Minisforum, known for its range of mini PCs, has introduced an affordable ARM-based mini workstation named the MS-R1. This device features UEFI boot support, enabling seamless operation of Linux distributions without the need for custom firmware or bootloaders.
Targeted towards local inference tasks, Docker-based Android VM containers, and edge computing, the MS-R1 can also serve as a general-purpose ARM desktop PC, though there may be cheaper alternatives available.
The MS-R1 operates on a customized version of Debian 12, with the possibility for other Linux distributions to be installed, although they may require adjustments, specific drivers, or newer kernel modules.
Specs of the Minisforum MS-R1
- CPU: CP8180 ARM CPU (12 core, 12 thread at 2.6 GHz base; 3.2 GHz peak)
- GPU: Immortalis G720 MC10 (+ PCIe x16 slot)
- NPU: 28.8 TOPS performance, full compute power of 45 TOPS
- RAM: 32GB LPDDR5 (expandable to 64GB)
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD (+ PCIe 4.0 x4 slot)
- Ports:
- 2x 10GbE Ethernet
- 2x USB Type-C
- 7x USB Type-A
- HDMI 2.0
- 3.5mm audio
- Other Features: 40 Pin GPIO, UART1 & UART2 pins, eDP
- Price: Starting from ~$504
The MS-R1 is powered by the CP8180 chip from Cixin Technology, which is characterized as an AI-centric consumer processor. This Armv9.2-A chip includes eight performance cores and four efficiency cores, clocking at a base of 2.6 GHz and peaking at approximately 3.2 GHz.
The workstation’s graphics are handled by a 5th generation ARM Immortalis G720 MC10 CPU that includes support for hardware-based ray tracing. A full PCIe x16 slot allows for additional hardware upgrades.
The Minisforum MS-R1 supports up to 64GB of LPDDR5 RAM and includes ECC support, while the storage can be expanded through a PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slot with an existing capacity of 1TB NVMe SSD.
Networking features include dual 10GbE Ethernet ports, built-in Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 through a removable M.2 2230 card. An HDMI 2.0 port capable of 4K@60Hz and two Type-C ports supporting 100W power delivery round out its connectivity offerings.
With a modest power draw estimated at 28W TDP, the cooling system employs advanced technologies including triple copper heat pipes and a turbine fan.
The Minisforum MS-R1 is available for purchase from the official store, with configurations starting at $503.90 for a model without SSD and 32GB RAM, up to $695.90 for the fully loaded version with 64GB RAM and a 1TB SSD. Discounts are also available for new subscribers of their mailing list. Be mindful of additional shipping or import taxes based on your location when ordering.