPS at 1080p ultra settings, compared to the Mac Mini M4’s 24 FPS.
- Shadow of the Tomb Raider: The X1 AI reached 44 FPS, outperforming the Mac Mini’s 36 FPS.
- Resident Evil 4: The X1 AI again led with 58 FPS versus the Mac Mini’s 46 FPS.
This performance indicates that the Minis Forum X1 AI is not only a viable option for general computing but also a competent machine for gaming and heavy-duty tasks.
Pricing and Value Proposition
In terms of pricing, the Minis Forum X1 AI starts at approximately $929, while the Mac Mini M4 begins at $599 for a base model with significantly lower specifications. Once upgraded to include comparable storage and memory, the cost of the Mac Mini can exceed the X1 AI.
Considering the upgradeability of the X1 AI, along with superior performance metrics, it presents a compelling case as a powerful alternative to the Mac Mini.
Conclusion
In summary, the Minis Forum X1 AI stands out as a formidable contender against the Mac Mini M4, especially for users seeking flexibility, performance, and upgrade options. With its powerful specifications, extensive connectivity, and competitive pricing, it caters to a wide array of computing needs. If you’re looking for a mini PC that offers more power and versatility without the premium price tag of Apple’s offering, the Minis Forum X1 AI may be the perfect fit for you.
What are your thoughts on this mini PC? Could it be a better investment than the Mac Mini M4? Share your opinions in the comments below!
Credit: Matt Talks Tech
