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MagyarMinisforum Neptune Series HN2673 review: The mini PC with a Core i7-12650H and an Arc A730M within an attractive case
Minisforum advertizes the Neptune-series desktop PC with the name HN2673 as a high-performance mini PC. The manufacturer's Neptune series consists of compact PCs which, due to their size, are also in part fitted with dedicated graphics cards. This also includes the Minsforum Neptune Series HN2673 which, alongside the Intel Core i7-12650H, is also fitted with an Intel Arc A730M. Furthermore, the dedicated graphics card also has access to 6 GB VRAM, meaning the RAM doesn't have to be additionally split, as is often the case with iGPUs. There are no alternative versions of this PC when it comes to its base components. This means the CPU and GPU are always set. You can find variations of this device with different RAM. They always have a 1-TB SSD installed. The only deviation to this could be found within our test sample, which only has a 512-GB SSD installed and we had to make do with 16 GB DDR4 RAM. At the time of writing, this model is nowhere to be found on the manufacturer's website. The smallest configuration with 32 GB RAM and a 1-TB SSD can currently be found for around US$710.
This means the Minsforum Neptune Series HN2673 currently costs a little bit more than the Minsforum Neptune Series HX77G which relies on the AMD Radeon RX 6600M as a dedicated graphics card. The PC's predecessor, the Minsforum Neptune Series HX99G, already left quite a good impression on us. In addition, it will also be interesting to compare it to the Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72 Serpent Canyon, as this too uses an Intel Arc as a dedicated graphics card. You can find a full overview of all the comparison devices in the following table.
Possible competitors compared
Rating | Date | Model | Weight | Height | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 87.1 % | 09/2023 | Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 i7-12650H, A730M | 1.7 kg | 66 mm | |
| 89.9 % | 02/2023 | Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G R9 6900HX, Radeon RX 6600M | 1.6 kg | 69.3 mm | |
| 88.4 % | 03/2023 | Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon i7-12700H, A770M | 2 kg | 60 mm | |
| 85.5 % | 03/2023 | Morefine M600, 6900HX R9 6900HX, Radeon 680M | 779 g | 40.6 mm | |
| 82.8 % | 07/2023 | Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro R9 7940HS, Radeon 780M | 666 g | 52.3 mm | |
| 85.1 % | 01/2023 | Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 i9-12900H, Iris Xe G7 96EUs | 1.2 kg | 66 mm | |
| 82.8 % | 07/2023 | Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX R9 6900HX, Radeon 680M | 753 g | 58 mm | |
| 82.5 % | 08/2023 | Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit i7-1360P, Iris Xe G7 96EUs | 558 g | 37 mm |
Case - A mix of metal and plastic
Visually, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 looks the same as the Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9. Both devices make use of the same case, although, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 has a much higher weight of 1.6 kg. Its dedicated graphics card and much bulkier cooling system are the reason for this. The PC utilizes a nice mix of materials - metal and plastic - for the side covers, which can be removed quite easily. The Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 doesn't feature a VESA mount. Instead, the device can be placed vertically on your desk with the help of the supplied stand.
One other change compared to the Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 can be seen in its power supply, which is considerably more powerful and weighs 781 grams.
Connectivity
Its connectivity options are rather generous. Even so, users will have to make do without a modern Thunderbolt port. In turn, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 still features lots of other USB ports and can run up to four displays at the same time. Its connections are spread out between the front and back of the device and can be easily accessed.
Communication
The Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 houses an Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210. In our practical test using an Asus ROG Rapture GT-AXE11000 as a test router, our test device wasn't entirely convincing. When using the slower 5-GHz connection, our test sample couldn't achieve anything better than last place. Using 6 GHz, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 achieved much better transfer rates. Even so, this wasn't enough to secure itself more than average results. The PC's integrated LAN port offers a good alternative to wireless connections and you can achieve maximum speeds of 2.5 Gbit/s.
Scope of delivery
Aside from the device itself, the scope of delivery includes a metal stand with all the screws required for assembly. Furthermore, you receive a 240-watt power supply and an HDMI cable.
