Minisforum X1 Lite: Compact but surprisingly powerful?

The new Minisforum X1 Lite model is a direct response to the need for high performance in a body that closely resembles the popular Mac mini. Unlike standard office computers, this machine is aimed at enthusiasts and gamers, taking full advantage of the potential of Zen 4 architecture and integrated Radeon 780M graphics .

The heart of the machine: Ryzen 7 255 and record power consumption limits

The key component of the Minisforum X1 Lite is the AMD Ryzen 7 255 processor. This is a model from a new series, which is essentially a rebranded and optimized Ryzen 7 8845HS chip with 8 cores and 16 threads. However, what makes this model stand out is its power management and advanced graphics BIOS. While most competitors keep processors in check for thermal regulation, the X1 Lite allows the processor to operate with an increased thermal design power (TDP) limit of up to 65 W, reaching 70 W during peak periods of demanding calculations.

This increase in power is directly reflected in the performance of the integrated Radeon 780M graphics. In the 3DMark Time Spy synthetic benchmark tests, the system scored 3,322 points, coming dangerously close to the dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics card. For users, this means they can perform complex video editing or play modern titles without the need for a bulky graphics card, saving both space and electricity.

Gaming tests: When integrated graphics are enough

Thanks to its high TDP and the ability to manually allocate up to 8 GB of shared VRAM from the system RAM (DDR5-5600) in the BIOS, the Minisforum X1 Lite delivers surprising results in games:

• God of War Ragnarök: At 1080p and medium settings (FSR Frame Gen), it averages 74 FPS.
• Forza Horizon 5: At 1080p and high settings, it maintains a smooth 82 FPS.
• Fallout 4: A stable 60 FPS at native 1080p resolution and high detail settings.

OCuLink: The gateway to unlimited graphics performance

For those who find the performance of the Radeon 780M insufficient over time, the Minisforum X1 Lite has an ace up its sleeve in the form of an OCuLink port. Unlike the standard Thunderbolt connection, which suffers from higher protocol overhead, OCuLink offers a more direct connection to an external graphics card (eGPU) via the PCIe bus. Minisforum also offers an optional eGPU dock for around $120, which can turn this mini computer into a full-fledged gaming station capable of competing with mid-range gaming desktops in a matter of seconds.

Design, cooling, and connectivity

Despite its high performance, the device remains portable, weighing approximately 0.67 kg, which is almost identical to the new Mac mini M4. To keep the system cool within the 65 W limit, Minisforum has implemented an efficient cooling system that can be regulated using Silent, Balanced, and Performance profiles. The package is generous and includes everything you need for immediate deployment:

• VESA mount for mounting on the back of a monitor.
• HDMI cable and a powerful 120 W power adapter.

In terms of energy efficiency, the system is surprisingly economical – it consumes only 8 W when idle, while playing 4K video requires around 12 W. At full gaming load, the total power consumption of the system from the outlet averages 71 W, which is still a fraction of the consumption of a typical desktop PC.

Price and configuration

The Minisforum X1 Lite is currently available in a full configuration with 32 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM and a fast 1 TB SSD drive for around $1,200. Given its premium build quality, unlocked performance profiles, and the presence of an OCuLink port, it is one of the most versatile offerings on the Mini PC market for 2026.

Conclusion

Minisforum proves once again that size isn’t everything. The X1 Lite model with an unlocked 65 W limit for Ryzen 7 255 shows how powerful a modern APU system can be in the right hands. It is the ideal choice for creative professionals, programmers, and gamers who require a minimalist workspace without sacrificing raw performance and future upgradeability.