GEEKOM A8
32GB/1TB/Ryzen 7 8845HS | 32GB/2TB/Ryzen 9 8945HS | 32GB/2TB/Ryzen 9 8945HS |
The GEEKOM A8 Mini PC is a compact and powerful computing solution designed for users who need high performance in a small form factor. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor with eight cores and 16 threads, this Mini PC delivers exceptional multitasking capabilities and robust graphics performance with its integrated Radeon 780M GPU. It comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, supports up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and includes up to a 2TB Gen 4 NVMe SSD, making it suitable for productivity, light gaming, and creative workflows. Its compact aluminum chassis, measuring just 4.4 x 4.4 x 1.34 inches, is portable and durable, making it ideal for space-constrained setups.
The GEEKOM A8 Max variant offers expanded storage options, dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, and industrial connectors like RS232/RS485 for users seeking additional features. It also includes optional wireless charging and enhanced audio capabilities, making it a versatile choice for personal and professional environments.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Compact and premium aluminum design | Limited BIOS customization for advanced users |
High-performance AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU with integrated Radeon 780M GPU | Fan noise can be noticeable during heavy workloads |
Upgradeable RAM (up to 64GB) and SSD | No secondary M.2 slot for additional SSD storage on non-Max version |
Robust connectivity: USB 4, HDMI, SD card reader, and 2.5Gbps Ethernet | Wi-Fi performance slightly weaker compared to other Mini PCs |
Supports up to four displays via HDMI and USB-C | Internal design makes upgrades slightly cumbersome |
Energy-efficient with low idle power consumption | Higher price point compared to similar Mini PCs |
Optional industrial features on A8 Max (RS232/RS485, wireless charging) | GPU performance is better for gaming than creative tasks like rendering |
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GEEKOM A8 Comparison Chart
GEEKOM A8 | GEEKOM A8 | GEEKOM A8 Max | |
Price | List Price: $699.00 | List Price: $849.00 | List Price: $999.00 |
Version | 32GB/1TB/Ryzen 7 8845HS | 32GB/2TB/Ryzen 9 8945HS | 32GB/2TB/Ryzen 9 8945HS |
Perfomance Rating | 9.1 | 9.3 | 9.3 |
Operating System | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro |
Processor | Octa-core 3.80 Ghz (max 5.10 Ghz) AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS | Octa-core 4.00 Ghz (max 5.20 Ghz) AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS | Octa-core 4.00 Ghz (max 5.20 Ghz) AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS |
GPU | Integrated AMD Radeon 780M | Integrated AMD Radeon 780M | Integrated AMD Radeon 780M |
RAM | 32 GB DDR5, 2-channel (Upgradeable to 64 GB DDR5.) | 32 GB DDR5, 2-channel (Upgradeable to 64 GB DDR5.) | 32 GB DDR5, 2-channel (Upgradeable to 64 GB DDR5.) |
Internal Storage | 1 TB m.2 NVMe | 2 TB m.2 NVMe | 2 TB m.2 NVMe |
Dimensions width x length x thickness | 4.41 x 4.41 x 1.5 inches (112.01 x 112.01 x 38.1 mm) | 4.41 x 4.41 x 1.5 inches (112.01 x 112.01 x 38.1 mm) | 5.3 x 5.2 x 1.8 inches (134.62 x 132.08 x 45.72 mm) |
Weight | unknown | unknown | unknown |
WiFi | WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E | WiFi 6E |
Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 | 5.2 |
Ethernet | 1 Ethernet port at 2.5 Gbps | 1 Ethernet port at 2.5 Gbps | 2 Ethernet ports at 2.5 Gbps |
HDMI | 2 Full Sized HDMI Ports | 2 Full Sized HDMI Ports | 2 Full Sized HDMI Ports |
DisplayPort | DisplayPort over USB-C available. | DisplayPort over USB-C available. | DisplayPort over USB-C available. |
VGA | No VGA Ports | No VGA Ports | No VGA Ports |
USB Ports | 1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 2 USB-C (One USB-C port is USB 3.2 Gen 2, and the other is USB 4. USB-C ports support DisplayPort) | 1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 2 USB-C (One USB-C port is USB 3.2 Gen 2, and the other is USB 4. USB-C ports support DisplayPort) | 1 USB 2.0, 5 USB 3, 2 USB-C (additional internal USB 2.0 ports) |
Thunderbolt Ports | No | No | No |
