This machine is beautifully crafted, featuring the powerful Ultra 9 processor. However, its performance gap compared to the Ultra 7 is small. The key highlights include its sturdy build and the OCulink port, while the built-in display is less crucial.
Pros
- Potent platform
- ARC graphics
- Two M.2 Slots and two 5GbE LAN ports
- Aluminum case
- WiFi 7 connectivity
Cons
- Need to remove feet for internal access
- Lack of Thunderbolt ports
- Display software requires improvement
AtomMan X7 Ti Review: Quick Review
Mini PCs, also known as NUCs, typically fall into two categories. Many include a metal plate for mounting on VESA holes at the back of monitors, turning the screen into a complete computing setup.
Alternatively, the AtomMan X7 Ti opts for a desktop-friendly design. It can sit on the desk with a metal bracket elevating it, showcasing its inbuilt touch LCD for system info or a clock.
Notably, it features a Windows Hello-compliant camera, ideal for frequent conferencing. Moreover, it boasts the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, a standout feature among Mini PCs, with sixteen cores and twenty-two simultaneous threads.
Packaged in a premium aluminum case with top vents for cooling, it also offers NVMe storage and DDR5 SODIM memory. While not cheap, its specs, features, and build justify its price compared to alternatives.
AtomMan X7 Ti Review: Price and Availability
- Price: Starting from $669/€759
- Availability: Available for pre-order now
- Retailer: Directly from MinisForum
Recently released for pre-order, the AtomMan X7 Ti comes in two configurations: barebones or with 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB NVMe storage.
Pre-order prices start at $629 for the barebones and $849 for the 32GB+1TB model with Windows 11 Pro. Adding the DEG1 eGPU dock for external video card connection costs an extra $50.
Note: Pre-orders are set to ship on July 10th, 2024. The MSRP for the ready-to-run version is expected to be $1,150 after initial shipments.
While pricey, the AtomMan X7 Ti offers superior specs compared to many laptops priced over $2,000.
AtomMan X7 Ti Review: Specifications
| Item | Spec |
|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 9 185H (16 cores, 22 Threads) processor |
| GPU | Intel ARC Graphics |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5-5600 (2800 MHz) (16GB x 2) (Expandable to 96GB) |
| Storage | 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 |
| Expansion | 1x M.2 2230 PCIe Gen 4 |
| Ports | 2x USB 4.0 Type-A, 1x OCulink Port, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 2.0, 1x 3.5mm combo jack, SD Card slot, 2x DMIC |
| Video ports | 1x HDMI 2.1, 1xDisplayPort 2.0, 2x USB 4.0 |
| Networking | 2x 5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| OS | Windows 11 Pro (pre-installed) |
| Base Power | 45W-65W |
| PSU | 19V 6.32A 120.08W |
| Dimensions | 145 x 145 x 48.6(mm) |
AtomMan X7 Ti Review: Design
- Material: Aluminum
- Support Feature: Support foot
- Display: 4-inch touch screen
Before delving into the design details, it’s noteworthy that this machine underwent a last-minute name change from Minisforum UH185 Ultra to AtomMan X7 Ti.
While the name X7 may seem mismatched with its Ultra 9 processor, Minisforum opted for this designation. Despite being larger than traditional NUCs, the X7 Ti’s size likely accommodates its powerful CPU and cooling requirements.
The thermal management system draws air through a circular vent, with a foot included to angle the machine for optimal airflow. Made mostly of metal, this mini system boasts a high-quality finish.
However, there are some design quirks, such as loose connections between the machine and foot, and the absence of a privacy cover for the camera. Additionally, accessing internal components requires removing adhesive feet, which may deter some users.
In terms of ports, the X7 Ti offers ample USB connectivity but lacks Thunderbolt. Nonetheless, its dual 5GbE LAN ports enhance its networking capabilities, making it suitable for various applications.
AtomMan X7 Ti Review: Features
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 185H
- PCIe Lanes: 28 lanes
- Graphics: ARC Graphics
After reviewing the Acemagic F2A, equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor, we were eager to test the higher-end hardware in the AtomMan X7 Ti.
The Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 185H, part of the Meteor Lake chips, boasts 16 cores, including six performance cores and eight efficiency cores. With a thread count of 22, it offers impressive processing power.
Featuring a base power profile of 45W and turboboost speeds up to 5.1GHz, this processor delivers exceptional performance. It supports DDR5 memory and offers 28 PCIe lanes, providing ample bandwidth for various peripherals.
Additionally, it introduces an OCulink port for connecting external graphics cards, enhancing graphics capabilities. While integrated Intel ARC Graphics are sufficient for most tasks, users seeking top-notch graphics performance can opt for the DEG1 eGPU dock.
Moreover, the inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 and dual 5GbE LAN ports ensures reliable connectivity, catering to diverse networking needs.
AtomMan X7 Ti Review: Performance
| Feature | AtomMan X7 Ti | GMKtec K8 |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 9 185H | AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5 | 32GB DDR5 |
| Storage | 1TB Kingston OM8PGP41024Q-A0 | 1TB Lexar NM7A1 |
| Graphics | Intel Arc Graphics | Radeon 780M |
| 3DMark | WildLife: 19304 | WildLife: 16149 |
| CineBench23 | Single: 1890 | Single: 1764 |
| Multi: 18568 | Multi: 15691 | |
| GeekBench | Single: 1860 | Single: 1957 |
| Multi: 13337 | Multi: 11864 | |
| CrystalDisk | Read MB/s: 4798 | Read MB/s: 5105 |
| Write MB/s: 3732 | Write MB/s: 4390 | |
| PCMark 10 | Office: 7201 | Office: 7396 |
| WEI | – | WEI: 8.3 |
Comparing the AtomMan X7 Ti with one of the best AMD Ryzen processors with its Radeon 780M, the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H outperforms in multithreaded tasks, albeit not significantly.
However, the AMD chip proves capable in various tests, highlighting competitive performance. Despite its powerful CPU and impressive ARC graphics GPU, the X7 Ti falls short in NVMe speeds, affecting its PCMark10 score.
Additionally, considering the GMKtec K8’s lower cost and comparable specifications, the AtomMan X7 Ti’s performance may not justify its price.
AtomMan X7 Ti Review: Conclusion
Minisforum sets itself apart with quality construction, deviating from the typical plastic enclosures seen in similar devices.
Despite innovative features like OCulink technology, some aspects like the touch display may not be as appealing. Performance-wise, it doesn’t significantly outshine cheaper AMD Ryzen 7 options, and the absence of Thunderbolt is notable.
The information display lacks practical utility without customizable options or language settings. However, the potential for enhanced performance with an eGPU add-on is intriguing.
Moreover, with the upcoming Thunderbolt 5.0, similar external GPU options may become more widely available, offering additional flexibility for users.