MSI Unveils 4-Liter Powerhouse: Pro Max Edge AI+ with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 300 Chip

By: Pavlo Doroshenko | yesterday, 20:16

MSI has once again decided to prove that the size of the case does not always define performance by introducing the Pro Max Edge AI+. This is a compact desktop PC with a volume of only 4 liters, positioned as a workstation for AI-related tasks. However, with its high-end hardware, the device can easily handle heavy rendering and modern games without a discrete video card.

The heart of the system: AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 300

The highlight of the show — processors from the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 300 series. These are representatives of the Strix Halo architecture, promising to revolutionize the perception of integrated graphics. Thanks to a powerful integrated graphics core, these chips can compete with mid-range mobile graphics cards, making the Pro Max Edge AI+ an interesting choice for those who don't want to clutter their desk with large system units.

Compact case MSI Pro Max Edge AI+. Illustration: MSI

Of course, the name with the "AI+" prefix is not just a nod to fashion. The processor is equipped with a powerful NPU (neural processor), which is supposed to accelerate local neural network calculations. Whether this will be useful for the average user today is an open question, but it definitely has future-proofing.

Memory and storage without compromise

MSI spared no expense on the platform, offering support for up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM with a speed of 8000 MT/s. It's important to note that a 256-bit memory bus is used here, which is critical for AMD integrated graphics, which are very bandwidth-dependent. For storage, there are two M.2 PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe slots. This allows for the creation of a fast and capacious disk subsystem, sufficient for large projects or a large games library.

Cooling and power in limited space

Fitting such powerful hardware into a 4-liter case is no easy task. MSI has implemented a cooling system with three heat pipes and three fans. This should ensure stable operation under load without turning the computer into a jet plane. Interestingly, the Flex ATX power supply is built directly into the case, so you won't have to find space under your desk for a huge external "brick".

As for communications, everything is in order here:

  • AMD RZ717 wireless module supporting Wi-Fi 7.
  • Wired internet 2.5 Gbps via RJ45 jack.
  • Two USB-C ports with USB4 support (40 Gbps) — one at the front, one at the back.
  • HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a video outputs.
  • UHS-II SD card reader for those working with photos and videos.

The set of ports looks quite balanced. The presence of high-speed USB4 allows for the connection of external drives or even an external graphics card, should the integrated power suddenly prove insufficient. So far, the MSI Pro Max Edge AI+ appears to be one of the most interesting representatives of the new generation of compact systems, where power is not sacrificed for size.

While Apple prepares a massive update to the Mac line with new chips and a complete redesign, the Windows PC world offers its response in the form of such modular and high-performance solutions like this little one from MSI.