Internal SATA Ports | No SATA ports | No SATA ports | 1 SATA port, includes 2.5" drive bay (Includes a 16-pin FPC SATA connector for a 7mm 2.5" SATA drive) |
Card Reader | SD Card Reader | SD Card Reader | SD Card Reader |
Headphone Jack | Combo Headphone/Mic Jack | Combo Headphone/Mic Jack | Combo Headphone/Mic Jack |
Fanless | No | No | No |
VESA Mount | Yes | Yes | Yes |
In the Box | Mounting bracket, screws, 120 W power supply, HDMI cable, instruction manual. | Mounting bracket, screws, 120 W power supply, HDMI cable, instruction manual. | Mounting bracket, screws, 120 W power supply, HDMI cable, instruction manual. |
Expandability | Supports up to 64 GB DDR5 RAM, 1 m.2 Gen 4 NVMe SSD. RAM and SSD are user-upgradable. | Supports up to 64 GB DDR5 RAM, 1 m.2 Gen 4 NVMe SSD. RAM and SSD are user-upgradable. | Supports up to 64 GB DDR5 RAM, 1 m.2 Gen 4 NVMe SSD. 1 M.2 key-B slot (SATA). 2.5" SATA drive connector. RS232 and RS485 connectors. |
Detailed Overview of the GEEKOM A8 Mini PC
The GEEKOM A8 Mini PC is built around the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, a high-performance chip with eight cores and 16 threads, capable of reaching a maximum clock speed of 5.2 GHz. This processor is paired with the Radeon 780M integrated GPU, which supports smooth 1080p gaming and easily handles tasks like video editing and light 3D rendering. The system comes pre-configured with 32GB of DDR5 RAM but allows upgrades up to 64GB, providing flexibility for users with demanding workloads. Storage is handled by a fast 1TB or 2TB Gen 4 NVMe SSD, ensuring quick boot times and efficient data access.
Connectivity is another strong point of the GEEKOM A8. It includes USB 4 ports for high-speed data transfer and external GPU support, dual HDMI outputs, and a full-size SD card reader, making it a versatile choice for creators and professionals. The device also features a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2 for modern networking needs. For users who require additional functionality, the A8 Max variant offers expanded storage options, dual Ethernet ports, and industrial connectors like RS232/RS485, catering to specialized applications.
Despite its compact size, the A8 is thoughtfully designed for performance and expandability. Its aluminum chassis provides a premium look and aids in heat dissipation. The cooling system is efficient, maintaining stable performance even under heavy workloads, though the fan can become audible during intensive tasks. With its VESA mount compatibility, the A8 can be easily attached to the back of a monitor, making it an excellent choice for space-saving setups in home offices, creative studios, or industrial environments.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the GEEKOM A8 Mini PC
JuanBagnell's Review: Geekom A8 Mini PC Review: A Ryzen 9 8945HS in a TINY Shell!
JuanBagnell praised the GEEKOM A8 for its exceptional performance in a compact form factor, calling it "a crazy powerful little home PC." He highlighted the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and Radeon 780M GPU as standout components, noting their ability to handle multitasking, moderate video editing, and even AAA gaming at 1080p with high settings. The system's upgradeable RAM and SSD were also appreciated, offering flexibility that competitors like the Mac Mini lack. However, he pointed out that the internal design makes upgrades slightly cumbersome, requiring careful handling of components. Additionally, Wi-Fi reception was noted as weaker compared to other Mini PCs. Despite these minor drawbacks, Juan concluded that the A8 delivers excellent price-to-performance value compared to alternatives like the Apple Mac Mini.
Juan also emphasized the A8's creative capabilities, mentioning its strong performance in DaVinci Resolve for 4K video editing and AI-powered tools like depth mapping. Gaming performance was another highlight, with smooth frame rates in titles like Spider-Man and Tetris Effect. He described the A8 as "the smallest computer in my office right now, but one of the most powerful." While the fan noise was noticeable under load, its lower-pitched tone was less intrusive. Juan found the GEEKOM A8 a versatile and competitive option in the Mini PC market.
