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GEEKOM A9 MAX
Award-Winning Performance & Innovation
GEEKOM A9 Max AI Mini PC: Compact Flagship Power for Creators, Developers, and Enthusiasts
The GEEKOM A9 Max AI Mini PC brings workstation-class capability to a remarkably compact footprint. Built around AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 platform, it combines a high-performance multi-core CPU with next-generation integrated graphics and a dedicated XDNA 2 NPU for advanced on-device AI acceleration. This balanced architecture enables demanding creative workflows, multitasking with many apps and browser tabs, smooth 4K media, and competent 1080p gaming, while the IceBlast 2.0 cooling system sustains performance under long loads. With dual USB4 for external GPUs and high-speed storage, dual HDMI 2.1, dual 2.5GbE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and generous DDR5 and NVMe expansion, the A9 Max is designed as a long-term, upgrade-friendly hub for modern desktops.
Key Highlights
- Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor with up to 12 high-performance cores and advanced efficiency.
- XDNA 2 NPU delivering up to 50 TOPS of dedicated AI acceleration; total platform up to 80 TOPS.
- Radeon 890M integrated graphics with 16 RDNA 3.5 compute units for strong iGPU performance.
- IceBlast 2.0 thermal design with copper heatsink, dual heat pipes, and a tuned low-noise fan.
- Up to 128 GB DDR5-5600 dual-channel memory, plus dual PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD slots.
- Dual USB4 (40 Gbps), five USB-A 3.2 Gen2, dual HDMI 2.1, SD 4.0 card reader.
- Dual 2.5GbE, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 for next-generation connectivity.
- Premium all-metal construction with VESA support in a compact 135 × 132 × 45.6 mm chassis.
- Windows 11 24H2 preinstalled with support for Ubuntu, Manjaro, and Android x86.
Processor, AI Acceleration, and Real-World Speed
At the heart of the system, the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 integrates a modern CPU complex optimized for both bursty interactive tasks and sustained heavy workloads. The multi-core design provides ample headroom for compiling code, batch processing RAW photography, handling multi-track timelines, or running machine learning inferencing locally. What sets the platform apart is the XDNA 2 NPU, capable of up to 50 TOPS by itself, which offloads AI features from the CPU and GPU. Work such as local large language models, vision pipelines, super-resolution, noise removal, and background replacement can execute efficiently while preserving overall system responsiveness.
This approach enables productive mixed workloads. For example, while the NPU enhances a video call with background blur, the GPU can accelerate a 3D viewport and the CPU can export a Photoshop batch. The result is smooth interactivity without the slowdowns typical of single-engine systems. For developers, local model experimentation in tools like LM Studio or Ollama benefits from consistent throughput and shorter iteration cycles. For content creators, tasks like upscaling with AI or denoising high-ISO footage become practical on a daily basis.
Graphics Capability and Everyday Gaming
The Radeon 890M iGPU with 16 RDNA 3.5 compute units delivers integrated graphics performance that approaches entry-level discrete GPUs. In practical terms, popular e-sports and competitive titles such as Valorant, Fortnite, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike 2 are playable at 1080p with sensible settings. Support for AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) allows users to trade a modest amount of internal resolution for higher frame rates while retaining pleasing image quality. Outside of games, the GPU provides fluid desktop composition across multiple monitors, fast hardware decode for modern codecs, and responsive UI in creative applications.
Cooling System and Acoustic Tuning
Thermals are crucial in small form factors. The A9 Max employs the IceBlast 2.0 cooling system: an oversized copper heatsink, dual heat pipes, precision airflow with side intake and rear exhaust, and a carefully tuned low-noise fan profile. High-quality thermal compounds and the all-metal enclosure aid heat dissipation and reduce hotspots. Under typical creator workloads, the system maintains boost frequencies without distracting noise, and during extended rendering or AI processing, the platform avoids thermal throttling by moving heat out efficiently. The end result is predictable performance and stable acoustics for office, studio, or living room setups.
Memory and Storage for Demanding Workflows
Memory capacity and storage bandwidth directly influence professional workflows. The A9 Max supports up to 128 GB of DDR5-5600 across two channels, ensuring fast previews, smooth virtualization, and room for large datasets. Storage is equally robust: two PCIe Gen4 NVMe slots (one M.2 2280 and one M.2 2230) each support up to 4 TB, enabling a powerful layout such as a high-end system drive plus a dedicated scratch cache for NLEs, RAW developers, and 3D applications. With Gen4 lanes, sustained transfers and IOPS remain high even under heavy concurrent activity like rendering while archiving footage.
Connectivity, I/O, and Expansion
The port selection is designed to minimize dongle clutter and maximize flexibility. Two 40 Gbps USB4 ports carry power delivery, high-speed data, and DisplayPort video, making them ideal for eGPU enclosures, NVMe RAID arrays, or 8K displays. Five USB-A 3.2 Gen2 ports provide abundant connectivity for controllers, audio interfaces, capture cards, and external drives. Dual HDMI 2.1 outputs support modern high-refresh 4K monitors and TVs. A full-speed SD 4.0 reader streamlines ingest from cameras and drones. For networking, dual 2.5GbE offers link aggregation or isolation between a NAS and the wider network, while Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 support the latest wireless standards for low-latency peripherals and high-throughput transfers.
