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 delves into its specifications, features, performance, and overall value proposition based on a review of the device.
In-Depth Analysis: The Geekom A9 Max is built around 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) and supporting up to 24 threads. This processor is 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 leveraging Windows 11’s AI features. The integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics further contribute to its multimedia and processing capabilities. The review unit came equipped with 32 GB of Wodposit DDR5 RAM running at 5,600 MT/s across two 16 GB modules. While this configuration provides ample memory for current tasks, the use of two modules instead of a single 32 GB module limits future upgrades to 64 GB, as both would need to be replaced. The internal storage is a 2 TB Lexar LNQ7A1X002T M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSD, which demonstrated strong performance in benchmarks. The A9 Max also offers an M.2 2230 slot for an additional SSD, though the size limitation restricts compatible drive options. The operating system provided is Microsoft Windows 11 24H2 (64-bit), which was observed to fully support the OS’s AI functionalities. The review highlights the device’s robust connectivity, including up to four monitor outputs (2x HDMI 2.1 FRL, 2x USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4), a total of eight USB ports (including USB 2.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and USB 4.0 Type-C), and notably, dual 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports. These dual Ethernet ports are presented as beneficial for users needing to connect to two wired networks simultaneously, rather than offering a speed boost over a single port. In performance testing, the A9 Max achieved a PCMark 10 score of 7,976, placing it in the top tier for everyday tasks and significantly outperforming systems with older processors like the AMD Ryzen 7 7730U. In 3DMark benchmarks, it scored 3,279 in Steel Nomad Light and 3,701 in Time Spy, indicating solid graphical performance for its class. The Lexar SSD delivered read speeds of 6,242 MB/s and write speeds of 5,423 MB/s, which are considered above average for a PCIe 4.0 SSD. Network transfer speeds using the dual 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports averaged around 278 MB/s when transferring a 5.8 GB file to and from a compatible NAS. The Geekom A9 Max is presented as a capable mini PC for office use, development, and graphic design, particularly for users who can benefit from its AI processing power and extensive connectivity options. The review notes that the pricing has seen a reduction from $1,199 to $999 in the U.S., with potential for further fluctuations due to promotions (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2886736/geekom-a9-max-review.html).
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Powerful processor with AI functions, numerous USB ports, dual 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports, support for up to four 8K monitors, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.
- Cons: Fan noise can be abrupt and loud, and the second SSD slot is limited to the M.2-2230 form factor.
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 features a comprehensive array of connectivity options, including dual 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports and support for up to four 8K displays.
- Performance benchmarks indicate that the A9 Max excels in everyday tasks and offers solid graphical performance for its size.
- The device is housed in a stable, attractively designed metal casing and is compact enough for desk or VESA mount placement.
- While offering advanced features, potential buyers should be aware of the fan noise and the limitation on the size of the secondary SSD.
- The pricing has seen a reduction, making it a more competitive option in the mini PC market.
Call to Action: Interested users should monitor Geekom’s website for any ongoing promotions and compare current pricing across retailers to ensure they are securing the best available deal for the Geekom A9 Max. Further research into specific AI applications and their compatibility with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 would be beneficial for users prioritizing AI functionality.
Annotations/Citations: The information regarding the Geekom A9 Max’s specifications, performance benchmarks, pros and cons, and pricing is derived from the review published on PCWorld (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2886736/geekom-a9-max-review.html).