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MINISFORUM HX90G: Full Review of a Compact AMD Gaming PC

minisforum hx90g

MINISFORUM HX90G: Full Review of a Compact AMD Gaming PC

Large and oversized PCs have always dominated the PC gaming world. As PC manufacturers strive to make the most miniature computer possible, they often sacrifice power and upgradeability. However, MINISFORUM, a German company, has created a very powerful computer that packs plenty of performant hardware in a compact case.

The HX90G is the latest compact gaming PC from the company. Designed to blend the performance advantages of a gaming desktop with the space-saving benefits of a small-form-factor PC, the HX90G is a compact powerhouse. But how does this PC stand up to the competition? And does the HX90G’s small footprint have any disadvantages?

In today’s article, that’s exactly what we’re going to find out, with a full review, features, specs, and pricing information.

HX90G: Best Deal Today

HX90G: Overview

MINISFORUM Neptune Series HX90G AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX 32GB RAM 512GB SSD with AMD Radeon RX 6600M Wi-Fi 6E/BT5.2, 2xHDMI, 2xDisplayPort, RJ45 2.5G, 2X Slot PCIe/Sata SSD, 5X USB3.2 Port, Windows 11 Pro
$248.99
  • 【High Performance】Powered with AMD Ryzen 5 5625U processor. 6 Cores/12 Threads, base clock 2.3GHz, up to 4.3 GHz,Total L2 Cache 3MB, Total L3 Cache 16MB. MC560 can combine your work and life for...
  • 【2.5K@30Hz Camera with HDR】MC560 adopts a groundbreaking built-in webcam design, featuring a 2.5K@30Hz camera with HDR optimization. Besides, this camera can capture a wide field of visuals with...
  • 【Dual-mic Array 180°Pickup】The dual-mic array inside MC560 beamforming technology can reduce noise and feedback, and avoid echoes caused by the environment. The range of the dual-mic array is up...
  • 【Upgradeable RAM/SSD memory】This Mini PC is equipped with an 512GB PCIe3.0 SSD and 16GB DDR4 3200MHz RAM memory in Dual Channel. Feel free to upgrade it in the future with PCIe SSD disks up to...
  • 【Strong Connectivity】1 * RJ45 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Port,1*USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C,2*USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A,2*DMIC,2*Speaker(3W),1* QHD@30fps Camera ,1*Clear CMOS, 1*Combo Jack,1 * Power Button. Enough to...
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03/11/2024 06:22 am GMT

Release Date and Price

Man gaming on his PC during a live stream

Gamer Playing a First Person Shooter on a PC with Green LED lights

The HX90G launched earlier in 2022 at varying prices, depending on your configuration. As a barebones system devoid of any RAM or storage, you can score the HX90G for just $809. However, if you want to outfit your system so it is ready to go, you’ll pay between $919 and $1049, depending on your selected configuration.

Different Models

While the HX90G is only offered as a standalone model, MINISFORUM offers additional models to cater to your needs. If you prefer an Intel-based system, you can opt for the NUCXi5 or NUCXi7, two competing compact desktops with similar hardware and price range to the HX90G.

Easy Connection Options
COOFUN Mini PC EliteMini HX90
  • Powered by the latest AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX processor (8 cores, 16 threads, 16M cache, up to 4.60GHz), Radeon RX Vega 8 integrated graphics (up to 2100 MHz)
  • 16GB DDR4 3200MHz dual-channel RAM (upgradable to 64 GB), 512GB M.2 2280 PCle 3.0 SSD, performed multiple tasks with faster response speed and multi-threaded sensitive response
  • 2.5 inch SATA HDD Slot x2 for future expansion as you need
  • Video Outputs & Liquid Metal Boosts Cooling: With four video output interfaces—HDMI (4K@60Hz) x2, and DisplayPort (4K@60Hz) x2. You can drive four independent 4K 60Hz displays for extreme productivity
  • Elevate performance with a premium liquid metal compound on the CPU, featuring direct CPU contact, a wide degree of open ventilation, and a smart fan that efficiently spins up when required to effectively transfer heat directly out of the system for quiet and cool performance
  • Strong Connection: 1 x RJ45 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Port, 5 x USB 3.0 Ports(Gen1), 1 x USB-C Port, 1 x Clear CMOS, 2 x HDMI Ports, 2 x Display Ports, 2 x MIC, 2 x LINE OUT. WiFi 6, BT 5.1
  • Package & Other Functions: 1x HX90 Mini PC, 1x Mounting Bracket, 1x HDMI Cable, 1x Power Adapter, 1x Instruction Manual. Functions: RTC wake up / Wake on Lan / Auto Power on / Network boot
  • 24/7 support from a professional technical team
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For those on a stricter budget, the company also offers the EliteMini HX90 and B550, each with modest specs for entry-level performance.

