ultimateimp – Minisforum has expanded its N5 Air NAS lineup with a new configuration called the N5 Air-7640. The latest model replaces the Ryzen 7 255 processor found in the existing version with the older Ryzen 5 7640HS.
Despite the processor change, Minisforum has retained most of the original NAS hardware. The N5 Air-7640 continues to offer extensive storage options, high-speed networking, OCuLink connectivity, and a flexible internal layout for easier hardware upgrades.
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The new NAS measures 199 x 202 x 252 mm and weighs approximately 4 kg. Its enclosure remains largely unchanged, including the slide-out internal structure that provides convenient access to the memory and SSD components.
The processor is the main difference between the new model and the existing N5 Air. Minisforum has chosen the Ryzen 5 7640HS, potentially allowing the company to offer the NAS at a lower starting price.
Storage Capacity Reaches 174 TB
The N5 Air-7640 provides five SATA drive bays compatible with both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch storage drives. Each bay can accommodate a drive with a capacity of up to 30 TB.
Three additional M.2 slots are available for NVMe storage, supporting a combined capacity of up to 24 TB. When all supported storage options are combined, Minisforum advertises a maximum capacity of 174 TB.
The NAS also supports several RAID configurations for users requiring improved performance or redundancy. Available options include RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 6 for different storage requirements.
For system memory, the N5 Air-7640 features two SO-DIMM slots. The platform supports up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 memory, providing substantial capacity for demanding NAS workloads and other applications.
High-Speed Networking and Expansion
Networking capabilities remain one of the key features of the N5 Air-7640. The NAS includes separate 10 Gbps and 5 Gbps Ethernet ports for high-speed data transfers across compatible networks.
Expansion options include OCuLink and an internal physical PCIe x16 slot connected using PCIe Gen4. These interfaces provide additional flexibility for users who want to expand the system beyond its built-in storage capabilities.
The remaining connectivity options are also extensive for a NAS system. Minisforum includes two USB4 ports, one HDMI 2.1 port, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, and a USB 2.0 port.
Software support covers several operating systems and platforms. The N5 Air-7640 supports Minisforum’s own MinisCloud OS, while users can also install Windows 11 Pro or Linux depending on their intended workload.
Pricing and Configurations
Minisforum currently lists the N5 Air-7640 with 64 GB of storage for the operating system and no system memory at a starting price of $495. This configuration is aimed at buyers who want to install their own RAM.
A configuration with 16 GB of DDR5 memory is also listed at $495, according to the provided product information. Meanwhile, adding 16 GB of RAM to another configuration raises the price to $679.
The new N5 Air-7640 is expected to begin shipping in late October. This gives customers another option within Minisforum’s NAS lineup while maintaining the same enclosure and most of its hardware features.
For comparison, the existing N5 Air with the Ryzen 7 255 processor is currently listed at $535 in barebones form. The version equipped with the same amount of memory is priced at $719.
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N5 Air-7640 Offers a Lower-Cost Alternative
The N5 Air-7640 primarily differentiates itself through its processor choice and lower entry price. By using the Ryzen 5 7640HS, Minisforum has created an alternative to the Ryzen 7 255-powered configuration.
Other major hardware features remain largely unchanged, including five SATA bays, three M.2 slots, 10 Gbps networking, OCuLink, and PCIe Gen4 expansion. The system therefore retains considerable flexibility for storage-focused users.
Its advertised 174 TB maximum capacity also gives the NAS substantial room for large media libraries, backups, and other data-intensive workloads. RAID support further expands its potential for users prioritizing storage redundancy.
With its combination of high-speed connectivity, extensive storage support, and multiple operating system options, the N5 Air-7640 expands Minisforum’s NAS lineup.
