The GEEKOM A9 Max returns for 2026 with an updated version of a highly tested mini PC. The system retains the compact metal chassis and port layout from the 2025 model but is moved to AMD’s refreshed Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 platform. It still utilizes Radeon 890M graphics and a 54W TDP.
The system supports up to 128GB of DDR5 memory and dual M.2 PCIe Gen 4 storage, along with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, dual 2.5GbE, two HDMI 2.1 FRL ports, two USB4 ports, several USB-A ports, and an SD Card 4.0 reader.
The major issue with this refresh is related to the memory configuration. The previous A9 Max shipped with two 16GB DDR5-5600 sticks operating in dual-channel mode.
However, the 2026 review sample tested by TechPowerUp included only a single 32GB Micron stick running in single-channel mode. This configuration negatively impacts the integrated Radeon 890M graphics, which rely on system memory for bandwidth.
This single-channel setup caused the newer chip to fall behind the older 2025 model in SPECviewperf and other GPU-heavy or gaming benchmarks, despite being a newer processor on paper.
Specific performance data from AIDA64 showed memory bandwidth figures of approximately 41,124 MB/s read, 42,435 MB/s write, and 39,909 MB/s copy, with an 86.1ns latency. The memory bandwidth tool even misreported the setup as dual-channel, although HWiNFO confirmed only one SO-DIMM was installed.
Geekbench results indicated that single-core performance matched the 2025 model exactly. However, multi-core performance was lower (1,084 versus 1,159) and trailed a rival machine called the Retro X5.
TechPowerUp suggests that buyers can restore dual-channel bandwidth by manually populating both SO-DIMM slots with compatible memory to ensure the Radeon 890M performs as intended. This fix would increase cost on an already premium machine, weakening the out-of-box value proposition.
This finding is supported by independent reviews. KitGuru rated the refresh a 6.5 and deemed Geekom’s single-channel decision “a significant backwards step.” KitGuru also noted a switch to a QLC-based SSD instead of an SLC drive in the 2025 unit, alongside a price increase.
A follow-up test conducted by Neowin confirmed that installing a second memory stick restored the dual-channel performance that the 2025 model already possessed. This also confirmed that Geekom does not officially sell a dual-channel configuration despite the performance gap caused by the single-channel setup.
In summary, the headline CPU upgrade is effectively neutralized by a cost-cutting memory decision. Buyers must consider budgeting for extra RAM to achieve the performance implied by the marketing.
Source: TechPowerUp