Please Note: As of July 16, 2023, the COOFUN Mini PC EliteMini HX90 is currently unavailable on Amazon. If you cannot find the product elsewhere, please check back later.

Features

The HX90G is loaded with all the ports and connectivity you need. You’ll find everything that you would expect on a standard gaming desktop, as well as a few built-in extras. Even with its small size, this system still offers plenty of options for connecting all of your peripherals. 

Looking at the front panel, we can see a USB 3.1 port, perfect for connecting an external hard drive or thumb drive. You also get a headphone, microphone, and USB Type-C port for connecting headsets and audio peripherals. Flipping the HX90G to the back, we can see another three USB 3.2 ports, perfect for hooking up keyboards, gaming mice, or other accessories. 

You also get two HDMI ports and two DisplayPort connectors. This configuration lets you connect up to four gaming monitors, running at up to 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh rates each. All of that extra screen real estate can be handy if you create content, edit videos, or design graphics on your PC.

Gamers and streamers will appreciate the solid WiFi 6 connection, but the built-in 2.5 Gigabit ethernet port provides an additional layer of stability. Depending on your preference, you can use wired or wireless internet, or a combination of both. Additionally, built-in BlueTooth lets you pair wireless devices like headsets and speakers.

Specifications

ProcessorAMD Ryzen 9 5900HX
Base Clock Speed3.300GHz
Boost Clock Speed4.60GHz
GraphicsAMD Radeon RX 6600M
Graphics Memory8GB GDDR6
RAM Capacity32GB (64GB Max)
MemoryDDR4-3200
Storage Capacity512GB (expandable)
Storage TypeNVME M.2 SSD
Weight3.12 pounds or 1.4kg
Operating SystemWindows 11 Pro

HX90G: Review

While PCs have been getting smaller in recent years, the trend for smaller gaming PCs has never seen anything quite like the HX90G. As one of the most compact gaming PCs ever made, this system offers a unique blend of design and performance. 

Taking a closer look at this system will help us understand what makes it unique.

Processor

While MINISFORUM has historically preferred to use Intel processors, the company is also branching out to the AMD Ryzen platform. With AMD’s latest Ryzen 9 processor, HX90G is aimed at hardcore AMD fans. 

Lowest Price
AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
$290.86
  • 12 cores and 24 processing threads
  • 100 + FPS performance
  • Max temperature: 90°C
  • 4.8GHz Max Boost
  • Unlocked for overclocking
  • 70MB of cache, DDR-3200 support
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03/13/2024 01:49 pm GMT

Packed inside the HX90G is the latest AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX, an enthusiast-grade processor designed for gaming, streaming, and editing videos. Based on the new Zen 3 architecture, this CPU design offers direct access to the L3 cache, meaning applications and games have direct access, delivering more instructions per clock.

With a base clock speed of 3.30GHz, the Ryzen 9 5900X takes full advantage of its 8 cores and 16 threads to offer solid performance. The boost clock speed can reach up to 4.60GHz when called on, making this the perfect processor for discerning gamers.

​​Graphics Card

The graphics performance is one of the most impressive aspects of the HX90G. While it does not compare to a desktop RTX 3080 or 3080-Ti, the AMD Radeon RX 6600M graphics card is sufficient enough for 1080p gaming, video editing work, and graphic design. With 8GB of GDDR6 graphics memory, you have plenty of resources to run the latest games.

This GPU comes with all of the latest features found on AMD’s best graphics cards. AMD Anti-Lag reduces latency and allows you to achieve better response times. Additionally, features like Radeon Boost and VRS support mean you can use variable rate shading hardware to increase responsiveness without affecting visual quality.

Thanks to AMD’s rDNA 2 architecture, you can expect excellent refresh rates and performance despite the GPU’s small footprint. With full support for DirectX 12 Ultimate, you can run any game on the market, although more demanding titles might run better on lower settings. If you don’t mind gaming in 1080p, the HX90G offers a very satisfactory experience.

Case

No other computer claims the title of miniature gaming PC quite like the HX90G. The small scale of this PC’s case is even more surprising after you’ve learned about the specs packed inside it. While small form factor desktop computers have been around for a while, MINISFORUM has set a new standard for compact computing.

But small size is not the only defining element of this case. Despite its small scale, this case design packs a massive punch. The carbon fiber material is fitted into every component, from the grille and side corners to the stand. The HX90G stands at attention, with each side flanked in carbon fiber-reinforced plastic and the MINISFORUM logo emblazoned across carbon fiber “armor” shrouds. 

