Key takeaway: Lenovo’s ThinkStation P3 Ultra SFF Gen 2 is the best overall option because it balances performance, upgrade options, and business support. The ASUS ROG NUC 16 is better for NVIDIA-powered creative work, while the Minisforum MS-S1 Max is designed for running large AI models locally.

Mac Studio delivers considerable power in a compact desktop, but some configurations have become harder to find. These five alternatives are worth considering if your preferred Mac Studio is unavailable, your applications require Windows or Linux, or you want more replaceable components.

Each system has a distinct strength. Lenovo and HP focus on professional applications, ASUS caters to creators, Minisforum prioritizes local AI, and Framework offers greater repairability. I compared their performance, features, pricing, ease of ownership, and customer support.

Best Mac Studio alternatives at a glance

Prices as of July 30, 2026.

Why you can trust TechRepublic

TechRepublic applies the same evaluation criteria to every product in a buyer’s guide. These ratings cover features, pricing, ease of ownership, and customer support. They do not represent hands-on benchmark testing.

How I evaluated the best Mac Studio alternatives

I scored each computer using five weighted categories:

• General features (35%): I compared performance, memory, storage, ports, cooling, and compact design.
• Advanced features (25%): I considered local AI capabilities, creator tools, professional software certification, and room for expansion.
• Pricing (20%): Products earned more credit for clear and affordable pricing. I also considered whether the starting price covers a complete, usable computer.
• Ease of use (10%): I looked at setup, maintenance, upgrades, and everyday system management.
• Customer support (10%): I compared warranty coverage, repair services, replacement parts, and driver support.

Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Ultra SFF Gen 2: Best overall

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Why I chose Lenovo

The ThinkStation P3 Ultra SFF Gen 2 is the best overall option because it balances power, upgrade options, and business support. It can be equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, professional NVIDIA graphics, and up to 128GB of memory. This makes it suitable for engineering, 3D design, software development, and other demanding work.

Lenovo also provides more room to expand than most compact desktops. The system supports as many as four internal SSDs, Windows and Linux, and certifications for professional applications. High-end configurations can become pricey, and available ports, expansion slots, and warranty coverage vary.

Pricing

Starts at $2,005.81.

Standout features

• Professional graphics: Supports NVIDIA RTX PRO graphics with up to 24GB of video memory.
• Generous storage: Accommodates as many as four internal SSDs with up to 16TB of total storage.
• Business options: Available with Intel vPro, Linux, and support for certified professional applications.

ASUS ROG NUC 16: Best for creative and video workloads

Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Why I chose ASUS

The ROG NUC 16 is the best option for creators who rely on NVIDIA graphics. Available configurations include an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and an RTX 5080 Laptop GPU with 16GB of video memory. NVIDIA Studio drivers and dedicated video encoding make it suitable for editing, rendering, streaming, and other graphics-heavy work.

Windows 11 Home is included, and owners can access the memory and storage without tools. The computer also supports as many as five 4K displays. However, it is pricey, and its laptop-class RTX 5080 does not deliver the same performance as the desktop card with a similar name.

Pricing

Starts at $3,199 and includes Windows 11 Home.

Standout features

• Creator-focused graphics: Offers an RTX 5080 Laptop GPU with 16GB of video memory.
• Simple upgrades: Memory and internal storage can be replaced without tools.
• Multi-monitor support: Handles as many as five 4K displays.

HP Z2 Mini G1i: Best for certified professional applications

Rating: 4 out of 5

Why I chose HP

The HP Z2 Mini G1i is a good choice for readers who use certified design, engineering, architecture, or media applications. It supports Intel Core Ultra processors, professional NVIDIA graphics, and up to 128GB of memory. HP also offers business support and onsite service options for organizations managing several workstations.

Its compact case can sit horizontally or vertically or mount behind a monitor. Memory, storage, and graphics are accessible without tools, while separate cooling modes let users favor performance or quieter operation. Its main drawback is its high starting price.

Pricing

Starts at $3,646.00.

Standout features

• Professional certification: Suitable for applications that require approved hardware and drivers.
• Flexible placement: Can sit on a desk or mount behind a monitor.
• Adjustable cooling: Offers separate performance, quiet, and rack settings.

Minisforum MS-S1 Max: Best for large local AI models

Rating: 4 out of 5

Why I chose Minisforum

The MS-S1 Max is the most AI-focused computer in this guide. Its AMD Ryzen AI Max+ processor combines computing, graphics, and AI acceleration with 128GB of shared memory. This large memory pool allows it to run local AI models that may be too large for a conventional graphics card.

