Minisforum flagship Ryzen Mini-PC tested
A smaller computer featuring 8-core Zen4 CPU and capable integrated RDNA3 graphics.
A few weeks ago, Minisforum has unveiled its most high-performance Mini-PC of the year, at least up to this point. While the company is already developing its Ryzen 7045HX “Dragon Range” series, which will boast twice the number of cores, the Ryzen 7040HS based Mini-PC is the fastest system Minisforum has to offer at the time of writing.
This system packs an AMD Phoenix APU known as Ryzen 9 7940HS, featuring the Zen4 architecture. It holds the position of AMD’s flagship APU in this current generation. It incorporates a powerful 12 CU RDNA3 architecture, representing AMD’s latest and fastest integrated GPU design. This fusion of powerful CPU and GPU architectures results in an energy-efficient answer that proves valuable across a range of applications, including laptops, mini-PCs, and even handheld consoles.
Retail version of UM790 PRO
Given our recent evaluation of a similar system (Beelink GTR7 Pro), we will draw comparisons between the two devices in terms of features and performance. It’s worth mentioning that our original intention was to encompass both systems in a single review. However, Beelink openly rejected this proposition, while Minisforum, a partner we’ve collaborated with for several years, displayed no objection to such comparative assessments.
Noteworthy is the distinction in our pre-release model, featuring a different logo. In the final iteration, Minisforum has included a more streamlined and darker logo design. You can see how the device looks in retail above (featured image has our unit).
| Minisforum UM790 Pro Specifications | ||
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Integrated Graphics | Connectivity |
| SKU: AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS Architecture: Zen4 TDP: 45W→54W Cores / Threads: 8C / 16T Base / Boost Clock: 4.0/5.2 GHz | SKU: AMD Radeon 780M Architecture: AMD RDNA3 GPU: 768 FP32 Cores (12 CU RDNA2) Max GPU Clock: 2.8 GHz | USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A: 4x USB 2.0 Type-A (480 Mbps): 2x USB 4.0 Type-C: 2x HDMI 2.1: 2x Ethernet: 2.5 GbE 1x Wireless: WiFi-6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Memory | Storage | Physical Specs |
| Memory Capacity: 2x8GB (16GB) Memory: Apacer AP52560008G3B-001 Memory Speed: DDR5-5600 CL46 1.1V Memory Timings: 50-45-45-90-135 Shared Memory with GPU: 2GB | Storage: 2x Kingston OM8PGP4256Q-A0 Storage Capacity: 2x 256GB Store Type: PCIe Gen4 x4 PCIe M.2 2280 Number of M.2 slots: 2x (0 unused) | Width: 13.0 cm Length: 12.6 cm Height: 5.3 cm Weight: 670g (PC) + 590g (charger) Battery: no Power Supply: DC19V/119.7W |
The Phoenix APU comes equipped with 8 cores and 16 threads, all following the standard ‘big’ core design. This sets it apart from Intel’s Alder/Raptor Lake series, which features a hybrid design combining Performance and Efficient core types. The maximum boost clock for all cores is 5.2 GHz, and they are initially configured to operate at 45W power.
Notably, Minisforum has chosen to raise the TDP to 54W as the default setting, with the option for further adjustments in the BIOS. For our testing purposes, we will adhere to the default configuration, which also entails maintaining the shared system memory at 2GB for the integrated GPU.
The standout feature is the integrated graphics, boasting 12 Compute Units (768 Stream Processors) with a clock speed of up to 2.8 GHz. This GPU is paired with DDR5-5600 CL46 memory, a factor that significantly influences overall performance, as many are aware.
The system packs Apacer DDR5-5600 memory, in our case two 8GB modules running in dual channel configuration. The system was equipped with two 256GB Kingston PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280 solid-state drives which can be used in Raid 1 or Raid 0.
Another important aspect is the inclusion of two USB4 Type-C connectors, which not only provide compatibility with external GPUs but also support Power Delivery in both directions. This feature eliminates the need for a cumbersome power supply, enabling the system to utilize a compact charger. Nevertheless, it would be even more advantageous if this power setup were the default choice, and the PC was bundled with a smaller GaN charger similar to what the competition offers.
Size comparison Minisforum UM790 Pro vs. Beelink GTR7 Pro
When contrasted with the Beelink GTR7 Pro, which boasts identical AMD hardware, the Minisforum presents a smaller footprint, albeit with a slightly taller design. Additionally, the Minisforum system emits a slightly higher noise level, while the Beelink counterpart incorporates numerous venting holes for enhanced ventilation.
