
Minisforum MGA1 review: The external graphics card that transforms mini PCs, handhelds and laptops into gaming machines
More than just an eGPU.
Can a compact external GPU truly deliver desktop performance? Based on an AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT, Minisforum promises that its MGA1 can do precisely this. Read our review to find out what the external graphics unit is capable of, and whether you should buy it.Sebastian Bade, 👁 Sebastian Bade (translated by Daisy Dickson) Published 🇩🇪 🇫🇷 ...
Verdict - A simple solution for more 3D performance
The Minisforum MGA1 eGPU is a simple and interesting solution for users who want to expand the graphics performance of their mini PCs or handhelds. Equipped with an AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT and 8 GB GDDR6 RAM, the eGPU delivers solid performance during graphics-intensive applications such as gaming and video editing. Support for up to three 8K displays via HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.0 offers users a wide range of possible applications. In addition, the eGPU expands the number of USB ports, and its USB-C port allows devices at up to 65 watts to be connected and operated directly via the Minisforum MGA1.
In general, this all sounds great and as it turned out, the eGPU worked flawlessly in practice, too. But, in contrast to other eGPU solutions, the Minisforum model can unfortunately only connect via OCuLink. This currently limits its potential uses drastically, as only few devices are fitted with such a connection. From a technical standpoint, OCuLink has an advantage over USB4 connectivity, which is how the manufacturer justifies this decision. Nevertheless, an alternative option via USB4 would be useful, as this would significantly increase the product's target market. The Minisforum MGA1 is currently available for $559, which is significantly cheaper than its competitors.
Overall, the Minisforum MGA1 boasts a very high-quality appearance, which can be attributed to the manufacturer's choice of materials. Decent performance inside a compact design and the option of combining the eGPU with various devices are both certainly good features. Anyone in possession of a compatible mini PC or handheld can noticeably increase their 3D performance without having to buy a completely new system.
Pros
Cons
Price and availability
The Minisforum MGA1 can be purchased directly from the manufacturer for $559.
Table of Contents
- Verdict - A simple solution for more 3D performance
- Specifications
- Case - Stable metal case
- Connectivity - The eGPU as a docking station
- Performance - The Minisforum MGA1 massively speeds up mini PCs
- Synthetic benchmarks - The MGA1 and G1 at eye level
- Gaming performance - Fast enough for Full HD gaming
- Emissions - Better than the competition
- Power management - The RX 7600M XT is not an energy guzzler
- Notebookcheck total rating
The MGA1 is an external GPU docking station released by Minisforum, which has been developed especially for mini PCs and handhelds. The AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT graphics processor with 8 GB GDDR6 RAM provides a performance boost during 3D applications. The eGPU also offers additional connectivity options, which is particularly useful for devices with few external interfaces. The MGA1 eGPU from Minisforum can be connected via OCuLink, which is by all means a good choice as it allows the eGPU to be operated at full bandwidth (PCIe 4.0 x4).
Price-wise, the Minisforum MGA1 will set you back $559, making the eGPU a powerful solution for users who want to improve their system's graphics performance without needing to reach for bulky desktop solutions. Its compactness and functionality make it particularly attractive for users of mini PCs such as the Minisforum AtomMan or EliteMini series.
Specifications
Case - Stable metal case
The tech is surrounded by a rather inconspicuous case, which is largely made of metal. Its look is characterized by the ventilation openings, which are intended to ensure smooth operation. However, it hasn't been possible to do entirely without plastic. Minisforum has forgone the use of metal on both sides of the device. Nevertheless, the external graphics card leaves a very high-quality haptic impression.
Connectivity - The eGPU as a docking station
When looking at its external interfaces, it quickly becomes clear that this isn't just a simple eGPU, because in addition to the three connections for monitors, it also features three USB-A ports. The eGPU can be connected via OCuLink, which is, unfortunately, the only option. This is a shame, as it significantly limits the use of the eGPU. Other models, such as the GPD G1, can additionally be connected via USB4. USB4 offers a lower bandwidth compared to OCuLink, which results in a reduction in performance of around 10 percent. An important note when using the USB-A ports: If you want to use these, you must also connect the Minisforum MGA1 via USB-C in addition to the OCuLink connection.
Accessories
Not much is included in its scope of delivery. Aside from the eGPU itself, the manufacturer includes a power cable as well as an OCuLink cable.
