MINISFORUM Mini PC MS-01-S1390 Barebone Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The MINISFORUM Mini PC MS-01-S1390 Barebone is a high-performance desktop built for users who need serious networking and expansion capabilities. It features an Intel Core i9-13900H processor, dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports, and a full-size PCIe 4.0 slot for external hardware. This configuration makes it ideal for compact server setups or homelab environments where data throughput and storage flexibility are priorities. However, you might look for minisforum mini PC ms 01 s1390 barebone alternatives if your budget is tighter, if you prefer AMD Ryzen processors, or if you need different connectivity options like OCuLink or Wi-Fi 7.
This list compares 6 similar barebone models that share key specifications with the original unit. We selected these picks because their hardware overlaps with the MS-01 in areas like form factor, processor generation, or expansion slots. Some options offer better value for general computing, while others provide specialized features for multi-display setups or high-core-count workloads. By reviewing these alternatives, you can find a system that matches your exact technical requirements without paying for features you do not need.
Our top pick: MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC.
How these alternatives differ
The Intel NUC 13 Pro Core i5 Barebone uses a 12-core processor instead of the i9-13900H, which lowers peak computational power but may reduce thermal stress. It replaces the dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports with WiFi 6E, offering wireless flexibility but lacking the wired throughput required for high-density server virtualization. The chassis is slightly larger at 4.6 by 4.4 inches. You should pick this if you prioritize wireless connectivity and a compact footprint over maximum network speed and raw processing performance.
MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC
The MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC switches from Intel to AMD Zen 4 architecture, providing strong multi-threaded performance. It features a 64 Gbps OCuLink port for external GPU expansion, which is faster than the MS-01's PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for eGPUs. It lacks the dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports, relying on a single 2.5G LAN connection instead. This model is ideal if you need external graphics capabilities and do not require the specialized fiber-optic networking options found in the i9 barebone unit.
The GEEKOM A8 Max Ryzen 7 Mini PC is significantly larger, measuring 8.96 by 6.92 inches, compared to the compact MS-01. It provides dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for network isolation but does not offer the 10Gbps SFP+ connectivity. The Ryzen 7 processor offers different performance characteristics than the Intel Core i9-13900H. This unit is best suited for users who need more physical space for custom storage builds and prioritize network segmentation over the high-speed enterprise networking features of the MS-01.
MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC
The MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC utilizes modern Intel Core Ultra processing with an integrated NPU, differing from the 13th Gen i9. It includes Wi-Fi 7 and an OCuLink port for fast external device connections, replacing the MS-01's PCIe 4.0 x16 slot. It lacks the dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports, focusing instead on contemporary wireless standards. This alternative is suitable for users who want the latest connectivity technologies and AI acceleration rather than the specific enterprise networking hardware of the i9 model.
MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone
The MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone offers PCIe 5.0 storage expandability, which is faster than the MS-01's PCIe 4.0 slots. It retains 10G networking capabilities similar to the i9 model but uses a different processor architecture. The chassis design is optimized for workstation-level connectivity in a compact format. You should consider this if you need the latest storage speeds and modern processing power while still requiring high-speed network interfaces for edge deployments or specialized server tasks.
MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Workstation Mini PC
The MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Workstation Mini PC uses a Core i5 processor instead of the i9-13900H, resulting in lower peak performance but potentially better efficiency. It provides enterprise-level network speeds and flexible drive expansion similar to the MS-01. This model is a more cost-effective foundation if you do not need the highest tier of processing power. It is ideal for users who want a versatile base for home labs or network storage setups without the premium specs of the i9 variant.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC
Best for: high-speed networking and compact server virtualization
- Processor
- Intel Core i9-13900H
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x 10Gbps SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45
- High-Speed Expansion
- 2x USB4
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This barebone workstation unit gives you an Intel Core i9-13900H processor with 14 cores and 20 threads. You get dual 10Gbps SFP+ ports alongside dual 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports for high-bandwidth networking, plus a PCIe 4.0 expansion slot. It supports up to 96GB of DDR5 memory and three NVMe drives. It suits you if you need a compact virtualization node, home server, or network appliance with enterprise-grade connectivity.
Pros
- Dual 10Gbps SFP+ and dual 2.5Gbps RJ45 network ports
- 14-core Intel Core i9-13900H processor with speeds up to 5.4GHz
- PCIe 4.0 expansion slot for add-in cards
- Supports up to 96GB of dual-channel DDR5 RAM
- Three M.2 NVMe slots with RAID0 and RAID1 support
Cons
- Ships without RAM, SSD storage, or an operating system
- Relies on integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics unless an add-in card is installed
Good fit if
- You need 10Gbps SFP+ networking for high-speed fiber or homelab environments.
