Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Verdict: The Minisforum HX90G remains a genuinely capable 1080p gaming PC in a compact case, thanks to its discrete Radeon RX 6600M. But it is a 2022-era system, not a modern high-end “titan”: its CPU and GPU are soldered, its storage is PCIe 3.0, and current stock and warranty terms need checking. Buy one in 2026 only if the total price is clearly below newer alternatives and the condition is trustworthy.
What the HX90G is—and what it isn’t
The HX90G is not an ultra-small office PC relying on integrated graphics. It pairs a mobile AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX with a separate Radeon RX 6600M and 8GB of dedicated GDDR6 memory. The GPU is configured up to 100W in the system tested by Notebookcheck, giving the HX90G a real discrete-graphics gaming role in a compact desktop. Both chips are mobile parts, however; calling the machine a desktop-performance replacement without qualification would be misleading.
Its enduring appeal is the unusual combination of a discrete GPU, useful 1080p gaming performance, upgradeable RAM and storage, and a small footprint. Its drawbacks are equally clear: an older Zen 3/RDNA 2 platform, no practical graphics-card upgrade, and no current price advantage that can be assumed from its original launch.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Size, design, and setup
The chassis measures 205 × 203 × 69.3mm and weighs approximately 1.21kg, before adding its external power adapter. That is far smaller than a conventional ATX or micro-ATX gaming tower, but larger than an integrated-graphics NUC-style mini PC. Think compact shoebox footprint rather than pocket-sized cube: the power brick also occupies space and belongs in any honest portability comparison.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Ryzen 7 8745H Mini PC】MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini Computers powered with AMD Ryzen 7 8745H Processor, 8 Core/16 Thread, up to 4.9GHz, 16 MB L3 Smart Cache, performance mode TPD up to 65W.
- 【780M Mini PC Graphics】This UM870 Slim Mini PC is also equipped with AMD Radeon 780M graphics(12 core 2600MHz) based on RDNA3 graphics architecture. The performance is almost very close to that of the GTX 1650 discrete graphics cards. It can handle heavy computing tasks smoothly and is better for multitasking.
- 【Expandable Storage】MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Micro Computer comes with 32GB DDR5 RAM, supports expansion to 96GB RAM. The Small PC is also featured with 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD, which supports dual slot expansion to 2x 2TB SSD, up to 4TB.
- 【8K Triple Display Output】MINISFORUM UM870 Slim Mini Desktop PC supports triple displays via HDMI2.1 8K@60Hz, USB4.0 8K@60Hz, and DisplayPort1.4 4K@120Hz output, you can connect three independent displays at the same time to meet the demands of daily multitasking. Increase greatly boost your productivity by expanding multiple workspaces.
- 【Super USB4.0 Port & Fast Network】The advanced USB4.0 port provides an 8K@60Hz display experience that supports up to 40 Gbps transfer speed, and 65-100W adapter PD power delivery input, allowing you to plug and play anytime, anywhere. UM870 Slim Mini PC has a 2.5Gbps LAN wired network port and Wi-Fi 6E/BT5.3 wireless network card, providing a stable network connection and fast transmission speed.
The cooling system is built for sustained CPU and GPU loads. In Notebookcheck’s sample it was relatively quiet for a gaming system, but not silent under load. Keep the unit on a hard, open surface; use the supplied stand where practical, and do not block its vents or run it on bedding, carpet, or thick fabric.
HX90G specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX, 8 cores/16 threads, 3.3GHz base, up to 4.6GHz boost |
| Graphics | Discrete AMD Radeon RX 6600M, 8GB GDDR6 |
| Memory | Two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots; up to 64GB listed by Minisforum |
| Storage | Two M.2 2280 positions; PCIe 3.0 NVMe support, with the secondary slot also supporting SATA |
| Networking | 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Video outputs | Two HDMI and two DisplayPort, each listed for up to 4K/60Hz |
| Size and weight | 205 × 203 × 69.3mm; approximately 1.21kg net |
Minisforum’s official specifications list Windows 11 Pro, Linux, and Ubuntu as system options. Retail configurations varied: verify whether a particular listing is barebone or includes RAM, an SSD, and a Windows license.
