GMKtec K9 Mini PC

The GMKtec K9 positions itself as a value alternative to the Beelink SEI14 ($619) and Geekom GT1 ($699), offering identical Intel Ultra 5 125H performance at a $20–$100 discount. Benchmarks show near-identical CPU scores (Cinebench R23: ~15,500 multi-core) across all three devices, with the K9's 7 Xe-core Arc GPU matching the SEI14's graphical performance in light gaming (GTA V: 45fps at 1080p Medium). However, the K9's dual-fan cooling hits 35dB under load—3dB louder than Beelink's vapor chamber solution—while lacking Geekom's advanced IceBlast 2.0 thermal design. The silver aluminum chassis (0.94L) splits the difference between the SEI14's compact 0.81L design and GT1's 0.94L tower.

Where the K9 stumbles is in premium features: Its single Thunderbolt 4 port trails the GT1's dual TB4, and WiFi 6E (vs. GT1's WiFi 7) limits future wireless bandwidth. The 1TB SSD uses slower Phison E21T controllers (3,500MB/s reads) compared to Beelink's faster Kingston OM8SEP4512Q-A0 (5,000MB/s). For productivity, these differences are negligible—the K9 handles 4K video editing and 20+ Chrome tabs smoothly—but creators may prefer competitors' better I/O. The K9 redeems itself with tool-free SSD upgrades (unlike the SEI14's screw-heavy design) and a 2-year warranty (vs. Geekom's 3-year coverage).

At $599, the K9 undercuts its rivals by leveraging GMKtec's cost-saving supply chain. It's the best choice for budget-conscious buyers who want Ultra 5 125H performance without paying for Geekom's premium cooling or Beelink's compact design. However, the Minisforum UM780 XTX (Ryzen 7 7840HS) often drops to $649 with superior Radeon 780M graphics—a better option for gamers. If Thunderbolt and WiFi 7 aren't priorities, the K9 delivers exceptional value for office and media tasks.

- GhostKeyboard Review.