Title: Minisforum Neptune HX77G: A Powerful Small Desktop Expanding the Mini PC Market
Subtitle: The Minisforum HX77G offers exceptional performance and flexibility in a small desktop form factor
Introduction:
The Mini PC market has experienced a surge in popularity with the release of Intel’s 12th and 13th generation laptop processors, coupled with AMD’s latest mobile Zen 3 and 4 architecture chips. These chips offer desktop-level performance with efficient power management and minimal fan noise. However, the Minisforum Neptune Series HX77G goes beyond the typical Mini PC design by providing a larger enclosure that unlocks the full potential of the AMD CPU and chipset, offering ample space for external ports and internal expansion.
Design and Features:
Unlike traditional Mini PCs, the Minisforum HX77G is not super-small. It is twice the size of a typical NUC, allowing for additional technology and improved ventilation. The elegant carbon fiber adorned enclosure can either lay flat or stand vertically on an included wedge-shaped foot. The HX77G boasts an abundance of external ports, including seven USB ports, two HDMI 2.1 video outs, and a 2.5Gbps Ethernet LAN port, making it an ideal choice for a media center system or central file store.
Upgrade Potential:
One of the standout features of the HX77G is its impressive upgrade potential. The system is easily customizable with the option to add up to 64GB of RAM and additional internal storage using the unoccupied M.2 2280 slot. While the graphics card is not easily accessible, the physical separation of the primary system and graphics modules allows for efficient airflow, preventing overheating.
Performance:
The HX77G is equipped with the AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS eight-core hyperthreading CPU and the AMD Radeon RX 6600M GPU. The Ryzen 7 7735HS delivers impressive computing performance with its eight cores and sixteen threads. The RX 6600M GPU, featuring 1,792 cores and 8GB of GDDR6 memory, provides powerful video processing capabilities. While the RX 6600M is not as fast as its desktop counterpart, it still outperforms integrated GPUs and allows for playable gaming experiences at 1080p resolution.
Early Verdict:
The Minisforum Neptune HX77G offers a compelling solution for those seeking a small desktop system with discreet GPU performance. It stands out from the competition with its expandable design, ample external ports, and impressive upgrade potential. While it may be larger and more power-hungry than a typical NUC, the HX77G provides a level of performance that surpasses mobile platforms with integrated GPUs. Overall, it presents a flexible and powerful option for users looking to enhance their computing experience.
Price Comparison:
The Minisforum Neptune HX77G is available in the UK with three pricing options. The barebones system starts at £629, while the 32GB RAM and 512GB storage configuration cost £759. Customers can also opt for a 1TB storage option priced at £799. In the US, the prices are $629, $779, and $779 respectively. Additionally, US customers can purchase a model with an extra 64GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD for $879. The HX77G is available for purchase on Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.
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