It also provides fast wired networking, several high-speed USB connections, expandable storage, and room for an internal expansion card. Users can place it on a desk, install it in a rack, or connect several systems for larger projects. On the downside, its memory cannot be upgraded, and it lacks the professional software certification available from HP and Lenovo.

Pricing

Costs $3,639 with a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, 128GB of memory, and a 2TB SSD.

Standout features

• Local AI capacity: Its 128GB shared-memory pool can support unusually large AI models.
• Fast connections: Includes dual 10GbE networking and high-speed USB4 ports.
• Flexible setup: Can operate as a desktop, rack-mounted system, or part of a small cluster.

Framework Desktop: Best for DIY repairability and value

Rating: 4 out of 5

Why I chose Framework

Framework Desktop is the best option for hands-on users who want a repairable and customizable compact PC. It supports AMD Ryzen AI Max processors, Radeon graphics, and up to 128GB of shared memory. The largest configuration can make as much as 112GB available to graphics and AI applications.

Framework provides replacement parts, repair guides, two internal SSD slots, and customizable front ports. Its starting price is affordable, but the DIY model does not include an operating system. Storage and a CPU fan also cost extra, while the memory cannot be upgraded after purchase.

Pricing

Starts at $1,269 for the DIY Edition. An operating system is not included, while storage and a CPU fan add to the final cost.

Standout features

• AI-ready memory: The 128GB model can assign as much as 112GB to graphics and AI work.
• Repair-friendly design: Replacement parts and step-by-step repair guides are available.
• Custom front ports: Two modular bays let owners select the connections they use most.

Must-read Apple coverage

How to choose the best Mac Studio alternative

• Check software compatibility: Start with the applications, plug-ins, peripherals, and operating system you need. Professional certification may be important for specialized design and engineering software.
• Compare complete prices: Include the processor, graphics, memory, storage, operating system, and warranty you need. A low starting price may exclude essential components.
• Choose the right graphics and memory: NVIDIA graphics may provide better support for creative and professional applications, while a large shared-memory pool can help with local AI.
• Consider long-term ownership: Look at upgrade access, cooling, ports, storage capacity, warranty coverage, and replacement-part availability.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are AI TOPS figures directly comparable between compact workstations?

No. Vendors may calculate TOPS differently, so the largest figure does not always identify the fastest computer. Application support, usable memory, model compatibility, and independent benchmark results provide a more useful comparison.

When is ECC memory worth paying for?

ECC memory can be valuable for long calculations and production work where an error could corrupt a project or invalidate the results. Most general users and creators will benefit more from additional memory capacity or better graphics.

What does ISV certification mean for a workstation buyer?

ISV certification means a particular hardware and driver combination has been validated for professional software. It can reduce compatibility and support problems with CAD, engineering, and other specialized applications. Buyers should confirm that their intended configuration supports the software they use.

Apple’s new leasing program could change how US customers upgrade iPhones, Macs, iPads, and Apple Watches. 

Yiannis Levendis, a professor of mechanical and industrial engineering at Northeastern University, has developed a prototype firefighting robot that sprays liquid nitrogen onto flames to extinguish them quickly. The project grew from a laboratory experiment in 2008, when Levendis was testing shredded tire rubber as a possible alternative fuel.

“Liquid nitrogen, when thrown on fire, quickly evaporates and expands into gas almost 1,000 percent,” Levendis said. “That suffocates the fire and creates a cooling effect on the fuel.”

He said the flames were extinguished almost immediately, prompting him to explore whether the same approach could be adapted for wildfire response. Northeastern Global News reported that the robot is designed to suppress small fires and hotspots before they grow into major wildfires.

How the robot works

The prototype, built with Northeastern students Hayden Hishmeh and Aobo Liu, resembles a compact all-terrain vehicle with caterpillar tracks, a liquid nitrogen tank and a spray hose. It can be operated remotely or potentially autonomously, allowing it to move into areas that may be too dangerous for firefighters.

Unlike many wildfire retardants, liquid nitrogen does not leave behind chemical residue. As it rapidly turns into gas, it cools burning vegetation while reducing the oxygen available for combustion. The robot is currently being tested on controlled fires using forest fuels common in wildfire-prone areas of the western United States.

Tom Ryden, executive director of MassRobotics, said the approach could appeal to firefighting agencies or industry partners.

