The MS-R1 is a compact but powerful mini workstation built by MINISFORUM. It stands out because it uses an ARM-based CPU (the CIX CP8180) instead of the usual x86 chips. The CP8180 offers 12 cores / 12 threads at 2.6 GHz with a 28 W TDP and includes an NPU with 28.8 TOPS to bring AI/ML workloads into the mix.
What’s cool is that the MS-R1 supports real PC-style booting via UEFI (not just a dev board), so you can install Linux, run VMs, containers or use it for virtualisation straight away. It’s aimed at labs, edge AI, researchers or folks who want a powerful build in a small case.
On expansion and connectivity, this machine is impressive. You get dual 10 GbE LAN ports (RTL8127) plus WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for fast network access. There’s also a full-size PCIe x16 slot (electrical x8) so you can plug in a GPU, an extra NIC or storage drives via U.2/NVMe, which makes it expandable beyond what many mini PCs offer.
Memory and storage specs are strong: it supports up to 64 GB LPDDR5 (with ECC support) and storage via dual M.2 slots (one supports M.2 2280/22110 up to 8 TB), so you’ve got breathing room for serious work. The physical size is very small (just 1.7 L chassis), yet the cooling system is designed for silence and efficiency (28 W TDP, under ~35 dB noise).
Previously, we have covered similar products, including the GIGABYTE AI TOP ATOM, the Avalue EPC-ASL, the Shuttle SPCNV03, and many more. Feel free to check those out for your reference.
At the time of writing, the MINISFORUM MS-R1 mini workstation is priced at $503.90 for the base model and around $695.90 for the top configuration. It’s already available globally through the official store, though the final cost varies by region due to shipping and import duties. Stock may fluctuate since it’s a new release.
Niladri Chowdhury