The GMKtec Nucbox G5 is a compact mini PC that uses the Intel Alder Lake-N N97 processor. It is part of a line of budget-friendly mini PCs designed for everyday tasks, media playback, and light computing.

Key Specifications

• Processor: Intel Alder Lake-N N97 (4 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.6 GHz). This is a step up from the N100, offering a slightly higher clock speed and a higher base TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 12W, compared to the N100's 6W.

• Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics. The N97's iGPU has a higher dynamic frequency (1.2 GHz) than the N100's, which results in a noticeable performance gain in graphical benchmarks.

• RAM: 12GB LPDDR5-4800. The RAM is typically soldered to the motherboard and is not user-upgradeable. 

• Storage: M.2 2242 SATA SSD. It's important to note that the G5 typically uses a slower SATA SSD rather than the faster NVMe standard. The storage is often upgradeable, with support for up to 2TB.

• Operating System: Comes with a pre-installed copy of Windows 11 Pro.

• Connectivity:

  • Ports: 3x USB 3.2, 2x HDMI 2.0 (supports dual 4K displays at 60Hz), a single Gigabit Ethernet port (RJ45), a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB-C port for power delivery.

  • Wireless: Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2. Some reviews note these are outdated standards, especially compared to the Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 found on other GMKtec models.

Performance and Use Cases

The Nucbox G5 is not a powerhouse, but it's very capable for its intended market:

• General Computing: It handles daily tasks like web browsing, streaming 4K video, using office applications (Microsoft Office, etc.), and managing multiple browser tabs smoothly.

• Media Center: The dual 4K HDMI outputs and efficient processor make it an excellent choice for a Home Theater PC (HTPC). It can decode modern video formats like AV1.

• Light Gaming & Emulation: While it struggles with modern, demanding games, it performs well with 2D indie games and older 3D titles. It's also a good little machine for retro emulation, including platforms like PlayStation 2 and Nintendo Wii.

• Home Server: Its low power consumption makes it suitable for "always-on" tasks such as a Plex server, file server, or for running home automation software.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact Size: It's one of the smallest mini PCs on the market, making it easy to place on a desk or mount behind a monitor using the included VESA bracket.

• Good Performance for the Price: The Intel N97 processor is a strong performer in the budget category, offering better overall performance than the N100, particularly in graphical tasks.

• Quiet Operation: The cooling fan is generally very quiet, even under load.

• Affordable: It's priced competitively, making it a great budget option.

Cons:

• Soldered RAM: The LPDDR5 RAM is soldered to the board, so it cannot be upgraded. The 12GB configuration is fixed.

• Slower Storage: The use of a SATA M.2 SSD instead of a faster NVMe SSD can be a bottleneck.

• Outdated Wireless Connectivity: The Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2 are a step down from the Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 found on other models in the GMKtec lineup.

• Thermal Throttling: Due to its extremely small size, the cooling system can struggle to dissipate heat under heavy, sustained loads, which may lead to thermal throttling and a reduction in performance.