Huawei MateStation 9s

Basic Information

The Huawei MateStation S is a compact desktop PC designed for home and office use.

• Model: MateStation S (PUM-WDH9A)
• Release Date: March 2021 (initial launch in markets like Malaysia), with wider global availability by July/September 2021.
• Version: Not applicable for a desktop PC; functionality is tied to the operating system version.
• Minimum Requirements: Defined by the pre-installed Windows 10 Home operating system.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Home, with a free upgrade path to Windows 11.
• Latest Stable Version: Runs on Windows 10 Home, with updates managed by Microsoft.
• End of Support Date: Dependent on the lifecycle of the installed Windows operating system.
• End of Life Date: Dependent on the lifecycle of the installed Windows operating system and Huawei's hardware support policies, which are not publicly specified as a fixed date.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Dependent on the update policies of the installed Windows operating system.
• License Type: Typically includes a standard retail license for Windows 10 Home.
• Deployment Model: Pre-built desktop PC.

Technical Specifications

The Huawei MateStation S is a small form factor desktop featuring AMD's Ryzen platform, designed for efficient performance in office and general computing tasks.

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 4600G (6 cores, 12 threads, 3.7 GHz base clock, up to 4.2 GHz boost clock).
• RAM: 8GB DDR4 3200MHz SO-DIMM. The system includes two SO-DIMM slots, with one occupied by an 8GB module, allowing for expansion.
• Storage: 256GB M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD. Some configurations may offer 512GB. The chassis supports two M.2 NVMe SSD slots and a SATA port for additional storage.
• Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics (Vega 8).
• Display: Not included with the base unit, but often bundled with a Huawei Display 23.8" (1920x1080 FHD IPS, 90% screen-to-body ratio, 72% NTSC, 1000:1 contrast, TÜV Rheinland certified for low blue light and flicker-free).
• Ports:
  • Front I/O: 1x USB-A (USB 3.2 Gen 2), 1x USB-C (USB 2.0, supports 18W charging when PC is on), 1x 3.5mm combo audio jack.
  • Rear I/O: 2x USB-A (USB 3.2 Gen 1), 2x USB-A (USB 2.0), 1x HDMI, 1x VGA, 1x RJ45 Ethernet, 1x Mic-in, 1x Line-out, 1x Line-in, 1x Serial port.
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home.
• Dimensions: 93mm (Width) x 315.5mm (Depth) x 293mm (Height).
• Weight: Approximately 4.2 kg.
• Power Supply: 300W.
• Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5 (IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, 2x2 MIMO), Bluetooth 5.0.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The MateStation S offers a solid configuration for general productivity and light multimedia tasks. The AMD Ryzen 5 4600G processor provides strong multi-core performance for its class, complemented by 8GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most office applications. The NVMe SSD ensures fast boot times and application loading. The integrated Radeon Graphics handles everyday visual tasks and light gaming effectively. The compact form factor and comprehensive port selection, including legacy VGA and serial ports, enhance its versatility for various office environments. The upgradability of RAM and storage is a significant advantage for extending the asset's lifespan.

Support & Compatibility

The Huawei MateStation S offers a standard level of support and compatibility for a modern desktop PC, with some unique Huawei ecosystem integrations.

• Latest Version: The hardware supports the latest versions of Windows 10 Home and is upgradeable to Windows 11.
• OS Support: Primarily supports Windows 10 Home, with official upgrade path to Windows 11.
• End of Support Date: Follows Microsoft's lifecycle for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Hardware support from Huawei is typically covered by a manufacturer's warranty, often 1 year, with options to extend.
• Localization: Available in multiple regions globally, supporting various language packs provided by the Windows operating system.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are provided by Huawei through their official support channels and PC Manager software, ensuring compatibility with the specific hardware components.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The MateStation S demonstrates good compatibility with current Windows operating systems and offers essential connectivity options. The inclusion of legacy ports like VGA and a serial port enhances its compatibility with older peripherals, which can be beneficial in certain enterprise settings. Huawei's ecosystem features like Huawei Share and Multi-Screen Collaboration provide enhanced compatibility with Huawei mobile devices, streamlining workflows for users within that ecosystem. The upgradability of RAM and storage further contributes to its long-term viability. However, the warranty may be voided upon opening the chassis for upgrades in some regions.

Security Status

The Huawei MateStation S incorporates several security features primarily through its hardware and operating system integration.

• Security Features:
  • Fingerprint power button on the bundled Huawei Ultra-Slim Wired Keyboard, supporting Windows Hello for biometric authentication.
  • Kensington lock slot for physical security.
  • Standard Windows 10/11 security features, including Windows Defender, firewall, and secure boot.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific hardware vulnerabilities are widely reported for the MateStation S. Software vulnerabilities are managed through regular Windows updates.
• Blacklist Status: The Huawei MateStation S itself is not on any known hardware blacklist.
• Certifications: The optional Huawei Display 23.8" is TÜV Rheinland certified for low blue light and flicker-free technology, indicating eye comfort and safety.
• Encryption Support: Supports BitLocker drive encryption, a standard feature of Windows 10/11 Pro (if upgraded) or device encryption in Windows 10/11 Home.
• Authentication Methods: Password, PIN, Picture Password, and Fingerprint (via Windows Hello).
• General Recommendations: Users should maintain up-to-date operating system and driver software, utilize strong passwords, and enable biometric authentication for enhanced security.

