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GMKtec G3 Plus Mini PC Review

The GMKtec G3 Plus is an ultra-budget mini PC that punches above its weight with 16GB RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD at just $159. Powered by Intel's N150 (4C/4T, 3.6GHz), it handles basic tasks like web browsing, 4K video playback, and office apps smoothly, though its 6MB cache and single-channel RAM limit multitasking. The dual storage slots (PCIe 3.0 NVMe + SATA) are rare at this price, enabling affordable expansion. WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 provide modern connectivity, while the 35W TDP ensures silent fanless operation—ideal for digital signage or kiosk use..

Performance-wise, the G3 Plus trades blows with the Beelink EQ14 N150 at 199$, scoring ~1,100 in Geekbench 5 multi-core—adequate for light workloads but struggling with >5 Chrome tabs. Intel UHD Graphics manages 4K video decoding but fails in gaming (e.g., Minecraft at 720p/Low hits 25fps). The included Windows 11 Pro license adds valuE. Ports are plentiful (4x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.0, DP 1.4), but the lack of USB-C or Thunderbolt limits future peripherals..

The G3 Plus shines as a budget HTPC or office terminal, where its 4K support and dual storage slots offset its weak CPU. If you need max RAM/storage under $200, the G3 Plus is a compelling choice—just temper expectations for intensive tasks. GMKtec's 1-year warranty lags behind Beelink's 3-year coverage, a notable trade-off for the low price.

- GhostKeyboard Review.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Unbeatable value: 16GB RAM + 512GB NVMe SSD at $159 undercuts competitors by ~$40 for similar specs .
  • Dual storage slots: PCIe 3.0 NVMe + SATA M.2 support allows affordable expansion—a rarity in budget mini PCs .
  • 4K-ready: HDMI 2.0 and DP 1.4 outputs support 4096×2160 @ 60Hz for media playback or digital signage .
  • Modern connectivity: WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 outperform older AC/AX routers and peripherals .
  • Silent operation: Fanless design (35W TDP) eliminates noise for office/HTCP use .

Cons

  • Weak CPU performance: N150's 4C/4T struggles with multitasking, scoring 60% lower than Intel N100 in Cinebench R23 .
  • No USB-C/Thunderbolt: Lacks modern peripheral support, relying on USB 3.0 (5Gbps) for external storage .
  • Single-channel RAM: 16GB DDR4 runs at reduced bandwidth, hurting iGPU performance .
  • Short warranty: 1-year coverage falls behind industry-standard 3-year policies .

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