MINISFORUM has updated its MS-A2 mini workstation with a new Ryzen 9 8945HX option, adding another choice for users who want strong performance without paying for the top-end model. The system already supported Ryzen 7 7745HX, Ryzen 9 7945HX, and Ryzen 9 9955HX processors, and this new variant now sits between the older Zen 4 chips and the newer Zen 5 option.
The update focuses on pricing and positioning rather than a major hardware shift, as the Ryzen 9 8945HX still uses a 16-core, 32-thread design with similar specifications to other Dragon Range chips. This means buyers now get a clearer middle option in the lineup while keeping the same platform features.
According to MINISFORUM, the new configuration is available in barebones form at $599, which places it above the Ryzen 9 7945HX model at $559 and below the Ryzen 9 9955HX at $799. The entry-level Ryzen 7 7745HX version remains available at $439.
Hardware and Features
The MS-A2 continues to target compact workstation and networking use cases, offering high-end connectivity and expansion options in a small metal chassis. It includes dual 10G SFP+ ports, dual 2.5GbE, and a PCIe x16 slot running at PCIe 4.0 x8 speeds, which supports GPUs or network cards.
You also get strong storage and memory flexibility:
- Three M.2 slots for PCIe 4.0 SSDs
- Two SODIMM slots for DDR5 memory
- Support for WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2
- Up to 96GB RAM depending on the CPU
CPU Options and Pricing
| CPU | Architecture | Cores / Threads | Max Frequency | Max RAM | Price (Barebones) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryzen 9 9955HX | Zen 5 | 16 / 32 | Up to 5.4 GHz | 96GB DDR5-5600 | $799 |
| Ryzen 9 8945HX | Zen 4 | 16 / 32 | Up to 5.4 GHz | 64GB DDR5-5200 | $599 |
| Ryzen 9 7945HX | Zen 4 | 16 / 32 | Up to 5.2 GHz | 64GB DDR5-5200 | $559 |
| Ryzen 7 7745HX | Zen 4 | 16 / 32 | Up to 5.1 GHz | 64GB DDR5-5200 | $439 |
This update gives buyers more flexibility without changing the core design of the MS-A2, and the addition of the Ryzen 9 8945HX creates a balanced option for users who want strong multi-core performance at a lower cost than the flagship model while still getting the same connectivity, expansion support, and compact workstation design.
