In today’s tech landscape, mini PCs are becoming increasingly popular as compact yet powerful alternatives to traditional desktops. Among the latest releases is the MINISFORUM VENUS UM790 Pro. This mini PC promises a blend of high performance, a compact design, and a range of features suitable for both professionals and tech enthusiasts. In this review, we will explore the VENUS UM790 Pro in detail, covering its design, performance, features, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The MINISFORUM VENUS UM790 Pro boasts a sleek and compact design. Measuring just a few inches on each side, it fits seamlessly into any workspace. Whether placed on a desk, mounted behind a monitor, or integrated into a media center, its design ensures it remains unobtrusive. The build quality is impressive, with premium materials that enhance durability and provide a modern, professional look.
Compact and Efficient
Despite its small size, the VENUS UM790 Pro maximizes efficiency. Its compact form factor does not compromise performance. Thanks to MINISFORUM’s innovative engineering, the mini PC includes an effective cooling system. This system ensures the device operates efficiently, even during heavy use. Adequate ventilation is built in to prevent overheating, a common issue with smaller systems.
Performance and Hardware Specifications
The MINISFORUM VENUS UM790 Pro features robust hardware that belies its size. Here’s a closer look at its key specifications:
Processor and Performance
At the core of the VENUS UM790 Pro is the AMD Ryzen 9 7900 CPU. This 12-core, 24-thread processor handles demanding tasks with ease. From complex computations to multitasking and gaming, it delivers excellent performance. The AMD Ryzen 9 7900 is known for its strong single-threaded and multi-threaded capabilities, making it suitable for a broad range of applications.
Memory and Storage
The mini PC comes with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, which ensures smooth multitasking. This amount of memory allows the VENUS UM790 Pro to handle memory-intensive applications efficiently. For storage, it includes a 1TB NVMe SSD. This setup provides both fast data access and ample space for files, applications, and media. The combination of high-speed RAM and SSD storage results in quick boot times and rapid file transfers.
Graphics and Display
The VENUS UM790 Pro features integrated AMD Radeon Graphics. While it may not match dedicated graphics cards for high-end gaming, it handles everyday tasks, casual gaming, and multimedia applications well. For users requiring more graphical power, the mini PC supports external GPUs via Thunderbolt 4. This feature offers flexibility for demanding applications.
Connectivity and Ports
The VENUS UM790 Pro excels in connectivity options. It includes multiple USB ports, such as USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A and Type-C ports. These support high-speed data transfer and connect various peripherals like keyboards, mice, and external drives.
Networking
For network connectivity, the mini PC has dual Ethernet ports, supporting both 1GbE and 2.5GbE connections. This dual setup enables flexible network configurations and high-speed internet access. Additionally, it supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, providing strong and reliable wireless connections.
Video Outputs
The VENUS UM790 Pro comes with several video output options, including HDMI and DisplayPort. This allows users to connect up to three monitors simultaneously. Multi-monitor setups can enhance productivity and streamline workflow.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
To evaluate the VENUS UM790 Pro’s performance, we tested it in various scenarios:
Office Productivity
For everyday office tasks like word processing, spreadsheet management, and web browsing, the VENUS UM790 Pro performs excellently. The fast processor and ample RAM ensure smooth operation. Multitasking is handled effortlessly, making it an excellent choice for environments with limited workspace.
Content Creation
In content creation, the VENUS UM790 Pro shines. Tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and 3D rendering are managed efficiently. Although the integrated graphics are not designed for professional-level gaming or rendering, the mini PC performs well for most content creation needs.
Gaming
For casual gaming, the VENUS UM790 Pro is effective. It handles less demanding games smoothly at moderate settings. However, for more intensive gaming experiences, connecting an external GPU can significantly enhance performance and provide a more immersive experience.
Media Center
As a media center PC, the VENUS UM790 Pro is a solid choice. Its compact size makes it easy to integrate into a home entertainment setup. It supports multiple display outputs, ensuring compatibility with various TVs and monitors. The fast storage and ample RAM contribute to smooth media playback and quick application loading.
Software and Usability
The VENUS UM790 Pro comes with Windows 11 pre-installed, offering a modern, user-friendly operating system. It also supports various Linux distributions, providing flexibility for those who prefer alternative operating systems.
Customization and Upgradability
The VENUS UM790 Pro allows for some customization and upgradability. While the RAM and storage are fixed, users can upgrade the storage by replacing the NVMe SSD if needed. This flexibility helps the system adapt to evolving needs and extend its lifespan.
Value for Money
The MINISFORUM VENUS UM790 Pro offers good value for its price. Its powerful hardware, compact design, and range of features provide high performance for its size. Although it is priced higher than some other mini PCs, the combination of top-tier processor, ample memory, and fast storage justifies the investment.
Comparison with Competitors
Compared to other mini PCs, the VENUS UM790 Pro stands out for its performance and size balance. While some competitors may offer lower prices, they often come with less powerful hardware or fewer features. The VENUS UM790 Pro’s ability to handle demanding tasks and support external GPUs makes it a versatile choice for users with higher performance requirements.
Pros and Cons
To summarize, here are the main pros and cons of the MINISFORUM VENUS UM790 Pro:
Pros:
- High Performance: With the AMD Ryzen 9 7900 CPU and 32GB of RAM, it handles demanding tasks effectively.
- Compact Design: Its small footprint fits well in various environments.
- Extensive Connectivity: Multiple USB ports, dual Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and support for external GPUs provide excellent connectivity options.
- Versatile Usage: Suitable for office productivity, content creation, casual gaming, and media center applications.
Cons:
- Price: It is more expensive compared to some other mini PCs.
- Graphics Limitation: Integrated graphics may not be sufficient for high-end gaming or professional-level rendering without an external GPU.
Conclusion
The MINISFORUM VENUS UM790 Pro is a powerful and versatile mini PC with a compact design. Its high-performance AMD Ryzen 9 7900 processor, ample memory, and fast storage make it suitable for various applications. While the higher price might be a consideration, the combination of features and performance offers significant value. Whether you need a compact workstation, a powerful content creation machine, or a versatile mini PC for entertainment, the VENUS UM790 Pro is worth considering. Its blend of power, design, and features makes it a standout choice in the mini PC market.
