MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC or MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone? Which MINISFORUM Model to Buy
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This minisforum um870 slim mini PC vs mini PC ms 01 s1390 barebone comparison helps you choose between two distinct MINISFORUM models. Both units support DDR5 memory and offer robust processing power for demanding tasks. The main difference lies in their configuration and connectivity. The UM870 Slim arrives as a complete system with installed components, while the MS-01 is a barebone chassis. You must add your own RAM and storage to the MS-01. This guide breaks down their specifications to help you decide which fits your needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC | MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 8745H | Intel Core i9-13900H |
| Configuration | Complete system with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD | Barebone chassis (no RAM or storage included) |
| Networking | 1x 2.5Gbps LAN, Wi-Fi 6E | 2x 10Gbps SFP+, 2x 2.5Gbps RJ45 |
| Storage Expansion | 2x M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 slots | 1x U.2 NVMe + 2x M.2 22110 NVMe slots |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
Which one should you choose?
Choose MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC if
- You want a ready-to-use mini PC with RAM and storage already installed.
- You need Wi-Fi 6E and standard 2.5Gbps wired connectivity.
- You prefer AMD Radeon graphics for general multitasking and media.
Choose MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC if
- You require 10Gbps fiber connectivity for high-speed network transfers.
- You want to customize your RAM and storage configurations yourself.
- You need enterprise features like Intel vPRO for hardware-level security.
Verdict: The UM870 Slim is the better choice for users who want a complete, plug-and-play solution with balanced performance. The MS-01 suits professionals who need specialized 10G networking and want to build their own storage and memory setup. Your decision depends on whether you value immediate usability or custom high-end connectivity.
UM870 Slim vs MS-01 i9 Comparison
Processor performance
The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC uses the AMD Ryzen 7 8745H. This eight-core, sixteen-thread chip reaches up to 4.9GHz. It offers a 16MB L3 cache and supports a 65W thermal design power. The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC features the Intel Core i9-13900H. This fourteen-core, twenty-thread processor reaches up to 5.4GHz with a 24MB cache. The i9 has more cores and threads, providing higher raw computational power. The Ryzen 7 is efficient for standard multitasking. The Core i9 is better for heavy workloads requiring maximum processing speed.
Integrated graphics
Graphics performance differs significantly between these two units. The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC includes the AMD Radeon 780M. This GPU has twelve cores and runs at 2600MHz. It is based on the RDNA3 architecture and performs similarly to a GTX 1650 discrete card. The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC uses Intel Iris Xe Graphics. Its maximum frequency is 1.5GHz. The Radeon 780M is much stronger for gaming and creative tasks. The Iris Xe is suitable for basic display output and light media work. You need better graphics for demanding visual applications.
Memory configuration
Both systems support DDR5 memory with expansion up to 96GB. The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC comes with 32GB of installed RAM. It uses two SO-DIMM slots for easy upgrades. The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC is sold without RAM. You must purchase memory separately to use it. The MS-01 supports dual-channel DDR5. While both platforms handle high-speed memory, the UM870 Slim is ready to use immediately. The MS-01 requires you to install your own modules. The included memory in the Slim model provides an immediate advantage.
Storage expansion
Storage options vary between the two models. The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC includes a 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD. It has two slots that support up to 2TB each. The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC has no installed storage. It supports three M.2 NVMe drives. Two slots accept 22110 form factors, and one supports a U.2 NVMe SSD. This allows for a massive 24TB total capacity. The MS-01 offers superior flexibility for enterprise or heavy data storage needs. The Slim model is sufficient for most standard users.
Networking capabilities
Connectivity is a major differentiator for these machines. The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC has one 2.5Gbps LAN port. It also includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC features two 10Gbps SFP+ ports and two 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports. The SFP+ ports allow for fiber-optic connections and high-speed data transfer. This setup is ideal for server environments or high-bandwidth networks. The Slim model is better for general home or office use with wireless options. The MS-01 wins for professional network requirements.
Choose the Right MINISFORUM Mini PC
Users needing a complete ready-to-use system
The UM870 Slim arrives with 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD already installed. You get immediate functionality without buying separate components. The AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor and Radeon 780M graphics handle daily multitasking and moderate workloads smoothly. This all-in-one package is ideal if you want a plug-and-play desktop solution.
Professionals requiring high-speed network connectivity
The MS-01 features two 10Gbps SFP+ ports and two 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports. This setup supports fiber-optic transmission and high-bandwidth data transfer, which is essential for enterprise environments. The Intel Core i9-13900H provides strong computational power for virtualization tasks supported by Intel vPRO technology. You get superior network flexibility for demanding infrastructure needs.
Users wanting to add a dedicated GPU
The MS-01 includes a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, allowing you to install a high-performance external graphics card. This expansion capability supports devices like the RTX A2000 Mobile for specialized rendering or gaming tasks. The barebone design lets you choose your own RAM and storage. This flexibility makes it the better choice if you plan to upgrade the graphics hardware later.
The products compared
MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC
Best for: productivity and multitasking
- 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
This Mini PC uses the AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with 8 cores and 16 threads. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD. The system features Radeon 780M graphics and USB4 connectivity. You get triple display support and a 2.5Gbps LAN port. This setup handles multitasking and heavy computing tasks smoothly.
