6 Best Alternatives to the MINISFORUM Mini PC Venus UM790 (2026)
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Looking for minisforum mini PC venus um790 alternatives? The original Venus UM790 Pro delivers strong eight-core performance with DDR5 memory and dual USB4 ports. It supports quad-display setups and features a liquid metal cooling system. This makes it a solid choice for users needing high-speed connectivity and multitasking power in a compact chassis.
However, you might prefer a different option. Some buyers want Intel processors instead of AMD. Others may need distinct networking features like dual 10G ports or specific external GPU connectivity via OCuLink. The list below includes 6 options that share key specifications with the UM790. These alternatives overlap in areas like RAM capacity, storage speed, and wireless standards. They offer similar compact footprints while varying in processor architecture or port selection. This allows you to find a model that better fits your specific display or networking requirements.
Our top pick: MINISFORUM Venus Ryzen 9 Mini PC.
How alternatives compare to UM790
ACEMAGIC Core i9 Mini PC
The ACEMAGIC M5 swaps the AMD Ryzen 9 for an Intel Core i9 13900HX. You get similar 32GB RAM and 1TB storage, but the memory architecture differs. This model prioritizes raw multi-core throughput over the UM790’s specific GPU efficiency. It keeps WiFi 6E and adds 2.5G LAN for robust networking. If your workflow demands maximum CPU cycles for heavy multitasking or 4K content creation, this Intel-based alternative offers a different performance profile. It lacks the UM790’s specific USB4 versatility but compensates with strong processing power for creative workloads.
MINISFORUM UM880 Plus Ryzen 7 Mini PC
The MINISFORUM UM880 Plus uses a Ryzen 7 8845HS processor, which is slightly less powerful than the UM790’s Ryzen 9 7940HS. It retains 32GB RAM and 1TB storage with WiFi 6E. The key difference is the OCuLink port, offering a flexible path for external GPU expansion that the UM790 does not highlight. It supports triple displays instead of quad. This model is ideal if you need high-speed external graphics connectivity and a compact form factor, accepting a slight step down in internal CPU cores for greater peripheral versatility.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation
The MINISFORUM MS-01 shifts focus entirely from desktop performance to networking and server duties. It uses an Intel Core i5 12600H with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage. The standout feature is dual 10G SFP+ ports, far exceeding the UM790’s single 2.5G Ethernet. It also includes an internal PCIe expansion slot. This device is not for gaming or creative work but is superior for homelabs, data-intensive tasks, and multi-gigabit network setups. You trade high-end CPU and GPU power for exceptional connectivity and server-grade expandability.
GMKtec Ryzen 7 8845HS Mini PC
The GMKtec K8 PLUS features a Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 1TB storage. It matches the UM790’s networking with WiFi 6E but adds dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports. The inclusion of OCuLink connectivity supports external GPU setups, similar to the UM880 Plus. It is lighter at 12.6 ounces. This alternative offers solid processing power and versatile networking for multitasking. You give up the Ryzen 9’s extra cores but gain dual 2.5G ports and OCuLink support, making it a versatile compact workstation for users needing future eGPU expansion.
MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC
The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC uses an 8-core Ryzen 7 processor with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage. It supports triple displays rather than the UM790’s quad-display capability. However, it offers memory expandability up to 96GB, which exceeds the UM790’s 64GB limit. It includes 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E. This model is a strong alternative for users who need higher maximum RAM capacity and a slimmer profile. You trade one display output and peak CPU speed for greater memory headroom and a compact design suitable for tight spaces.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
MINISFORUM Venus Ryzen 9 Mini PC
Best for: multitasking across multiple high-resolution displays
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS
- Installed RAM
- 32 GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR5 5600MHz
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon 780M
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x RJ45 2.5G
This compact desktop features an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor with 8 cores and 16 threads, paired with AMD Radeon 780M integrated graphics. You get 32GB of DDR5 memory, a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, dual 40Gbps USB4 ports, and two HDMI 2.1 outputs. It suits you if you need workstation-grade processing power, support for up to four 4K displays, and dual M.2 storage slots in a compact desktop format.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor with 8 cores and up to 5.2 GHz
- Two 40Gbps USB4 ports supporting power delivery and video output
- Two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots with RAID0 and RAID1 support
- DDR5 5600MHz dual-channel memory expandable up to 64GB
Cons
- Only one RJ45 2.5G Ethernet port
- Relies on integrated graphics rather than a discrete GPU
- Requires an external 19V power adapter
Good fit if
- You need up to four simultaneous 4K display outputs using HDMI and USB4.
- You want fast DDR5 memory and expandable dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 storage.
- You require high-clock multi-threaded processing inside a small chassis.