Maintenance
The side covers can easily be removed from the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673. Both of the side covers are held onto the bottom with the help of two screws on each side. The generous space which we saw inside the Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 is now considerably fuller. Now, the dedicated graphics card takes up a lot of inside space for its cooling unit. As a result, you can now only access the RAM and SSD via a slight detour. One reason why Minisforum decided to do this is because the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 isn't available as a barebone model. The Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 only has one M.2 connection anyway. However, two further storage devices can be installed via the back of the PC.
Performance - Intel Alder Lake with 10 cores and 16 threads
The base of the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 always consists of a combination of an Intel Core i7-12650H and an Intel Arc A730M. With the help of the installed components, the PC can tackle even more demanding tasks. In particular, its dedicated graphics card widely expands its 3D uses. Let's take a closer look at everything the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 can do.
Testing conditions
We used the energy profile Maximum Performance for all performance tests performed on the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673. Deviations from this were only made in the power consumption and noise emission measurements according to our test criteria. The performance of the CPU and the cooling was not changed in the BIOS.
Processor
The Intel Core i7-12650H comes from the field of laptops and is based on Alder Lake architecture. This hybrid architecture combines P and E cores, which can process a maximum of 16 threads at once. Its maximum power limit is set at 95 watts (PL2), which is already much more conservative on the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 compared to what Intel specifies as a maximum for the Intel Core i7-12650H. During the further course, we noted that even the 95 watts were never reached, which resulted in the PC's comparatively poor CPU benchmarks. The Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 already stood out for its comparatively weak CPU performance. Unfortunately, not much has changed on the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673.
You can find further processor benchmarks here.
* ... smaller is better
AIDA64: FP32 Ray-Trace | FPU Julia | CPU SHA3 | CPU Queen | FPU SinJulia | FPU Mandel | CPU AES | CPU ZLib | FP64 Ray-Trace | CPU PhotoWorxx
Minisforum's Neptune Series HN2673 during the Cinebench R15-Multi Loop
With regard to the temperatures we recorded during the Cinebench R15 continuous loop, the CPU's cooling unit is sufficiently sized. At the same time, you do have to note that the Intel Core i7-12650H only consumes an average of 40 watts. In turn, we did note relatively stable results.
System performance
The system benchmarks perfectly reflect the SoC's performance. In total, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673's results were in the lower average field. The installed RAM also can't set itself apart from the competition with good values. The SoC also could've supported DDR5. In order to cut costs, the manufacturer likely decided to go for the cheaper DDR4 alternative. Subjectively seen, this is all critique on a very high level. The installed hardware works well together and in everyday use, there are no noticeable latencies.
| AIDA64 / Memory Copy | |
| Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro | |
| Average Intel Core i7-12650H (43261 - 69735, n=14) | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit | |
| Average of class Mini PC (6481 - 70620, n=98, last 2 years) | |
| AIDA64 / Memory Read | |
| Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro | |
| Average Intel Core i7-12650H (47313 - 67412, n=14) | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit | |
| Average of class Mini PC (6914 - 71285, n=98, last 2 years) | |
| AIDA64 / Memory Write | |
| Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Average Intel Core i7-12650H (45617 - 59361, n=14) | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| Average of class Mini PC (6862 - 89318, n=98, last 2 years) | |
| Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit | |
| AIDA64 / Memory Latency | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Average of class Mini PC (44.9 - 154.6, n=98, last 2 years) | |
| Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro | |
| Average Intel Core i7-12650H (71.6 - 103.9, n=14) | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
* ... smaller is better
DPC latency
With the help of the tool LatencyMon, we took a look at the mini PC's latencies in a variety of uses. Here, we didn't document any raised latencies while opening multiple tabs in Edge and playing our 4K test video. The 4K test video uses about 20 % of the iGPU's load. We only noted slightly raised latencies after starting Prime95.
* ... smaller is better
Storage devices
Our test version of the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 is fitted with a 512-GB SSD from Kingston. This is the same model as we found in the Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9. In our present test sample, the SSD wasn't able to utilize its full performance which we saw in the NAD9. Even so, this Kingston SSD is a solid storage device with PCIe 4.0 x4 connectivity. Its 4K read rates at over 200 MB/s are particularly notable. The model even copes with permanent accesses without performance drops. Here, the four case fans really pay off, as we noted slight performance drops on the NAD9 at this stage. The Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 can be fitted with three storage devices in total. The back of the motherboard has a mount which can accommodate two further 2.5-inch storage devices. The required cable to connect these comes pre-installed.