The genius design continues inside the HX90G. With seven heat pipes–three for the CPU and four for the GPU—heat can dissipate effectively from core components through the dual fan exhaust system. The result is a surprisingly quiet cooling system.

Fan noise is barely audible, even when kicked into high gear. The only catch is that airflow is crucial. You don’t want to block the sides of this PC, as it won’t be able to draw sufficient air to stay cool.

Weight is kept to a minimum thanks to the compact design. At only 1.4 kg, or just over three pounds, the HX90G is lighter than most gaming laptops. Additionally, with the same footprint as a Mac Mini, you can fit this computer on even the most crowded desk.

Maintenance

The HX90G is designed to be as upgradeable as possible. With such a small case, that is no small feat. MINISFORUM has crafted the most maintenance-friendly miniature PC on the market. Every aspect of the system is replaceable and serviceable, with each component able to be accessed with a screwdriver and a few minutes’ time. If you enjoy working on your own computer or building PCs, you’ll love the HX90G’s clever design.

After sliding off the case, you’ll have quick access to all of your internal parts. The first thing most users want to upgrade is the RAM. Fortunately, RAM is easily upgradeable, with two SO-DIMM memory slots located on the motherboard. Each slot can hold a 32GB module of 3200MHz DDR4 memory.

Running out of storage space can be a considerable inconvenience. Luckily, you can upgrade your HX90G with minimal hassle. After opening the case, you’ll see two M.2 slots for solid-state storage.

If you bought the barebones system, you’d need to add your own drive and install an operating system. If you bought a system with an OS already loaded, you must fill in the remaining slot with a second SSD.

Power Consumption

Compact PCs like the HX90G always have an advantage over full-size gaming desktops regarding power consumption. While idling, expect this PC to consume between 17 and 20 watts.

Average usage, like web browsing and watching movies, will bump the system up to 75 to 90 watts. The maximum load will consume the most power, with total strain putting system power usage up to 260 watts.

Power is divided primarily between the CPU and GPU. While the processor is rated at a TDP of just 45 watts, the AMD Radeon 6600M graphics chip is rated at 100. As you might expect, most of the system’s power consumption will be when gaming, as the GPU will be called into action more often.

When not gaming, you can expect better energy efficiency. As an office or media computer, this system consumes much less power.

HX90G: Pros and Cons

The HX90G has shown itself to be a highly capable compact gaming desktop, but it might not be for everybody.

Pros:

  • Highly compact
  • Durably built frame
  • Upgradeable RAM and SSD
  • Great performance

Cons:

  • Limited hardware
  • Can’t upgrade GPU and CPU

HX90G: Is It a Buy?

The HX90G takes compact computing to the next level, with gaming performance on par with full-size desktops and connectivity options to match the best of them. Upgradeable RAM and SSD are a welcome sight, especially in a gaming desktop, but the system is held back by a lack of upgradeable GPU and CPU

Buy it if…

You want an ultra-compact and lightweight gaming computer. The HX90G is powerful enough to be a competitive upgrade, especially if you are moving away from older hardware. The AMD Ryzen platform, although not upgradeable, provides a solid foundation for future software compatibility, and makes a great future-proof choice for a gaming PC.

The AMD Radeon RX 6600M graphics is more than enough to play the latest games at 1080p resolution, with older games able to clock even higher resolutions and frame rates. Even newer, more demanding titles can be played, albeit at lower graphics settings.

Anyone who likes having multiple monitors without requiring a massive, bulky desktop will love the HX90G. While quad-monitor GPUs are often reserved for massive desktop workstations, this system changes the game and offers something new and efficient. 

Don’t buy it if…

You want something highly upgradeable and expansive. If you want a large desktop with multiple drive bays, a liquid cooling system, and a full-size desktop GPU, you will have to look elsewhere. The HX90G offers an entirely different experience. You won’t be able to enjoy all of the luxuries of a full-size desktop, but you still get reasonably competitive performance.

You also shouldn’t buy it if you only want a basic computer to use around the house. The HX90G’s price tag is competitive for a gaming desktop, but it doesn’t make sense to overpay if you aren’t using its more advanced hardware.

If you want a compact desktop to use as a media center PC, there are better options from the same brand, such as the HX90 and B550.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How old is the HX90G?

The HX90G is fairly recent, having been launched earlier in 2022.

 

 

 

 

Is HX90G good for gaming? 

Yes. The HX90G is competitive for gaming, considering its compact size and price. You can play almost every popular game at 1080p resolution.

Can you upgrade the HX90G? 

The RAM and SSD are upgradeable. However, the CPU and GPU are not upgradeable.

What display connections does HX90G have?

The HX90G has two HDMI ports and two Display-Port connectors.

Does HX90G have WiFi?

Yes, the HX90G comes with built-in WiFi 6.

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