CHIBA, Japan – The buzz in the compact computing world has reached a fever pitch. Mere weeks after initial details surfaced online, Minisforum has officially pulled back the curtain on the MS-02 Ultra, a mini-PC that boldly challenges the very definition of a small-form-factor (SFF) workstation. Unveiled at the Japan Autumn IT Week 2025 event, the MS-02 Ultra isn't just an incremental update; it's a statement piece, packing a top-tier Intel CPU, support for a massive 256 GB of RAM, and, most impressively, the ability to house a full-sized desktop graphics card.
The announcement, part of a broader showcase that also included the global launch details for the G1 and G1 Pro models, signals Minisforum's aggressive push into the professional and creator market. For users who crave desktop-level performance without the desktop-sized footprint, the MS-02 Ultra appears to be a dream come true.
A 4.8-Litre Revolution: More Than Just Marketing Hype?
Minisforum is centering its marketing around the MS-02 Ultra's 4.8-litre case, proclaiming it a "redefining moment" for SFF workstations. While such claims are common in the tech industry, a look under the hood suggests the company might not be exaggerating.
The heart of this beast is the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX, a flagship processor from Intel's next-generation Arrow Lake-HX family. This 24-core CPU is designed for uncompromising performance. According to our own benchmark analysis, the 285HX demonstrates a significant performance lead over the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which powers other high-end mini-PCs like the popular GMKtec EVO-X2 (currently listed at $1,499 on Amazon.
But raw CPU power is only part of the story. Where the MS-02 Ultra truly separates itself from the pack is in its graphics capabilities.
The Game-Changer: PCIe 5.0 and Desktop GPU Support
While the integrated 4-core Arc iGPU inside the Core Ultra 9 285HX is adequate for basic tasks, Minisforum knows that professionals and enthusiasts demand more. This is where the MS-02 Ultra delivers its killer blow. The mini-PC is equipped with both a PCIe 5.0 x16 and a PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, specifically designed to accommodate a 2-slot desktop graphics card.
This is a monumental leap for the mini-PC form factor. Users are no longer limited to mobile GPUs or external enclosures; they can install a powerful, standard desktop card from NVIDIA or AMD directly into the system. To power these hungry components, Minisforum has included an 8-pin PCIe auxiliary power connector. The entire system is powered by a built-in Flex ATX power supply, with total system power potentially capped at a robust 350W.
As noted in the detailed hands-on from PC Watch, the inclusion of this level of expandability blurs the line between a mini-PC and a mini server, making the MS-02 Ultra a uniquely versatile machine. You can read their full breakdown of the event and the hardware here.
Specs That Impress: 256GB RAM and Pro-Level I/O
Beyond the CPU and GPU, the MS-02 Ultra is specced like a true workstation. It supports a staggering up to 256 GB of DDR5 RAM, ensuring that even the most memory-intensive applications—from massive data analysis and complex 3D rendering to running multiple virtual machines—will have all the resources they need.
All of this power is housed in a chassis measuring a compact 221.5 × 225 × 97 mm. The device is also outfitted with a comprehensive suite of I/O ports on both the front and rear, including a pair of USB 2.0 ports for peripherals like keyboards and mice, ensuring the high-speed ports remain free for data transfers.
The Verdict: A New Category of Computing?
The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra is more than just another mini-PC; it's a compelling argument for a new category of desktop computer. It combines the unparalleled convenience of a small form factor with the performance and expandability that were once exclusive to full-sized towers.
For a complete look at Minisforum's official announcement and their other new AI workstations, be sure to check out their official blog post here.
The only significant question that remains is one of cost and availability. Minisforum has yet to announce pricing or a global release window for the MS-02 Ultra. But one thing is certain: with its groundbreaking specs and desktop-level flexibility, the computing world is watching closely. For power users who have longed for a "no compromises" mini-PC, the wait for final details just became the hardest part.
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