Gaming performance: target 1080p
Notebookcheck found its tested HX90G suitable for 1080p gaming at maximum settings across its test suite. Some titles were playable at 1440p, but the RX 6600M became the limiting factor at higher resolutions. This is the system’s proper performance story: strong 1080p capability for its size, not a blanket promise of ultra settings in every current game.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →- Older and mid-generation AAA games: 1080p high or ultra is a sensible expectation, with results varying by game.
- Esports: A good fit for high-frame-rate play in many titles, though the game, settings, and CPU load determine actual frame rates.
- Newer demanding games: Expect to adjust settings; high may be more realistic than ultra.
- 1440p: Possible in selected games, but not the default target if you want consistently high settings.
- Ray tracing and 4K AAA: Not this system’s strengths. Four 4K/60Hz display outputs describe connectivity, not the ability to render demanding games at 4K.
The RX 6600M is a mobile GPU, and its performance depends on power limit, cooling, drivers, and the game. Notebookcheck found it narrowly behind an RTX 3060-equipped comparison system in some overall gaming comparisons, but that does not make the two GPUs universally equivalent. Treat the HX90G as a capable older 1080p machine, not as a substitute for a current high-end gaming PC.
These expectations reflect Notebookcheck’s particular review system and test conditions, not a fresh 2026 benchmark. See its full HX90G review for the measured results and test details.
CPU performance and everyday work
The eight-core, 16-thread Ryzen 9 5900HX remains adequate for gaming, browser-heavy use, general productivity, compiling, and moderate creative work. It is not a current-generation desktop processor: CPU-limited games at very high refresh rates and demanding CPU-heavy workloads can benefit from newer architectures. Notebookcheck found newer processors, including the Ryzen 9 6900HX, around 10% faster in its comparison context; that is not a universal result for every workload.
In most games, the RX 6600M matters more to the HX90G’s appeal than the 5900HX’s core count. Buyers choosing between it and a newer machine should weigh platform age, efficiency, and features—not just compare CPU names.
Noise, heat, and power
In Notebookcheck’s measurements, load noise averaged about 31dB(A) and reached 36.6dB(A) in stress testing. The CPU reached 88.3°C, the GPU was around 77°C, and the underside reached about 48°C. The reviewer reported no performance throttling in those stress tests. These are results from one sample, room, firmware, and test setup; they are useful context, not a guarantee for every unit or environment.
Rank #2
- 【Desktop RTX 5060 Graphics】Equipped with a full-power 145W NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 featuring 3840 CUDA cores, 8GB GDDR7 memory, and 614 TOPS AI performance, this system delivers desktop-class graphics for AAA gaming and GPU-intensive workloads, offering approximately 25% higher overall performance compared to RTX 4060 and enhanced realism through 4th Gen RT Cores, 5th Gen Tensor Cores, and DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation.
- 【Ryzen 9 8945HX Flagship CPU】Powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX with 16 cores, 32 threads, up to 5.4GHz boost clock, and 80MB combined cache, it handles competitive gaming, content creation, and heavy multitasking with consistent high-frequency performance, delivering measurable multi-core advantages within its class based on internal lab testing.
- 【245W Total Performance Release】With a 145W GPU and up to 100W CPU sustained power, supported by a 3rd-Gen Glacier Cooling System rated for up to 300W dissipation, five copper heat pipes, dual-side exhaust, and a 350W built-in PSU, the system maintains stable output under single and dual-load stress for sustained peak performance.