For further comparisons and benchmarks, take a look at our comparison table.
* ... smaller is better
Reading continuous performance: DiskSpd Read Loop, Queue Depth 8
Graphics card
Next to the Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 is also fitted with a considerably more powerful graphics card, the Intel Arc A730M. The Intel Arc A730M is installed into the device as an MXM (Mobile PCI Express Module) and in theory, it can be swapped out. In the past, we also found these types of solutions within quite a few laptops. However, upgrading to a newer model always proved to be quite difficult.
Thanks to its dedicated graphics card, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 is now able to show its true power. However, our test sample was unable to beat the Minisforum HX99G - even if the gap between them was small. Compared to the Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72 Serpent Canyon, the gap is even bigger, since the Intel Arc A770M offers quite a bit better performance still. Compared to the iGPUs, our test device has it easy. Admittedly, a direct comparison is a little unfair, but it shows what is possible using a dedicated graphics card.
For further details about the Intel Arc A730M, take a look at our GPU page.
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673, Intel Core i7-12650H, Intel Arc A730M | Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon, Intel Core i7-12700H, Intel Arc A770M | Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G, AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX, AMD Radeon RX 6600M | Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro, AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS, AMD Radeon 780M | Morefine M600, 6900HX, AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX, AMD Radeon 680M | Minisforum NUCX i7, Intel Core i7-11800H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop GPU | Zotac Magnus One (ECM73070C), Intel Core i7-10700, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 | Zotac ZBOX Magnus EN173070C, Intel Core i7-11800H, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop GPU | Intel Beast Canyon NUC, Intel Core i9-11900KB, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 | Intel Dragon Canyon NUC - RTX 3060, Intel Core i9-12900, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPECviewperf 12 | 12% | 1678% | 816% | 730% | 183% | 202% | 198% | 135% | 155% | |
| 1900x1060 Solidworks (sw-03) | 58.8 | 61.1 4% | 180 206% | 103 75% | 106 80% | 68.6 17% | 82.3 40% | 79.4 35% | 71.6 22% | 73.3 25% |
| 1900x1060 Siemens NX (snx-02) | 1.28 | 1.33 4% | 164 12713% | 68.3 5236% | 59.4 4541% | 11.1 767% | 12 838% | 11.7 814% | 8.75 584% | 9.83 668% |
| 1900x1060 Showcase (showcase-01) | 81.4 | 104 28% | 129 58% | 28.1 -65% | 32.1 -61% | 138 70% | 165 103% | 136 67% | 113 39% | 117 44% |
| 1900x1060 Medical (medical-01) | 35.3 | 40.4 14% | 96.1 172% | 65 84% | 48.1 36% | 55.7 58% | 49 39% | 57.2 62% | 40.9 16% | 49.2 39% |
| 1900x1060 Maya (maya-04) | 127 | 136 7% | 159 25% | 60.8 -52% | 69.7 -45% | 199 57% | 200 57% | 212 67% | 191 50% | 196 54% |
| 1900x1060 Energy (energy-01) | 1.84 | 2.13 16% | 31.4 1607% | 40.9 2123% | 39.7 2058% | 12.1 558% | 13.1 612% | 12.8 596% | 10 443% | 10.6 476% |
| 1900x1060 Creo (creo-01) | 37 | 37.7 2% | 107 189% | 48.2 30% | 49.6 34% | 55.4 50% | 61.5 66% | 59 59% | 49.4 34% | 56.9 54% |
| 1900x1060 Catia (catia-04) | 130 | 144 11% | 207 59% | 65.5 -50% | 74.9 -42% | 108 -17% | 117 -10% | 115 -12% | 77 -41% | 77.5 -40% |