Skip if
- You require a discrete graphics card for heavy 3D rendering workloads.
- You need dual wired Ethernet ports for advanced network routing.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Venus Ryzen 9 Mini PC delivers fast 8-core computing and quad-display capability through dual USB4 and HDMI ports. It offers reliable expandability with dual PCIe 4.0 slots and DDR5 memory in a compact desktop chassis.
MINISFORUM Venus UM790 Pro Ryzen 9 Mini PC
Best for: quad-display setups needing high-speed USB4 connectivity
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS
- Installed RAM
- 32GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR5 5600MHz
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon 780M
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x 2.5G
This compact desktop features an AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor paired with 32GB of DDR5 memory and a 1TB solid-state drive. It gives you dual 40Gbps USB4 ports and two HDMI 2.1 outputs to drive up to four 4K screens simultaneously. Built-in 2.5G Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E handle fast network traffic. It suits you if you need multi-core performance and extensive monitor support in a small metal chassis.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS 8-core processor with Radeon 780M graphics
- Two 40Gbps USB4 ports supporting Power Delivery input and output
- Dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 storage slots with RAID0 and RAID1 support
- Four-display output capability via dual HDMI 2.1 and dual USB4
Cons
- Single 2.5G Ethernet port limits dual-LAN networking setups
- Maximum memory capacity is limited to 64GB
Good fit if
- You need to drive up to four 4K displays at once.
- You want high-speed external peripheral support via dual USB4 ports.
- You require an 8-core processor cooled by a liquid metal system.
Skip if
- You require more than 64GB of total system RAM.
- You need dual Ethernet jacks for advanced networking configurations.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Venus Ryzen 9 Mini PC delivers strong eight-core processing, dual USB4 connectivity, and quad-display support in a compact footprint. It provides reliable throughput for multitasking setups that do not exceed 64GB of memory.
ACEMAGIC Core i9 Mini PC
Best for: heavy multitasking and 4K content creation
- Processor
- Intel Core i9-13900HX
- Installed RAM
- 32GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Ethernet Ports
- 2.5GbE LAN
- High-Speed Expansion
- USB4
The ACEMAGIC M5 packs an Intel Core i9-13900HX into a compact chassis. You get 32GB of DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. This setup handles heavy multitasking and 4K video editing. It includes USB4 for fast data transfers and WiFi 6E for stable networking. Windows 11 Pro comes preinstalled. It suits creators who need desktop-level power in a small form factor.
Pros
- Intel Core i9-13900HX with up to 5.4GHz turbo
- 32GB DDR4 RAM expandable to 64GB
- 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
- USB4 port with 40Gbps transfer speeds
- Windows 11 Pro preinstalled
Cons
- Uses older DDR4 memory instead of DDR5
- No Thunderbolt certification listed for USB4
- Dual-fan cooling may generate noise under load
Good fit if
- You need high core counts for video rendering
- You want fast USB4 connectivity for peripherals
- You prefer Windows 11 Pro for work
Skip if
- You require DDR5 memory for maximum bandwidth
- You need Thunderbolt 4 certification for docks
- You want a fanless silent design
Verdict: ACEMAGIC M5 Intel Core i9 Mini PC delivers strong multi-core performance for creative workloads. It fits users who prioritize raw processing power and expandable storage over the latest memory standards.
MINISFORUM UM880 Plus Ryzen 7 Mini PC
Best for: multimonitor productivity and external GPU setups
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS
- Installed RAM
- 32GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR5-5600
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon 780M
- High-Speed Expansion
- OCuLink, USB4
This compact desktop features an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor paired with AMD Radeon 780M graphics. You get 32GB of DDR5-5600 memory, a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and an extra M.2 slot for storage growth. It includes dedicated OCuLink and USB4 ports for high-speed peripherals or external graphics cards. It suits you if you need strong daily compute power, multimonitor multitasking across three screens, and external GPU expandability.
Pros
- Dedicated OCuLink port delivers high-speed bandwidth for external graphics cards
- Triple video output via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB4
- Expandable memory up to 96GB DDR5 and dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 storage slots
- 8-core AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor reaches boost speeds up to 5.1 GHz
Cons
- OCuLink port does not support hot plugging
- Weighs 3.11 pounds, making it heavier than typical ultra-compact units
Good fit if
- You want an OCuLink connection to attach an external graphics card.
- You plan to run up to three monitors simultaneously via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB4.
- You need internal expandability for up to 96GB RAM and two PCIe 4.0 SSDs.
Skip if
- You require hot-plug support when connecting external PCIe hardware.
