Minisforum MS-S1 Max Gets Cheaper With New 64GB RAM Option for Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC
Minisforum has introduced a more affordable version of its high-performance MS-S1 Max mini PC, giving buyers a lower-cost entry point into one of the most powerful compact desktop systems built around AMD’s Strix Halo platform.
The Minisforum MS-S1 Max originally launched in late October 2025 with a single premium configuration featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor and 128GB of LPDDR5x memory. That model positioned the system as a serious workstation-class mini PC, but its $3,199 price made it a costly option for many users.
Now, Minisforum is offering a new 64GB RAM version priced at $2,639. That makes it $560 cheaper than the 128GB model while keeping many of the same core specifications intact.
The new configuration still includes a 2TB SSD, so users are not losing storage capacity by choosing the lower-priced model. For many buyers, 64GB of RAM will still be more than enough for demanding workloads such as content creation, software development, multitasking, AI-assisted workflows, and high-end productivity use.
At the heart of the MS-S1 Max is the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, one of AMD’s most capable Strix Halo APUs. It also includes the Radeon 8060S integrated GPU, which offers strong graphics performance for a compact system. However, the 64GB model does come with one important limitation compared to the 128GB version: users will not be able to allocate up to 96GB of memory as VRAM for the integrated GPU.
That may matter for users who rely heavily on large GPU memory pools for AI, graphics, or professional workloads. Still, Minisforum has included a full-length PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, allowing users to install a dedicated graphics card if they need more GPU power.
There is one catch: although the slot is physically x16, it operates at x4 speed. This means users should not expect the same bandwidth as a full x16 desktop motherboard slot. Another consideration is airflow around the expansion slot, which may be limited depending on the installed hardware.
Even so, the MS-S1 Max remains an impressive mini PC for users who want desktop-class performance in a much smaller footprint. Its connectivity is one of its strongest selling points. The system includes two USB4 v2 ports with up to 80Gbps bandwidth, making it suitable for high-speed storage, docking stations, and modern peripherals. It also features two 10GbE LAN ports, a standout feature for users working with network storage, home labs, media servers, or professional networking environments.
The chassis design is another positive point. The MS-S1 Max is built with easy internal access in mind, which should appeal to users who like upgrading or maintaining their hardware. Compact PCs are often difficult to open or service, but Minisforum appears to have made this model more accessible than many competing mini desktops.
Cooling is a major focus for a system this powerful, and Minisforum promotes the internal thermal design as part of the MS-S1 Max’s appeal. However, one drawback is noise. The system can become noticeably loud even when idle, which may be a concern for users planning to place it on a desk, in a quiet office, or in a studio environment.
Overall, the new 64GB Minisforum MS-S1 Max makes AMD Strix Halo performance more attainable. It keeps the same Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, the same 2TB SSD, the same premium port selection, and the same compact design, while cutting the price significantly compared to the 128GB version.
For buyers who do not need the massive memory capacity of the higher-end model, the 64GB version could be the better value. It still delivers workstation-level performance in a mini PC form factor and offers enough flexibility for power users, creators, developers, and networking enthusiasts.
