Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT: 30-second review
Most mini PCs are indeed small, but the Minsforum AtomMan G7 PT stretches this definition with a size and weight at least double that of average models. However, compared to a desktop, it remains relatively small. The AtomMan G7 PT is also one of the first PCs of this size to take advantage of the new generation of AI chips, which essentially enables the computer to allocate better its resources and power where and when they're needed.
After a tricky setup process with drivers for the new AMD Adrenaline software installed, the system fires into action, delivering an overall impressive performance for all office-based tasks, creative applications, and even a little gaming during downtime. Although this is a machine optimized for the gaming community, and the dual RGB backlight panels highlight this with default graphics that give a pleasing and fun look to the machine, it's equally well suited to the creative sector as well as office use.
That gaming styling carries across to the rest of the machine with the patterned venting design, angles, and finish. However, unlike some other gaming systems, it manages to pull back on the more outlandish design elements, keeping things relatively sleek and stylish. In the office or studio, that design is able to blend in subtly, and more importantly, the machine is well adapted with plenty of connectivity options, offering multiple display links, network options, and fast data transfer ports to connect hard drives and other devices.
Like most of the best mini PC units we've reviewed, while this machine is firmly rooted in the world of gaming, its power and features make it a great solution for those looking for a relatively small form factor machine with plenty of power for both processing and graphics.
Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT: Price and availability
- How much does it cost? $1249
- When is it out? 5th August
- Where can you get it? The official Minisforum site
The AtomMan G7 PT is priced at $1249 - with a special deal on right now which discounts the price to $999.
You can order direct from the official Minisforum site by clicking here. But note orders won't start shipping in the US until 5 August.
- Value: 4 / 5
Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT: Specs
Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT: Design
With the dual LED side panel, patterned vents on the side, and overall shape and design of the AtomMan G7 PT, Minisforum has undoubtedly designed this machine with the gaming community in mind. Even down to the fact that some of the backlight patterns have been designed by famous cartoon artists and on release there will be several different options as well as being able to laser cut your own. Swapping and changing these is a fast process, with the backlight panel being held in place by magnets, into which the templates are simply slotted in.
The rest of the design is more reserve and refined, and along with the weight and size of the PC, the fully plastic construction retains a premium feel. Checking over the design, it's instantly obvious that cooling for the CPU, graphics, and storage has been a major consideration, and this becomes clear once you start to take a look inside.
By first removing the LED side panel then the two screws holding the panel beneath in place, you then have almost direct access to the RAM and SSD. The SSD is encased in a large heatsink and fan and takes some getting to but can be upgraded with two slots giving plenty of upgrade options. However, with the test results showing that the standard SSD is already one of the faster SSDs on the market, expanding storage is probably best facilitated through the secondary slot to ensure you retain the speed of the OS.
On the other side of the machine, six larger screws hold the webbed side panel, which once removed exposes the huge GPU. This is far in excess of most Mini PCs and instantly highlights the true potential of this machine. It also helps to explain the design and why it's designed to stand vertically rather than flat.
On the base is the AC power socket which prevents the machine from standing upright without the aid of the stand that's included in the box. The stand and machine use a strong magnet to hold together; it's a neat solution that works well. Once setup, all wires can be plugged in before powering on. At the back, there's a good array with 3.5mm audio in and out, HDMI, DisplayPort, three USB Type-A, one Type-C, and a network port. The front is kept simple with a USB Type-A, one Type-C, 3.5mm audio, and the fan boost. The power button is on top.
Like many AI-enhanced machines, while the physical design of the machine resembles a standard mini or desktop PC, inside software is required to utilize some of the hardware features and adapt the machine to the way in which you want to work. In the case of this machine, that's through the AMD Adrenaline software that enables you to adjust the control of the machine between power and efficiency.
- Design: 4 / 5
Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT: Features
The AtomMan G7 PT features an AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX processor with 16 cores and 32 threads, capable of speeds up to 5.4 GHz. Paired with an AMD Radeon RX 7600M XT GPU, this mini PC should be able to handle both creative tasks and gaming with ease. The DDR5 dual-channel memory is expandable up to 96GB, providing a huge amount of headroom for demanding applications.
Storage is also well-supported with a primary M.2 2280 PCIe 5.0 SSD slot and an additional M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 slot for expansion. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth, all helping to ensure a fast and reliable connection. Video output options include HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.0, and USB-C.
The machine also includes various peripheral interfaces, such as RJ45 2.5G Ethernet, multiple USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, and comprehensive audio options.
- Features: 4.5 / 5
Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT: Performance
From the outset, the AtomMan G7 PT performance closely resembles that of a mid to high-end PC. After installing the Adrenaline software and tweaking settings, the machine handles multiple office applications, large documents, and some of the best video editing software and best photo editors like Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve without issue. The filling of the addition SSD slot or the use of an external SSD using one of the fast USB Type-C ports is recommended for handling large 4K video files, given the internal SSD's 1TB limit.
Throughout testing, the AtomMan G7 PT performed exceptionally well. Office applications ran smoothly, and creative tasks were handled well, albeit with storage limitations for large video projects with the review units limited storage. Gaming performance was superb, with titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Tekken 8 running smoothly. This machine bridges the gap between laptop processing and dedicated video editing rigs, making it a versatile choice for professionals and gamers alike.
- Performance: 5 / 5
Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT: Final verdict
The Minisforum AtomMan G7 PT is a powerful mini PC that combines compact size with desktop-level performance. Ideal for gaming, creative applications, and heavy multitasking, it offers exceptional value for its price. While its gamer-centric design might not appeal to everyone, its performance and versatility make it a standout choice.
