If the idea of squeezing an entire high-end gaming and creative workstation into something that could easily get lost on your desk tickles your curiosity, then the Aoostar GT37 mini PC warrants a closer look. This unassuming, palm-sized device is reshaping notions of what a small form factor computer can truly deliver, bringing together AMD’s bleeding-edge Ryzen AI 9 HX-370 CPU, a surprisingly muscular Radeon 890M GPU, and a host of connectivity features that challenge even full-tower desktops. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dissect its key features, performance potential, expandability, and whether it’s ready to unseat larger rigs for gamers, professionals, and power users alike.
At the core of the Aoostar GT37 lies AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX-370 processor—a chip that signals a watershed moment for compact PCs. Built on AMD’s advanced 4nm process, this CPU isn’t just about raw speed; it’s engineered for a blend of multitasking, efficiency, and next-generation AI performance. Housing 12 cores, with a division between four performance-driven Zen 5 and eight energy-efficient Zen 5C cores, the HX-370 is squarely aimed at users who push their systems to the limit—whether in creative workflows or competitive gaming.
The processor's base and boost clock attract attention: while it regularly runs at high speeds, it can turbo up to a blistering 5.1GHz, outpacing many mainstream desktop CPUs. Coupled with support for 16 threads, the GT37 stands ready for demanding modern workloads: think real-time media encoding, fast 3D rendering, software development, or running virtual machines.
But there’s more. AMD’s inclusion of a dedicated AI engine capable of up to 80 trillion operations per second (TOPS) positions the GT37 at the forefront of AI-driven computing. That’s not just future-proofing; it’s preparing users for a wave of software and workloads—image processing, natural language tasks, and more—that will increasingly rely on on-device artificial intelligence rather than distant cloud data centers.
Independent benchmarking data is still emerging, but early comparative numbers from TechPowerUp and NotebookCheck indicate that this hardware architecture rivals or outright surpasses last year’s highest-end mobile chips in both single- and multi-core tests. The balance of high boost frequency and efficient core offloading means heavy workloads can be handled without thermal throttling, an impressive feat for so small a device.
Despite this minimal volume, the GT37 doesn’t skimp on cooling. Aoostar equipped it with active cooling that directly addresses the storage drive, helping sustain maximum performance even during long workloads—a crucial need in such a compact enclosure. The inclusion of a VESA mount underlines its flexibility: fix it discreetly behind a display or on the wall, freeing up invaluable desk space.
Build quality, according to user reviews gathered from Reddit, YouTube, and enthusiast forums, is solid for its price class. The chassis is constructed largely of metal, which improves thermals and durability, with users reporting little flex or vibration even under load.
What does this mean for gamers or creators? In practical terms, you can expect solid 1080p performance in eSports titles and even playable frame rates in some modern AAA games at medium settings, if you’re willing to tweak resolutions and effects. Early benchmarks from Wccftech and Tom’s Hardware, using similar configurations, showcase the 890M trading blows with NVIDIA’s RTX 2050 and occasionally outpacing Intel’s Arc iGPUs on generic single-channel memory systems.
More impressively, the 16 CUs and high clock speed give this iGPU strong video processing capabilities, including hardware acceleration for AV1 decode and encode—a boon for streamers, video editors, and anyone handling high-res media. The GPU isn’t just for play; it’s ready for serious productivity.
Unlike many Thunderbolt implementations, OCuLINK on the GT37 can theoretically deliver better latency and steadier throughput, since it’s wired directly to the CPU’s PCIe lanes, rather than passing through a chipset. While OCuLINK is still a niche feature in consumer hardware, it’s gaining ground in the performance mini PC market, and Aoostar’s decision to include it is a clear nod to enthusiasts and professionals seeking modular upgrades.
Real-world testing reported by Chinese tech blogs and independent reviewers confirms eGPU functionality works reliably, with performance loss compared to native PCIe x16 slots sitting around 10–15%—well within expectations at this form factor and price. This means you could use the GT37 as a discrete console-like device when portable, and then plug in a full-sized RTX 4090 at your desk for uncompromising desktop-class gaming and rendering.
However, there’s a trade-off: the memory is soldered to the mainboard, precluding future user upgrades. While 32GB is ample for virtually all gaming scenarios and most professional workloads today, those hoping for expandability in years to come must account for this limitation.
In terms of storage, the GT37 offers a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD out of the box, with the possibility of upgrading up to 4TB. Aoostar has prioritized both speed and thermal stability here, with a dedicated fan directly cooling the SSD. This is a thoughtful touch, as high-speed storage drives are prone to performance dips under sustained load due to heat buildup.