One shared feature between both systems is the utilization of a dual-fan arrangement. The primary fan is dedicated to cooling the APU, while the secondary fan serves to dissipate heat from SSDs and memory modules. This dual-fan configuration seems to be an emerging trend among these devices, driven by the growing need to manage increasing storage temperatures and faster memory performance.
What’s included (accessories)
The system comes with an HDMI cable, VESA mount, charger and region-specific power cable. There are also two extra rubber stands which were added for a good reason.
The primary inconvenience arises from the somewhat bothersome access to the storage and memory components, as the screws are concealed beneath the four rubber feet. It’s possible that over time, the adhesive holding these rubber stands in place might deteriorate. It would be better if four additional stands were added, as a precautionary measure.
Apart from this minor inconvenience, the system otherwise offers straightforward access to its internal components. However, we advise using plastic pry tools for disassembly as the backplate is clipped to the chassis. Furthermore, one should make sure to disconnect the fan header and be cautious not to tear the soldered wireless network cables.
At this point, it’s advisable to conclude the disassembly process as the cooler is outfitted with liquid metal. Continuing further wouldn’t yield significant benefits. This serves as a reminder that reapplying liquid metal is a task that can prove challenging for individuals who are using this method for the first time.
Testing methodology
CPU capabilities, thermals and power consumption are the focus of this short evaluation. Since this is a gaming Mini-PC our primary goal was to test some popular and heavy titles on this device.
Software used for this review
- 3DMark Professional Edition
- TechPowerUP GPU-Z
- CPU-Z 2.06.0
- HWiNFO 7.46-5110
- CapFrameX 1.7.1
- Custom software developed by VideoCardz.com
For the purpose of comparing GTR7P versus UM790P, we have conducted a retest of the GTR7 Pro using the most recent AMD driver. Despite the testing, no significant changes in performance were observed.
Clocks and thermals
The UM790 Pro tends to exhibit slightly higher noise levels and temperatures in comparison to the GTR7 Pro. While the idle temperature and CPU package power metrics are nearly identical, under heavy load, the UM790 Pro registers temperatures at least 3°C higher and operates at slightly lower clock speeds. However, this outcome was anticipated considering the UM790 Pro’s smaller size and the inherent reduction in its default power configuration.
| Mini-PC APU Temperature & Frequency Test (20 min) 22°C Ambient | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| VideoCardz.com | Average CPU Power | Average CPU Temperature | Average CPU Frequency |
CPU at idle and during Cinebench R23 stress testing
Cinebench R23
On average, the Ryzen 9 7940HS in UM790 Pro is 1% slower than GTR7 Pro in single-core test, while it looses 5.5% in multi-threaded workload. This is based on Cinebnech R23 test.
| Cinebench R23 | ||
|---|---|---|
| VideoCardz.com | Single-Core ↓ | Multi-Core |
| Intel Core i9-13900HX (24-core) | ||
| Intel Core i9-12900HX (16-core) | ||
| AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX (16-core) | ||
| AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS (8-core) GTR7P | ||
| AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS (8-core) UM790P | ||
| AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX (8-core) | ||
| AMD Ryzen 9 6900HS (8-core) | ||
| AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX (8-core) | ||
3DMark
In our GPU tests we will be focusing on comparing the Radeon 780M (RDNA3) integrated graphics to the last-gen Radeon 680M (RDNA2) series. We outlined the most important differences between both models which apply to our test units.
Radeon 780M vs. 680M:
- Max GPU Clock: 2.8 GHz vs. 2.4 GHz
- GPU Config: 12CU RDNA3 vs. 12CU RDNA2
- Max TDP: 54W vs. 55W
| 3DMARK Software | ||
|---|---|---|
| Test | GPU | Graphics Score |
| Port Royal | GTR7P (780M) | |
| UM790P (780M) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| Speed Way | GTR7P (780M) | |
| UM790P (780M) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| Time Spy | GTR7P (780M) | |
| UM790P (780M) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| Time Spy Extreme | GTR7P (780M) | |
| UM790P (780M) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| Fire Strike | GTR7P (780M) | |
| UM790P (780M) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| Fire Strike Extreme | GTR7P (780M) | |
| UM790P (780M) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| Fire Strike Ultra | GTR7P (780M) | |
| UM790P (780M) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
Games
Grand Theft Auto V
Settings:
- [NORMAL]: Population Density/Variety/Scaling: Max, Texture/Shader/Shadow/Reflection/Particles Quality: Normal, Reflections MSAA: Off, Soft Shadows: Sharp, Post FX: Normal, Anisotropic Filtering: x4, Ambient Occlusion: Off, Tessellation: Off
- [VERY HIGH]: Population Density/Variety/Scaling: Max, Texture/Shader/Shadow/Reflection/Water/Particles Quality: Very High, Reflections MSAA: Off, Soft Shadows: Sharp, Post FX: Very High, Anisotropic Filtering: x16, Ambient Occlusion: High, Tessellation: Very High
 | Grand Theft Auto V 2013, Rockstar North, RAGE Engine, Action Adventure | |
| VideoCardz.com | 1280×800 ↓ | 1920×1080 |
|---|---|---|
| NORMAL | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 680M | ||
| VERY HIGH | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 680M | ||
Cyberpunk 2077
Settings: using built-in graphics options.
