Minisforum has launched its new MS-R1 mini workstation, a compact yet powerful machine designed to bring server-level Arm performance to the desktop. It’s the first Arm-based mini workstation in the world that supports UEFI boot, making it easy for users to install Linux or other operating systems without complex steps.
The Minisforum MS-R1 is powered by the CIX CP8180 Arm processor, featuring 12 cores and 12 threads. It runs efficiently at just 28 watts while still offering strong performance for multitasking and AI workloads. With 45 TOPS of total AI power and 28.8 TOPS from its built-in NPU, this small workstation can easily handle demanding AI tasks, edge computing, and model training all while staying energy efficient.
One of the most exciting parts about the Minisforum MS-R1 is its easy setup. Thanks to UEFI boot support, users can plug in a USB drive and directly install their favourite OS like Linux, without the need for deep technical knowledge. This makes it a great choice for developers, researchers, and even tech enthusiasts who want to explore Arm computing on the desktop.
It also comes packed with impressive hardware support. The MS-R1 can handle up to 64 GB of LPDDR5 memory with ECC, ensuring both speed and reliability. For storage, it starts with a 1 TB NVMe SSD but can expand up to 8 TB through PCIe 4.0 M.2 or U.2 options perfect for large projects, virtual machines, or data-heavy workloads.
Connectivity is another major highlight. It includes dual 10 GbE Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 for fast and stable connections. There’s also a full PCIe x16 slot (with x8 bandwidth), allowing users to add a discrete GPU, high-speed NIC, or extra storage. This level of expandability makes the MS-R1 ideal for both AI developers and creative professionals who need flexibility.
Despite all this power, the MS-R1 comes in a small 1.7-litre form factor, offering strong performance without taking much space. It’s built for those who want the performance of a server, but the simplicity and portability of a mini PC.
Minisforum MS-R1 availability
The Minisforum MS-R1 is now available globally starting November 10, 2025, through Minisforum’s official store. With its combination of compact design, easy setup, and strong AI performance, the MS-R1 looks like a major step forward for Arm-based desktop computing.