| 1900x1060 3ds Max (3dsmax-05) | 121 | 150 24% | 204 69% | 77.3 -36% | 85.9 -29% | 230 90% | 213 76% | 233 93% | 201 66% | 214 77% |
| SPECviewperf 13 | 28% | 1549% | 560% | 522% | 158% | 185% | 168% | 102% | 117% | |
| Solidworks (sw-04) | 63.8 | 66.2 4% | 169 165% | 98.4 54% | 101 58% | 104 63% | 114 79% | 111 74% | 104 63% | 107 68% |
| Siemens NX (snx-03) | 2.3 | 2.44 6% | 299 12900% | 118 5030% | 112 4770% | 20 770% | 21.9 852% | 20.9 809% | 15.8 587% | 17.7 670% |
| Showcase (showcase-02) | 83 | 105 27% | 129 55% | 28.1 -66% | 33.1 -60% | 138 66% | 165 99% | 135 63% | 113 36% | 117 41% |
| Medical (medical-02) | 61.1 | 70.4 15% | 80.3 31% | 53.2 -13% | 56.4 -8% | 67.2 10% | 78.3 28% | 69.5 14% | 54.4 -11% | 55.7 -9% |
| Maya (maya-05) | 230 | 281 22% | 280 22% | 91.1 -60% | 98.3 -57% | 333 45% | 367 60% | 337 47% | 262 14% | 281 22% |
| Energy (energy-02) | 8.06 | 19.2 138% | 43.5 440% | 21.9 172% | 13.1 63% | 24.5 204% | 28.2 250% | 25.5 216% | 13.7 70% | 13.7 70% |
| Creo (creo-02) | 72.9 | 77.6 6% | 221 203% | 81.7 12% | 78.8 8% | 215 195% | 241 231% | 225 209% | 172 136% | 191 162% |
| Catia (catia-05) | 194 | 211 9% | 314 62% | 94.4 -51% | 103 -47% | 155 -20% | 171 -12% | 163 -16% | 104 -46% | 107 -45% |
| 3ds Max (3dsmax-06) | 122 | 149 22% | 202 66% | 77.9 -36% | 85.8 -30% | 233 91% | 213 75% | 235 93% | 202 66% | 207 70% |
| Photoshop PugetBench | -12% | -7% | 3% | 8% | ||||||
| Filter Score | 104.5 | 116.2 11% | 97.6 -7% | 107.1 2% | 102.1 -2% | |||||
| General Score | 75.7 | 88.1 16% | 77 2% | 78.8 4% | 87.6 16% | |||||
| GPU Score | 86.2 | 10.8 -87% | 68 -21% | 89.5 4% | 96.1 11% | |||||
| Overall Score | 901 | 1022 13% | 873 -3% | 929 3% | 949 5% | |||||
| Premiere Pro PugetBench | 17% | -1% | -71% | 25% | ||||||
| GPU 0.9 | 32.7 | 47.2 44% | 33.9 4% | 8.7 -73% | 52.3 60% | |||||
| Live Playback 0.9 | 45.1 | 52.6 17% | 43.6 -3% | 17.1 -62% | 59.2 31% | |||||
| Export 0.9 | 48.4 | 47.6 -2% | 47.6 -2% | 10 -79% | 46.8 -3% | |||||
| Overall Score 0.9 | 468 | 501 7% | 456 -3% | 136 -71% | 530 13% | |||||
| Total Average (Program / Settings) | 11% /
15% | 805% /
1116% | 327% /
466% | 420% /
514% | 122% /
144% | 194% /
194% | 183% /
183% | 119% /
118% | 136% /
136% |
| 3DMark 05 Standard | 43138 points | |
| 3DMark 06 Standard Score | 43017 points | |
| 3DMark Vantage P Result | 62916 points | |
| 3DMark 11 Performance | 24348 points | |
| 3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score | 203252 points | |
| 3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score | 42200 points | |
| 3DMark Fire Strike Score | 16910 points | |
| 3DMark Fire Strike Extreme Score | 9602 points | |
| 3DMark Time Spy Score | 8798 points | |
Help | ||
Gaming performance
We already noted some issues in gaming performance on the Intel Arc A770M within the Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72 Serpent Canyon. The Intel Arc A730 goes down the same path and also suffers from some isolated issues in accessing its full performance. Included in this are older games - but also some new ones, for example, Atomic Heart. Furthermore, we only sometimes got the option to select QHD resolution. However, this seems to be a driver issue. The graphics card's performance already isn't enough to play games in this resolution while still achieving playable frame rates. If you are looking to play games on the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 every now and then, then you'll have to make do with Full HD.