Reports from AnandTech and StorageReview validate that the PCIe 4.0 NVMe interface in mini PCs like the GT37 consistently delivers rapid sequential and random read/write speeds—much closer now to larger desktops than prior generation mini systems. The only notable limitation here is the single onboard slot, but 4TB should satisfy a majority of users.
Equally important, the hardware is Linux-compatible—a must for developers, tinkerers, and IT professionals who may wish to dual-boot or run alternative operating environments for advanced workloads, testing, or server use. Community reports already confirm successful installations of major distributions, although proprietary drivers (especially for wireless and integrated GPUs) may require extra steps for full functionality.
Consider:
The few unavoidable compromises—a lack of memory upgradability and noise at peak load—are outmatched by a dazzling list of features and outright performance that until now demanded far larger, far noisier, and far pricier rigs. For gamers, creators, IT professionals, and anyone who prizes performance as much as portability, the GT37 signals that the days of “small equals slow” are officially over.
Buyers should, as always, double-check software and driver support, especially as the next wave of Windows and Linux updates arrive. Yet for a device scarcely bigger than your palm, the Aoostar GT37 is as much a technological marvel as it is proof positive that the future of computing won’t be found in towers—but in the palm of your hand.
Source: TechRadar Think your gaming rig is fast? This mini PC hits 5.1GHz and fits in your palm
The Heart of the Beast: Ryzen AI 9 HX-370 in a Mini PC
At the core of the Aoostar GT37 lies AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX-370 processor—a chip that signals a watershed moment for compact PCs. Built on AMD’s advanced 4nm process, this CPU isn’t just about raw speed; it’s engineered for a blend of multitasking, efficiency, and next-generation AI performance. Housing 12 cores, with a division between four performance-driven Zen 5 and eight energy-efficient Zen 5C cores, the HX-370 is squarely aimed at users who push their systems to the limit—whether in creative workflows or competitive gaming.The processor's base and boost clock attract attention: while it regularly runs at high speeds, it can turbo up to a blistering 5.1GHz, outpacing many mainstream desktop CPUs. Coupled with support for 16 threads, the GT37 stands ready for demanding modern workloads: think real-time media encoding, fast 3D rendering, software development, or running virtual machines.
But there’s more. AMD’s inclusion of a dedicated AI engine capable of up to 80 trillion operations per second (TOPS) positions the GT37 at the forefront of AI-driven computing. That’s not just future-proofing; it’s preparing users for a wave of software and workloads—image processing, natural language tasks, and more—that will increasingly rely on on-device artificial intelligence rather than distant cloud data centers.
Independent benchmarking data is still emerging, but early comparative numbers from TechPowerUp and NotebookCheck indicate that this hardware architecture rivals or outright surpasses last year’s highest-end mobile chips in both single- and multi-core tests. The balance of high boost frequency and efficient core offloading means heavy workloads can be handled without thermal throttling, an impressive feat for so small a device.
Palm-Sized Power: Design and Build
Outwardly, the Aoostar GT37 doesn’t shout for attention with RGB lighting or oversized heatsinks. Instead, it embodies the minimalist ethos that’s come to define many next-gen mini PCs: clean lines, matte finishes, subtle branding. Measuring just 4.41 x 2.36 x 4.41 inches (roughly the footprint of a compact external hard drive or large coaster), it truly fits in your palm or out of the way behind your monitor.Despite this minimal volume, the GT37 doesn’t skimp on cooling. Aoostar equipped it with active cooling that directly addresses the storage drive, helping sustain maximum performance even during long workloads—a crucial need in such a compact enclosure. The inclusion of a VESA mount underlines its flexibility: fix it discreetly behind a display or on the wall, freeing up invaluable desk space.
Build quality, according to user reviews gathered from Reddit, YouTube, and enthusiast forums, is solid for its price class. The chassis is constructed largely of metal, which improves thermals and durability, with users reporting little flex or vibration even under load.
Radeon 890M: Integrated Graphics with a Twist
Integrated graphics have made massive strides in recent years, but the Radeon 890M inside the GT37 is a standout even within that context. Based on AMD’s RDNA 3.5 architecture, this iGPU features 16 compute units and a clock speed that reaches up to 2.9GHz. Such specifications put it on par with, and in some titles ahead of, entry-level discrete GPUs from only a generation ago.What does this mean for gamers or creators? In practical terms, you can expect solid 1080p performance in eSports titles and even playable frame rates in some modern AAA games at medium settings, if you’re willing to tweak resolutions and effects. Early benchmarks from Wccftech and Tom’s Hardware, using similar configurations, showcase the 890M trading blows with NVIDIA’s RTX 2050 and occasionally outpacing Intel’s Arc iGPUs on generic single-channel memory systems.