- You want to configure your own DDR5 memory, SSD storage, and operating system.
- You require hardware virtualization support with Intel vPro.
Skip if
- You want a turnkey computer with memory, storage, and an operating system pre-installed.
- You need a high-power dedicated graphics card installed out of the box.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Core i9 Barebone Mini PC delivers exceptional network throughput and processing power for compact server builds. Its PCIe expansion slot and multi-drive storage options make it a versatile foundation if you supply your own components.
MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC
Best for: custom barebone builds with external GPU support
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon 780M
- Ethernet Ports
- 2.5Gbps LAN
- High-Speed Expansion
- OCuLink, USB4
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This barebone compact computer pairs an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS eight-core processor with integrated Radeon 780M graphics. You get PCIe 4.0 storage expandability across two M.2 slots, support for up to 96GB of DDR5 memory, and high-speed external connectivity through USB4 and an included OCuLink adapter. It suits you if you want an expandable desktop base that accommodates external graphics expansion without paying for pre-installed memory or drives.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor with 8 cores, 16 threads, and Radeon 780M graphics
- OCuLink interface supporting PCIe 4.0 x4 external connections up to 64 Gbps
- Supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 memory and two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs
- Triple display output via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and full-featured USB4
- 2.5Gbps LAN port along with integrated Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2
Cons
- Ships without RAM, internal storage, or an operating system
- OCuLink adapter occupies one of the two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots
- OCuLink interface does not support hot-swapping
Good fit if
- You already have your own DDR5 memory, M.2 SSD, and operating system.
- You want an OCuLink port to connect an external discrete graphics card.
- You need triple display outputs capable of up to 4K or 8K resolutions.
Skip if
- You want a turnkey computer that includes pre-installed memory, storage, and Windows.
- You require two high-speed M.2 SSDs while simultaneously using an external OCuLink device.
- You need dual Ethernet ports for dedicated network routing or homelab virtualization.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC delivers strong Zen 4 processing power and fast 64 Gbps OCuLink expansion for external graphics. It offers a practical foundation if you prefer supplying your own DDR5 memory, storage, and operating system.
MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone
Best for: high-speed networking and multi-drive edge deployments
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 5 336H
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR5 7200
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x 10G SFP+, 1x 10G RJ45, 1x 2.5G RJ45
- High-Speed Expansion
- Dual USB4, PCIe x16
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You get a barebone workstation mini PC built around the Intel Core Ultra 5 336H processor. It brings high-speed network throughput with two 10G SFP+ ports, one 10G RJ45 port, and one 2.5G RJ45 port, alongside three M.2 storage slots and a physical PCIe x16 slot. You will find this unit suitable if you need extensive networking, local data processing, or customizable high-speed storage.
Pros
- Two 10G SFP+ ports, one 10G RJ45 port, and one 2.5G RJ45 port
- Three M.2 SSD slots with two PCIe 5.0 and one PCIe 4.0
- Physical PCIe x16 expansion slot and two USB4 ports
- Supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 7200 memory
Cons
- Barebone format requires separate purchase of RAM and storage
- No pre-installed operating system listed
Good fit if
- You need high-bandwidth networking with dual 10G SFP+ and 10G RJ45 connectivity.
- You want PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and capacity for up to 128 GB of DDR5 memory.
- You plan to add an expansion card via the physical PCIe x16 slot.
Skip if
- You need a turn-key computer with pre-installed memory, storage, and an operating system.
- You prefer a basic setup without multi-gigabit networking hardware.
Verdict: MINISFORUM DeskMini Core Ultra 5 Barebone delivers fast 10G networking and PCIe 5.0 storage expandability for specialized workloads. It gives you workstation-level connectivity in a compact desktop chassis.
MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Workstation Mini PC
Best for: high-speed home labs and network storage setups
- Processor
- Intel Core i5-12600H
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR5-5200
- Graphics
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x 10G SFP+, 2x 2.5G
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This barebone mini PC runs on an Intel Core i5-12600H processor with 12 cores and 16 threads. You get enterprise-grade networking through dual 10G SFP+ and dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, along with three M.2 storage slots that support U.2 drives and RAID. It also includes a PCIe 4.0 expansion slot and twin USB4 ports. It suits you if you need a high-bandwidth micro-server or compact workstation.
Pros
- Dual 10G SFP+ and dual 2.5G RJ45 Ethernet ports
- Three M.2 slots with U.2 SSD adapter and RAID support
- PCIe 4.0 expansion slot for add-in cards
- Dual USB4 ports supporting 8K display output
Cons
- Shipped without RAM, storage, or operating system
- Physical PCIe x16 slot runs at PCIe 4.0 x8 wiring
Good fit if
- You need dual 10G SFP+ interfaces for high-speed network transfers.
