MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC vs MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation: Spec Comparison
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This minisforum um870 slim mini PC vs intel core i5 12600h processor mini comparison helps you decide between two distinct MINISFORUM designs. Both units offer 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD for solid daily performance. The main difference lies in their target use cases. The UM870 Slim focuses on a compact form factor with strong integrated graphics for media and multitasking. The MS-01 Workstation prioritizes enterprise connectivity and expansion capabilities for demanding professional workflows.
Key differences
| Aspect | MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC | MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 8745H (8C/16T, up to 4.9GHz) | Intel Core i5-12600H (12C/16T, up to 4.5GHz) |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M (RDNA3, 12 core) | Intel Iris Xe Graphics (1.4 GHz) |
| Networking | 1x 2.5Gbps LAN, Wi-Fi 6E | 2x 10G SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Display Outputs | HDMI 2.1, USB4, DisplayPort 1.4 | HDMI 2.0, 2x USB4 |
| Expansion Slots | 2x M.2 2280 SSD slots | PCIe x16 slot, U.2 SSD support, 3x M.2 slots |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC if
- You need stronger integrated graphics for light gaming or video editing.
- You prefer a compact, lightweight desktop for limited desk space.
- You want a DisplayPort output for high-refresh-rate monitors.
Choose MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation if
- You require 10Gbps network connectivity for server or NAS connections.
- You plan to install a discrete graphics card via the PCIe slot.
- You need enterprise-grade storage options like U.2 SSDs.
Verdict: The UM870 Slim is the better choice for users seeking a compact machine with capable integrated graphics for multimedia tasks. The MS-01 Workstation suits professionals who need robust networking speeds and the ability to expand with discrete GPUs or enterprise storage. Your decision should depend on whether you prioritize portability or expansion capabilities.
UM870 Slim vs MS-01 Spec Breakdown
processor performance
The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC uses the AMD Ryzen 7 8745H, featuring eight cores and sixteen threads with a boost up to 4.9GHz. It supports a thermal design power of up to 65W for sustained performance. In contrast, the MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation relies on the Intel Core i5-12600H. This processor offers twelve cores and sixteen threads using a hybrid architecture, with speeds reaching 4.5GHz. The Ryzen chip provides a higher peak frequency, while the Intel option delivers more total cores for multi-threaded workloads.
integrated graphics
Graphics capability differs significantly between these two units. The Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC is equipped with the AMD Radeon 780M, which features twelve cores running at 2600MHz based on the RDNA3 architecture. This GPU offers performance comparable to entry-level discrete cards like the GTX 1650. The MS-01 Core i5 Workstation uses Intel Iris Xe Graphics with a frequency of 1.4GHz. While the Iris Xe is capable for basic tasks, the Radeon 780M provides substantially higher graphical power for gaming or creative work.
networking capabilities
Connectivity options vary widely based on your network needs. The Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC includes one 2.5Gbps LAN port and Wi-Fi 6E with Bluetooth 5.3. The MS-01 Core i5 Workstation offers a much more robust wired setup. It features two 10G SFP+ ports supporting link aggregation and two 2.5G RJ45 ports. This configuration allows for ultra-fast connections to high-speed LANs or servers. If you require high-bandwidth wired networking, the workstation provides superior options compared to the standard port on the slim model.
display outputs
Both systems support triple displays, but the resolution and refresh rate capabilities differ. The Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC supports HDMI 2.1 for 8K at 60Hz, USB4 for 8K at 60Hz, and DisplayPort 1.4 for 4K at 120Hz. The MS-01 Core i5 Workstation provides one HDMI port for 4K at 60Hz and two USB4 ports for 8K at 30Hz or 4K at 144Hz. The Ryzen model offers higher refresh rates on its primary display output and supports 8K at a smoother 60Hz via HDMI, making it better for high-refresh monitors.
storage expansion
Storage flexibility is a key differentiator. The Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC has two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 slots, allowing expansion up to two 2TB drives. The MS-01 Core i5 Workstation offers greater versatility with two M.2 NVMe slots plus a standard PCIe 4.0 x16 slot. This allows you to install enterprise-grade U.2 SSDs or even add a discrete graphics card like the RTX 3050. The workstation supports RAID 0 and RAID 1 configurations across its drives, providing more options for data redundancy and capacity expansion than the slim desktop.
Which MINISFORUM model fits your needs
Users needing high-speed wired networking
The MS-01 includes two 10G SFP+ ports and two 2.5G RJ45 ports. This setup supports link aggregation for up to 65Gbps total transfer speed. You can connect to high-speed LANs, servers, or network storage devices directly. The UM870 Slim only offers one 2.5Gbps LAN port, which is slower for data-intensive workflows.
Creators requiring discrete GPU expansion
The MS-01 features a standard PCIex16 slot compatible with PCIe 4.0 x8. You can install a discrete graphics card, such as an RTX 3050, to boost performance for 3D rendering or video editing. The UM870 Slim lacks this expansion slot, relying solely on its integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics for all visual tasks.
Desk workers wanting portable connectivity
The UM870 Slim weighs 2.73 pounds and includes USB4 with 65-100W power delivery input. This allows you to power the device via a single cable while transferring data at 40 Gbps. The MS-01 is larger and does not mention power delivery capabilities in its specs, making the Slim easier to move between workspaces.
