MINISFORUM MS-01 Workstation Core i9-13900H Mini PC Barebone Version Without RAM, SSD and OS, 2xUSB4 1xHDMI Display, 2×2.5G LAN Port, 3X SSD Slot, 2x10G SFP+ Port, Support Discrete Graphics Cards
- MINISFORUM MS-01 mini workstation features a 14-core Intel Core i9-13900H and Iris Xe graphics for blazing compute performance in gaming, 3D rendering, video editing and high-intensity workflows.
- Dual 10G SFP+ and 2.5G LAN ports plus USB4 deliver up to 65Gbps transfer speeds. Expand with DDR5, triple M.2/U.2 slots and a PCIe 4.0 x8 GPU slot for ultimate customization.
- Overall, the MINISFORUM MS-01 delivers impressive performance and extensive connectivity.
- Several users report misleading RTX 3050 compatibility claims and design quirks.
- Some customers faced BIOS reliability issues and network adapter disconnections.
- Build quality is solid, but a few chassis and port orientation flaws exist.
- Best suited for homelabs, virtualization, and network-intensive tasks; novices may encounter driver and support hurdles.
- Equipped with Intel Core i9-13900H hybrid architecture and built-in Iris Xe Graphics.
- Offers versatile expandability via multiple M.2 slots, PCIe slot, and dual 10G SFP+ ports.
Product Overview
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation is a barebone PC designed for users seeking high performance in a compact chassis. Powered by the Intel Core i9-13900H (14C/20T, up to 5.4 GHz) on a 7 nm SuperFin process, it includes Intel Iris Xe Graphics with a 1.5 GHz GPU frequency. Connectivity is a standout feature: two 10 Gbps SFP+ ports (with link aggregation), two 2.5 Gbps RJ45 ports, and dual USB4 ports supporting Thunderbolt speeds up to 40 Gbps. Storage expandability is robust, with three M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 slots (one U.2 compatible) and a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for discrete graphics cards. Display outputs include one HDMI 4K@60 Hz and two USB4 ports supporting up to 8K@30 Hz or 4K@144 Hz. The package ships with a power adapter, U.2 adapter, HDMI cable, heatsink, and screws—RAM, SSD, and OS are user-installed.
- Solid barebone design allows customization but demands user assembly.
- Quiet operation under light load, with fans ramping up only during heavy tasks.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation Review: Honest Findings
In real-world testing, the MS-01 proves to be a reliable workstation for both professional and home lab environments. Users confirm that the BIOS is accessible via the DEL key and supports clean, unobstructed configuration. Out-of-box, the unit recognizes existing NVMe drives and boots without fuss. Under typical office productivity and light 3D rendering loads, it remains virtually silent. During sustained heavy loads—compiling code, transcoding video, or stress-testing the CPU and network ports—the fan noise increases but remains non-obnoxious. The barebone status means assembly is screwless and straightforward, yet novices may find driver installation on Windows 11 a bit challenging until they track down the unified RAR file on the MinisForum website.
- Dual 10G SFP+ and 2.5G LAN ports deliver ultra-fast networking ideal for Proxmox or virtualization.
- Multiple M.2 slots and PCIe slot allow high-capacity SSD and upgrade to discrete GPU if needed.
Positive Feedback & Highlights
Across dozens of reviews, the MS-01 is praised for its robust connectivity and expandability. Many users replaced multi-node clusters with a single MS-01 running Proxmox, enjoying rock-solid uptime, low power consumption, and snappy VM performance. The dual SFP+ ports are highlighted for providing both VM backhaul and NFS storage traffic without bottlenecks.
Build quality draws compliments; reviewers note that the chassis padding in shipping is generous, ensuring safe arrival. The screwless access to internals simplifies RAM and SSD upgrades—one user successfully installed 96 GB DDR5 and multiple NVMe drives for a full home lab cluster. Display support for dual ultrawide monitors at 2560×1080 (via Iris Xe) is satisfactory, and power users find Type-C video crisp and stable. The inclusion of U.2 compatibility outranks many SFF PCs, enabling enterprise-grade drives up to 15 TB. Even with an RTX 3050 tested, the PCIe slot can accommodate low-profile cards, although physical clearance is tight.
Quiet sleep and wake cycles, prompt BIOS access, and seamless driver recognition (once located) are further pluses. IT pros running K8s or K3s clusters appreciate that the MS-01 fits under a desk but behaves like a full-sized tower. For compact CNC workstations or digital signage controllers, the combination of HDMI and two USB4 ports allows 4K and 8K displays concurrently. Overall, the MS-01’s blend of power and port density ranks it among the leading mini workstations on Amazon.
- Recurring misleading RTX 3050 support claim has frustrated several buyers.
- Some customers report BIOS and power-on failures after extended downtime.