Analysis on Overall Security Rating: The MateStation S provides a good baseline of security for an office or home desktop. The integrated fingerprint reader with Windows Hello offers convenient and robust biometric authentication. Physical security is addressed with a Kensington lock slot. Overall software security relies on the robust features provided by the Windows operating system and regular updates. There are no indications of specific hardware-level security weaknesses.

Performance & Benchmarks

The Huawei MateStation S delivers solid performance for its intended use case, focusing on productivity and light multimedia.

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 5: Single-core score of 1149, Multi-core score of 6450.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Handles office/school-related tasks, document creation, data reports, and online video conferences efficiently.
  • Capable of light gaming (e.g., CS:GO, Valorant, League of Legends, Dota 2) at low graphics settings.
  • Suitable for casual video editing and photo editing of RAW files.
  • Excellent performance in Excel for crunching numbers.
• Power Consumption: Equipped with a 300W power supply. The AMD Ryzen 5 4600G processor has a TDP of 65W.
• Carbon Footprint: Specific carbon footprint data is not publicly available.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Positioned as a compact, well-designed pre-built system for home and office, offering competitive performance for its price point against other entry-level desktops. Its compact size and quiet operation are often highlighted as advantages over bulkier traditional desktops.

Analysis of Overall Performance Status: The MateStation S provides strong performance for its target audience of home and office users. The AMD Ryzen 5 4600G APU offers a good balance of CPU and integrated GPU power, making it capable for daily productivity, web browsing, and even some light creative work and casual gaming. The 300W power supply is adequate for the integrated components, but limits the addition of powerful discrete graphics cards. Its quiet operation is a notable performance aspect for a desktop in a home or office environment.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the Huawei MateStation S generally highlight its suitability for productivity and its compact design.

• Strengths:
  • Compact and Space-Saving Design: Praised for its small form factor and sleek "Star Trail" aesthetic, fitting well into various workspaces.
  • Good Performance for Office/School: Handles everyday tasks, multitasking, and light creative work effectively.
  • Quiet Operation: Noted for being very silent, even under load, due to efficient fan setup.
  • Huawei Share & Multi-Screen Collaboration: Seamless integration with compatible Huawei smartphones for file transfer and multi-screen productivity is a significant advantage for users within the Huawei ecosystem.
  • Fingerprint Reader on Keyboard: The bundled keyboard with an integrated fingerprint sensor for Windows Hello is a convenient security feature.
  • Upgradability: Users appreciate the ability to upgrade RAM (via SO-DIMM slots) and add more storage (M.2 NVMe SSD slots, SATA port).
• Weaknesses:
  • Integrated Graphics Only: While capable for light tasks, the lack of a dedicated GPU option limits its appeal for demanding gaming or professional graphics-intensive applications.
  • USB-C 2.0 on Front: The front USB-C port being USB 2.0 is seen as a missed opportunity for faster data transfer.
  • Warranty Void on Opening: Some reports indicate that opening the chassis for upgrades may void the warranty.
  • Basic Bundled Monitor: The optional Huawei Display, while decent, is considered basic by some users.
  • No Built-in Speakers or Webcam: Unlike some all-in-one solutions or laptops, these are not integrated.
• Recommended Use Cases: Ideal for home offices, students, and professionals requiring a compact, reliable, and quiet desktop for productivity, web browsing, content consumption, and light creative or gaming tasks.

Summary

The Huawei MateStation S is a well-rounded small form factor desktop PC that excels in providing a compact, efficient, and quiet computing experience for home and office environments. Its strengths lie in its AMD Ryzen 5 4600G processor, offering robust performance for daily productivity, light content creation, and casual gaming. The inclusion of Huawei Share and a fingerprint-enabled keyboard enhances its usability and security within the Huawei ecosystem. The design is sleek and space-saving, making it an attractive option for modern workspaces. Upgradability for RAM and storage adds to its longevity and value.

However, its primary weakness is the reliance on integrated graphics, which limits its suitability for high-end gaming or demanding professional applications. The front USB-C port's USB 2.0 speed is a minor drawback, and the potential voiding of warranty upon opening for upgrades is a concern for some users. The bundled monitor, while functional, is basic.

Overall, the MateStation S is highly recommended for users seeking a reliable, quiet, and compact desktop for general computing, office work, online learning, and light entertainment. It offers a compelling package for those who value a streamlined setup and integration with Huawei's device ecosystem.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.