- You plan to configure your own DDR5 memory and U.2 or M.2 NVMe drives.
- You want a compact workstation with an internal PCIe expansion slot.
Skip if
- You want a fully assembled system with memory, storage, and software pre-installed.
- You need a full-bandwidth PCIe 4.0 x16 electrical lane configuration.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Core i5 Barebone Mini Workstation delivers enterprise-level network speeds and flexible drive expansion in a compact format. It provides a versatile foundation if you prefer supplying your own DDR5 memory and storage.
MINISFORUM Ryzen 9 9950X Barebone Mini PC
Best for: high core count computing and dual 2.5G networking
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 9 9950X
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x 2.5G RJ45
View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Ryzen 9 9950X Barebone Mini PC Affiliate link
The MINISFORUM MS-A1 is a barebone mini workstation built around the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X processor. This chip offers 16 cores and 32 threads with speeds up to 5.7 GHz. It features dual 2.5G Ethernet ports and triple video outputs for multi-monitor setups. You get dual SODIMM slots and multiple M.2 SSD slots for storage expansion. This model suits users who need high core counts for heavy computing tasks.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 9 9950X with 16 cores and 32 threads
- Dual 2.5G RJ45 Ethernet ports for high-speed networking
- Triple video outputs including HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C
- Dual SODIMM slots and four M.2 NVMe SSD slots
Cons
- Only one height option available in the variations list
- Supports only PCIe 4.0 SSDs rather than newer standards
- Noise levels reach up to 37 dB under load
Good fit if
- You require high core counts for engineering or scientific calculations
- You need dual 2.5G Ethernet ports for network isolation or firewalls
- You want to connect three displays simultaneously for trading or design
Skip if
- You need a pre-built system with storage and RAM included
- You require PCIe 5.0 storage speeds for maximum throughput
- You prefer a quieter operation below 37 dB noise levels
Verdict: The MINISFORUM MS-A1 Ryzen 9 Mini Workstation fits professionals who need 16 cores for heavy multitasking and dual 2.5G Ethernet for specialized network setups. It is ideal for users building a compact workstation for CAD or digital signage.
MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC
Best for: custom builds needing external GPU expansion
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 5 125H
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- Intel Arc
- High-Speed Expansion
- OCuLink, USB4
- Operating System
- No OS (Barebone)
View on Amazon: MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC Affiliate link
This barebone system features an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor with 14 cores and integrated Intel Arc graphics. It gives you dual DDR5 SODIMM slots supporting up to 96GB of memory, two M.2 PCIe 4.0 storage slots with RAID support, and an OCuLink port for external GPU expansion. It suits you if you want flexible hardware configuration with quad-display output.
Pros
- OCuLink port and dual 40Gbps USB4 ports for high-speed expansion
- Supports up to 96GB DDR5 memory and dual PCIe 4.0 SSDs with RAID 0/1
- Quad display output via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and two USB4 ports
- Built-in Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity
Cons
- Ships without RAM, internal storage, or an operating system
- Lacks dedicated discrete graphics onboard
Good fit if
- You already have DDR5 SODIMM memory, storage, and an OS ready to install.
- You plan to connect an external desktop GPU via OCuLink or USB4.
- You need to drive up to four independent displays simultaneously.
Skip if
- You want a pre-configured system that works right out of the box.
- You require built-in discrete graphics without external enclosures.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Barebone Mini PC provides modern processing power and versatile expansion ports for custom memory and storage setups. Its inclusion of OCuLink and Wi-Fi 7 makes it a capable modular workstation base.
MINISFORUM Core Ultra 9 Barebone Workstation
Best for: Users needing dual 25G networking and four displays
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- Graphics
- Intel Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x 25G SFP+, 1x 10G, 1x 2.5G RJ45
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The MINISFORUM MS-02 Ultra Mini Workstation is a barebone system built around the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor with 24 cores. It features extensive networking options, including two 25G SFP+ ports and Wi-Fi 7 support. You get four video outputs via HDMI 2.1 and USB4. With four DDR5 slots and four M.2 SSD slots, it offers significant expandability for demanding tasks.