At this point, we would like to mention again that the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 is not a gaming PC. As a result, we don't see its shown 3D performance as being too big an issue. The mini PC is definitely still a great allrounder for in the office or at home, and it can easily leave all the devices fitted with integrated graphics cards in the dust.
Most of the games we tested on the Intel Arc A730M could be played smoothly in 1,080p and using high to maximum detail settings.
| Performance Rating - Percent | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 -1! | |
| GTA V - 1920x1080 Highest Settings possible AA:4xMSAA + FX AF:16x | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| The Witcher 3 - 1920x1080 Ultra Graphics & Postprocessing (HBAO+) | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Far Cry 5 - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:T | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Far Cry New Dawn - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| F1 2020 - 1920x1080 Ultra High Preset AA:T AF:16x | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Strange Brigade - 1920x1080 ultra AA:ultra AF:16 | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Borderlands 3 - 1920x1080 Badass Overall Quality (DX11) | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Metro Exodus - 1920x1080 Ultra Quality AF:16x | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| F1 2021 - 1920x1080 Ultra High Preset + Raytracing AA:T AF:16x | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| F1 22 - 1920x1080 Ultra High Preset AA:T AF:16x | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Tiny Tina's Wonderlands - 1920x1080 Badass Preset (DX12) | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| God of War - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider - 1920x1080 Highest Preset AA:T | |
| Minisforum NUCX i7 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| GTA V - 1920x1080 Highest Settings possible AA:4xMSAA + FX AF:16x | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit | |
| The Witcher 3 - 1920x1080 Ultra Graphics & Postprocessing (HBAO+) | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| F1 2020 - 1920x1080 Ultra High Preset AA:T AF:16x | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| F1 2021 - 1920x1080 Ultra High Preset + Raytracing AA:T AF:16x | |
| Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 | |
| Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 | |
| Morefine M600, 6900HX | |
| Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX | |
| low | med. | high | ultra | QHD | 4K FSR | 4K | |
| GTA V (2015) | 159.4 | 101.1 | 43.1 | 34.2 | |||
| Dota 2 Reborn (2015) | 111.8 | 121.6 | 96.5 | 87.1 | 60.6 | ||
| Final Fantasy XV Benchmark (2018) | 109.5 | 78 | 41.6 | 33.7 | 21.8 | ||
| X-Plane 11.11 (2018) | 27.3 | 15.9 | 14.4 | 11.3 | |||
| Far Cry 5 (2018) | 117 | 93 | 88 | 84 | 35 | ||
| Strange Brigade (2018) | 433 | 206 | 171.3 | 137.7 | 54.1 | ||
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018) | 101.7 | 69.5 | 67.9 | 60.9 | 27.7 | ||
| Far Cry New Dawn (2019) | 98 | 84 | 81 | 74 | 39 | ||
| Metro Exodus (2019) | 80.5 | 55.6 | 40.6 | 32.1 | 20.5 | ||
| Borderlands 3 (2019) | 93.2 | 79.3 | 67.7 | 57 | 21.2 | ||
| F1 2020 (2020) | 225 | 152.7 | 127.3 | 87.9 | 66.3 | 39.5 | |
| F1 2021 (2021) | 317 | 227 | 179.2 | 75.3 | 55.5 | 26.8 | |
