Mini PC builders often struggle with raw graphics power, but a new test shows that adding an external GPU dock can turn a compact desktop into a serious gaming machine. This setup matters because it offers a path to high-end gaming performance without the bulk of a traditional tower, appealing to users with limited desk space who still want to play demanding titles. The combination of a small form factor with external graphics solves the core trade-off between portability and power.
ETA Prime tests the compact desktop with external graphics dock
The test rig centers on the Minisforum X1 Lite, a mini PC powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 255 APU. It pairs this internal processor with the OneXGPU 2 dock, which houses an AMD Radeon RX 7800M graphics card. The two components connect via the OcuLink interface, allowing for high-bandwidth data transfer between the PC and the external graphics unit. The entire system runs on SteamOS, leveraging Valve's gaming-focused operating system to manage the hardware.
Specifications
- CPU/APU: AMD Ryzen 7 255
- RAM: 32 GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 1 TB
- eGPU: OneXGPU 2 with AMD Radeon RX 7800M
- OS: SteamOS
Inside the X1 Lite, the system includes 32 GB of LPDDR5 memory and 1 TB of storage space. The external dock provides the heavy lifting for graphics, utilizing the RX 7800M chip to handle modern games. This configuration allows the system to bypass the limitations of integrated graphics, delivering frame rates that rival many prebuilt desktops. The OcuLink connection ensures that the external GPU communicates with the CPU efficiently, minimizing bottlenecks.
Performance tests from ETA Prime show strong results across several major titles. Forza Horizon 6 runs at 4K ultra settings at over 70 FPS without using FSR. Cyberpunk 2077 hits over 70 FPS at 1440p ultra with FSR 2.1 Quality. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart averages over 100 FPS at 1440p very high settings without FSR. Crimson Desert reaches over 100 FPS at 1440p ultra with FSR Frame Gen enabled.
The X1 Lite mini PC is priced at 739 USD (around $739) on Amazon. The OneXGPU 2 dock with the RX 7800M costs 960 USD (around $960). Together, the total setup costs approximately $1700. This price point raises questions about value, as prebuilt desktops with newer RTX 50-series GPUs may offer better performance for similar money. We touched on Minisforum AI X1 Pro RAM Upgrade in our earlier Minisforum coverage.
ETA Prime described the combination of the X1 Lite, OneXGPU 2, and SteamOS as a sick setup. The test confirms that this hardware pairing delivers high frame rates in AAA games at 1440p and 4K resolutions. Users looking for a compact gaming solution now have a viable, albeit expensive, option to consider.
Source: Test, NotebookCheck