- You need a lightweight machine weighing under three pounds for portability.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Ryzen 7 8845HS Mini PC delivers balanced processing power, triple-display capability, and high-speed OCuLink connectivity in a compact form factor. It provides flexible memory and storage expandability without taking up standard desktop space.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation
Best for: high-speed homelabs and multi-gigabit network setups
- Processor
- Intel Core i5-12600H
- Installed RAM
- 32GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- Graphics
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 2x 10G SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45
The MINISFORUM MS-01 is a compact workstation built around an Intel Core i5-12600H processor, 32GB of DDR5 memory, and a 1TB SSD. Unlike typical compact desktops, it features dual 10G SFP+ ports, dual 2.5G Ethernet, and an internal PCIe expansion slot. You get massive network throughput and flexible storage options, making this system ideal if you need a high-speed home server, lab node, or multi-drive workstation.
Pros
- Dual 10G SFP+ and dual 2.5G RJ45 network ports
- Internal PCIe 4.0 expansion slot for add-in cards
- Three M.2 storage slots with U.2 and RAID support
- Dual USB4 ports supporting up to 8K video output
Cons
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics offers modest 3D performance
- HDMI output uses the older 2.0 standard limited to 4K at 60Hz
- Larger chassis footprint than standard palm-sized mini PCs
Good fit if
- You need ultra-fast 10G SFP+ networking for high-speed file transfers.
- You plan to install enterprise U.2 storage drives or PCIe expansion cards.
- You run homelabs, network routing, or heavy virtualization tasks.
Skip if
- You want powerful integrated graphics for heavy gaming workloads.
- You need the smallest possible footprint on a crowded desk.
- You require native HDMI 2.1 video output.
Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-01 Intel i5 Workstation delivers exceptional networking and storage versatility thanks to dual 10G SFP+ ports and an internal PCIe expansion slot. It is a solid choice for server, lab, and data-intensive duties.
GMKtec Ryzen 7 8845HS Mini PC
Best for: Oculink connectivity and dual 2.5Gbps networking
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS
- Installed RAM
- 32GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB
- Memory Type
- DDR5 5600MHz
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon 780M
- Ethernet Ports
- Dual 2.5Gbps
This compact desktop runs an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor paired with 32GB of DDR5 memory and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. It features an integrated NPU, dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, and a dedicated Oculink connector for high-speed external GPU or storage setups. Quad-display output through USB4, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 2.1 suits you if you need a flexible workstation or compact desktop for multitasking and expansion.
Pros
- Dedicated Oculink interface for external GPU or storage expansion
- Dual Intel 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports for flexible wired networking
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor with integrated NPU
- Supports up to four displays via USB4, DisplayPort 2.1, and HDMI 2.1
- DDR5 memory expandable up to 128GB
Cons
- Relies on integrated Radeon 780M graphics without an external GPU setup
- Equipped with WiFi 6 rather than newer wireless standards
Good fit if
- You need an Oculink connection for an external graphics dock or fast storage.
- You require dual 2.5Gbps LAN ports for high-bandwidth wired networking.
- You plan to connect up to four high-resolution monitors.
Skip if
- You want an internal dedicated desktop graphics card.
- You require built-in WiFi 6E or WiFi 7 connectivity.
Verdict: GMKtec Ryzen 7 8845HS Mini PC delivers solid processing power alongside Oculink connectivity and dual 2.5Gbps networking. It serves as a versatile compact workstation for multitasking setups that may require future external GPU expansion.
MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC
Best for: multitasking across multiple high-resolution displays
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745H
- Installed RAM
- 32GB
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB SSD
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- Graphics
- AMD Radeon 780M
- Ethernet Ports
- 1x 2.5Gbps LAN
This compact desktop features an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. Integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics handle daily workloads and multi-display setups via HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB4. It supports memory expansion up to 96GB and storage upgrades up to 4TB. You will find it well suited if you need reliable octa-core processing, triple-monitor support, and 2.5Gbps networking in a 2.73-pound chassis.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with 8 cores, 16 threads, and up to 4.9GHz
- 32GB DDR5 RAM expandable up to 96GB via two SO-DIMM slots
- Dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots supporting up to 4TB total storage
- Triple display output supporting up to 8K via HDMI 2.1 and USB4
- 40Gbps USB4 port with 65W to 100W Power Delivery input support
Cons
- Includes two legacy USB 2.0 ports alongside USB 3.2 connections
- Provides a single 2.5Gbps LAN port rather than dual Ethernet interfaces
Good fit if
- You want an 8-core AMD processor with integrated Radeon 780M graphics.
- You require triple-display output up to 8K resolution across USB4, HDMI, and DisplayPort.
- You plan to expand memory up to 96GB DDR5 or internal storage up to 4TB.
