GMKtec K11

The GMKtec K11 emerges as a value leader in the mini PC market, pairing AMD's Ryzen 9 8945HS (Zen 4, 5.2GHz boost) with Radeon 780M graphics at just $599 for 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD—$300 cheaper than the Geekom A8 with similar specs. Its dual-fan cooling system sustains 65W TDP without throttling, allowing the 780M GPU to deliver GTX 1650 Ti-level performance (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p/30fps with FSR). The 0.96L chassis houses dual M.2 slots (PCIe 4.0) and Oculink for eGPU expansion, though its plastic build lacks the premium feel of aluminum rivals like Minisforum UM890 Pro.

Compared to the $649 Minisforum UM890 Pro (same CPU), the K11 wins on price and cooling (dual fans vs. single) but loses in port selection (no SD card reader) and WiFi 6E support. The Radeon 780M handles esports titles (Valorant at 1080p/144fps) and AV1 decoding effortlessly, while the 8945HS's NPU (16 TOPS) accelerates AI noise cancellation for its built-in mic. However, the Realtek audio codec produces flat sound, and the USB 2.0 ports feel outdated at this price. For raw performance-per-dollar, the K11 outshines competitors—if you can overlook its utilitarian design.

The K11's standout feature is its Oculink port, enabling eGPU setups without Thunderbolt's 20% bandwidth loss. Paired with an RX 7600 XT, it achieves 90fps in Elden Ring (1080p/High)—a feat impossible for the Geekom A8 at $899. While the Minisforum UM890 Pro offers better build quality, the K11's $50–$300 savings make it the smarter buy for upgraders. Just add aftermarket RAM/SSD to the barebone model ($479) for even greater value. If you need max performance in a compact form, the K11 is arguably the most compelling sub-$600 mini PC today.

- GhostKeyboard Review.