Pros
- Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX processor with 24 cores and up to 5.5 GHz
- Dual 25G SFP+ ports for high-speed network connectivity
- Four video outputs including HDMI 2.1 and USB4
- Support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
- Four DDR5 memory slots supporting up to 256 GB
Cons
- DDR5 XMP overclocking is not supported
- Two M.2 SSD slots are integrated on the 25GbE NIC with PCIe 3.0 or 4.0 limits
- One PCIe 4.0 x16 slot is physically populated by the NIC and unavailable for expansion
Good fit if
- You need dual 25G SFP+ ports for high-speed LAN or server connections
- You require four simultaneous monitor displays for productivity
- You want Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for faster wireless speeds
Skip if
- You need XMP memory overclocking for maximum RAM performance
- You require a fully populated PCIe slot for additional expansion cards
- You want a system that includes RAM and SSD storage
Verdict: The MINISFORUM MS-02 Ultra Mini Workstation fits users who need robust networking and multi-display setups. It is ideal for those who prioritize high-speed wired connections and extensive storage options over memory overclocking.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC | MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC | MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone | MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Workstation Mini PC | MINISFORUM Ryzen 9 9950X Barebone Mini PC | MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC | MINISFORUM Core Ultra 9 Barebone Workstation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i9-13900H | AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS | Intel Core Ultra 5 336H | Intel Core i5-12600H | AMD Ryzen 9 9950X | Intel Core Ultra 5 125H | Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX |
| Installed RAM | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Storage Capacity | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Memory Type | not stated | not stated | DDR5 7200 | DDR5-5200 | not stated | not stated | DDR5 |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | not stated | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | AMD Radeon Graphics | Intel Arc | Intel Graphics |
| Ethernet Ports | 2x 10Gbps SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45 | 2.5Gbps LAN | 2x 10G SFP+, 1x 10G RJ45, 1x 2.5G RJ45 | 2x 10G SFP+, 2x 2.5G | 2x 2.5G RJ45 | not stated | 2x 25G SFP+, 1x 10G, 1x 2.5G RJ45 |
| High-Speed Expansion | 2x USB4 | OCuLink, USB4 | Dual USB4, PCIe x16 | 2x USB4 | not stated | OCuLink, USB4 | USB4, USB4 V2 |
| Operating System | No OS (Barebone) | No OS (Barebone) | not stated | not stated | not stated | No OS (Barebone) | not stated |
| Networking | not stated | 2.5G LAN | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Form Factor | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Weight | 3.13 pounds | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | MS-01-S1390-Barebone | UM880 Plus 0+0 | MS-03-S336H-Barebone | MS01-12600H(0+0) | MSA1-9950X(0+0) | M1 Pro-125H-Barebone | MS02-285HX(0+0) |
| Color | Black | Silver | not stated | Black | Black | not stated | Black |
| Model | DeskMini | DeskMini | DeskMini | DeskMini | DeskMini | M1 Pro-125H | DeskMini |
If you need a larger enclosure for dedicated hardware, compare cooler master nr200p max v2 mini itx PC case alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the best networking for server virtualization?
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC is the top choice for high-speed networking and compact server virtualization. It delivers exceptional network throughput and processing power. Its PCIe expansion slot and multi-drive storage options make it a versatile foundation if you supply your own components.
What is the best budget-friendly barebone option with external GPU support?
The MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 Barebone Mini PC is the best budget pick for custom builds needing external graphics. It provides strong Zen 4 processing power and fast 64 Gbps OCuLink expansion. It is a practical foundation if you prefer supplying your own DDR5 memory, storage, and operating system.
Which model provides the highest speed networking for edge deployments?
The MINISFORUM Core Ultra 5 Workstation Barebone is ideal for high-speed networking and multi-drive edge deployments. It delivers fast 10G networking and PCIe 5.0 storage expandability for specialized workloads. It gives you workstation-level connectivity in a compact desktop chassis.
Is there a Core i5 barebone option for home labs?
Yes, the MINISFORUM Intel Core i5 Workstation Mini PC is best for high-speed home labs and network storage setups. It delivers enterprise-level network speeds and flexible drive expansion in a compact format. It provides a versatile foundation if you prefer supplying your own DDR5 memory and storage.
Which barebone PC supports the Ryzen 9 processor?
The MINISFORUM Ryzen 9 9950X Barebone Mini PC is the best Ryzen 9 option. It is designed for users who need high-end AMD processing power in a barebone form factor. It allows you to build a powerful system by adding your own memory and storage components.
Which alternative includes Wi-Fi 7 and OCuLink for modular builds?
The MINISFORUM M1 Pro Core Ultra 5 Mini PC is also great for custom builds needing external GPU expansion. It provides modern processing power and versatile expansion ports. Its inclusion of OCuLink and Wi-Fi 7 makes it a capable modular workstation base for memory and storage setups.
What is the top-tier Core Ultra 9 barebone option?
The MINISFORUM Core Ultra 9 Barebone Workstation is an excellent also-great choice for high-performance needs. It is designed for users who require maximum processing power in a compact form. It serves as a solid foundation for building a high-end workstation with your own components.