Multi-Display Productivity
Productivity scales with screen real estate. With dual USB4 and dual HDMI 2.1, the A9 Max can drive complex multi-monitor configurations for trading floors, code plus documentation plus terminals, or editing suites with program, timeline, and bins. The platform’s integrated graphics and hardware video engines ensure smooth desktop composition and crisp output across all displays. Users can connect a color-accurate 4K monitor for grading, a high-refresh 1440p panel for timeline scrubbing or gameplay, and auxiliary screens for chat and asset management, all from the same compact unit.
Software, Security, and Reliability
The mini PC ships with Windows 11 24H2 for the latest scheduler, security, and AI features, and it is compatible with popular Linux distributions including Ubuntu and Manjaro for development environments and containers. Hardware security includes TPM 2.0 for device encryption, and the chassis supports a Kensington lock for physical security in shared spaces. The dual 2.5GbE ports facilitate secure segmented networks or direct-attached storage. The platform undergoes thermal and endurance validation to ensure consistent operation during lengthy renders, compiles, and simulations.
Who Should Consider the A9 Max
- Content creators who need a compact yet capable system for 4K editing, RAW photography, motion graphics, and light 3D work.
- Developers and data practitioners who run local LLMs, Docker containers, databases, and IDEs concurrently.
- Streamers and small studios building multi-input, multi-display setups with capture devices and fast external storage.
- Gamers who value a silent, space-saving PC for 1080p titles and living-room play, with the option to add an eGPU later.
- IT and business users who want a reliable, secure, and energy-efficient desktop with strong networking and VESA mounting.
Setup Recommendations
For balanced performance, install dual-channel DDR5 at matching speeds to maximize memory bandwidth. Use the primary M.2 2280 slot for the OS and applications and the M.2 2230 slot for a dedicated cache or project drive. If you handle large media libraries, pair the mini PC with a 2.5GbE NAS and enable link aggregation across the two Ethernet ports. For color-critical work, connect a calibrated 4K monitor via HDMI 2.1 or USB4 (DisplayPort Alt Mode). To keep the chassis clear of dust, allow a few centimeters of clearance around the side intakes and rear exhaust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it support external GPUs? Yes, the dual USB4 ports support eGPU enclosures for users who need higher 3D throughput. This preserves the compact desktop footprint while enabling desktop-class graphics when required.
How quiet is the system during heavy loads? The IceBlast 2.0 design focuses on sustained performance with controlled acoustics. Fan speed scales with temperature, and the all-metal shell assists heat dissipation. Under typical creative workloads, noise remains office-friendly.
Can it handle multiple 4K displays? Yes. With dual USB4 and dual HDMI 2.1, the system supports complex multi-monitor setups, including mixed 4K panels and high-refresh displays, depending on cable and display capabilities.
What operating systems are supported? Windows 11 24H2 is preinstalled. The platform is compatible with popular Linux distributions for development, servers, and containers, and it supports Android x86 for testing environments.
Is the storage user-upgradeable? Yes. Two PCIe Gen4 NVMe slots allow easy SSD expansion. Both slots are accessible for users comfortable with basic upgrades.
Technical Specifications
- CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, up to 12 high-performance cores
- NPU: XDNA 2, up to 50 TOPS (platform up to 80 TOPS total AI acceleration)
- GPU: Radeon 890M, 16 RDNA 3.5 compute units, hardware video acceleration
- Memory: Up to 128 GB DDR5-5600, dual channel
- Storage: 2 × PCIe Gen4 NVMe (M.2 2280 + M.2 2230), up to 4 TB each
- Ports: 2 × USB4 (40 Gbps, DP support), 5 × USB-A 3.2 Gen2, SD 4.0 card reader
- Display: 2 × HDMI 2.1 plus USB4 DP Alt Mode; multi-display support including 4K and 8K
- Networking: Dual 2.5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
- Build: All-metal chassis, 135 × 132 × 45.6 mm, VESA mount
- Cooling: IceBlast 2.0 copper heatsink, dual heat pipes, tuned fan
- OS: Windows 11 24H2 preinstalled; Linux distributions supported
- Security: TPM 2.0, Kensington lock support
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
Final Verdict
The GEEKOM A9 Max AI Mini PC is a compact platform that addresses modern desktop needs with a thoughtful balance of CPU speed, integrated graphics, and dedicated AI acceleration. Its storage and memory expandability, combined with extensive I/O and high-speed networking, make it adaptable to many roles: content creation node, development workstation, editing bay, streaming encoder, or living-room powerhouse. The refined thermal design and all-metal construction help it sustain performance while remaining discreet on the desk or mounted behind a display. For users who want a small form factor without sacrificing capability or future growth, the A9 Max stands out as a practical, premium choice.