Key takeaways
- Developers compiling large codebases or running containers and virtual machines.
- Data and finance users working with large spreadsheets, local databases, or analysis scripts.
- Home-lab builders who want many cores for virtualization in a small footprint.
- Office power users who keep dozens of apps open and want a desktop that never lags.
The Minisforum M1-1390 is a mini PC built around raw CPU power. Its Intel Core i9-13900HX has 24 cores and 32 threads with boost clocks up to 5.4 GHz, which puts heavy multitasking, code compiling, virtual machines, and CPU-based rendering in a box that fits on a bookshelf. With 32GB of DDR4, a 1TB SSD, 2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi 6E, and HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video outputs, it is a well-equipped workstation alternative, usually selling for around $700–$800.
Know what it is not: a gaming PC. The 13900HX’s integrated graphics are basic, so modern games and GPU-accelerated creative work will struggle unless you rely on very light titles or external solutions. It also draws more power and creates more heat than efficient mini PCs, so fans will be audible under heavy loads. If your work leans on CPU cores, this is one of the most powerful compact desktops for the money; if you need graphics performance, look elsewhere.
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Who It’s For
- Developers compiling large codebases or running containers and virtual machines.
- Data and finance users working with large spreadsheets, local databases, or analysis scripts.
- Home-lab builders who want many cores for virtualization in a small footprint.
- Office power users who keep dozens of apps open and want a desktop that never lags.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
- Gamers and 3D artists who need a strong GPU.
- Users who want a silent PC under all workloads.
- Anyone who only browses and streams; a far cheaper mini PC will do.
Key Specs
| Spec | Minisforum M1-1390 |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i9-13900HX, 24 cores / 32 threads, up to 5.4 GHz |
| Core layout | 8 performance cores + 16 efficient cores |
| Graphics | Intel UHD integrated graphics |
| Memory | 32GB DDR4 |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Networking | 2.5G LAN, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Video output | HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C |
| USB | 5 USB ports |
| Typical price range | About $700–$800 |
What Stands Out
Desktop-class core count in a mini PC
The HX series is Intel’s top mobile tier, using the same core layout as desktop chips. With 8 performance cores and 16 efficient cores, the 13900HX handles parallel workloads, such as compiling, encoding video on the CPU, or running several virtual machines, far faster than the 4–8 core processors in most mini PCs.
1TB SSD and 32GB RAM as standard
This configuration is ready for professional work out of the box. 1TB is enough for a development environment, project files, and a media library, and 32GB of RAM handles VMs and big datasets comfortably.
Modern wireless and fast wired networking
Wi-Fi 6E adds access to the 6 GHz band on compatible routers, which is less congested in apartments. The 2.5G Ethernet port is useful for fast NAS transfers.
Flexible display options
HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video outputs support multi-monitor productivity setups without adapters for most monitors.
Trade-offs and Limits
- Weak graphics: the integrated UHD graphics are fine for desktop use and video playback, but not for gaming or GPU-heavy creative apps.
- Heat and noise: HX processors are designed for high power. Expect fan noise during long all-core workloads, and give the unit open air around its vents.
- DDR4, not DDR5: DDR4 is slightly slower for memory-bandwidth-heavy tasks, though for most users the difference is small.
- Power draw: it consumes more electricity at full load than efficient mini PCs, which matters if it runs 24/7 as a server.
- Value depends on workload: if you do not use the extra cores, you are paying for performance you will rarely see.
Setup and Usage Tips
- Update BIOS and drivers from Minisforum’s support page after setup; mini PC firmware updates often improve fan curves and stability.
- Choose the right power mode. If the BIOS or Windows offers performance profiles, use a balanced mode for office days and full performance for heavy jobs.
- Place it on a hard surface with several inches of clearance; avoid enclosed shelves.
- Consider a second SSD for backups or project files, if the internal layout supports it.
- Use Ethernet for big transfers to take advantage of the 2.5G port.
- Monitor temperatures with a free utility during your first heavy workloads to confirm cooling is working well in your space.
How It Compares
Compared with AMD Ryzen mini PCs at a similar price, such as Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9 HS models, the M1-1390 often leads in multi-threaded CPU throughput but trails in integrated graphics. Ryzen machines with Radeon 760M or 780M graphics are better for light gaming and generally run cooler.
Compared with a full desktop tower using a similar class of processor, the M1-1390 saves huge amounts of space but cannot take a full-size graphics card. If you might want a powerful GPU later, a small tower is the more flexible choice.
Compared with budget Intel N100 mini PCs, it is in a different league entirely; those are for browsing and streaming, while the M1-1390 is a workstation.
FAQ
Can the Minisforum M1-1390 play games?
Only light and older titles at low settings. Its integrated graphics are not designed for modern gaming.
Is it good as a home server?
For virtualization and containers it is very capable thanks to 24 cores and 32GB RAM, but power use is higher than efficient server-focused mini PCs.
Verdict
The Minisforum M1-1390 delivers desktop-level CPU muscle in a compact box, with 24 cores, 32GB RAM, a 1TB SSD, and modern connectivity at a price that undercuts many traditional workstations. Choose it for CPU-heavy work; skip it if graphics performance matters to you.