ETA Prime's Review: The Smallest RYZEN 9 8945HS Mini PC! The New GEEKOM A8
ETA Prime was impressed by the GEEKOM A8's sleek design and robust performance, describing it as "super clean and elegant." He highlighted its portability, noting that it is roughly the size of an Xbox controller, making it ideal for space-constrained setups. The AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and Radeon 780M GPU delivered strong multitasking and gaming performance, with benchmarks showing competitive results for its size. However, he noted that the system's thermal management caps its TDP at 54-60W, limiting the processor's full potential. The BIOS was criticized for its lack of customization options, particularly for TDP and VRAM adjustments.
Gaming performance was a key focus, with titles like Spider-Man Remastered and Shadow of the Tomb Raider running smoothly at 1080p with FSR enabled. ETA Prime also appreciated the A8's energy efficiency, with low power consumption during idle and gaming scenarios. He concluded that the GEEKOM A8 is an excellent choice for users seeking a compact, powerful Mini PC for everyday use, light gaming, and productivity tasks. However, enthusiasts looking for extensive customization might find it limiting.
TK Bay's Review: Introducing GeeKom A8 Ryzen 9 Or Ryzen 7 Mini PC
TK Bay highlighted the GEEKOM A8's versatility and performance, describing it as a "portable yet capable desktop replacement." He tested the Ryzen 9 8945HS model and praised its ability to efficiently handle multitasking, gaming, and light video editing. The upgradeable RAM and SSD were standout features, offering flexibility for users with evolving needs. TK also appreciated the extensive I/O options, including dual HDMI ports, USB-C, and a full-size SD card reader, which he found particularly useful for content creators.
The A8's portability and VESA mount compatibility were also emphasized, making it suitable for stationary and travel setups. However, TK noted that fan noise was noticeable during heavy workloads, and Wi-Fi performance was not as strong as previous generations. Despite these minor drawbacks, he highly recommended the GEEKOM A8 for users seeking a powerful, space-saving Mini PC for gaming, productivity, or creative tasks.
Elevated Systems' Review: The First Ryzen 8000 Mini PC! Geekom A8 Review.
Elevated Systems provided a more mixed review, praising the GEEKOM A8's cutting-edge hardware and compact design but questioning its value proposition. The Ryzen 9 8945HS processor delivered strong CPU performance, excelling in productivity tasks like Microsoft Office and Photoshop. However, GPU performance was inconsistent, with the Radeon 780M underperforming compared to similar systems, particularly in gaming and GPU-intensive tasks. Elevated Systems speculated that differences in memory controller and Infinity Fabric clock speeds might explain this discrepancy.
The reviewer also noted that the A8's $900 price point approaches that of similarly specced laptops, making it less competitive. While the A8's AI capabilities and premium build quality were appreciated, Elevated Systems suggested that Geekom's A7 model might offer better value for users who don't need the AI NPU. The A8 was considered a solid Mini PC, but its high cost and GPU limitations may deter some buyers.
Tech Notice's Review: Is this the BEST AMD Mini PC with AI? | Geekom A8 Ryzen 8945HS Review & Teardown
Tech Notice delivered a highly positive review, calling the GEEKOM A8 "one of the best Mini PCs on the market." The Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and Radeon 780M GPU provided exceptional performance, with benchmark scores rivaling desktop CPUs like the Intel i9-10900K. The A8's compact and premium design was another highlight, with the reviewer praising its sturdy aluminum chassis and minimalistic aesthetic. However, the lack of a secondary M.2 slot for additional storage was seen as a missed opportunity.
The A8's cooling system was commended for maintaining stable performance without thermal throttling, even under heavy workloads. Tech Notice also appreciated the device's versatile I/O options, including USB 4 and dual HDMI ports, which support up to four displays. While the GPU was better suited for gaming than creative tasks, the A8's overall capabilities and upgradability made it a standout choice for users seeking a powerful, compact PC.
What Customers Are Saying About the GEEKOM A8 Mini PC
Customer feedback for the GEEKOM A8 Mini PC has been largely positive, with users praising its performance, compact design, and versatility. Many appreciate its ability to handle multitasking and demanding applications, thanks to the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and 32GB of DDR5 RAM. One customer noted that the Mini PC "starts up pretty quick" and handles heavy workloads without performance issues. The device's quiet operation, even during multitasking, has also been highlighted as a major advantage.
