GMKtec Nucbox G5

The GMKtec NucBox G5 is an ultra-compact Mini PC designed for users seeking an affordable yet capable computing solution. Powered by the Intel N97 processor, this device offers 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a 256GB M.2 SATA SSD, making it suitable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, media streaming, and light productivity work. Running Windows 11 Pro out of the box, the NucBox G5 provides a modern operating system experience in a device that fits in the palm of your hand. Its small size, quiet operation, and versatile connectivity options make it an appealing choice for students, families, or anyone needing a secondary PC for basic tasks.

Despite its compact form factor, the NucBox G5 includes a range of ports, including dual HDMI outputs, three USB 3.2 ports, and a microSD card reader. However, it does have some limitations, such as older Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 5 standards, and the USB-C port is reserved for power only. While it's not designed for heavy-duty tasks or AAA gaming, the NucBox G5 shines in areas like retro gaming emulation, streaming, and general office use, offering excellent value for its price point.

The GMKtec NucBox G5 balances affordability and functionality, making it a strong contender in the budget Mini PC market. However, users should consider its limitations, particularly if they require advanced connectivity or high-performance capabilities.

A Closer Look at the GMKtec NucBox G5

The GMKtec NucBox G5 is powered by the Intel N97 processor, a 12W quad-core CPU with a maximum clock speed of 3.6 GHz. This processor, paired with 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM running at 4800 MT/s, ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media streaming. The device also includes a 256GB M.2 SATA SSD, which can be upgraded to 2TB, offering flexibility for users who need additional storage. While the single-channel memory configuration slightly limits its performance in memory-intensive applications, the overall hardware setup is sufficient for basic computing needs.

Connectivity is a strong point for the NucBox G5, with dual HDMI 2.0 ports supporting 4K video output at 60Hz, three USB 3.2 ports, a microSD card reader, and a gigabit Ethernet port. However, the USB-C port is reserved for power only, which may disappoint users looking for additional data transfer options. The device also includes built-in Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2, which, while functional, are somewhat dated compared to newer standards. Despite these limitations, the NucBox G5's compact size (2.83 x 2.83 x 1.75 inches) and lightweight design (0.454 lbs) make it an excellent choice for users who need a portable and space-saving PC.

The NucBox G5 also excels in thermal management, operating quietly even under load. While thermal throttling may occur during intensive tasks, the device maintains reasonable temperatures thanks to its active cooling system. Its small form factor and quiet operation make it ideal for use in shared spaces, such as living rooms or offices, where noise and size are critical considerations. Additionally, upgrading the M.2 SSD and Wi-Fi card adds a layer of future-proofing to this budget-friendly Mini PC.

What Reviewers Are Saying About the GMKtec NucBox G5

Team Pandory: A Budget-Friendly Option with Limitations

In their review, Team Pandory highlights the GMKtec NucBox G5 as a strong budget contender, particularly for basic tasks and streaming. They praise the inclusion of 12GB of RAM, which ensures smooth performance for everyday Windows tasks, and note that the Intel N97 processor delivers decent results for its price range. However, they point out some limitations, such as HDMI 2.0, which restricts video output to 4K at 60Hz, and the older Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 5 standards.

Team Pandory also delves into the device's design, describing it as minimalistic but not particularly appealing. They appreciate its compact size, comparing it to "one rooibos tea bag big," and highlight its quiet operation even under load. In terms of performance, they find it suitable for light workloads, streaming, and retro gaming emulation, dubbing it "an emulation beast." However, they note that the storage speeds are subpar due to using an M.2 SATA SSD instead of NVMe, and thermal throttling occurs under heavy workloads. Overall, they conclude that the NucBox G5 is a great choice for students or families needing a compact, budget-friendly PC, though it may not suit users with more demanding needs.

Hubwood: Compact, Versatile, and Affordable

Hubwood emphasizes the NucBox G5's versatility and compact design, noting that it is smaller than an Xbox controller and weighs only 206g. They highlight its affordable price, under $150, and its ability to handle everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and light gaming. Hubwood also praises the device's quiet operation and low power consumption, describing it as "literally unhearable" when idle.

While the NucBox G5 performs well for basic tasks, Hubwood identifies thermal throttling as a concern during benchmarks. However, they address this issue by reapplying thermal paste, significantly improving performance and eliminating throttling. Hubwood also tests light gaming and emulation, finding the device capable of effectively running older titles and retro games. They conclude that the NucBox G5 is a versatile Mini PC with numerous use cases, making it a solid choice for users who need a compact and efficient device for everyday computing.