- 【AI-Accelerated Creation & Expansion】Featuring 614 TOPS AI computing power and NVIDIA Studio support, it accelerates over 130 creative applications across video editing, 3D rendering, generative AI, and design workflows, while supporting up to 96GB DDR5 memory and dual M.2 SSD expansion up to 8TB for scalable professional workloads
- 【Advanced Connectivity & Quad 4K Output】Designed for high-productivity setups with 5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, multiple USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, and up to five display outputs including 3×DP and 2×HDMI supporting quad 4K displays, all housed in a compact 3.8L vertical chassis with customizable RGB lighting and dedicated control software for performance and system management
The review also recorded about 18.2W idle with an external monitor, 185.6W while playing The Witcher 3 at Ultra, and roughly 195W during FurMark testing. Actual wall draw varies with workload and configuration.
Minisforum’s cooling design uses liquid metal, and the review noted that the manufacturer discouraged users from dismantling the cooler. Do not treat a routine RAM or SSD upgrade as an invitation to remove the heatsink or attempt a casual repaste. For a used unit, check for abnormal fan noise, overheating, and a seller-backed return window rather than planning on invasive cooling work.
Upgrades and maintenance
The practical upgrades are memory and storage. There are two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots, with up to 64GB listed, and two M.2 2280 positions. The secondary storage position supports SATA or NVMe according to Minisforum’s specifications, so check the exact drive interface before buying an SSD. Follow the HX90G-specific instructions from the official support hub; do not assume that a guide for an HX90 or HX99 describes the same panel or installation steps.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsThe processor and discrete GPU are soldered, and there is no standard PCIe slot for a desktop graphics card. The HX90G also lacks USB4 or an OCuLink-based external-GPU path. Its upgrade story is therefore useful but limited: you can expand memory and storage, not replace the core gaming hardware.
A 512GB configuration is restrictive for a gaming PC. Notebookcheck’s tested system had roughly 450GB available after the operating system and regarded the capacity as small. Aim for at least 1TB; 2TB is more comfortable if you keep several large games installed. Adding a drive in the second slot can preserve the boot drive, provided the chosen SSD matches the slot’s supported interface.
Ports and multiple displays
The HX90G offers two HDMI and two DisplayPort outputs, each listed for up to 4K/60Hz, along with front USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, three rear USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, 2.5Gb Ethernet, microphone and headphone connections, and a Clear CMOS button. Minisforum’s specifications and review material describe support for up to four displays. That flexibility is useful for a multi-monitor desk, but it does not make the RX 6600M a four-screen gaming card or a demanding 4K gaming solution.
Windows, Linux, and support
Minisforum’s support hub still lists HX90G downloads and documentation, including categories for chipset/processor, discrete Radeon graphics, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, Ethernet, and BIOS. For a clean Windows installation, use model-specific official downloads where needed rather than assuming Windows Update will supply every component. Official documentation remaining online is not a promise of future BIOS development, current retail stock, or a particular warranty.
Recommended Free Tools
Linux and Ubuntu appear among the official system options, but that does not establish current plug-and-play behavior for every distribution. Kernel and Mesa versions can affect graphics, while Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, audio, suspend, and display routing may require attention. AMD graphics support is often straightforward in Linux, but check current reports for the exact distribution and use case rather than assuming every feature works perfectly.
Rank #3
- Powerful Ryzen 9 9955HX: The MS-A2 mini PC is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX processor (16 cores/32 threads, Zen5 architecture, 64 MB L3 cache, up to 5.4 GHz), which offers excellent multi-threaded performance and smooth HD graphics processing. Whether 3D modeling, video rendering, or graphic design, everything is handled efficiently and creation time is significantly reduced.
- Fast memory & expandable storage： Equipped with DDR5 SODIMM, supporting 5600 MT/s, up to 96 GB and three M.2 NVMe SSD slots. Supports M.2 2280/22110/U.2 NVMe, U.2 HDD up to 15 TB, maximum thickness of 7 mm (max total capacity up to 23 TB). PCIe 4.0 speeds up to 7000 MB/s. Supports RAID 0/1.
- Efficient Cooling: Equipped with three pure copper heat pipes, phase-change thermal materials, and turbo-accelerated fans, increasing airflow by 30%. The direct exhaust, reactor-type design effectively controls temperature and ensures continuous 24/7 operation.