The compact size of the A8 is a recurring theme in customer reviews. Users love how little space it takes up on their desks, with one reviewer mentioning that it is "incredibly easy to transport," making it ideal for remote work or travel. The included VESA mount has been praised for its practicality, allowing the Mini PC to be attached to the back of a monitor for a clean, clutter-free setup. However, a few users mentioned minor issues, such as weaker Wi-Fi performance and initial challenges with sound configuration on Linux, though these were resolved with adjustments.
Overall, customers find the GEEKOM A8 a reliable and powerful Mini PC that meets the needs of professionals, gamers, and tech enthusiasts alike. Its portability, performance, and thoughtful design make it a popular choice for various use cases.
Conclusion: Who Should Consider the GEEKOM A8 Mini PC?
The GEEKOM A8 Mini PC is an excellent choice for users who need high performance in a compact form factor. Its powerful AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, integrated Radeon 780M GPU, and upgradeable RAM and SSD make it suitable for multitasking, light gaming, and creative workflows. Professionals in productivity or content creation will appreciate its robust connectivity options, including USB 4, HDMI, and a full-size SD card reader. The A8's compact design and VESA mount compatibility are ideal for space-constrained setups or portable use.
However, this Mini PC may not be the best fit for everyone. Enthusiasts looking for extensive BIOS customization or higher GPU performance for creative tasks might find its limitations restrictive. Additionally, users who need more storage expandability or a lower price point might consider alternatives like the GEEKOM A7 or other Mini PCs in the market.
For those seeking to compare the GEEKOM A8 with other Mini PCs, Starry Hope's Mini PC Comparison Tool is a helpful resource to explore additional options and find the best fit for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What operating system does the GEEKOM A8 come with?
The GEEKOM A8 Mini PC comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, providing a modern and secure operating system for productivity, gaming, and creative tasks.
Can I upgrade the RAM and storage on the GEEKOM A8?
The GEEKOM A8 supports RAM upgrades up to 64GB of DDR5 memory. The storage is also upgradeable, with one M.2 PCIe Gen 4×4 slot for NVMe SSDs. However, the A8 does not include a secondary M.2 slot or support for 2.5" SATA drives. For additional storage options, the A8 Max variant includes an M.2 SATA slot and a 2.5" SATA drive connector.
What are the main differences between the GEEKOM A8 and the A8 Max?
The GEEKOM A8 Max offers several additional features compared to the standard A8. These include dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, an M.2 SATA slot, a 2.5" SATA drive support, RS232/RS485 industrial connectors, optional wireless charging, and enhanced audio with an HDA CODEC. The A8 Max is slightly larger in size to accommodate these extra features.
Does the GEEKOM A8 support multiple displays?
Yes, the GEEKOM A8 can support up to four displays simultaneously. It includes two HDMI ports and two USB-C ports with DisplayPort functionality, making it a great choice for multitasking or productivity setups.
Is the GEEKOM A8 good for gaming?
Thanks to its integrated Radeon 780M GPU, the GEEKOM A8 can play 1080p games. It performs well with less demanding games and older AAA titles, especially when using features like AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) to improve frame rates. However, an external GPU connected via USB 4 may be needed for more graphically intensive games.
How does the cooling system perform?
The GEEKOM A8 features an efficient cooling system that prevents thermal throttling, even under heavy workloads. While the fan can become audible during intensive tasks, it maintains a lower-pitched, less intrusive tone. The system is designed to keep the CPU and GPU running at optimal temperatures.
Does the GEEKOM A8 support Linux?
Yes, the GEEKOM A8 is compatible with Linux. However, some users have reported initial challenges with sound configuration when using Linux. These issues can typically be resolved by adjusting the audio settings.
What's included in the box with the GEEKOM A8?
The GEEKOM A8 comes with a 120W power supply, an HDMI cable, a VESA mounting bracket with screws, and an instruction manual. These accessories make setting up and integrating the Mini PC into your workspace easy.
Is the GEEKOM A8 portable?
The GEEKOM A8 is highly portable due to its compact size (4.4 x 4.4 x 1.34 inches) and lightweight aluminum design. It also includes a VESA mount, allowing you to attach it to the back of a monitor for a clutter-free setup, making it ideal for travel or space-saving environments.