| Far Cry 6 (2021) | 100.1 | 93.4 | 79.9 | 62.4 | 26.3 | ||
| God of War (2022) | 56 | 55.6 | 49.9 | 39.8 | 21.2 | ||
| GRID Legends (2022) | 114 | 97.8 | 86.2 | 70 | 34.7 | ||
| Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022) | 133.4 | 105.4 | 67 | 54.6 | 17.2 | ||
| F1 22 (2022) | 152 | 135.8 | 104.6 | 36.2 | 7.2 | 1.97 | |
| A Plague Tale Requiem (2022) | 67.8 | 58.3 | 43.6 | 33.2 | 12.9 | ||
| The Callisto Protocol (2022) | 109.8 | 83.2 | 78 | 54.5 | 21 | ||
| Dead Space Remake (2023) | 54.4 | 52 | 48.2 | 46.1 | |||
| Returnal (2023) | 62 | 60 | 54 | 40 | 15 | ||
| Atomic Heart (2023) | 37.9 | 30.5 | 29.6 | 29.3 | 27.8 | ||
| Company of Heroes 3 (2023) | 93.6 | 83.5 | 50.5 | 48.8 | 15.8 | ||
| Sons of the Forest (2023) | 54.5 | 39.3 | 35.8 | 31.1 | 15.4 | ||
| Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023) | 100.9 | 75.1 | 68.6 | 46.1 | 9.89 | ||
| Dead Island 2 (2023) | 147.1 | 120.5 | 93.4 | 74 | 26.1 | ||
| Star Wars Jedi Survivor (2023) | 50.7 | 45.7 | 41.3 | 38.2 | 11.6 | ||
| Diablo 4 (2023) | 146.2 | 131.6 | 118.4 | 83.2 | 30.4 | ||
| F1 23 (2023) | 184.3 | 160.9 | 112 | 32.7 | 2.15 | ||
| Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart (2023) | 53.2 | 44.9 | 34.3 | 30.6 | |||
| Baldur's Gate 3 (2023) | 85.6 | 57.3 | 70.7 | 59.7 | 8.91 | ||
| Atlas Fallen (2023) | 95.3 | 84.9 | 76.8 | 23.9 | |||
| Immortals of Aveum (2023) | 19.1 | 16.3 | |||||
| Armored Core 6 (2023) | 70.9 | 64.3 | 63.9 | 58.5 | 25.2 | ||
| Lies of P (2023) | 97.6 | 105.4 | 84.7 | 75.5 | 22.9 | ||
| Cyberpunk 2077 2.0 Phantom Liberty (2023) | 83.9 | 68.9 | 58.3 | 38.4 | 11.5 | ||
| Counter-Strike 2 (2023) | 169 | 154.9 | 113.9 | 81.7 | 52.8 | 14.2 | |
| Assassin's Creed Mirage (2023) | 65 | 56 | 54 | 53 | 38 | 21 | |
| Total War Pharaoh (2023) | 259.8 | 156.3 | 93.1 | 73.3 | 53.3 | 27.3 | |
| Lords of the Fallen (2023) | 47.3 | 40.6 | 32 | 23.8 | 3.51 | ||
| Alan Wake 2 (2023) | 42.5 | 38.2 | 35.7 | 11.6 | 6.3 | ||
| EA Sports WRC (2023) | 65.9 | 48.8 | 42.9 | 40.2 | 27.8 | ||
| Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 2023 (2023) | 96 | 86 | 67 | 29 | 17 | ||
| Avatar Frontiers of Pandora (2023) | 45 | 40 | 33 | 24 | 15 | 5.7 | |
| The Finals (2023) | 144.7 | 109.2 | 97 | 77.4 | 48.9 | 22.7 | |
| Ready or Not (2023) | 128.7 | 112.9 | 93.6 | 69.3 | 42.8 | 15 | |
| Prince of Persia The Lost Crown (2024) | 347 | 333 | 316 | 215 | 116.1 | ||
| Palworld (2024) | 80.1 | 67.4 | 53.8 | 50.7 | 36.5 | 18.9 | |
| Enshrouded (2024) | 54.9 | 49.8 | 42.5 | 36.1 | 26.2 | 18.8 | 11.8 |
| Helldivers 2 (2024) | 79.6 | 62.4 | 57.8 | 55.9 | 36.9 | 17.9 | |
| Skull & Bones (2024) | 58 | 53 | 45 | 36 | 29 | 24 | 17 |
| Last Epoch (2024) | 162.7 | 131.4 | 111.2 | 88.5 | 58.6 | 27.5 | |
| Alone in the Dark (2024) | 108.4 | 95.9 | 90.4 | 57.2 | 30.1 | ||
| Horizon Forbidden West (2024) | 44 | 42.4 | 25.6 | 22.6 | 18.4 |
Emissions - More performance = more power
Noise emissions
When it comes to the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673's cooling, the manufacturer has installed two heat pipe coolers which are provided with fresh air via four fans. In idle mode, we measured quite low emissions of only 33 dB(A). With an average of 39.8 dB(A) and a maximum of 43.6 dB(A), the mini PC does get audible under load. The device is still far from emitting annoying levels of noise. The relatively pleasant fan noise contributes to this.
