Introduction: The Geekom A9 Max is a mini PC that aims to provide powerful performance, particularly with its AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, making it a compelling alternative to traditional desktop computers for users interested in AI capabilities and robust connectivity. This analysis delves into its specifications, design, performance, and overall value proposition based on a review of the device.

In-Depth Analysis: The Geekom A9 Max is positioned as a high-performance mini PC, featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, which is part of AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series. This processor is designed for both laptops and desktops and includes 12 cores (4 Zen 5 and 8 Zen 5c) with SMT support for up to 24 threads. A significant aspect of this processor is its integrated AI engine, capable of delivering up to 80 TOPS, with 50 TOPS specifically from the NPU, indicating a strong focus on AI applications and acceleration. The integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics also contribute to its multimedia and graphical capabilities. The review unit was equipped with 32 GB of DDR5 RAM running at 5,600 MT/s, configured as two 16 GB modules. While this 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 in the reviewed unit was a 2 TB Lexar LNQ7A1X002T M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe SSD, which demonstrated strong read and write speeds in benchmarks. The mini PC also offers an M.2 slot for an additional SSD, but it is limited to the smaller M.2-2230 form factor, which restricts the selection of compatible drives. The Geekom A9 Max comes pre-installed with Microsoft Windows 11 24H2, and the initial setup process, including updates, took approximately 50 minutes. The review highlights that many of Windows 11’s AI features are supported by the hardware. In terms of connectivity, the A9 Max boasts a comprehensive array of ports, including up to four monitor outputs (2x HDMI 2.1 FRL and 2x USB 4.0 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4), eight USB ports in total (ranging from USB 2.0 to USB 4.0 Type-C), and a notable inclusion of two 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports. These dual Ethernet ports are particularly useful for users who require parallel network connections, such as those connecting to a NAS or multiple networks simultaneously. The device also supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connectivity. The performance benchmarks indicate strong results, with PCMark 10 scoring 7,976, placing it ahead of systems with less powerful processors. In 3DMark, it achieved 3,279 points in Steel Nomad Light and 3,701 points in Time Spy, considered good and slightly above average performance for its class. The SSD performance was also impressive, with the Lexar drive achieving 6,242 MB/s read and 5,423 MB/s write speeds, while an upgraded Crucial P310 SSD achieved even higher read speeds. Network transfer tests using the dual 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports showed average bandwidths of 278 MB/s for file transfers to a NAS, consistent with the port speeds. The Geekom A9 Max is housed in a metal casing, described as attractively designed and highly stable, with dimensions of 135 x 132 x 46.9 mm, making it compact for desk placement or VESA mounting. The pricing at the time of review was $999, down from an original $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 capabilities.
• It features extensive connectivity options, including up to four 8K monitor outputs and dual 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports.
• The mini PC supports the latest wireless standards with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
• Performance benchmarks place the A9 Max favorably against other mini PCs and some laptops, particularly in everyday tasks and AI workloads.
• While offering a compact and stable metal design, the upgradeability for a second SSD is limited to the M.2-2230 form factor, and fan noise can be noticeable.
• The device is priced competitively, especially with current discounts, making it a compelling option for users seeking a powerful and versatile mini PC.

Call to Action: Readers interested in the Geekom A9 Max should monitor Geekom’s website for potential price fluctuations and promotions. Further research into specific AI application performance and comparisons with other mini PCs featuring similar AMD Ryzen AI processors would be beneficial for informed purchasing decisions.

Annotations/Citations: The information presented in this analysis is derived from the review found at https://www.pcworld.com/article/2886736/geekom-a9-max-review.html.