# Ryzen AI Max+ 395 (Strix Halo) explained

Explainer · AI PC hardware · 2 min read. By [David Wilson](https://testbenchlab.com/authors/david-wilson/). Updated 2026-10-02.

Strix Halo is the common name for AMD’s Ryzen AI Max platform. Its appeal is a larger integrated GPU and high-capacity shared memory. The Max+ 395 is one option, but CPU and graphics resources vary across the range.

| Processor | CPU cores / threads | GPU | GPU compute units |
|---|---|---|---:|
| Max+ 395 | 16 / 32 | Radeon 8060S | 40 |
| Max+ 388 | 8 / 16 | Radeon 8060S | 40 |
| Max 390 | 12 / 24 | Radeon 8050S | 32 |
| Max 385 | 8 / 16 | Radeon 8050S | 32 |

## What is Strix Halo?

The platform combines CPU cores, integrated Radeon graphics and an NPU around shared memory. It is relevant to compact workstations because large model weights can use a substantial pool without installing a separate high-VRAM graphics card.

## Ryzen AI Max+ 395 vs 390 vs 388 vs 385

Check the exact designation: Max+ 388 is different from Max 385. CPU and GPU resources do not increase in the same order. A lower-core model retaining stronger graphics may suit GPU-focused work differently from a higher-core model with fewer graphics units.

## Which mini PCs use it?

Geekom A9 Mega is our preferred workstation. Minisforum MS-S1 Max, GMKtec EVO-X2 and Beelink GTR9 Pro are alternatives. Inspect the selected processor and installed capacity rather than assuming one chassis name guarantees a specification.

## What it is good (and bad) at

The platform suits memory-heavy local inference and compact workstation use. It does not supply every CUDA-specific software route, and capacity does not guarantee rapid generation. Check the backend before treating a large RAM figure as a universal solution.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is Strix Halo equivalent to?

No single desktop CPU or graphics card is equivalent across all tasks. Compare the exact workload and power settings.

### Is Ryzen AI Max+ 395 good for gaming?

Its Radeon 8060S makes it relevant for integrated-graphics gaming. Resolution, settings and shared power still matter.

## Related reading

- [The best Strix Halo mini PCs (Ryzen AI Max+ 395)](https://testbenchlab.com/best/best-strix-halo-mini-pcs/)
- [What is unified memory, and why does it matter for local AI?](https://testbenchlab.com/guides/what-is-unified-memory/)
- [Radeon 890M vs Radeon 8060S: what the iGPU means for AI and gaming](https://testbenchlab.com/guides/radeon-890m-vs-radeon-8060s/)
- [Geekom A9 Mega (Ryzen AI Max+ 395) review](https://testbenchlab.com/reviews/geekom-a9-mega-review/)

## Sources

1. [AMD Ryzen AI Max specifications](https://ir.amd.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1232/amd-announces-expanded-consumer-and-commercial-ai-pc-portfolio-at-ces)
2. [AMD Ryzen AI software hardware table](https://www.amd.com/en/products/software/ryzen-ai-software.html)
3. [Geekom A9 Mega specifications](https://www.geekompc.com/geekom-a9-mega-ai-mini-pc/)