ETA Prime: Tiny Yet Capable

In his review, ETA Prime highlights the NucBox G5's ultra-compact size, describing it as "fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand." He praises its affordability, price of around $150, and ability to handle everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and 4K video playback. ETA Prime also notes the device's upgradability, allowing users to replace the M.2 SSD and Wi-Fi card, which is uncommon for PCs of this size.

ETA Prime tests the NucBox G5's gaming and emulation capabilities, finding it suitable for older titles and retro gaming systems like PSP, GameCube, and PS2. However, he emphasizes that it is not designed for AAA gaming or heavy workloads, stating, "You just gotta understand that it's not gonna do AAA games." He also highlights the device's low power consumption, which ranges from 4W at idle to 19W under load, making it an energy-efficient option. ETA Prime concludes that the NucBox G5 is a versatile and affordable Mini PC, ideal for light tasks and retro gaming enthusiasts.

Iceberg Tech: Perfect for Classic and Indie Games

Iceberg Tech focuses on the NucBox G5's suitability for classic and indie gaming. They praise its compact size and surprising connectivity options, which include dual HDMI ports, three USB 3.2 ports, and a microSD card reader. Iceberg Tech tests various classic and indie games, such as Half-Life 2, Hades, and Hollow Knight, all running smoothly on the device. However, they caution that more demanding games may require increasing the TDP to 15W, which can lead to overheating.

Iceberg Tech also notes some drawbacks, such as the lack of advanced features like HDMI 2.1 and the device's high temperatures under load. Despite these limitations, they find the NucBox G5 to be a fun and capable Mini PC for less demanding gaming scenarios. They conclude that while it's unsuitable for power users or modern AAA games, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and affordable gaming solution for classic titles.

EVO Tech: A Compact Media and Everyday PC

EVO Tech highlights the NucBox G5's compact size and stylish two-tone design, describing it as "perfect to set up underneath a living room TV." They find it well-suited for basic tasks like media streaming, web browsing, and light gaming, noting that its 12GB of RAM alleviates common issues in budget systems. EVO Tech also sees potential for the device as a media center or basic home server, such as for running a Plex server.

However, they highlight limitations, including the single-channel memory configuration and the USB-C port's power-only functionality. EVO Tech also notes that while the device is effective for day-to-day use, it struggles with more demanding tasks or 3D gaming due to its low-end iGPU. Despite these drawbacks, they conclude that the NucBox G5 is a quiet, efficient, and highly appealing option for users prioritizing size and convenience over raw performance.

What Customers Are Saying About the GMKtec NucBox G5

Customer feedback for the GMKtec NucBox G5 has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users praising its compact size and surprising performance for the price. Buyers appreciate that the device is small enough to fit in their hands while still delivering solid results for everyday tasks like web browsing, media streaming, and light office work. One customer even tested the device with Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and reported smooth gameplay at high settings, which exceeded their expectations for such a budget-friendly Mini PC.

The device's quiet operation and efficient thermal management are also frequently mentioned. While the fan noise becomes noticeable under heavy load, most users find it unobtrusive during regular use. The dual HDMI outputs and built-in Bluetooth are appreciated for their versatility, making the NucBox G5 a great option for multi-monitor setups or pairing with wireless peripherals. Customers also value upgrading the SSD and Wi-Fi card, allowing them to enhance the device's performance over time.

Overall, users describe the NucBox G5 as an excellent value for its price, especially considering it comes with a full Windows 11 Pro license. Many recommend it for specific use cases like corporate training rooms, secondary workstations, or media centers. While it's unsuitable for heavy gaming or demanding tasks, customers agree it's a fantastic choice for basic computing needs and light gaming.

Conclusion: Who Should Consider the GMKtec NucBox G5?

The GMKtec NucBox G5 is an excellent choice for users seeking a compact, affordable, and versatile Mini PC for everyday tasks. Its small size, quiet operation, and upgradability make it ideal for students, families, or professionals needing a secondary PC for web browsing, media streaming, or light productivity work. The device also shines as a media center or retro gaming emulator, offering solid performance for its price point.

However, the NucBox G5 may not be the best fit for users requiring advanced connectivity options, such as Thunderbolt or HDMI 2.1, or those needing a PC for demanding tasks like AAA gaming or 4K video editing. Its single-channel memory configuration and reliance on older Bluetooth and Wi-Fi standards may also be limiting for some users.

For those who prioritize portability and budget-friendly performance, the NucBox G5 offers a compelling package. If you're looking for more options to compare, check out Starry Hope's Mini PC Comparison Tool to find the best Mini PC for your needs.