Minisforum releases new MS-R1 mini-PC with powerful CIX CP8180 ARM chipset and up to 64 GB of RAM
Minisforum has now released its first ARM-based mini-PC after showcasing the same device earlier this month. For context, the new MS-R1 has arrived in the wake of Minisforum sharing new details about the x86-based MS-02 Ultra before its full debut in January during CES 2026. Also, the company has just updated the M1-1295 (curr. $409 on Amazon) with a cheaper variant, full details of which we have covered separately.
Described as a new 'ARM challenger' with 'serious power', the MS-R1 looks like a regular mini-PC or mini workstation on the surface, with unassuming looks and a 1.7-litre case size. However, the new device leverages the CIX CP8180, a 12-core and 12-threaded chipset with a 28 W TDP at its disposal.
Allegedly delivering up to 45 TOPS of AI Compute via a 28.8 TOPS NPU, the CIX CP8180 also has an Arm Immortalis-G720 MC10, a 10-core version of the same GPU integrated within the Dimensity 9400e and Dimensity 8400, respectively. On top of that, the MS-R1 also contains the following ports:
- 2x 10 Gigabit RJ45 LAN (RealTek RTL8127)
- 1x 3.5 mm jack
- 1x HDMI 2.0
- 4x USB 2.0 Type-A
- 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
- 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode & Power Delivery)
As the image below shows, the MS-R1 can be configured with up to 64 GB of LPDDR5-5500 RAM and dual NVMe SSDs via two M.2 slots. Moreover, Minisforum has included a full-length PCIe x16 slot with support for desktop graphics cards. The MS-R1 currently starts at $503.90 with 32 GB of RAM but no storage. Alternatively, the device can be configured with 64 GB of RAM and or with 1 TB storage up to a 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB SKU that retails for $695.90. Please note that all of these prices are said to be discounted to celebrate the MS-R1's launch. Full pricing information is as follows:
- 32 GB RAM / no storage - $503.90 ($629 MSRP)
- 32 GB RAM / 1 TB SSD - $575.90 ($719 MSRP)
- 64 GB RAM / no storage - $599.90 ($749 MSRP)
- 64 GB RAM / 1 TB SSD - $695.90 ($869 MSRP)
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