Maintenance
Unlike laptops or mini PCs, the eGPU cannot be upgraded any further. Maintenance work therefore only includes the option to clean the device. Thankfully, its sturdy metal case can be opened quite easily. Only four screws need to be taken out to remove the top. The fan underneath can also be removed quite easily, which makes any cleaning work even easier.
Performance - The Minisforum MGA1 massively speeds up mini PCs
As a solid mid-range graphics card, the AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT is perfectly suited for Full HD gaming. The Minisforum MGA1 is also equipped with 8 GB of VRAM, which is sufficient for most applications.
Testing conditions
We used the Minisforum MS-A1—which features the necessary OCuLink connection—as the basis for this test. The AMD Ryzen 7 8700G additionally provides a solid basis for covering all of the most important scenarios.
Synthetic benchmarks - The MGA1 and G1 at eye level
For the first performance comparison, let's first take a look at the results of the synthetic benchmarks. In general, we noted an almost identical result between the Minisforum MGA1 and the GPD G1 eGPU. The Minisforum G7 PT also relies on similar hardware, but delivers slightly more performance due to its more powerful CPU. Its similarity to the AMD Radeon RX 7600 became clearly visible here, as the portable GPU only lost 10 percent in comparison. With up to 165 watts, the graphics card has a little more leeway.
To illustrate the increase in performance, it's worth taking a look at the Minisforum MS-A1, which only has to cope with the AMD Radeon 780M without an eGPU. The Minisforum EliteMini AI370 which we recently tested also came off second best despite its powerful AMD Radeon 890M. Using an external graphics card can therefore be worthwhile as long as the requirements are met. You can currently expect even better performance with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop, which is installed in the Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti or an Asus ROG NUC, among others. However, the advantage of an eGPU is its flexibility, which allows it to be used with different devices.
Performance Rating - Percent | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |
Unigine Superposition | |
1920x1080 1080p Extreme | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Acemagic M2A | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
1920x1080 1080p High | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Acemagic M2A | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
1280x720 720p Low | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |
Unigine Heaven 4.0 | |
Extreme Preset DX11 | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Acemagic M2A | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
Extreme Preset OpenGL | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Acemagic M2A | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |
Unigine Valley 1.0 | |
1920x1080 Extreme HD DirectX AA:x8 | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
1920x1080 Extreme HD Preset OpenGL AA:x8 | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |
3DMark 11 | |
1280x720 Performance GPU | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 | |
1280x720 Performance | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |
Affinity Photo 2 - Combined (Single / Multi GPU) | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum EliteMini AI370 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 |
Professional applications
Compared to the benchmarks concerning rendering performance, AMD delivered an excellent performance. The Minisforum MGA1 managed to achieve quite a good result here and even outperformed the GPD G1 by a little. However, the GPU G1 doesn't offer sufficient performance to use the eGPU during professional applications. Unfortunately, the consumer graphics card can't keep up with professional graphics solutions.
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) Ryzen 7 8700G, AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT | Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) Ryzen 7 8700G, AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT | XFX Speedster QICK 308 Radeon RX 7600 Black Edition R9 7950X, AMD Radeon RX 7600 | Minisforum MS-A1 Ryzen 7 8700G, AMD Radeon 780M | Minisforum EliteMini AI370 Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, AMD Radeon 890M | Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti i9-14900HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU | Minisforum G7 PT R9 7945HX, AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT | KFA2 GeForce RTX 4060 1-Click-OC 2X R9 7950X, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 | Dell Precision 5690 Ultra 9 185H, NVIDIA RTX 5000 Ada Generation Laptop GPU | Average of class | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SPECviewperf 2020 | -4% | 12% | -66% | -56% | -12% | -3% | -21% | 21% | -7% | |
3840x2160 Medical (medical-03) | 32.1 | 30.6 -5% | 36.1 12% | 12.9 -60% | 17.5 -45% | 15.2 -53% | 30.8 -4% | 13.7 -57% | 58.46 82% | 20.5 ? -36% |
3840x2160 Maya (maya-06) | 163 | 160 -2% | 178 9% | 45.3 -72% | 62.9 -61% | 223 37% | 171 5% | 196 20% | 184.05 13% | 209 ? 28% |
3840x2160 Energy (energy-03) | 58.9 | 55.6 -6% | 67 14% | 21.4 -64% | 28.3 -52% | 44 -25% | 43.2 -27% | 33.2 -44% | 38.09 -35% | 50 ? -15% |
3840x2160 Creo (creo-03) | 95.3 | 93.7 -2% | 106 11% | 30.6 -68% | 37.6 -61% | 93.7 -2% | 97.5 2% | 85.9 -10% | 100.9 6% | 76.5 ? -20% |
3840x2160 CATIA (catia-06) | 64.5 | 63.3 -2% | 68 5% | 24.2 -62% | 27.3 -58% | 37.3 -42% | 64.1 -1% | 34 -47% | 67.17 4% | 46.6 ? -28% |
3840x2160 3ds Max (3dsmax-07) | 61.1 | 55.9 -9% | 72.9 19% | 19.9 -67% | 26.8 -56% | 69 13% | 63.9 5% | 67.4 10% | 94.56 55% | 80.3 ? 31% |
Gaming performance - Fast enough for Full HD gaming
In terms of pure gaming performance, the Minisforum MGA1 delivered a compelling performance. Its difference compared to the simple iGPU was noticeable in all 3D applications. Technically, we had no problems in combination with the Minisforum MS-A1. Compared to the GPD G1, which we tested in the same combination, the eGPU from Minisforum could set itself apart with a plus of 10 percentage points. Both models use a similar basis and differ mainly in their cooling unit, which Minisforum has solved a bit better.