Skip if
- You need dual Ethernet ports for specialized local networking setups.
- You prefer all USB ports to support high-speed USB 3.2 or USB4 transfers.
Verdict: MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC delivers strong 8-core performance, rich triple-display video outputs, and generous memory expandability up to 96GB. It serves as a versatile alternative for multitasking without requiring a bulky enclosure.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MINISFORUM Venus Ryzen 9 Mini PC | MINISFORUM Venus UM790 Pro Ryzen 9 Mini PC | ACEMAGIC Core i9 Mini PC | MINISFORUM UM880 Plus Ryzen 7 Mini PC | MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation | GMKtec Ryzen 7 8845HS Mini PC | MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS | AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS | Intel Core i9-13900HX | AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS | Intel Core i5-12600H | AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS | AMD Ryzen 7 8745H |
| Installed RAM | 32 GB | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB |
| Storage Capacity | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB | 1TB SSD |
| Memory Type | DDR5 5600MHz | DDR5 5600MHz | DDR4 | DDR5-5600 | DDR5 | DDR5 5600MHz | DDR5 |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | AMD Radeon 780M | not specified | AMD Radeon 780M | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | AMD Radeon 780M |
| Ethernet Ports | 1x RJ45 2.5G | 1x 2.5G | 2.5GbE LAN | not specified | 2x 10G SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45 | Dual 2.5Gbps | 1x 2.5Gbps LAN |
| High-Speed Expansion | 2x USB4 | 2x USB4 | USB4 | OCuLink, USB4 | 2x USB4 | USB4, OCuLink | USB4 |
| Operating System | not specified | not specified | Windows 11 Pro | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Memory | 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD |
| Networking | WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E | 2.5G LAN, WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E | not specified | 2.5G LAN, WiFi 6E |
| Dimensions | not specified | not specified | not specified | 5.12 × 4.96 × 1.97 inches | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Weight | not specified | not specified | not specified | 3.11 pounds | not specified | 12.6 ounces | 2.73 pounds |
| Size | UM790 Pro-32GB/1TB | UM790 Pro-32GB/1TB | Intel Core i9 13900HX 32+1TB | UM880 Plus(32+1TB) | i5-12600H | 32+1T | R7 8845HS 32GB DDR5 + 1TB | UM870 Slim 32+1T |
| Color | multi-color | Black | not specified | not specified | Black | Black(K8 PLUS) | Silver |
| Model | UM790 Pro | DeskMini | M5 | UM870 Slim | DeskMini | K8 PLUS | DeskMini |
If you want standard PCIe expansion cards and larger coolers, compare specifications for the best mini tower PC cases.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the best connectivity for external GPUs?
The MINISFORUM UM880 Plus and GMKtec Ryzen 7 8845HS both feature OCuLink or Oculink ports. These high-speed interfaces allow you to connect external graphics cards with minimal latency. This setup is ideal if you need desktop-level gaming performance in a small form factor without the bulk of a traditional tower.
What is the best option for heavy multitasking and content creation?
The ACEMAGIC M5 stands out with its Intel Core i9 13900HX processor. It pairs this strong CPU with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. This configuration prioritizes raw multi-core throughput, making it well-suited for video editing, 3D rendering, and other demanding creative workflows that require significant processing power.
Are there alternatives with dual 2.5Gbps networking capabilities?
Yes, the GMKtec K8 PLUS includes dual 2.5Gbps networking ports. This allows for faster local file transfers and improved network redundancy. It is particularly useful for homelabs, media servers, or users who need to handle large data sets across a high-speed local area network efficiently.
Which Mini PC supports the highest amount of RAM expansion?
The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC supports memory expansion up to 96GB. This generous limit allows you to run multiple virtual machines or heavy multitasking workloads without running out of resources. It is a key advantage for professionals who need maximum flexibility for memory-intensive applications.
Is there a Mini PC with specialized networking for servers?
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Intel i5 Workstation features dual 10G SFP+ ports. This specialized networking hardware is designed for high-throughput data environments. It is an excellent choice for homelabs, server duties, and data-intensive tasks that require faster than standard gigabit network connections.
Which alternatives support quad-display setups?
The MINISFORUM Venus Ryzen 9 Mini PC and the UM790 Pro both support quad-display outputs. They achieve this through dual USB4 and HDMI ports. This capability allows you to connect four monitors simultaneously, which is beneficial for productivity workflows requiring extensive screen real estate.
What is the most compact option in this list?
The GMKtec K8 PLUS weighs only 12.6 ounces. Its lightweight design makes it one of the most portable options available. You can easily carry it in a bag or mount it behind a monitor. This makes it ideal for users who value space-saving and mobility in their setup.