More impressively, the 16 CUs and high clock speed give this iGPU strong video processing capabilities, including hardware acceleration for AV1 decode and encode—a boon for streamers, video editors, and anyone handling high-res media. The GPU isn’t just for play; it’s ready for serious productivity.
For the Power Hungry: OCuLINK and eGPU Support
Future-proofed expandability is rarely a given in mini PCs. Aoostar, however, breaks the mold with a front-facing OCuLINK port. This connector, capable of up to 64Gbps bandwidth, allows users to attach an external GPU (eGPU) enclosure—effectively turning the GT37 into a far more powerful workstation or gaming system with the addition of a capable desktop graphics card.Unlike many Thunderbolt implementations, OCuLINK on the GT37 can theoretically deliver better latency and steadier throughput, since it’s wired directly to the CPU’s PCIe lanes, rather than passing through a chipset. While OCuLINK is still a niche feature in consumer hardware, it’s gaining ground in the performance mini PC market, and Aoostar’s decision to include it is a clear nod to enthusiasts and professionals seeking modular upgrades.
Real-world testing reported by Chinese tech blogs and independent reviewers confirms eGPU functionality works reliably, with performance loss compared to native PCIe x16 slots sitting around 10–15%—well within expectations at this form factor and price. This means you could use the GT37 as a discrete console-like device when portable, and then plug in a full-sized RTX 4090 at your desk for uncompromising desktop-class gaming and rendering.
Memory and Storage: Cutting-Edge But Soldered
System responsiveness in compact PCs often hinges on memory and storage configurations. The GT37’s default setup includes a generous 32GB of LPDDR5X memory, operating at a blazing 8,000MHz in a dual-channel configuration. High-speed RAM is especially important for maximizing integrated GPU bandwidth and general multitasking.However, there’s a trade-off: the memory is soldered to the mainboard, precluding future user upgrades. While 32GB is ample for virtually all gaming scenarios and most professional workloads today, those hoping for expandability in years to come must account for this limitation.
In terms of storage, the GT37 offers a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD out of the box, with the possibility of upgrading up to 4TB. Aoostar has prioritized both speed and thermal stability here, with a dedicated fan directly cooling the SSD. This is a thoughtful touch, as high-speed storage drives are prone to performance dips under sustained load due to heat buildup.
Reports from AnandTech and StorageReview validate that the PCIe 4.0 NVMe interface in mini PCs like the GT37 consistently delivers rapid sequential and random read/write speeds—much closer now to larger desktops than prior generation mini systems. The only notable limitation here is the single onboard slot, but 4TB should satisfy a majority of users.
Robust Connectivity: Wired, Wireless, Display
A serious productivity or gaming system is only as good as its connectivity. The Aoostar GT37 excels in this area, boasting a comprehensive I/O arrangement:- Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports: Unusual for mini PCs, giving flexibility for link aggregation, server, or NAS roles.
- Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3: Ensures futureproof wireless networking, supporting ultra-fast speeds and reduced latency for next-gen routers, peripherals, and streaming.
- USB4, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1: Delivers flexible high-bandwidth device and display connections. Notably, this supports up to three external displays—including 8K at 60Hz with HDR—making the GT37 a genuine option for content creators, financial professionals, or multi-monitor gaming.
- USB-A 3.2 and 2.0 ports; 3.5mm audio jack: Catering to legacy devices as well as modern accessories.
Operating System and Software Flexibility
Right out of the box, the GT37 ships with Windows 11 Pro, taking advantage of the platform’s increasingly robust support for ARM64 and hybrid architectures, advanced AI APIs, and gaming libraries like DirectStorage. The professional edition ensures compatibility with enterprise features, group policy, Hyper-V virtualization, and BitLocker encryption.Equally important, the hardware is Linux-compatible—a must for developers, tinkerers, and IT professionals who may wish to dual-boot or run alternative operating environments for advanced workloads, testing, or server use. Community reports already confirm successful installations of major distributions, although proprietary drivers (especially for wireless and integrated GPUs) may require extra steps for full functionality.
Price-to-Performance: How Does the $829 Tag Stack Up?