In practice, you can run lots of games smoothly in 1,080p. Occasionally, however, you'll have to reduce the detail level if you want to play the latest games. Features such as FSR can also be used with the Minisforum MGA1 to increase frame rates.
Performance Rating - Percent | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M |
GTA V | |
1920x1080 High/On (Advanced Graphics Off) AA:2xMSAA + FX AF:8x | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Acemagic M2A | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (68.4 - 80.2, n=10) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (32.5 - 69.4, n=54) | |
1024x768 Lowest Settings possible | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (149.1 - 174.3, n=10) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (91.6 - 169.4, n=52) |
Dota 2 Reborn | |
1920x1080 high (2/3) | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (31.6 - 98.8, n=61) | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (34.8 - 100, n=10) | |
1280x720 min (0/3) fastest | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (132.3 - 175.6, n=10) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (34.7 - 164.8, n=61) |
Cyberpunk 2077 2.1 Phantom Liberty | |
1920x1080 High Preset (FSR off) | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (25.4 - 32.3, n=10) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (13.8 - 29.6, n=40) | |
1920x1080 Low Preset (FSR off) | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (40 - 52.5, n=10) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (29.3 - 52.1, n=43) |
Baldur's Gate 3 | |
1920x1080 High Preset | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (24.1 - 31.2, n=10) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (13.3 - 30.6, n=29) | |
1280x720 Low Preset | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Acemagic M2A | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (55.2 - 73.4, n=5) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (30.7 - 67.4, n=17) |
F1 24 | |
1920x1080 High Preset AA:T AF:16x | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Acemagic M2A | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (53.4 - 66, n=2) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (23.3 - 59.5, n=15) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
1920x1080 Low Preset AA:T AF:16x | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M (87.2 - 104.6, n=2) | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (43.3 - 94.8, n=14) |
Avatar Frontiers of Pandora | |
1920x1080 High Preset AA:T | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M () | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (11 - 19, n=3) | |
1920x1080 Low Preset AA:T | |
Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti | |
Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 | |
Acemagic M2A | |
Minisforum G7 PT | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) | |
HP Z2 Mini G9-996Q4ET | |
Average AMD Radeon 890M () | |
Average AMD Radeon 780M (15 - 25, n=3) |
low | med. | high | ultra | QHD FSR | QHD | 4K FSR | 4K | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GTA V (2015) | 184.7 | 181 | 172.6 | 97.2 | 70.2 | 74.9 | ||
The Witcher 3 (2015) | 452 | 343 | 194.7 | 113.6 | 78.7 | 54.8 | ||
Dota 2 Reborn (2015) | 185.3 | 159.3 | 134.6 | 120.8 | 88.9 | |||
Final Fantasy XV Benchmark (2018) | 229 | 134.9 | 93.6 | 67.6 | 36.3 | |||
X-Plane 11.11 (2018) | 111.4 | 92.3 | 73.2 | 53.4 | ||||
Far Cry 5 (2018) | 153 | 137 | 132 | 124 | 103 | 52 | ||
Strange Brigade (2018) | 495 | 259 | 212 | 179.5 | 119.6 | 63.7 | ||
Total War: Three Kingdoms (2019) | 341.8 | 195.5 | 124.6 | 85.2 | 51 | 23.9 | ||
Far Cry 6 (2021) | 148.9 | 132.1 | 122.6 | 102.5 | 70.2 | 3.02 | ||
Forza Horizon 5 (2021) | 236 | 187 | 179 | 76 | 58 | 36 | ||
Farming Simulator 22 (2021) | 246 | 208 | 177.3 | 161 | 129.4 | 79.8 | ||
God of War (2022) | 126.4 | 122.3 | 99.2 | 69.3 | 53.5 | 33.9 | ||
Starfield (2023) | 77.5 | 75.9 | 63.1 | 57.2 | 46.8 | 30.7 | ||
