Introduction: The Geekom A9 Max is a mini PC designed to offer powerful performance and advanced AI capabilities, positioning itself as a compelling alternative to traditional desktop computers. This analysis examines its specifications, features, performance, and overall value proposition based on a review of the device.
In-Depth Analysis: The Geekom A9 Max is powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, a high-end chip from the Ryzen AI 300 series, featuring 12 cores (4 Zen 5 and 8 Zen 5c) with support for up to 24 threads. This processor is specifically engineered for AI applications, boasting an integrated AI engine capable of up to 80 TOPS, with 50 TOPS attributed to the Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This makes it suitable for handling everyday tasks and leveraging Windows 11’s AI features. The integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics also contribute to its performance capabilities. The review unit came equipped with 32 GB of Wodposit DDR5 RAM running at 5,600 MT/s, configured as two 16 GB modules. While this configuration provides ample memory, the use of two modules instead of a single 32 GB module limits future upgradeability to 64 GB, as both modules would need to be replaced. The internal storage in the reviewed unit was a 2 TB Lexar LNQ7A1X002T M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSD, which demonstrated strong performance with read speeds of 6,242 MB/s and write speeds of 5,423 MB/s in Crystal Disk Mark benchmarks, considered above average for a PCIe 4.0 SSD. The A9 Max also offers an M.2 2230 slot for an additional SSD, though the size limitation restricts compatible drive options. The device supports up to four 8K monitors through its connectivity options, which include two USB4 ports with DisplayPort 1.4 support and two HDMI 2.1 ports. A notable feature is the inclusion of two 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports, enabling parallel connections to two wired networks. In testing, the dual Ethernet ports did not offer a speed boost over a single port for file transfers to a NAS, with average bandwidths of 278 MB/s observed, and NAS Performance Tester results showing average read speeds of 276.04 MB/s and write speeds of 289.09 MB/s. The Geekom A9 Max comes pre-installed with Microsoft Windows 11 24H2, with the initial setup taking approximately 50 minutes, including updates. The device’s performance in PCMark 10 was strong, scoring 7,976, which is noted as being in the top tier and significantly higher than systems with less advanced processors. In 3DMark, it achieved 3,279 points in Steel Nomad Light and 3,701 points in Time Spy, placing it in the “good” and slightly above average range respectively. The compact metal housing is described as attractively designed and highly stable, with dimensions of 135 x 132 x 46.9 mm, making it suitable for desk placement or VESA mounting. The pricing at the time of review was $999 in the U.S., down from an original price of $1,199, with the potential for further promotional discounts.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Powerful processor with AI functions; Many USB ports; Two 2.5 Gbit Ethernet ports; Up to four 8K monitors can be connected; Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
- Cons: Revs up abruptly and gets loud; Second SSD only possible as M.2-2230.
Key Takeaways:
- The Geekom A9 Max is powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, offering strong performance and dedicated AI acceleration capabilities.
- It supports up to four 8K monitors and features extensive connectivity, including multiple USB ports and dual 2.5 Gbit Ethernet ports.
- The mini PC demonstrated high performance in benchmarks like PCMark 10 and 3DMark, positioning it well for demanding tasks.
- The device’s compact and stable metal housing makes it a practical alternative to larger desktop PCs.
- While offering advanced features, the upgradeability for a second SSD is limited to the M.2-2230 form factor, and fan noise can be noticeable.
- The pricing has seen a reduction, making it a more competitive option in the market.
Call to Action: Readers interested in the Geekom A9 Max should monitor Geekom’s website for potential promotional pricing and compare current pricing across various retailers to secure the best deal. Further research into specific AI application performance and user reviews regarding fan noise would be beneficial for potential buyers.
Annotations/Citations: Information regarding specifications, performance benchmarks, design, connectivity, and pricing is derived from the review published on pcworld.com (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2886736/geekom-a9-max-review.html).