Noise Level
| Idle |
| 33 / 33.1 / 33.1 dB(A) |
| Load |
| 39.8 / 40.6 dB(A) |
 | ||
30 dB silent 40 dB(A) audible 50 dB(A) loud |
||
min:  , med:  , max:  Earthworks M23R, Arta (15 cm distance) environment noise: 25.2 dB(A) | ||
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 i7-12650H, A730M | Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G R9 6900HX, Radeon RX 6600M | Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon i7-12700H, A770M | Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 i9-12900H, Iris Xe G7 96EUs | Morefine M600, 6900HX R9 6900HX, Radeon 680M | Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro R9 7940HS, Radeon 780M | Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX R9 6900HX, Radeon 680M | Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit i7-1360P, Iris Xe G7 96EUs | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Noise | 4% | -5% | 9% | 3% | 6% | -2% | 6% | |
| off / environment * | 25.2 | 30.5 -21% | 30.3 -20% | 30.2 -20% | 30.4 -21% | 29.7 -18% | 30 -19% | 25.2 -0% |
| Idle Minimum * | 33 | 31.7 4% | 31.8 4% | 30.5 8% | 30.9 6% | 31.7 4% | 33.2 -1% | 28.1 15% |
| Idle Average * | 33.1 | 31.7 4% | 31.9 4% | 30.5 8% | 31.5 5% | 31.7 4% | 33.6 -2% | 28.2 15% |
| Idle Maximum * | 33.1 | 31.7 4% | 32 3% | 30.5 8% | 31.5 5% | 31.7 4% | 33.6 -2% | 28.3 15% |
| Load Average * | 39.8 | 32 20% | 44.4 -12% | 30.5 23% | 37.5 6% | 32.8 18% | 36.8 8% | 42 -6% |
| Witcher 3 ultra * | 40.5 | 32.8 19% | ||||||
| Load Maximum * | 40.6 | 36.2 11% | 44.5 -10% | 30.5 25% | 34.1 16% | 35.2 13% | 39.8 2% | 42.1 -4% |
* ... smaller is better
Temperature
The case temperatures of the Mini Forum Neptune Series HN2673 are not critical. On the Intel Core i7-12650H, we recorded a maximum of 90 °C during the stress test, although the Intel Arc A730M only reached 79 °C. With the temperatures documented here, the test device always remained within the green zone. We consider the power supply's power cable to be a bit conspicuous. After all, up to 12.6A flow through it at 19V, which means that the cable warmed up noticeably. Our recommendation at this point is not to shorten the cable with a cable tie as shown. After consulting the manufacturer, temperatures up to 60 °C are harmless.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 30.3 °C / 87 F, compared to the average of 35.5 °C / 96 F, ranging from 26 to 69.5 °C for the class Mini PC.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 52.4 °C / 126 F, compared to the average of 36.9 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27 °C / 81 F, compared to the device average of 32.2 °C / 90 F.
Power consumption
Mini PCs are often interesting for prospective buyers due to their low power consumption. Here, the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 was unable to score points, as we already measured very high values of 45 to 47 watts in idle mode. We documented similarly high values on the Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72 Serpent Canyon. Under average load, its power consumption becomes a little better in relative terms, although it is still higher than most other mini PCs due to its dedicated graphics card. In the worst-case scenario, the power supply has to supply a maximum of 226 watts. According to the manufacturer, it can supply up to 240 watts, meaning there is some breathing space for the two optional storage devices.