“A perfect use for robots is to send them into dangerous spots,” Ryden said, according to Northeastern Global News. “Even if we lose a robot, it’s just the cost of the machine that’s lost, not a person.”

Levendis also believes the cryogenic system could eventually be adapted for much larger firefighting vehicles. “I believe it can be converted to vehicles as large as firetrucks,” he said. “We are fairly close.”

More must-read AI coverage

Field deployment still faces major hurdles

The technology is still in the prototype stage, and significant engineering challenges remain before liquid-nitrogen firefighting robots could be deployed in active wildfire operations. Cryogenic storage, transportation logistics and the amount of nitrogen required for sustained firefighting would all need to be addressed.

Even so, the project points toward a different strategy for wildfire response: using robots to attack small ignition points quickly, especially in terrain that is too risky for human crews. If that approach proves practical, it could become a useful complement to existing wildfire suppression methods rather than a replacement.

Also read: NASA’s robotic rescue mission shows how remotely operated machines can take on high-risk work where direct human access is limited.

Leaked images published July 30 show an unreleased Samsung earbud design with hooks that wrap around the outside of the ear. Android Central reported that software graphics associate it with the internal label “Buds Canal 5” and model number SM-U600.

The wraparound form could provide a more stable fit during running, cycling, or gym sessions while leaving the ear canal relatively open. Samsung has not announced the product, confirmed its intended use, or said whether it will reach stores.

Two leaked designs leave the product unsettled

The images published by Android Central show separate left and right earbuds with full exterior hooks. They also appear to show a charging case with a USB-C port.

The SM-U600 identifier and recurring references in Samsung software suggest the device has progressed beyond a single concept image. Software listings can indicate that support is being prepared, but they do not confirm an immediate launch. Samsung’s unannounced Galaxy S26 FE and Galaxy Tab S12 recently surfaced in a Google app list without official release dates.

The relationship between Buds Canal 5 and the earlier Galaxy Buds Able reporting remains unclear. Android Authority associated both names with SM-U600, although earlier images showed a smaller clip-style design rather than a hook wrapping around the ear.

Reports have also differed over the audio technology. Early coverage mentioned bone conduction, while later reporting described an air-conduction system that directs sound toward the ear without blocking the canal. Samsung has confirmed neither description.

“Galaxy Buds Able” may be a development label rather than a retail name. Android Authority later reported that the product could be marketed as Galaxy Buds On, but Samsung has not confirmed either name.

Battery life, water resistance, active noise cancellation, controls, wireless codecs, and device compatibility remain unknown. Pricing has not leaked. A separate report pointed to a possible late-September or October 2026 launch, although Samsung has not announced a release date.

Workout stability comes with audio trade-offs

Ear hooks provide additional support during repeated movement because the earbuds rest around the outside of the ear instead of relying only on an in-ear or outer-ear fit. An open design can also help runners and cyclists hear vehicles, voices, and other nearby sounds.

The trade-offs include weaker passive isolation, reduced bass in noisy settings, and more sound leakage than sealed earbuds. Wind noise, pressure behind the ear, and comfort alongside glasses could also affect longer sessions.

Samsung’s standard Galaxy Buds4 use an open fit, while the Buds4 Pro use silicone tips and emphasize stronger isolation and adaptive noise cancellation. The leaked model would add a more exercise-focused shape rather than directly replacing either product.

That form factor could complement the Galaxy Watch9 and Watch Ultra2, which add workout, recovery, trail, and health features. Samsung’s broader wearable health tools also show how the company is expanding beyond basic activity tracking, although no watch or health integration has been confirmed for SM-U600.

Open hooks may suit outdoor exercise and people who dislike silicone tips. Sealed earbuds remain better suited to flights, offices, public transportation, and other settings where isolation is the priority.

For organizations standardizing Samsung mobile hardware, an open-ear option could suit field employees who need audio prompts while remaining aware of traffic, colleagues, or equipment. Procurement teams would still need confirmed durability, battery, compatibility, support, and pricing details before treating SM-U600 as a workplace accessory.

Samsung has not confirmed the earbuds’ name, specifications, price, or release date. The next useful evidence will need to show whether the hook and clip renders depict one changing SM-U600 design—or two separate products.

Also read: Earlier Galaxy Watch9 and Ultra2 leaks show which reported details matched Samsung’s eventual announcement — and why unreleased hardware specifications should still be treated cautiously.