Negative Reviews & Rumor Analysis
Despite the strong positives, there are serious complaints that merit discussion. The most widespread concern is the assertion in the Amazon listing that an RTX 3050 low-profile card will fit; multiple users discovered no mainstream 3050 actually clears the internal height without custom modifications. This has become a rumor circulating on forums, and while the A2000 may fit with tinkering, the MS-01 does not support off-the-shelf RTX 3050 cards as advertised. Buyers seeking discrete GPU upgrades should verify exact model dimensions and clearance before purchase.
BIOS reliability issues have surfaced in isolated cases. One user found the unit wouldn’t power on after sitting idle; rescuing it required disconnecting the CMOS battery for 30 minutes, which reset settings. While MinisForum support offered a replacement, the process was slow and details on a permanent fix remain unclear. Another reviewer reported an unexpected reset causing boot times measured in minutes, indicating the BIOS may struggle with U.2 or large NVMe arrays if settings become corrupted.
Physical design flaws also appear in the feedback. The RJ45 ports are oriented downward, preventing easy removal of Cat6 cables without a tiny screwdriver to press the locking clip. This oversight has led to damage risk and frustration among users who frequently swap network cables. Additionally, the U.2 slot only accepts drives up to 7 mm thick—most consumer U.2 drives are 14 mm and won’t fit despite the adapter. A clearer specification in the product description would prevent these compatibility surprises.
Network adapter inconsistencies have been singled out: some Intel X710 SFP+ modules disconnect intermittently, causing 10-second failures in ping testing. Attempts to swap fiber modules or RJ45-SFP+ adapters did not fully resolve the issue. A small subset of buyers also cite driver stagnation, especially GPU drivers only updated on the MinisForum site every eight months. Third-party tools like Adrenaline fail, landing the system in Safe Mode and forcing reinstallation of outdated drivers.
Support experiences vary widely. A few customers report no response to driver or BIOS inquiries, while others obtained replacement parts swiftly—particularly when reaching out via Amazon Seller Messaging. RMA processes through China-based channels are described as “pull-teeth” and slow. Buyers should budget extra time and patience if they anticipate any hardware or firmware service.
- Ideal for home labs, virtualization, and network-attached storage applications.
- Not recommended for users expecting plug-and-play GPU upgrades or instant Windows driver support.
Who Should Consider the MINISFORUM MS-01?
The MS-01 shines for IT professionals and hobbyists building compact Proxmox, VMware ESXi, or Hyper-V hosts. With plentiful PCIe lanes and SFP+ ports, it easily replaces clusters of Intel NUCs, delivering lower power draw and noise. Video editors and 3D modelers benefit from the Core i9 performance and multiple 4K/8K display outputs. Digital signage integrators will appreciate the screwless access and small footprint.
However, novices may be challenged by its barebone nature. You must supply RAM, SSDs, and an OS installation—driver downloads require navigation of a bundled RAR file. GPU enthusiasts should verify clearance before ordering a graphics card. Users who expect robust out-of-warranty support or immediate BIOS updates may find better peace of mind with mainstream brands offering on-shore service centers.
- The MS-01 remains a powerful compact workstation when assembled correctly.
- Weigh the benefits of its connectivity and expandability against potential compatibility hurdles.
Conclusion: Final Verdict
The MINISFORUM MS-01 Mini Workstation is a compelling choice for users who need high-speed networking and flexible storage expansion in a small form factor. Its Intel Core i9-13900H and Iris Xe Graphics deliver robust computing power, while two 10 Gbps SFP+ ports and three NVMe slots surpass many competitors. However, claims of RTX 3050 compatibility, U.2 drive thickness, and chassis port orientation should be approached with caution. Be prepared for DIY assembly, driver hunts, and possible firmware quirks.
If you’re an experienced home lab enthusiast or professional seeking a low-noise, energy-efficient mini-server, the MS-01 rewards your investment. For buyers new to barebone systems or expecting turnkey discrete GPU support, consider alternative mini PCs with guaranteed GPU clearance and more accessible customer service. Ultimately, the MS-01 delivers great value—but only for those willing to navigate its few design and support trade-offs.
MINISFORUM MS-01 Workstation Core i9-13900H Mini PC Barebone Version Without RAM, SSD and OS, 2xUSB4 1xHDMI Display, 2×2.5G LAN Port, 3X SSD Slot, 2x10G SFP+ Port, Support Discrete Graphics Cards
- MINISFORUM MS-01 mini workstation features a 14-core Intel Core i9-13900H and Iris Xe graphics for blazing compute performance in gaming, 3D rendering, video editing and high-intensity workflows.
- Dual 10G SFP+ and 2.5G LAN ports plus USB4 deliver up to 65Gbps transfer speeds. Expand with DDR5, triple M.2/U.2 slots and a PCIe 4.0 x8 GPU slot for ultimate customization.
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