# The best Strix Halo mini PCs

By [David Wilson](https://testbenchlab.com/authors/david-wilson/). Updated 2026-10-02. US prices checked 2026-10-02.

Geekom A9 Mega is our preferred Strix Halo mini PC. The right alternative depends on matched memory, expansion and network needs; the Max+ 395 chip shared by several models does not make their complete configurations identical.

## Quick list

| # | Pick | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Our first choice | [Geekom A9 Mega](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/geekom-a9-mega-review/) | $3,799 |
| 2 | Matched lower-cost offer | [GMKtec EVO-X2](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/gmktec-evo-x2-review/) | $3,649.99 |
| 3 | For infrastructure | [Minisforum MS-S1 Max](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/minisforum-ms-s1-max-review/) | $3,799 |
| 4 | Premium network configuration | [Beelink GTR9 Pro](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/beelink-gtr9-pro-review/) | $4,349 |

## Our first choice: Geekom A9 Mega

A9 Mega is our starting point for a single-user workstation. Check the exact processor variant and installed memory, then confirm that your model runner can use the allocation. Capacity selected at purchase is especially important because this class uses onboard memory.

## Alternative for a matched lower-cost offer: GMKtec EVO-X2

EVO-X2 is relevant when the same intended model fits at a better total cost. Compare memory and storage rather than a headline starting price. A smaller-capacity bargain can become the wrong purchase if the model you want leaves too little room for context.

## Alternative for infrastructure: Minisforum MS-S1 Max

MS-S1 Max serves buyers who can use fast networking and internal expansion. Treat those as workload features. An additional network interface cannot make a model fit into insufficient memory, and clustering requires appropriate software.

## Alternative for a premium network configuration: Beelink GTR9 Pro

GTR9 Pro is worth checking for the exact memory and networking package offered. Verify the actual board and seller terms. We prefer Geekom overall, while recognising that a necessary interface can determine the purchase.

## What to match before comparing results

Use the same model, quantisation, context and backend. Record memory allocation and power mode. Without those conditions, a tokens-per-second figure is a result for one setup, rather than a reliable rank for the chassis.

## Frequently asked questions

### Which Strix Halo mini PC is the best?

Geekom A9 Mega is our preferred overall choice for a general local workstation.

### Who makes Strix Halo mini PCs?

Our shortlist includes Geekom A9 Mega, GMKtec EVO-X2, Minisforum MS-S1 Max and Beelink GTR9 Pro.

### Is Strix Halo good for gaming?

Its larger integrated graphics platform is relevant for gaming, but settings, memory and shared power limits still determine performance.

### What is Strix Halo equivalent to?

There is no single universal desktop-GPU equivalent. Workload, power and memory behaviour change the comparison.

## Related reading

- [AI mini PCs](https://testbenchlab.com/categories/ai-mini-pcs/)
- [Geekom A9 Mega (Ryzen AI Max+ 395) review](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/geekom-a9-mega-review/)
- [Minisforum MS-S1 Max review](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/minisforum-ms-s1-max-review/)
- [GMKtec EVO-X2 review](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/gmktec-evo-x2-review/)
- [Beelink GTR9 Pro review](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/beelink-gtr9-pro-review/)
- [Geekom A9 Mega vs GMKtec EVO-X2](https://testbenchlab.com/compare/geekom-a9-mega-vs-gmktec-evo-x2/)
- [Geekom A9 Mega vs Minisforum MS-S1 Max](https://testbenchlab.com/compare/geekom-a9-mega-vs-minisforum-ms-s1-max/)
- [GMKtec EVO-X2 vs Minisforum MS-S1 Max](https://testbenchlab.com/compare/gmktec-evo-x2-vs-minisforum-ms-s1-max/)
- [Ryzen AI Max+ 395 (Strix Halo) explained](https://testbenchlab.com/guides/ryzen-ai-max-395-strix-halo-explained/)

## Sources

1. [Geekom A9 Mega specifications](https://www.geekompc.com/geekom-a9-mega-ai-mini-pc/)
2. [GMKtec EVO-X2](https://www.gmktec.com/en/products/amd-ryzen%E2%84%A2-ai-max-395-evo-x2-ai-mini-pc)
3. [Minisforum MS-S1 Max](https://store.minisforum.com/products/minisforum-ms-s1-max-mini-pc)
4. [Beelink GTR9 Pro](https://www.bee-link.com/products/beelink-gtr9-pro-amd-ryzen-ai-max-395)
5. [AMD Ryzen AI Max specifications](https://ir.amd.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1232/amd-announces-expanded-consumer-and-commercial-ai-pc-portfolio-at-ces)