Pros
- AMD Ryzen 7 8745H processor with up to 4.9GHz boost
- 32GB DDR5 RAM expandable to 96GB
- Radeon 780M graphics for smooth multitasking
- USB4 port with 40 Gbps transfer speed
- Triple display output via HDMI 2.1, USB4, and DisplayPort 1.4
Cons
- Integrated graphics only, no discrete GPU
- No Wi-Fi 7 support, only Wi-Fi 6E
- 2.73 pounds weight is bulkier than some competitors
Good fit if
- You need strong CPU performance for multitasking
- You want high-speed USB4 connectivity
- You require triple display support
Skip if
- You need discrete graphics for gaming
- You require the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard
- You prefer a lighter, more compact form factor
Verdict: MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Ryzen 7 8745H fits users who need powerful CPU performance and versatile display options for productivity tasks.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC
Best for: networking and storage expansion
- 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
View on Amazon: MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC Affiliate link
The MINISFORUM MS-01 S1390 is a barebone mini PC built around the Intel Core i9-13900H processor. It supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and offers extensive storage options with three M.2 NVMe slots. You get dual 10Gbps SFP+ Ethernet ports and two 2.5Gbps RJ45 ports for high-speed connectivity. This unit includes vPRO enterprise support and a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for expansion. It is designed for users who need powerful hardware and robust networking capabilities.
Pros
- Intel Core i9-13900H processor with up to 5.4GHz boost
- Dual 10Gbps SFP+ Ethernet ports for high-speed network connectivity
- Supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM
- Three M.2 NVMe SSD slots with RAID support
- PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for external GPU or expansion cards
Cons
- Sold as a barebone system requiring separate RAM and storage purchase
- Relies on integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics without a dedicated GPU
- Weight of 3.13 pounds is heavier than typical compact mini PCs
Good fit if
- You need 10Gbps networking for server or lab environments
- You want to build a custom high-performance workstation
- You require vPRO enterprise management features
Skip if
- You prefer a plug-and-play system with pre-installed OS and RAM
- You need dedicated graphics for heavy gaming
- You prioritize the smallest possible form factor and lightest weight
Verdict: MINISFORUM MS-01 S1390 Barebone is a specialized tool for users who demand enterprise-grade networking and expandable storage in a compact chassis. It suits professionals building custom high-performance systems rather than those seeking a ready-to-use desktop.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC | MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 Barebone PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 8745H | Intel Core i9-13900H |
| Installed RAM | 32GB | Barebone |
| Storage Capacity | 1TB SSD | Barebone |
| Memory Type | DDR5 | not stated |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Ethernet Ports | 1x 2.5Gbps LAN | 2x 10Gbps SFP+, 2x 2.5G RJ45 |
| High-Speed Expansion | USB4 | 2x USB4 |
| Operating System | not stated | No OS (Barebone) |
| Memory | 32GB RAM | not stated |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | not stated |
| Networking | 2.5G LAN, WiFi 6E | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | Barebone |
| Weight | 2.73 pounds | 3.13 pounds |
| Size | UM870 Slim 32+1T | MS-01-S1390-Barebone |
| Color | Silver | Black |
| Model | DeskMini | DeskMini |
Frequently asked questions
Does the MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC come with RAM and storage installed?
Yes, this unit arrives fully configured for immediate use. It includes 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. You do not need to purchase separate components to start working. This makes it a complete solution for users who want a ready-to-use desktop without assembly.
Is the MINISFORUM MS-01 Core i9 a complete computer or a barebone kit?
The MS-01 is a barebone system. It does not include a processor, memory, or storage drive. You must install these components yourself before the unit can function. This design suits professionals who want to customize their hardware specifications rather than buying a pre-built machine.
Which model offers better connectivity for high-speed networking?
The MINISFORUM MS-01 is built for enterprise-grade networking needs. It is designed for users who demand robust connectivity options in a compact chassis. While the Slim model includes WiFi 6E and 2.5G LAN, the MS-01 targets professionals building custom systems that require specialized network capabilities.
How much weight does each MINISFORUM model add to my desk?
The MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC weighs 2.73 pounds. The MS-01 Core i9 Barebone is slightly heavier at 3.13 pounds. Both units are compact enough to fit under a monitor or in a small workspace. The weight difference is minimal and does not affect portability significantly.
What is the main difference in storage options between these two units?
The Slim model includes a 1TB SSD pre-installed, providing immediate storage capacity. The MS-01 barebone requires you to add your own storage. This allows you to choose the specific type and size of drive that fits your workflow, offering greater flexibility for data management.
Which MINISFORUM model is better for multitasking and productivity?
The Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC is ideal for productivity and multitasking. It features an eight-core Ryzen 7 8745H processor with 32GB of RAM. This configuration handles demanding tasks efficiently without requiring manual hardware upgrades. It is a complete package for users who need immediate performance.
Can I upgrade the components in the MINISFORUM Slim Ryzen 7 Mini PC?
The Slim model comes with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD already installed. While it supports DDR5 memory, you must check the specific motherboard limitations before upgrading. The barebone MS-01 is designed for full customization, allowing you to choose your own CPU, RAM, and storage from the start.