 | Cyberpunk 2077 2020, CD Projekt Red, REDengine4, Action Role-Playing | |
| VideoCardz.com | 1280×800 ↓ | 1920×1080 |
|---|---|---|
| LOW | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| MEDIUM | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| HIGH | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
Settings: using built-in graphics options.
 | Shadow of the Tomb Raider 2018, Eidos, Foundation Engine, Action-adventure | |
| VideoCardz.com | 1280×800 ↓ | 1920×1080 |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| Medium | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| High | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
Hitman 3
Settings:
- [MEDIUM] Default
- [HIGH] RT: On, LOD: Ultra, Texture: High, Anisotropic Filter x16, SSAO: Ultra, Mirrors Ref: High, Reflection: High, VRS: Quality
 | Hitman 3 2021, IO Interactive, Glacier Engine, Stealth | |
| VideoCardz.com | 1280×800 ↓ | 1920×1080 |
|---|---|---|
| MEDIUM, FSR Balanced | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| HIGH, FSR Balanced | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
Company of Heroes 3
Settings:
- [LOW] Image: Low, Physics: Low, Shadow: Low, Geometry: Low, AA: Low
- [MEDIUM] Image: Medium, Physics: Medium, Shadow: Medium, Geometry: Medium, AA: Low
- [HIGH] Image: High, Physics: High, Shadow: High, Geometry: High, AA: High
 | Company of Heroes 3 2023, SEGA, Essence Engine 5.0, Real-Time Strategy | |
| VideoCardz.com | 1280×800 ↓ | 1920×1080 |
|---|---|---|
| LOW | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| MEDIUM | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
| HIGH | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (GTR7 Pro) | ||
| AMD Radeon 780M (UM790 Pro) | ||
| Radeon 680M | ||
Conclusion
The UM790 PRO powered by AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor boasting Zen4 and RDNA3 architectures, reveals itself as a capable everyday desktop replacement for certain tasks. This processor even showcases an ability to handle some less demanding games, achieving medium to high settings depending on specific game requirements.
The use of liquid metal instead of traditional thermal compound for CPU and active cooling for memory and SSD are definitely worth a mention. As we delve into the comprehensive review of the UM790 Pro, it becomes apparent that its standout feature is the multitude of connectivity options it offers. All that while retaining of a smaller 10th generation Core counterpart from the same company that we tested. This size advantage doesn’t compromise its capabilities, as it accommodates eGPU support through a USB4 port.
Although the internals of the mini-PC are easily accessible, a slight complication arises due to the hidden screws beneath glued stands. This factor introduces a modest level of complexity when it comes to disassembly.
Display connectivity is a point of consideration, with the UM790 Pro exclusively supporting HDMI or USB (DisplayPort) connections. The absence of a native full-sized DisplayPort connector or adapter might present limitations for users reliant on this specific interface. The inclusion of a relatively large and heavy power supply is balanced by the mini-PC’s support for USB power delivery, adding convenience to its feature set.
Additionally, the UM790 Pro stands out for its support of SSD RAID0 and RAID1 configurations, bolstered by the inclusion of dual SSDs in our tested unit. And speaking of users’ convenience, there is also a graphical BIOS with a user-friendly interface, or alternatively complete version with unlocked settings.
The UM790 Pro mini-PC’s combination of AMD’s latest technology, wide connectivity options, innovative cooling, and performance-enhancing features makes it one of the leaders in the world of mini-PCs. However, it has failed to impress us after reviewing the GTR7 Pro, which is also a bit more powerful and even runs at lower temperatures.
At the time of writing, a barebone UM790 PRO system was retailing at $519, with 32GB RAM/512GB SSD option going for $669. There are also options with 1TB SSD ($699) and 64GB memory at $789. Our variant with 16GB configuration was not listed.
You can learn more about Minisforum UM790 PRO Mini PC here.