- PCIe x16 Slots: Enables expansion with high-performance network cards or professional graphics cards. Supports splitting into two PCIe x4 slots, expanding half-height professional graphics cards, or dual 10G network cards, suitable for AI inference and GPU-accelerated computing.
- Triple Display &Ultra-Fast Network: Dual USB-C and HDMI ports support up to 8K@60Hz/4K@ 144Hz, dual 2.5Gb LAN , dual 10G Ethernet port (for high data transfer rate), Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, allowing you to enjoy wired and wireless networks at impressive speeds.
HX90G versus the alternatives
Minisforum HX99G
The HX99G pairs a Ryzen 9 6900HX with RX 6600M-class graphics. It offers a newer CPU platform, with DDR5 and PCIe 4.0 advantages depending on configuration. In GPU-limited 1080p games, the graphics difference may matter less than the platform improvements. If an HX99G is close in total price and has comparable warranty and configuration, it is generally the more appealing purchase. Check the official HX99G/HX100G page for the exact regional model; do not treat historical or regional prices as current local offers.
Minisforum HX100G
The HX100G moves to a newer Ryzen 7 7840HS-class platform and Radeon RX 6650M-class graphics. It is the more attractive choice when the price gap is modest and you value the newer CPU and GPU platform. Confirm the precise regional configuration, included memory and storage, warranty, and delivered price before comparing.
ITX desktop
An ITX build is larger and may involve more assembly and cooling decisions, but its replaceable desktop CPU and graphics card give it a substantially better upgrade and repair path. Choose it if long-term component replacement matters more than the HX90G’s compact, ready-made form.
Gaming laptop or handheld
A gaming laptop includes a screen, keyboard, battery, and webcam, making it easier to move as a complete system; its fan noise and performance vary by model. A Steam Deck-class handheld is more portable and includes controls and a screen, but is aimed at lower-resolution play and is not a like-for-like option for high-refresh 1080p desktop gaming. The HX90G makes most sense when you already have a monitor and peripherals and want a small fixed desktop with discrete graphics.
Buying one in 2026: price and condition matter
The HX90G launched at reported U.S. barebone prices of $799 promotional and $939 regular, according to Tom’s Hardware’s launch coverage. Those are historical prices, not a 2026 recommendation or evidence of current availability. Minisforum still lists support material, but that does not establish broad new-stock availability. Treat a listing as new old stock, refurbished, or used only after checking its actual condition and terms.
Compare the complete delivered cost, not just the barebone price. Confirm the RAM and SSD capacity, whether Windows is included, the power adapter and stand, the seller’s return policy, warranty coverage, and the condition of fans and cooling. A barebone unit needs the buyer to supply memory and storage and may also require an operating system. For a used system, a credible return window and clear warranty terms matter more than an old launch discount.
There is no sensible universal price cutoff without checking local alternatives. The basic rule is straightforward: a well-kept HX90G can be a good compact 1080p gaming buy at a substantial discount; if its total price approaches a newer HX99G, HX100G, or a similarly priced ITX system, its age and lack of graphics upgrades make it hard to justify.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Who should buy it?
- Consider it if you need a genuinely compact desktop with discrete graphics, play mainly at 1080p, and find a complete or sensibly upgradeable unit at a clear discount.
- Prefer a newer HX model if the price gap is small, or if newer platform features and a stronger upgrade outlook matter to you.
- Choose an ITX desktop if replacing the graphics card or processor later is important.
- Skip it if your target is high-refresh 1440p or 4K AAA gaming, strong ray tracing, USB4/modern external-GPU expansion, or a current retail warranty you can verify.
The HX90G is still impressive in the narrow sense that a 205mm-wide-class compact machine contains a useful discrete gaming GPU and performs well at 1080p. It is not future-proof, flagship-class, or worth any price. In 2026, its appeal is a favorable used or remaining-stock deal—not the old launch hype.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
