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MINISFORUM MS-R1: In-depth Review of the Latest Mini Workstation with ARM CPU
This video reviews MINISFORUM's latest mini workstation, the MS-R1. We verify the performance and usability of this unique machine, which features a Chinese-made ARM CPU, Debian OS, dual 10GbE LAN, and PCIe slots. We explore the possibilities of the MS-R1 from various angles, including building an Android environment and running Windows in a virtual environment.
The MS-R1 is a unique product that adopts ARM architecture, setting it apart from conventional mini workstations.
The MS-R1 is a unique product that adopts ARM architecture, setting it apart from conventional mini workstations.
Accessories include SSD cooling gear and a U.2 expansion card. The AC adapter is a bit large at 180W.
Browsing and general app operation are smooth in the Debian environment. However, challenges remain with GPU-related processing.
By using Proxmox VE, other OSs can be run in a virtual environment. However, the setup is complex and requires a certain level of knowledge.
Benchmark results show CPU performance equivalent to N100. Performance tends to be gained from the large number of cores.
The Android environment is stable and useful as a verification environment. The Antutu benchmark recorded a score exceeding the latest mid-range Xperia.
The MS-R1 is a valuable device in a position unlike any other. Expectations are high for future information releases and maturation.
1. 🚀 MINISFORUM MS-R1 Overview: A Unique Mini Workstation with ARM Architecture
- ✅ MINISFORUM introduces the new MS-R1 mini workstation
- ✅ Employs a Chinese-made ARM architecture CPU instead of Intel or AMD
- ✅ Equipped with workstation-like features such as PCIe slots and 10GBE LAN
The MS-R1 is a unique product that adopts ARM architecture, setting it apart from conventional mini workstations.
00:01 - 01:16
1. 🚀 MINISFORUM MS-R1 Overview: A Unique Mini Workstation with ARM Architecture
- ✅ MINISFORUM introduces the new MS-R1 mini workstation
- ✅ Employs a Chinese-made ARM architecture CPU instead of Intel or AMD
- ✅ Equipped with workstation-like features such as PCIe slots and 10GBE LAN
The MS-R1 is a unique product that adopts ARM architecture, setting it apart from conventional mini workstations.
01:17 - 03:53
2. 📦 MS-R1 Detailed Specs and Appearance: CP8180 Processor, Abundant Interfaces
- ✅ CPU: CIX CP8180 (12 cores, 12 threads, TDP 28W)
- ✅ Memory: LPDDR5 5500MHz 64GB (ECC support)
- ✅ Network: Dual 10GBe
- ✅ Expansion: PCIe4.0×8 (×16 size slot), M.2 slot×2
- ✅ Other: UEFI support, USB PD boot support, NPU (28.8TOPS)
| Interface | Details |
|---|---|
| Front | 3.5mm audio jack, USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, USB 2.0 |
| Rear | USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A x2, HDMI, USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C, RJ45 (10Gbps) x2, USB 2.0 x2 |
Accessories include SSD cooling gear and a U.2 expansion card. The AC adapter is a bit large at 180W.
03:54 - 05:37
3. ⚙️ Basic Operation Check: Operation on Debian OS and App Compatibility
- ✅ Pre-installed Debian OS (custom ARM version) boots up
- ✅ Smooth operation with Chromeium browser for YouTube playback and opening multiple tabs
- ✅ Various apps such as Audacity, Blender, and OBS Studio are available
- ⚠️ Be aware of driver maturity issues when performing tasks that heavily utilize the GPU
Browsing and general app operation are smooth in the Debian environment. However, challenges remain with GPU-related processing.
05:38 - 07:58
4. 🖥️ Virtual Environment Setup: Proxmox VE Installation and Windows 11 Operation Verification
- ❌ Direct installation of ARM version of Windows 11 fails
- ✅ Virtual environment is built by running Proxmox VE on Debian
- ⚠️ Installing Proxmox VE requires knowledge of networking and command-line operations
- ⚠️ CIX CP8180 has a special core configuration, requiring caution when building virtual machines
By using Proxmox VE, other OSs can be run in a virtual environment. However, the setup is complex and requires a certain level of knowledge.
07:59 - 09:39
5. 📊 Benchmark Tests: Performance Evaluation with Passmark, Cinebench R23
| Benchmark | Result | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Passmark | CPU: Equivalent to N100, Disk: Low | GPU related errors |
| CrystalDiskMark | Speed difference in Read/Write | Write exceeds max 4000MB/s |
| Cinebench R23 | Multi Core: Higher than N100, Single Core: Half of N100 |
Benchmark results show CPU performance equivalent to N100. Performance tends to be gained from the large number of cores.
09:40 - 11:36
6. 📱 Android Environment Setup and Verification: Android Operation Using Docker
- ✅ Android environment is built using Docker
- ✅ Android can be operated from Windows with E Screen Copy
- ✅ High score recorded in Antutu benchmark
- ✅ Reportedly capable of running Genshin Impact 3 streams simultaneously at high settings and 60FPS
The Android environment is stable and useful as a verification environment. The Antutu benchmark recorded a score exceeding the latest mid-range Xperia.
11:37 - 13:28
7. 🤔 Conclusion: MS-R1 Evaluation and Future Prospects
- ✅ Unique mini workstation with Chinese-made CPU and ARM architecture
- ✅ Stable Android operation, promising as a verification environment
- ⚠️ Limited information, product for experienced users
- ✅ Potential for everyday use, such as booting with USB PD and quiet operation
The MS-R1 is a valuable device in a position unlike any other. Expectations are high for future information releases and maturation.