The GMKtec G5 NUCBOX is a compact Windows 11 Pro mini PC featuring an Intel N97 processor, DDR5 4800MHz RAM, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0. Designed for efficiency and portability, it excels in home offices, entertainment setups, and light gaming. Its 15W TDP ensures quiet operation, while dual 4K display support enhances multitasking.
MSI 2024 Cubi N ADL Mini Desktop
Table of Contents
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 Are the Advantages of DDR5 4800MHz RAM?
DDR5 RAM boosts data transfer speeds by 50% over DDR4, improving multitasking and app responsiveness. The G5’s 8GB/16GB DDR5 options reduce latency for snappy performance in Office apps, browsers, and media streaming. Upgradability varies by model—check for soldered vs. replaceable modules.
DDR5 technology offers a 32% bandwidth increase (38.4 GB/s vs. 25.6 GB/s in DDR4) through bank group partitioning and dual 32-bit channels. This architecture allows simultaneous data access, significantly benefiting memory-heavy tasks like browser tab switching or spreadsheet calculations. The 4800MHz frequency also reduces power consumption via 1.1V operation compared to DDR4’s 1.2V requirement. For creative professionals, DDR5 enables smoother 4K video timeline scrubbing in editors like DaVinci Resolve, though complex effects may still require discrete graphics.
| DDR Generation | Speed | Voltage | Bandwidth |
|---|---|---|---|
| DDR4 | 3200MHz | 1.2V | 25.6 GB/s |
| DDR5 | 4800MHz | 1.1V | 38.4 GB/s |
Is the Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 Connectivity Sufficient?
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) offers up to 1.3Gbps speeds—adequate for streaming and browsing. Bluetooth 5.0 supports dual audio devices and low-energy peripherals like keyboards. For faster wireless, consider a Wi-Fi 6 USB adapter.
While Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) devices are becoming common, Wi-Fi 5 remains practical for most home networks. The G5’s 2×2 MU-MIMO configuration maintains stable connections through walls, achieving real-world speeds of 600-800Mbps within 15 feet of the router. Bluetooth 5.0’s 4x range improvement over 4.2 (up to 240 feet line-of-sight) ensures reliable connections with wireless mice and headsets. For conference room setups, the dual-band support allows seamless switching between crowded 2.4GHz IoT devices and cleaner 5GHz channels.
| Wireless Standard | Max Speed | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi 5 | 1.3Gbps | MU-MIMO |
| Wi-Fi 6 | 2.4Gbps | OFDMA |
Why Choose Windows 11 Pro Over Home Edition?
Windows 11 Pro adds BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, Hyper-V virtualization, and Group Policy Management. Ideal for small businesses or advanced users needing enhanced security and network tools. Home users may prefer the standard edition to save costs.
Can the GMKtec G5 Support Dual 4K Displays?
Yes, via HDMI 2.0 and USB-C ports, the G5 drives dual 4K monitors at 60Hz. Perfect for spreadsheets, video editing previews, or multitasking across screens. Ensure your displays support HDCP 2.2 for protected content playback.
How Does the GMKtec G5 Compare to Competing Mini PCs?
Against Beelink SER5 or Minisforum HX90, the G5 trades raw power for affordability. Its N97 chip outperforms Celeron models but lags behind Ryzen 5/Ryzen 7 in graphics. Best for budget-focused buyers needing reliable daily performance.
“The GMKtec G5 strikes a rare balance between compactness and capability. While not a powerhouse, its Intel N97 and DDR5 combo delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro makes it a standout for micro-business deployments.” — Tech Analyst, Mini PC Review Hub
FAQs
- Does the G5 support Linux?
- Yes, but drivers for Wi-Fi/Bluetooth may require manual installation.
- Can it run Minecraft?
- Low settings at 720p (~30 FPS) via Intel UHD Graphics.
- Is a VESA mount included?
- Optional; check packaging details.
- Warranty period?
- Typically 1 year, extendable via retailers.