Minisforum has released the MS 01 SE, a lower cost edition of its enterprise mini PC. The refreshed compact computer cuts prices by switching to DDR4 memory, trimming expansion bandwidth, and swapping out high speed 10GbE networking ports. Pricing begins at $375 for a barebone kit, offering a cheaper path for homelab builders willing to accept hardware trade offs.
The processor selection on the MS 01 SE is strictly limited to an Intel Core i5 12600H chip. Memory support shifts from DDR5 down to 2 DDR4 SO DIMM slots. Internal expansion takes a hit as well, with the PCIe Gen4 slot reduced to x4 lanes. Networking also sees substantial revisions. Minisforum removed the dual 10GbE SFP+ cages found on the original model, replacing them with 2 USB A 480Mbps ports. Wireless connections run through a MediaTek MT7902 module that brings Wi Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Despite the budget cuts, several core workstation features carry over intact. Storage expansion remains extensive with 3 M.2 2280 drive slots supporting a mix of PCIe Gen4 and PCIe Gen3 speeds. External connectivity still includes 2 USB C ports operating at 40Gbps along with 2 2.5GbE RJ 45 ethernet jacks. Intel vPro support is also maintained for remote system management. The standard cooling setup and compact desktop footprint stay the same.
Pricing reflects the altered component sheet. A barebone MS 01 SE unit with 0GB of memory and 0GB of storage costs $375, compared to $439 for the original i5 edition. Buyers seeking a ready to run setup can purchase a configuration with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB solid state drive for $775, which undercuts the older $959 price tag by $184. The new variant essentially trades peak networking throughput for a more accessible price point.
