Minisforum has recently released the M1-1295, a compact mini-PC powered by the Intel Core i9-12950HX processor, marking a notable entry in the company’s lineup of high-performance desktop alternatives. This 16-core, 24-thread CPU from the Alder Lake family delivers robust performance suitable for demanding tasks, though benchmarks indicate it matches the CPU capabilities of AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370-based systems while lagging behind the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 in overall efficiency. The device supports up to 64 GB of DDR4-3200 RAM, with the current preconfigured model shipping with 32 GB, and includes a 1 TB SSD for storage, ensuring ample capacity for multitasking and data-heavy applications.
In terms of design, the M1-1295 adopts a minimalist silver chassis measuring 195 x 193 x 52 mm and weighing just 1.12 kg, making it highly portable despite its powerful internals. It eschews front-facing ports in favor of a simple power button, with all connectivity concentrated on the rear panel for a cleaner aesthetic; this includes four USB ports, a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet LAN for fast networking, three display outputs to support multi-monitor setups, and dedicated audio inputs for microphone, line-in, and line-out. Cooling is handled by a single turbofan paired with a copper heat pipe system, aided by perforated sides on the housing to enhance airflow and maintain thermal stability during intensive use. The system comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, ready for immediate deployment in professional or creative environments.
Pricing for the M1-1295 starts at an attractive $469 for the preconfigured variant with 32 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD when purchased directly from the Minisforum store, or $579 on Amazon, positioning it as a budget-friendly option in the high-end mini-PC segment. A barebones version is anticipated soon for around $329, allowing users to customize RAM and storage to their needs, though it’s not yet available. Global availability is already in place through official channels, with the release highlighting Minisforum’s focus on stripped-back, performance-oriented hardware without unnecessary frills.
Source: Minisforum via Lonely City Hardware