GMKtec Mini PC G3 PLUS review compact powerhouse for multitasking and 4K performance

Description

Compact Design and Build

I have to admit, the GMKtec Mini PC G3 PLUS is impressively compact. Measuring just 4.49 x 4.17 x 1.65 inches and weighing a mere 2.02 pounds, this mini PC is a dream for anyone who’s short on space or prefers clutter-free setups. Its lush green color adds a fresh pop of personality, which is a pleasant departure from the usual black or gray designs. I’ve got it tucked neatly under my monitor, and it’s so small that I barely notice it’s there. Portability is another plus; I’ve carried it between rooms without hassle, and I imagine it would be great for someone who needs a computer on the go. The build feels sturdy, but I wouldn’t want to drop it—better safe than sorry!

Performance That Packs a Punch

This mini PC runs on the Intel Twin Lake N150 processor, and I was genuinely impressed by its 3.6GHz burst speed. It’s a noticeable upgrade over the older N100, with about 6-10% better overall performance. I’ve tested it with a mix of tasks—spreadsheets, web browsing with multiple tabs, and even light photo editing—and it handled everything smoothly. The 16GB DDR4 RAM ensures multitasking isn’t a headache, and the 512GB PCIe SSD means boot times are incredibly fast. I’ve opened large files and transferred data between drives without any annoying delays. For basic office work or home use, this PC feels like a solid choice.

Rich Connectivity Options

Connectivity might be one of this product’s strongest suits. With four USB 3.2 ports, I’ve connected my wireless mouse, external hard drive, and even a USB microphone without running out of slots. There are also two HDMI 2.0 ports, which support dual 4K displays at 60Hz. I tested this by connecting it to my monitor and TV simultaneously, and the quality was sharp with no lag. Add in the 2.5GbE Ethernet port for super-fast wired internet speeds, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2, and you’ve got a machine that’s flexible enough to work with most modern devices. The 3.5mm audio jack is a nice touch too, especially since some mini PCs inexplicably leave that out.

4K Dual-Screen Support and Graphics

The Intel Graphics with a max 1000MHz frequency is a pleasant surprise. While this mini PC isn’t designed for gaming, it’s more than capable of streaming 4K videos or running productivity software that requires decent graphical support. I used it with a projector to watch some Netflix, and the quality was top-notch. The dual HDMI outputs make multitasking a breeze—I had one screen for work and another for entertainment, and switching between the two was seamless.

Upgraded Cooling System

One feature I didn’t expect to appreciate as much as I did was the upgraded cooling fan. It’s genuinely quiet, and I’ve noticed it keeps the system at a comfortable temperature. In the past, I’ve used mini PCs that got uncomfortably warm during extended use, but this one stays cool even after hours of operation. The improved thermal paste seems to do its job well, and I haven’t experienced any performance throttling due to heat.

Positives

Here are the key benefits I’ve noticed:

• Compact and portable design makes it great for tight spaces.
• Fast performance with the Intel Twin Lake N150 processor and 16GB RAM.
• Versatile connectivity options with USB 3.2, HDMI, Ethernet, and Bluetooth.
• Quiet and efficient cooling system ensures stable operation.
• Dual 4K display support for multitasking or entertainment.

Shortcomings

That being said, there are a few areas of concern I’ve come across:

• The integrated graphics may not be suitable for heavy gaming or demanding graphic design work.
• While compact, the lack of upgradability (e.g., limited slots for additional drives) might be a downside for some.
• The plastic outer casing doesn’t feel as premium as I’d hoped, though it’s sturdy enough.

Competing Products

Comparing this to other mini PCs, I’d say it holds its own in several areas. Against similar products like the Beelink SER5 or Intel NUC, the GMKtec Mini PC G3 PLUS wins with its dual 4K display support and 2.5GbE Ethernet port, which aren’t always standard in this price range. However, the Beelink SER5 might edge out in terms of raw processing power for gaming, thanks to its AMD Ryzen CPU. Intel’s NUC series, on the other hand, offers slightly better build quality but at a higher price point. If you’re looking for a balance of performance and affordability, this one feels like a smart choice.

Bang for the Buck

For its size and feature set, this mini PC offers excellent value for money. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but what you get—fast storage, robust connectivity, and solid performance—justifies the investment. It’s particularly appealing for those who need a reliable machine for work or casual use without shelling out for a full desktop setup. While it might not replace a high-end gaming rig or workstation, it’s more than capable for everyday tasks and light productivity.

Overall, I’ve found this mini PC to be a practical and well-rounded choice. It won’t blow your mind, but it’s a dependable little machine that punches above its weight. The GMKtec Mini PC G3 PLUS has certainly earned its place on my desk for the foreseeable future.

Additional information