Please note:
As a result of the high values we measured in idle mode, we contacted the manufacturer. After speaking to them, Minisforum told us that the mini PC supposedly consumes about 11 to 13 watts in idle mode. Subsequently, we repeated this situation multiple times with our test sample. However, we didn't note any lower consumption measurements than the ones listed in the table below. We are still in contact with the manufacturer and will adjust the measurements if necessary.
| Off / Standby | 2.68 / 3.1 Watt |
| Idle | 45.7 / 47.5 / 47.5 Watt |
| Load |
129.6 / 226 Watt |
   
| |
| Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 i7-12650H, A730M | Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G R9 6900HX, Radeon RX 6600M | Intel NUC 12, NUC12SNKi72_Serpent Canyon i7-12700H, A770M | Minisforum Neptune Series NAD9 i9-12900H, Iris Xe G7 96EUs | Morefine M600, 6900HX R9 6900HX, Radeon 680M | Minisforum Venus Series UM790 Pro R9 7940HS, Radeon 780M | Geekom AS 6, R9 6900HX R9 6900HX, Radeon 680M | Intel NUC 13 Pro Desk Edition Kit i7-1360P, Iris Xe G7 96EUs | Average Intel Arc A730M | Average of class Mini PC | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Consumption | 41% | -2% | 61% | 66% | 71% | 72% | 73% | 24% | 69% | |
| Idle Minimum * | 45.7 | 16.8 63% | 28.8 37% | 12.1 74% | 9.9 78% | 4.6 90% | 6.8 85% | 7 85% | 25.7 ? 44% | 9.75 ? 79% |
| Idle Average * | 47.5 | 19.4 59% | 39.3 17% | 13 73% | 11 77% | 6 87% | 9.4 80% | 9.2 81% | 28.5 ? 40% | 11.7 ? 75% |
| Idle Maximum * | 47.5 | 23.1 51% | 57.1 -20% | 18.2 62% | 11.2 76% | 10.6 78% | 13.7 71% | 11.8 75% | 32.5 ? 32% | 14.7 ? 69% |
| Load Average * | 129.6 | 81.5 37% | 158.7 -22% | 70.6 46% | 74.2 43% | 72.5 44% | 45.3 65% | 45 65% | 129.5 ? -0% | 51.9 ? 60% |
| Load Maximum * | 226 | 237 -5% | 270.9 -20% | 113 50% | 103.2 54% | 94.6 58% | 94.8 58% | 97.2 57% | 216 ? 4% | 86 ? 62% |
* ... smaller is better
Power consumption with external monitor
Pros
Cons
Verdict - A good approach, but not perfect
Powerful mini PCs with dedicated graphics cards are still a rarity nowadays. However, their power increases with every new generation. To make this possible, decent cooling systems have to be able to keep up, which is often a core issue in compact PCs. The Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 is fitted with a relatively good SoC, the Intel Core i7-12650H, but it performed considerably below our expectations. Our test sample didn't have an easy job of setting itself apart from the competition. It took until the 3D tests for the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 to assert itself a little more. The Intel Arc A730M also doesn't have it easy at the moment, as the graphics card hasn't been able to totally convince us during any of our previous laptop tests. So, if you are considering buying a Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673, you need to know exactly what to do. You'll have to take into account some gaming limitations, although, in the past, Intel has always been good at continuously updating its drivers. Right now, we can only speculate about how well Intel will look after its products in future. Minisforum could have delivered a slightly better total package if the PC was fitted with a dedicated graphics card from Nvidia or AMD instead.
On the other hand, you can't forget that the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 isn't a dedicated gaming PC. For this, Minisforum has more specialized devices on offer, such as the Minisforum Neptune Series HX99G and the Minisforum NUCX i7.
The Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 offers solid performance and is able to stand out from the crowd thanks to its Intel Arc A730M.
One big positive aspect is the device's great material choice in combination with its excellent build. The Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 also features lots of ports, which unfortunately don't include Thunderbolt. The Minisforum PC is able to cool its components, but unfortunately, the SoC can't access its actual performance. Even so, it is fast enough for everyday use and as long as games are supported by the Intel Arc A730M, they can be run smoothly. In order to keep up to date with the latest, we would recommend taking a look at our benchmark overview.
Price and availability
You can buy the Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673 directly from the manufacturer's website. Currently, the version with a 1-TB SSD and 32 GB RAM is on sale for US$709 instead of US$879.
Minisforum Neptune Series HN2673
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09/11/2023 v7
Sebastian Bade
Transparency
The present review 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.
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