At a listed price of $829 with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD, the Aoostar GT37 sits at the premium end of the mini PC market, facing competition from both the likes of the Intel NUC 13 Extreme and premium configurations from Minisforum, Beelink, and Asus. However, a closer accounting of its component choices and expandability reveals a cost structure that’s not just competitive, but frequently class-leading once you add up the value.Consider:
- CPU: The HX-370 outperforms most 12th and 13th-gen Intel Core i7 U- and P-series chips for heavily threaded workloads.
- GPU: The 890M eclipses Intel’s Iris Xe and most previous-gen Radeon 680M iGPUs.
- Memory: Many rivals offer only 16GB of slower RAM at a comparable price; 32GB LPDDR5X is typically reserved for significantly costlier systems.
- I/O: Wi-Fi 7, dual 2.5G LAN, and OCuLINK are unique at this price.
- Warranty: An included 12-month warranty is standard but welcome.
Notable Strengths and Unique Advantages
Several qualities propel the Aoostar GT37 to award-worthy territory in the mini PC landscape:- Processing Headroom: Twelve-core, sixteen-thread architectures were, until recently, exclusive to bulky desktops or expensive workstations.
- AI-Ready: 80 TOPS of onboard AI means tangible benefits for users in creative, productivity, and soon, day-to-day applications.
- Surprising GPU Muscle: The 890M can genuinely compete for the midrange; plus, the OCuLINK port unlocks a path to full-sized, modern discrete GPUs.
- Futureproof Connectivity: Dual LAN, Wi-Fi 7, trio of display outputs—connect it nearly anywhere.
- Thermal Management: Dedicated SSD cooling and robust chassis ventilation defy expectations for this size class.
Potential Drawbacks and Practical Risks
The GT37 does face several limitations and warnings that savvy shoppers should weigh:- Soldered Memory: The lack of RAM upgradability is the most significant practical constraint for users who anticipate very long-term support or disaster recovery.
- Single M.2 Slot: There’s room for only one NVMe drive, albeit up to 4TB. Heavy data hoarders or backup enthusiasts may seek external solutions.
- eGPU Niche: OCuLINK compatibility is exciting but still limited by the availability of affordable, consumer-friendly eGPU docks and compatibility glits is still being ironed out between brands.
- Active Cooling Noise: While most users call the GT37 acceptably quiet, there are reports of noticeable fan ramping under sustained full loads—an unavoidable issue in such a compact enclosure.
- No dGPU Option: Integrated graphics coexist beautifully with expandability via eGPU, but users needing professional graphics acceleration (Quadro, Radeon Pro) natively may need to look elsewhere.
- Power Supply: The power brick is external and roughly the size of a typical laptop charger—easy enough to hide, but a reminder that there are always limits to shrinking desktops.
The Verdict: Who Is the Aoostar GT37 For?
The Aoostar GT37 isn’t simply another incremental advance in the overstuffed mini PC world. Thanks to its well-balanced hardware, best-in-class connectivity, support for both gaming and heavy professional workflows, and a realistic price tag, it targets several user personas with exceptional confidence:- Gamers: If you value portability but demand real gaming grunt—especially with the option to dock to an eGPU at home—this is a rare, smart choice.
- Creatives and Content Producers: Video editors, 3D artists, and streamers will stress the system’s AI and GPU muscle and appreciate the high-speed RAM plus Gen4 storage.
- Developers and IT Pros: Multi-core performance for VMs and coding environments, paired with full Windows 11 Pro and Linux support, makes it an outstanding small footprint development box.
- Home/Small Office Power Users: With abundant I/O and networking, the GT37 can anchor “Zoom rooms,” home servers, or multi-purpose media setups without hogging space or energy.
Final Analysis: Mini PC, Maximum Ambition
Aoostar’s GT37 doesn’t simply redefine what’s possible in a tiny PC package—it stakes a bold claim for the future of compact, high-performance computing. With a forward-thinking mix of AI power, robust graphics, high-speed memory, and unrivaled expandability, it brings desktop-class capabilities into situations never before possible.The few unavoidable compromises—a lack of memory upgradability and noise at peak load—are outmatched by a dazzling list of features and outright performance that until now demanded far larger, far noisier, and far pricier rigs. For gamers, creators, IT professionals, and anyone who prizes performance as much as portability, the GT37 signals that the days of “small equals slow” are officially over.
Buyers should, as always, double-check software and driver support, especially as the next wave of Windows and Linux updates arrive. Yet for a device scarcely bigger than your palm, the Aoostar GT37 is as much a technological marvel as it is proof positive that the future of computing won’t be found in towers—but in the palm of your hand.
Source: TechRadar Think your gaming rig is fast? This mini PC hits 5.1GHz and fits in your palm
