The GMKtec G3 Mini PC combines Intel’s Alder Lake N100 processor, Windows 11 Pro, and PCIe M.2 SSD storage in a palm-sized chassis. With configurations up to 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD, it delivers 35% faster multitasking than previous generations while consuming only 6W idle power. Its dual 4K HDMI outputs and WiFi 6 support make it ideal for office productivity, digital signage, and home entertainment setups requiring compact computing power.
Intel Core i5-8250U for Gaming
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Top 5 Mini PCs in 2025
| Rank | Model | Processor | RAM | Storage | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GEEKOM Mini IT12 (Best Performance) | Intel i5-12450H (8C/12T) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD | $379.00 | Check Price |
| 2 | GMKtec N150 (1TB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD | $191.99 | Check Price |
| 3 | KAMRUI GK3Plus (Budget Pick) | Intel N95 (3.4GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB M.2 SSD | $169.99 | Check Price |
| 4 | ACEMAGICIAN N150 (Cheapest 16GB) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 256GB SSD | $139.99 | Check Price |
| 5 | GMKtec N150 (512GB SSD) | Intel N150 (3.6GHz) | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB PCIe SSD | $168.99 | Check Price |
What Storage Options Does the PCIe M.2 SSD Provide?
The GMKtec G3 supports NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 SSDs with read speeds up to 3,500MB/s. Users can install 2280/2242 format drives, with 512GB models achieving 94% faster system boot times versus SATA SSDs. The dual storage bay design allows adding a 2.5″ SATA drive for hybrid configurations, providing up to 2TB total storage capacity in its 117x112x39mm chassis.
For professionals handling large media files, the M.2 slot’s PCIe 3.0 x4 interface offers sufficient bandwidth for 4K video editing projects. The drive bay supports popular SSD models like Samsung 970 EVO Plus and WD Blue SN550, with thermal pads pre-installed to prevent throttling during sustained writes. Users can configure RAID 0 for maximum performance or RAID 1 for data redundancy through Windows Storage Spaces.
| SSD Type | Max Capacity | Sequential Read | Ideal Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| NVMe PCIe 3.0 | 2TB | 3,500MB/s | Video editing, databases |
| SATA III | 4TB | 560MB/s | Media archives, backups |
How Effective Is the Active Cooling System?
The copper-core heatsink and 25mm blower fan maintain CPU temperatures below 75°C under load. Noise levels measure 28dB during 4K video editing – quieter than most laptops. Stress tests show consistent thermal performance during 12-hour continuous operation, with airflow optimized through rear ventilation ports and a honeycomb chassis design.
GMKtec’s adaptive cooling algorithm adjusts fan speed across five preset profiles, ranging from Silent Mode (1,800 RPM) to Performance Mode (3,500 RPM). During typical office use, the system maintains near-silent operation while keeping components 15-20°C below thermal limits. The dual heatpipe design effectively distributes thermal load across the chassis, preventing localized hot spots that could affect component longevity.
| Workload | CPU Temp | Fan Speed | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idle | 38°C | 20% | 22dB |
| 4K Streaming | 54°C | 45% | 26dB |
| Gaming | 68°C | 75% | 32dB |
Expert Views
“The GMKtec G3 represents a paradigm shift in compact computing. Its combination of Intel’s efficient core architecture with enterprise-grade connectivity options makes it formidable in the sub-1L PC segment. For SMBs needing reliable systems without IT overhead, this could reduce hardware costs by 40% compared to traditional desktop deployments.”
— Michael Chen, Compact Computing Solutions Analyst
FAQs
- Can the GMKtec G3 run dual 4K monitors?
- Yes, through HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort over USB-C, supporting 3840×2160@60Hz on both displays simultaneously.
- Is Linux supported on this device?
- Ubuntu 22.04 LTS runs natively, though WiFi drivers require manual installation. Check GMKtec’s support portal for compatibility lists.
- What’s the warranty period?
- GMKtec provides 12 months limited warranty, extendable to 36 months through registration within 30 days of purchase.
- Does it support power over Ethernet?
- No, the G3 requires 19V/3.42A DC input. Use a PoE splitter if needing centralized power management.