The development of the MiniPC market, or rather the scale of its growth, indicates that many manufacturers are switching to this form factor. The advantages of mini-PCs include price and compactness. Plus, manufacturers make most components removable, allowing for upgrades. There are office and gaming solutions. The Taiwanese manufacturer offers to buy the multimedia system MSI MAG META S 5th on AMD Ryzen 5 5600X.
Just a year ago, MiniPCs were compared to Barabone systems as a compromise between a laptop and a desktop computer. However, the Barabone platform was used to build inexpensive and low-performance systems. A Mini-PC can perform the same tasks as a PC (or a laptop).
Mini PC MSI MAG META S 5th on AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
Regarding the new product, it can be noted that the system has good performance. However, this platform is not intended for gaming. It is more of a multimedia computer, suitable for browsing the internet, working with databases, and viewing high-quality video content. Although the manufacturer claims that gaming on a mini-PC is possible, the integrated video adapter does not support advanced gaming capabilities.
However, as a home computer, such a device can compete with regular ATX PCs. All you need is a monitor. By the way, a mini-PC with a monitor can be cheaper than a laptop, with the same technical specifications. Plus, it offers upgrade possibilities.
Technical Specifications of MSI MAG META S 5th on AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, 7 nm, 6 cores (3.7-4.6 GHz) |
| Graphics | Integrated, models with nVidia GTX 1660 available |
| Motherboard (chipset) | AMD A520 |
| Memory | Not included (2x DDR4 U-DIMM slots, up to 64GB) |
| Storage | Not included (1x M.2 2280 SSD, 1x SATA/PCIe, 1x 2.5″, 2x 3.5″) |
| Wired network | Realtek RTL8111H (1 Gb/s) |
| Wireless network | Wi-Fi Intel AC 3168 |
| Power supply | 500W |
| Cooling system | Active, air cooling |
| Interfaces (rear panel) | 2x USB 2.0 1x HDMI, 4K@24Hz 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A 1x RJ45 3x Audio jacks 1x DVI-D out 2x PS/2 |
| Interfaces (front panel) | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A 1x Mic-in 1x Headphone-out |
| Operating system | Windows 10 Pro or Home |
| Dimensions | 185x480x422 mm |
| Weight | 8.8 kg |
| Cables included | Power cable only |
Advantages and Disadvantages of the miniPC MSI MAG META S 5th
The main disadvantage is the absence of RAM and SSD in the kit. The manufacturer could have installed at least 4 GB of RAM and a 120 GB SSD. This is the minimum, and it costs up to $50. Such a computer would be suitable for any home tasks. Anyone who is not familiar with computer hardware could buy the MSI MAG META S 5th. Just walk into a store, see the attractive case, and buy it.
It’s clear that MSI decided to help owners save on computer components. RAM and SSD are available on the market in hundreds of variations, and everyone should choose hardware suited to their needs. But this cannot be considered an advantage.
The feature of MSI MAG META S 5th lies in its unique design and external appeal. Yes, such a mini-PC is hard to hide in a desk niche. It looks great and should delight the owner every day with its charm. Plus, components can be replaced at any time, including the power supply, motherboard, and processor. This is very beneficial. Maintenance issues are unlikely to arise.
Source: official MSI website