Lies of P (2023) | 176.1 | 150.4 | 128.5 | 113.8 | 76.3 | 37.8 | ||
Baldur's Gate 3 (2023) | 134.2 | 104.7 | 89.3 | 87.7 | 60.6 | 30.3 | ||
Cyberpunk 2077 2.1 Phantom Liberty (2023) | 121.7 | 96.8 | 81.8 | 73.2 | 45.8 | 19.8 | ||
Assassin's Creed Mirage (2023) | 130 | 118 | 108 | 76 | 56 | 33 | ||
Total War Pharaoh (2023) | 326.8 | 218.9 | 135.7 | 109.9 | 75.3 | 35.4 | ||
Lords of the Fallen (2023) | 89.1 | 81 | 66.4 | 49.4 | 32.7 | 16.9 | ||
Avatar Frontiers of Pandora (2023) | 59 | 54 | 38 | 28 | 19 | 9 | ||
F1 24 (2024) | 281 | 257 | 190.8 | 33.9 | 10.9 | |||
The First Descendant (2024) | 154.6 | 99.4 | 87.9 | 72.9 | 43.9 | 15.7 | 22.2 | |
Black Myth: Wukong (2024) | 79 | 58 | 44 | 23 | 16 | |||
Star Wars Outlaws (2024) | 43.5 | 38.8 | 35 | 28.2 | 19.5 | |||
Space Marine 2 (2024) | 67.8 | 67.2 | 65.6 | 63.3 | 45.2 | |||
Final Fantasy XVI (2024) | 62.1 | 59.9 | 53.3 | 54.4 | 13.2 | 48.7 | 10.3 | 23 |
God of War Ragnarök (2024) | 120.1 | 105.5 | 90.8 | 52.1 | 5.8 | |||
Call of Duty Black Ops 6 (2024) | 143 | 129 | 82 | 77 | 64 | 60 | 35 | 35 |
Emissions - Better than the competition
Noise emissions
The cooling concept of the Minisforum MGA1 is similar to the GPD G1, although the eGPU from Minisforum is significantly quieter. Fresh air is drawn in at the top, which is then directed out of the case at the sides and back. When idling, we recorded just under 31 dB(A) for the mini PC and eGPU combination, which is significantly quieter than the competitor product from GPD. At 40 dB(A), the eGPU was a lot louder under average load and we measured a sound pressure level of up to 48.8 dB(A) at peak times. Even so, the comparison with the gaming mini PCs revealed a similar result under load. Still, the GPD G1 eGPU can really up the ante, and the approx. 59 dB(A) we measured when gaming definitely requires the use of headphones.
Noise Level
Idle |
| 30.7 / 30.8 / 30.8 dB(A) |
Load |
| 39.8 / 48.8 dB(A) |
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30 dB silent 40 dB(A) audible 50 dB(A) loud |
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Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) Ryzen 7 8700G, Radeon RX 7600M XT | Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) Ryzen 7 8700G, Radeon RX 7600M XT | Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti i9-14900HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU | Minisforum G7 PT R9 7945HX, Radeon RX 7600M XT | Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 Ultra 9 185H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU | Acemagic M2A i9-12900H, GeForce RTX 3080 Laptop GPU | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Noise | -14% | -9% | 3% | 13% | -3% | |
off / environment * | 24.7 | 24.7 -0% | 24.7 -0% | 24.4 1% | 24.9 -1% | 24.3 2% |
Idle Minimum * | 30.7 | 35.9 -17% | 34 -11% | 29.3 5% | 24.9 19% | 32.7 -7% |
Idle Average * | 30.8 | 36.3 -18% | 34.1 -11% | 29.4 5% | 24.9 19% | 32.8 -6% |
Idle Maximum * | 30.8 | 36.3 -18% | 34.1 -11% | 29.4 5% | 24.9 19% | 33.1 -7% |
Load Average * | 39.8 | 41.6 -5% | 48.6 -22% | 43.5 -9% | 37.9 5% | 40.7 -2% |
Cyberpunk 2077 ultra * | 49.6 | 58.6 -18% | 55.2 -11% | 45.5 8% | 38.3 23% | 45.8 8% |
Load Maximum * | 48.8 | 58.6 -20% | 48.3 1% | 45 8% | 44.2 9% | 53.9 -10% |
Witcher 3 ultra * | 49.3 |
* ... smaller is better
Temperature
The metal case gets quite warm under load and distributes the waste heat quite well over its entire surface. The bottom heats up a little more than the top. However, we could not find any critical hotspots. The graphics chip itself reached 75 °C in the stress test, which isn't a significant improvement compared to the GPD G1. Under a continuous load of 120 watts, the AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT's full performance could be called up over a longer period of time without any problems.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 39.7 °C / 103 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F, ranging from 24.7 to 57 °C for the class .