The products compared
MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC
Best for: multitasking and triple display setups
- 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
View on Amazon: MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC Affiliate link
The MINISFORUM UM870 Slim packs an AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor and Radeon 780M graphics into a compact chassis. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. This setup handles heavy multitasking and light gaming. You get triple display support via HDMI, USB4, and DisplayPort. It also features Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5Gbps LAN port for stable connectivity.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with up to 4.9GHz boost
- 32GB DDR5 RAM expandable to 96GB
- AMD Radeon 780M graphics based on RDNA3 architecture
- Triple display output with 8K support on HDMI and USB4
- USB4 port with 40 Gbps transfer speed
Cons
- Graphics performance is comparable to a GTX 1650, not high-end
- No mention of included operating system
- Weight of 2.73 pounds is slightly bulky for ultra-portable needs
Good fit if
- You need strong multi-core performance for multitasking
- You want to connect three monitors simultaneously
- You require fast wired networking with 2.5Gbps LAN
Skip if
- You need dedicated discrete graphics for heavy gaming
- You prefer an Intel Core processor platform
- You want a pre-installed Windows license included
Verdict: MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC offers robust CPU power and versatile display options for users who prioritize multitasking and connectivity over high-end gaming graphics.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation
Best for: networking and storage expansion
- 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
View on Amazon: MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation Affiliate link
The MINISFORUM MS-01 is a compact workstation powered by an Intel Core i5-12600H processor with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. It stands out for its extensive networking, featuring dual 10G SFP+ and dual 2.5G Ethernet ports. This setup supports link aggregation for high-speed data transfers. It is ideal for users who need robust wired connectivity and expandable storage for professional tasks.
Pros
- Intel Core i5-12600H processor with up to 4.5 GHz boost
- Dual 10G SFP+ and dual 2.5G RJ45 Ethernet ports
- 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
- PCIe 4.0 x8 slot for graphics card expansion
- Triple video output via HDMI and two USB4 ports
Cons
- Only includes one HDMI port for display connections
- No mention of built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- Graphics are limited to integrated Intel Iris Xe
Good fit if
- You require 10Gbps wired network speeds for NAS or servers
- You need to expand storage with enterprise U.2 SSDs
- You want to add a discrete graphics card later
Skip if
- You rely on wireless connectivity for peripherals
- You need more than one HDMI display output
- You want a dedicated high-end graphics card included
Verdict: The MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation fits users who prioritize heavy wired networking and internal expansion over wireless convenience or dedicated graphics.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC | MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 8745H | Intel Core i5-12600H |
| Installed RAM | 32GB | 32GB |
| Storage Capacity | 1TB SSD | 1TB |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | DDR5 |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Ethernet Ports | 1x 2.5Gbps LAN | 2x 10G SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45 |
| High-Speed Expansion | USB4 | 2x USB4 |
| Memory | 32GB RAM | 32GB RAM |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD |
| Networking | 2.5G LAN, WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E |
| Weight | 2.73 pounds | not stated |
| Size | UM870 Slim 32+1T | i5-12600H | 32+1T |
| Color | Silver | Black |
| Model | DeskMini | DeskMini |
Frequently asked questions
Which mini PC has better networking capabilities?
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation is built for heavy wired networking. It features two 10G SFP+ ports and two 2.5G RJ45 ports. This allows for link aggregation up to 65Gbps. The UM870 Slim offers standard 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E, which is sufficient for typical home use but lacks the specialized enterprise ports of the MS-01.
Can both systems run three displays simultaneously?
Yes, both models support triple display setups. The UM870 Slim is explicitly noted for its versatile display options, making it ideal for multitasking. The MS-01 also supports multiple monitors, though its primary strength lies in storage expansion and networking. You can connect multiple screens to either unit for productivity workflows.
What is the difference in processor architecture?
The UM870 Slim uses an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, while the MS-01 uses an Intel Core i5. Both provide robust performance for daily tasks. The Ryzen 7 offers eight cores and sixteen threads with boosts up to 4.9GHz. The Intel Core i5 12600H provides strong single-core and multi-core performance for workstation duties.
Do both units include the same amount of RAM?
Yes, both mini PCs come equipped with 32GB of DDR5 RAM. This shared memory capacity ensures smooth multitasking and efficient handling of demanding applications on both systems. You will not need to upgrade memory immediately after purchase for either model, as 32GB is sufficient for most professional and personal workloads.
Which model is better for storage expansion?
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i5 Workstation is designed for internal expansion. It prioritizes heavy wired networking and internal storage upgrades over wireless convenience. The UM870 Slim focuses more on connectivity and display versatility. If you plan to add internal drives or modify the storage configuration, the MS-01 offers a more suitable platform.
Is one unit lighter than the other?
The UM870 Slim weighs 2.73 pounds. The MS-01 does not list a specific weight in its specifications. Both are compact DeskMini form factors. The UM870 Slim is available in silver, while the MS-01 comes in black. Portability is likely similar, but the UM870 Slim provides the explicit weight data for comparison.
Which system offers WiFi 6E?
Both the MINISFORUM UM870 Slim and the MS-01 Core i5 Workstation support WiFi 6E. This ensures fast wireless connectivity and reduced interference on both models. You can rely on high-speed wireless connections for internet access, file transfers, and streaming on either device, regardless of whether you choose the AMD or Intel version.
What is the primary use case for each?
The UM870 Slim is best for multitasking and triple display setups. It suits users who prioritize connectivity and screen real estate. The MS-01 is ideal for networking and storage expansion. It fits users who need heavy wired connections and internal upgrades. Choose the UM870 for visual workflows and the MS-01 for network-intensive tasks.