GMKtec K8

The GMKtec K8 offers compelling value at $529 for its Ryzen 7 8845HS (Zen 4) and 2TB SSD, but its single USB4 port and older cooling design face stiff competition from the redesigned K8 PLUS ($520, 32GB+1TB SSD). While the K8’s Radeon 780M handles 1080p gaming (Valorant at 144fps) and its 2TB storage is generous, the K8 PLUS adds a second USB4 port, OCuLink (PCIe 4.0 x4 for eGPUs), and improved cooling—making it a smarter choice for upgradability. The K8’s plastic top panel and noisy fans (45dB) further highlight its budget compromises.

Performance is strong for the price: The 8845HS scores 15,842 in Cinebench R23, edging out Intel’s Core Ultra 7 155H, while the 780M iGPU supports AV1 decoding and triple displays (dual HDMI 2.1 + USB4). However, the single USB4 port limits peripheral flexibility. The K8’s 2TB SSD is a standout at this price, but the K8 PLUS’s OCuLink and dual USB4 ports better future-proof users needing eGPUs or high-speed storage.

For $9 less, the K8 PLUS addresses the K8’s key weaknesses: It swaps the second HDMI for OCuLink, adds a front USB-C, and reduces fan noise by 5dB. If 2TB storage is essential, the K8 remains viable—but most users should opt for the K8 PLUS’s superior connectivity. The Minisforum UM780 XTX ($649) is a pricier alternative.

- GhostKeyboard Review.