Minisforum MS-03 workstation mini PC features Intel Core Ultra 9 386H and discrete graphics support

The Minisforum MS-03 is a compact workstation mini PC powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 386H processor, a 16-core, 16-thread chip from the Panther Lake series. Designed for demanding workloads, the unit supports discrete graphics and expansion through a PCIe Gen4 x4 slot, distinguishing it from typical mini PCs. The system includes dual 10GbE and 2.5GbE networking ports, alongside dual 10GbE SFP+ ports, making it a robust option for high-speed connectivity. While the chassis is largely identical to the MS-01, it features a hybrid construction with plastic I/O covers and a metal mid-section. The device supports up to 128GB of DDR5 7200 RAM, though the pre-built model tested included only a single 32GB stick, which limited performance in some benchmarks. The MS-03 offers a balanced power mode out of the box and a user-selectable quiet mode in the BIOS. Despite its impressive feature set, the unit is priced significantly higher than its predecessor, and fan noise under load is notably high, though it can be mitigated by adjusting the PWM fan settings.

Tech4K StaffVideo report

The Minisforum MS-03 is a compact workstation mini PC powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 386H processor, a 16-core, 16-thread chip from the Panther Lake series. Designed for demanding workloads, the unit supports discrete graphics and expansion through a PCIe Gen4 x4 slot, distinguishing it from typical mini PCs. The system includes dual 10GbE and 2.5GbE networking ports, alongside dual 10GbE SFP+ ports, making it a robust option for high-speed connectivity. While the chassis is largely identical to the MS-01, it features a hybrid construction with plastic I/O covers and a metal mid-section. The device supports up to 128GB of DDR5 7200 RAM, though the pre-built model tested included only a single 32GB stick, which limited performance in some benchmarks. The MS-03 offers a balanced power mode out of the box and a user-selectable quiet mode in the BIOS. Despite its impressive feature set, the unit is priced significantly higher than its predecessor, and fan noise under load is notably high, though it can be mitigated by adjusting the PWM fan settings.

The MS-03 is powered by the 16-core Intel Core Ultra 9 386H processor with integrated Intel graphics. The system includes a PCIe Gen4 x4 slot that supports discrete graphics cards up to 170mm in length.

Connectivity options are extensive, featuring dual 10GbE, dual 2.5GbE, and dual 10GbE SFP+ ports. The unit supports up to 128GB of DDR5 7200 RAM, though performance is impacted by the single-stick configuration in pre-built units.

The BIOS allows for manual adjustment of fan curves to manage noise levels under load. The device includes a large heat sink for the SSD, which effectively maintains temperatures during heavy usage.

Chapter guide

IntroductionOverview of the Minisforum MS-03 as a successor to the MS-01.CPU and GraphicsDetailed specifications of the Intel Core Ultra 9 386H and graphics capabilities.UnboxingReview of the included accessories and power brick.Ports and ConnectivityExamination of the front and rear I/O, including networking ports.Internal ComponentsDemonstration of how to open the chassis and access internal components.Software and BenchmarksTesting of Windows 11 Pro, Ubuntu, and various performance benchmarks.BIOS SettingsOverview of BIOS options for power management and fan control.Checklist and ConclusionSummary of the pros and cons of the MS-03.

Worth noting

  • The performance benchmarks were conducted using a single 32GB RAM stick, which may not reflect the system's full potential with dual-channel memory.
  • The unit tested was provided for review purposes.

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