MINISFORUM M2 Ships with Intel Panther Lake; High-End M2 Pro Remains Delayed
Breaking: MINISFORUM M2 Now Available with Intel Panther Lake
MINISFORUM has begun shipping its entry-level M2 mini PC featuring Intel's new Panther Lake processor. The M2 is now purchasable, but the more powerful M2 Pro model announced at CES remains unavailable.
The company confirmed availability today through its official channels. The M2 offers a budget-friendly option for users seeking compact computing power.
M2 Pro Still on Hold
The M2 Pro, unveiled in January 2025, promised up to an Intel Core Ultra X9 388H processor and discrete-class Intel Arc B390 graphics. Pre-orders have not opened, and MINISFORUM has not provided a revised release date.
“The M2 Pro's delay is surprising given the buzz at CES,” said Dr. Elena Koval, a hardware analyst at TechInsights. “It may indicate supply constraints for the higher-end Panther Lake chips or the new Arc graphics.”
Background
At CES 2025, MINISFORUM showcased the M2 Pro as the flagship mini PC in its M2 series. The device was positioned to compete with top-tier compact desktops, targeting creative professionals and gamers.
The original M2 ships with an Intel Panther Lake processor—a mid-range chip that offers solid performance for office work and light content creation. It lacks the discrete Arc graphics of the Pro variant.
“This launch resembles many product rollouts where the entry-level model hits shelves first,” noted Marco Ruiz, a PC industry journalist. “The high-end version often follows weeks or months later, depending on component availability.”
What This Means
For consumers, the M2 is a viable option if immediate computing needs align with its specs. The M2 Pro's absence is a disappointment for enthusiasts awaiting top-tier performance in a small form factor.
Businesses planning to deploy mini PCs for high-end tasks may have to wait. The delay could push some buyers toward competitors like Intel's NUC line or AMD-based systems.
Analysts suggest MINISFORUM may be struggling to secure sufficient supply of the Core Ultra X9 388H or the new B390 graphics chip. Intel has faced production challenges in previous generations.
Key specs for MINISFORUM M2 (available now):
- Processor: Intel Panther Lake (exact model undisclosed)
- Graphics: integrated Intel Xe
- RAM: up to 64GB DDR5
- Storage: dual M.2 NVMe SSD slots
- Dimensions: compact chassis under 1L
M2 Pro (not yet available):
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
- Graphics: Intel Arc B390 (discrete-class integrated)
- RAM: up to 64GB DDR5
- Special feature: enhanced cooling for sustained loads
Immediate Actions
MINISFORUM recommends interested buyers sign up for email alerts on their website for M2 Pro availability. The current M2 is shipping directly from the company's store.
“We recommend checking the official site for updates,” a company spokesperson said. “We are working to bring the M2 Pro to market as quickly as possible.”
No official pricing has been set for the M2 Pro. The M2 starts at $399, undercutting many rivals in its class.
Stay Updated
Follow Liliputing for ongoing coverage of the M2 Pro's launch status. Bookmark our mini PC news section for the latest developments.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.