I tested Intel’s worst iGPU and the surprising gaming performance
In the world of miniature computing, integrated graphics are often treated as an afterthought. When you build a mini PC, especially one optimized for home lab tasks, the focus is usually on processing power and functionality, leaving the graphics component to play second fiddle.
But what happens when you introduce cutting-edge components? A recent exploration into a specific setup—featuring the Minisforum box paired with the Intel Core Ultra 9 389H processor—revealed a surprising performance leap. While this system might not be built for heavy gaming, the integrated graphics proved far more capable than expected when handling a variety of titles, both new and old.
The key to this unexpected performance lies in the design choices. The system utilizes a pared-down version of the integrated graphics found in the full-fat chip, featuring only one-third of the available Xe3 cores. This approach allows the system to deliver surprisingly effective visual output despite the limited hardware footprint.
Further adding to the creative constraint, the configuration also features just a single stick of DDR5 SODIMM memory. While one might call this a minimalist setup, it highlights the challenge of optimizing resources. It is a stark reminder that even when you are pushing boundaries, configuration choices—like memory and core allocation—play a critical role in the final experience.
Despite these resource limitations, the system successfully ran the demanding applications thrown at it. This demonstrates that efficiency and smart integration are not mutually exclusive; sometimes, cutting down the scope of components can lead to unexpected results. It’s a testament to how modern chip architecture can deliver performance even when operating under tight constraints.
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