I. Introduction
The rise of mini PCs has brought a surprising variety of small, cube-like devices to the market. If you browse Amazon's best-selling desktop computers, you'll notice, alongside traditional Dell desktops and gaming PCs, an array of mini PCs with brand names ranging from generic to almost unpronounceable. These small machines are gaining popularity because they offer incredible value for those seeking a basic computer without breaking the bank. However, there is more to consider than just the cost.
In this post, we take a deeper dive into the Minisforum UN1290, exploring its potential as a powerful yet low-power host for Proxmox in our testing environment. Despite its impressive specifications and appealing price point, we found a few drawbacks that ultimately made it unsuitable for our lab needs.
II. Specifications
Powerful Performance: Equipped with an Intel Core i9-12900HK (14 cores/20 threads, up to 5.0GHz) processor. With Intel Iris Xe Graphics (graphics frequency up to 1.45GHz), it delivers excellent performance for virtualized workloads, office applications, and connecting to multiple monitors, projects, and TVs.
Triple Video Screen Output: This mini PC is equipped with HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C (4K@60Hz) outputs, allowing for ultra HD connection to three displays simultaneously.
Expandable Capacity: The UN1290 comes with DDR4 16GBx2 memory (expandable up to 64GB) and an M.2 2280 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD (expandable up to 2TB). It also has one 2.5-inch SATA HDD slot (SATA 3.0, 6.0Gb/s).
Multiple Connections: It features 1x 2.5G RJ45 port, 1x HDMI, 1x USB3.2 Type-C, 1x DisplayPort, 2x USB3.2, 2x USB 2.0, 1x audio jack, and 1x DMIC port. With the included VESA mount, you can set up an all-in-one computer to free up desk space.
Package Contents: 1x UN1290 Mini PC, 1x HDMI cable, 1x US power adapter, 1x manual.
III. Performance and User Experience
The Minisforum UN1290 delivers solid performance, thanks to its high-powered Intel Core i9-12900HK processor. This 14-core, 20-thread CPU is ideal for virtualization tasks with Proxmox, office tasks, and even more demanding workloads like light rendering or editing. Intel's Iris Xe graphics allow for smooth video playback and multi-monitor setups, making it a capable option for general computing.
However, despite its powerful internals, we found a few design choices that hindered the overall user experience. The main issue lies in the access panel for installing memory and storage. The panel is located on the bottom of the unit and requires removing the rubber feet to access the screws, with one screw even covered by a warranty sticker. This makes no sense on a barebones kit, which by definition requires the user to open the unit to install RAM and storage. It's an unfortunate oversight that complicates an otherwise straightforward setup process.
IV. Build Quality and Design
The UN1290 has a relatively sleek design for a mini PC. The build quality feels solid, with a plastic chassis that still adds a premium feel to the device. However, as mentioned earlier, the bottom access panel creates a major inconvenience. The placement of the warranty sticker over one of the screws further complicates installation and detracts from the overall experience of configuring the unit.
V. Networking Limitations
Another notable limitation of the UN1290 is its networking capability. It only features a single 2.5Gb Ethernet port, which may be a drawback for users who need dual Ethernet capabilities for network-intensive setups, such as a Proxmox environment or advanced home networking. This limitation, combined with the aforementioned access panel issue, ultimately led us to decide that the UN1290 was not the right choice for our testing environment.
VI. Pros and Cons
Pros:
Powerful Intel Core i9-12900HK processor
Supports triple display output
Expandable RAM and storage options
Solid build quality
Good value at $300 for a barebones setup ($450 as tested with 64GB RAM and 1TB SSD)
Cons:
Bottom access panel requires removing rubber feet and a warranty sticker
Only a single 2.5Gb Ethernet port
VII. Conclusion
The Minisforum UN1290 is a capable mini PC with impressive performance, a solid build, and plenty of expandability. At around $300 for a barebones setup, it's a decent value, particularly for those looking for a powerful yet compact desktop replacement. However, the issues with accessing the internals and the single Ethernet port were enough for us to look elsewhere for our Proxmox testing environment.
If you can live with these limitations, the UN1290 is still a good option for general computing or office use. That said, if you require better networking capabilities or a more user-friendly build, you might want to consider the newer NAB9 model, which addresses both of these issues. We'll be reviewing the NAB9 next week, so stay tuned for a deeper look at its improvements.
For those who are interested in building their own lab or testing environment and need help choosing the right hardware, contact SeraphimGate Systems today. Our team can help you find the perfect solution for your tech needs.
VIII. Additional Resources
Where to Buy (Non Affiliate Links)
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