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 44.4 °C / 112 F, compared to the average of 38.3 °C / 101 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 31.1 °C / 88 F, compared to the device average of 31.8 °C / 89 F.
(±) 3: The average temperature for the upper side is 36.2 °C / 97 F, compared to the average of 31.8 °C / 89 F for the class .
(±) The palmrests and touchpad can get very hot to the touch with a maximum of 39 °C / 102.2 F.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 29.5 °C / 85.1 F (-9.5 °C / -17.1 F).
Power management - The RX 7600M XT is not an energy guzzler
Minisforum allows the AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT the maximum permitted by AMD, namely 120 watts. There are no different VBIOS options from the manufacturer that have an influence on its power consumption. In idle mode, the Minisforum MS-A1 and the Minisforum MGA1 are content with just over 20 watts. Under average load, the energy requirement climbs to around 102 watts, although it can reach up to 241 watts at peak load. The power requirement here refers not only to the eGPU alone, but also includes the mini PC itself.
The eGPU's power supply consists of an internally installed power supply unit. This provides up to 240 watts and devices at up to 65 watts can also be connected and operated via the USB-C port using the Power Delivery function.
Off / Standby | ![]() ![]() |
Idle | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Load |
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Key:
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Minisforum MS-A1 (MGA1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) Ryzen 7 8700G, Radeon RX 7600M XT | Minisforum MS-A1 (GPD G1 Radeon RX 7600M XT @OCuLink) Ryzen 7 8700G, Radeon RX 7600M XT | Minisforum AtomMan G7 Ti i9-14900HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU | Minisforum G7 PT R9 7945HX, Radeon RX 7600M XT | Asus ROG NUC 14-90AS0051 Ultra 9 185H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU | Acemagic M2A i9-12900H, GeForce RTX 3080 Laptop GPU | Average AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT | Average of class | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Power Consumption | -5% | -24% | -34% | 16% | -18% | -8% | 56% | |
Idle Minimum * | 21.2 | 21.4 -1% | 21 1% | 23 -8% | 10.6 50% | 26.4 -25% | 20.4 ? 4% | 7.74 ? 63% |
Idle Average * | 21.9 | 22.3 -2% | 35.1 -60% | 28.1 -28% | 14.8 32% | 30.4 -39% | 23.1 ? -5% | 11.1 ? 49% |
Idle Maximum * | 22.7 | 24.2 -7% | 39.6 -74% | 40.4 -78% | 27.5 -21% | 33.5 -48% | 27.7 ? -22% | 13.7 ? 40% |
Load Average * | 102.2 | 105.3 -3% | 106.9 -5% | 131.2 -28% | 84.6 17% | 112.6 -10% | 112.6 ? -10% | 45.4 ? 56% |
Cyberpunk 2077 ultra external monitor * | 206 | 222 -8% | 217 -5% | 282 -37% | 171.4 17% | 194.7 5% | ||
Load Maximum * | 241 | 260 -8% | 249 -3% | 296 -23% | 244 -1% | 215 11% | 259 ? -7% | 69.9 ? 71% |
* ... smaller is better
Power consumption with external monitor
Power consumption with external monitor
Notebookcheck total rating
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The selection of devices to be reviewed is made by our editorial team. The test sample was given to the author by the manufacturer free of charge for the purposes of review. There was no third-party influence on this review, nor did the manufacturer receive a copy of this review before publication. There was no obligation to publish this review. We never accept compensation or payment in return for our reviews. As an independent media company, Notebookcheck is not subjected to the authority of manufacturers, retailers or publishers.
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