GMKtec EVO-X2 News

The mini PC market has evolved dramatically, transitioning from basic productivity machines to compact powerhouses capable of gaming, AI workloads, and professional content creation. Leading this revolution is the GMKtec EVO-X2, one of the first mini PCs to feature AMD's Ryzen AI Max+ 395 "Strix Halo" processor. This machine is not just a step forward—it's a leap, combining desktop-class performance with the convenience of a small form factor.

Priced between $1,499 and $1,999 depending on configuration, the EVO-X2 is designed for power users who demand high-end computing in a portable package. With 16 Zen 5 cores, 32 threads, and an integrated Radeon 8060S GPU, it challenges even dedicated gaming laptops and workstations. But what makes this mini PC truly special? Let's dive into its specs, performance, and real-world applications.

1. The Heart of the Beast: AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 is built on TSMC's 4nm process, featuring 16 cores, 32 threads, and a boost clock of up to 5.1GHz. It includes 16MB of L2 cache and 64MB of L3 cache, ensuring smooth multitasking and reduced latency in demanding applications.

What sets this chip apart is its AI acceleration. The XDNA 2 NPU delivers 50 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second), while the combined CPU, GPU, and NPU performance reaches 126 TOPS. This allows the EVO-X2 to run large language models (LLMs) locally, including 70B-parameter models like Llama 3, with 2.2x faster inference than an RTX 4090 in some benchmarks.

2. Integrated Graphics That Rival Discrete GPUs

Instead of relying on a dedicated GPU, the EVO-X2 uses the Radeon 8060S with 40 RDNA 3.5 Compute Units (CUs). Early benchmarks suggest it performs 23% faster than an RTX 4070 laptop GPU in certain gaming scenarios, making it capable of 1440p gaming without an external graphics card.

3. Memory & Storage: Desktop-Class in a Mini PC

The EVO-X2 comes in two main configurations:

• 64GB LPDDR5X-8000 RAM + 1TB SSD ($1,499)
• 128GB LPDDR5X-8000 RAM + 2TB SSD ($1,999)

The LPDDR5X memory runs at 8000MHz, and up to 96GB can be allocated to the GPU for intensive workloads. Storage is expandable via PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, ensuring fast data access for AI training, video editing, and large datasets.

4. Cooling & Power Efficiency

To handle the 140W TDP of the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, GMKtec employs a dual-turbo fan system with a vapor chamber (VC) heatsink. This keeps temperatures in check even under heavy loads, making it suitable for sustained AI model training and gaming.

1. AI & Machine Learning

The EVO-X2 is marketed as an AI workstation, capable of running local LLMs without cloud dependency. Tests show it outperforms high-end desktops in AI benchmarks, including LM Studio, where it achieves 2.2x faster inference than an RTX 4090.

2. Gaming Performance

Thanks to the Radeon 8060S, the EVO-X2 can handle 1440p gaming at respectable frame rates. Early reviews suggest it competes with RTX 4060–4070 laptop GPUs, making it a viable option for gamers who want a compact yet powerful system.

3. Content Creation & Productivity

With 128GB of RAM and PCIe 4.0 storage, the EVO-X2 is ideal for video editors, 3D artists, and developers. It supports quad-display output (via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB4), allowing for expansive workstation setups.

4. Portability & Connectivity

Despite its power, the EVO-X2 remains compact. It includes:

• 2x USB4 (40Gbps) ports
• 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) ports
• 2x USB 2.0 ports (a controversial inclusion in 2025)
• Wi-Fi 7 & Bluetooth 5.4
• 2.5GbE Ethernet & SD card reader

The EVO-X2 launched in China in April 2025, with global availability starting in May 2025. Pricing varies by region:

• China: ~CNY 14,999 (~$2,066) for the 128GB model
• US: $1,399 (64GB) / $1,799 (128GB) with pre-order discounts until May 7
• Europe: €1,499 (64GB) / €1,799 (128GB) with deposit discounts

After May 7, prices rise to $1,999 (128GB) and $1,499 (64GB), making early adoption advantageous.

The GMKtec EVO-X2 is not for casual users—it's a high-end mini PC designed for:

• AI researchers needing local LLM processing
• Gamers who want a compact but powerful rig
• Content creators requiring desktop performance in a small form factor
• Developers working with large datasets and virtualization

While its price is steep, the performance justifies the cost for professionals who need AI acceleration, high memory capacity, and strong GPU performance in a portable package.

For those who can afford it, the EVO-X2 represents the future of mini PCs—where compact size no longer means compromising on power.

The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 inside the EVO-X2 is a game-changer, proving that mini PCs can now compete with high-end desktops. Whether for AI, gaming, or creative work, this machine delivers unprecedented performance in a small footprint.

Would you buy it? Let us know in the comments!