The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra is positioned as a mini PC, but its physical footprint tells a different story. Measuring 221.5 x 225 x 97 mm, it is almost twice as deep as the model it replaces. While still smaller than a standard desktop tower, its size and weight bring it closer to mobile workstation territory. This shift reflects a clear intention. Rather than competing to be the smallest device, the MS-02 Ultra aims to offer capabilities that typical compact systems cannot match.
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Hardware Stacked for Heavy Workloads
The system is built around Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285HX, a 24-core Arrow Lake-HX processor. That alone places it well above the performance range of most mini PCs. Minisforum has paired the CPU with four SODIMM slots supporting up to 256GB of DDR5-4800 ECC memory. Storage is equally flexible, with four M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 slots that can accommodate up to 16TB. It is a configuration designed for users who handle demanding multitasking, virtualisation, or content creation workloads.
Expansion More Typical of a Desktop
The MS-02 Ultra includes three PCIe slots: one 5.0 x16, one 4.0 x16, and one 4.0 x4. The processor supports only 24 PCIe lanes, so not every slot will run at peak throughput, but the presence of these slots marks a rare level of expandability for a compact system. Minisforum uses a slide-out chassis design to make internal access straightforward, giving the device a degree of upgrade freedom normally found in full towers.
High-Speed Networking and Connectivity
One PCIe 4.0 x16 slot is populated with a 25-gigabit NIC card. It includes two 25Gbps SFP+ ports, a 10Gbps Ethernet port, and a 2.5Gbps Intel i226-LM port. Wireless connectivity is covered by Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 via an M.2 E-Key slot. The front and rear panels offer two USB4v2 Type-C ports capable of 80Gbps transfers with DisplayPort Alt Mode, one USB4 Type-C port at 40Gbps, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 output, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The system is powered by a 350W supply, which confirms that it is designed for sustained heavy workloads rather than light office use.
Aimed at Users Who Need Power in a Compact Frame
For buyers who want the footprint of a small system without giving up workstation-grade features, the MS-02 Ultra offers a practical middle ground. It can support large memory configurations, fast storage arrays, and high-performance networking without needing a full-sized case. Minisforum has not yet announced pricing or availability, but given the hardware package, the MS-02 Ultra is likely to attract professionals who need capability first and compactness second.
