Is the GMKtec NucBox K7 the Ultimate Intel NUC Replacement?

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Overview of the GM kex K7 Mini PC
3. Design and Build Quality
4. Hardware Specifications
5. Performance testing
6. Gaming Experience
7. Power Consumption and Cooling
8. Pros and Cons
9. Conclusion
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Introduction

Welcome back to another Mini PC review! In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the GM kex K7 Mini PC, which features the Intel I5 13500 H CPU. If you're interested in checking out a Mini PC with some impressive hardware specifications, then this review is for you. Let's dive in and see how the K7 compares to its predecessor and other Mini PCs on the market. But before we get into the details, let me take a moment to introduce you to our sponsor, the EOS wre experts screen recorder. This all-in-one solution is perfect for Recording everything on your screen, from online meetings to gameplay tutorials. With support for 4K and 60 FPS, as well as a range of additional features, it's a must-have tool for any content creator. But now, let's get back to the GM kex K7 Mini PC review!

Overview of the GM kex K7 Mini PC

The GM kex K7 Mini PC is available in three different color schemes: steel, space blue, and black (only available on Amazon). While both blue options are visually appealing, my personal preference is the space blue. Starting at $340 for the barebones configuration, the K7 offers great value for money. If you opt for the black color scheme on Amazon, the price goes up to $430, but it includes a 32 GB memory and 1 TB storage configuration. The case of the K7 is made of plastic, which feels like a slight downgrade compared to the previous generation's metal middle section. However, the plastic used for the case is of good quality and feels solid in the hands. The top lid is removable but does creak a bit.

Design and Build Quality

The GM kex K7 Mini PC features a plastic case that, despite the downgrade from the previous generation's metal middle section, feels solid and of good quality. The space blue color scheme, in particular, is visually appealing. The front of the K7 is equipped with a reset button, power button, audio jack, and USB4 40GB port. On the back, you'll find USB 3 10GB ports, a display port 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and dual Intel 2.5GB LAN ports. The GM kex K7 comes with a barrel Jack connector for power and includes a 120W power supply. It's worth noting that the K7 is one of the few Mini PCs that actually includes the necessary tools for opening up the case, which is a nice addition for those who like to tinker with their hardware. The case does have a removable top lid, but it creaks a bit, which can be a minor annoyance.

Hardware Specifications

The GM kex K7 Mini PC is equipped with Intel's I5 13500 H CPU, which boasts 12 cores and 16 Threads. It also features Intel XC graphics. Compared to the previous generation's I5 12500H, the 13500H shows a slight improvement in both single core and multicore performance. The K7 supports up to 32GB of DDR5 4800 RAM and has two M.2 Gen 4 NVMe slots for storage. It's worth noting that the included storage drive is Gen 3, so it may have slightly lower sequential read and write speeds compared to Gen 4 drives. However, for most users, this won't make a noticeable difference. The K7 also comes with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity, thanks to the Intel AX201 module.

Performance Testing

In terms of performance, the GM kex K7 Mini PC does not disappoint. In single-core tests, the I5 13500H performs at the upper end of the performance Chart, with a negligible 1% increase over the previous generation's I5 12500H. However, in multicore tests, the K7 shows a significant improvement, with a 21% increase in performance in balanced mode and an almost 28% increase in performance in performance mode. This improvement makes the K7 one of the top-performing mid-tier Mini PCs on the market. When it comes to video encoding, the K7 performs well, with a 16% improvement for both DX11 and DX12 integrated graphics.

Gaming Experience

While the GM kex K7 Mini PC is not specifically designed for gaming, it does offer some gaming capabilities thanks to its Intel integrated graphics. Esports games can be played at decent or good frame rates, with League of Legends reaching over 200 FPS. However, more demanding games like Grand Theft Auto V do not perform as well on the K7. It's important to note that certain games, such as Valorant, may not work on the K7 due to the lack of secure boot and TPM 2.0 support. However, a BIOS fix is on the way for existing units, and future units should come with the updated BIOS already installed. If gaming is a priority for you, it's worth considering other options.

Power Consumption and Cooling

The GM kex K7 Mini PC has relatively low idle power draw, similar to the previous generation model. However, under maximum load, power draw is slightly higher, especially in performance mode. When it comes to cooling, the K7 does a decent job, thanks to its fan and heat sink setup. The CPU temperature hovers around the middle, and the noise levels are on the higher side. The performance mode does raise the noise level even more. Overall, the cooling solution in the K7 is adequate, but it's not the quietest Mini PC on the market.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Impressive performance in multicore tasks
• Expandable storage and memory options
• Accessory kit includes tools for opening the case
• Good value for money

Cons:

• Plastic case feels like a downgrade compared to the previous generation
• Gaming performance is lacking compared to dedicated gaming PCs
• Can be noisy under load
• Valorant and certain other games may not work due to lack of secure boot and TPM 2.0 support

Conclusion

In conclusion, the GM kex K7 Mini PC offers significant performance improvements over its predecessor, making it one of the top-performing mid-tier Mini PCs currently available. Despite the plastic case and slightly noisy operation, the K7 delivers excellent value for money with its expandable storage and memory options. While it may not be the ideal choice for gaming enthusiasts, it still offers decent gaming capabilities in less demanding titles and excels in tasks such as video editing and multimedia work. If you're in the market for a powerful yet affordable Mini PC, the GM kex K7 is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the GM kex K7 Mini PC suitable for gaming? A: While the K7 does offer some gaming capabilities, it is not specifically designed for gaming. It can handle less demanding games quite well but may struggle with more graphically intensive titles.

Q: Can I upgrade the storage and memory in the GM kex K7 Mini PC? A: Yes, the K7 supports up to 32GB of DDR5 4800 RAM and has two M.2 Gen 4 NVMe slots for storage. However, it's worth noting that the included storage drive is Gen 3.

Q: Does the GM kex K7 Mini PC come with an operating system? A: Yes, Windows 11 Pro is pre-installed on all configurations of the K7, except for the barebones version. If you opt for the barebones configuration, you will need to install your own operating system.

Q: Can I use an eGPU with the GM kex K7 Mini PC? A: Yes, you can supercharge the K7 by connecting an eGPU through the USB 4 port. This will provide a significant boost in graphics performance for demanding tasks and games.