GMKtec G3 Plus Mini PC (Intel N150): features, specs and who it suits

The GMKtec G3 Plus is a small desktop computer built around Intel's N150 processor. It aims to cover office work, browsing, media playback and light server duty in a case far smaller than a tower PC. Here is what its specifications mean.

The Intel N150 processor

The N150 is a Twin Lake chip with four cores, four threads and 6MB of cache, with a burst speed of up to 3.6GHz. GMKtec positions it as an update to the Alder Lake N100, and cites a 6% to 10% performance improvement over that chip. It is a low-power processor, which typically means modest heat and quiet running. It is suited to browsing, documents, video calls and streaming rather than heavy video editing or demanding games.

Memory and storage

The listing gives 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 256GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 2280 NVMe SSD. 8GB is generally comfortable for many browser tabs and office applications. NVMe storage is much faster than a traditional hard drive, which is why such a PC boots quickly. The M.2 2280 format is a standard size, so the drive is typically replaceable, though you should check the manual for upgrade steps and limits.

Ports and display output

GMKtec lists four USB 3.2 ports (up to 5Gbps), two HDMI 2.0 outputs, a 3.5mm audio jack and an RJ45 network port. The two HDMI outputs support two 4K displays at 60Hz, and the integrated Intel graphics (up to 1000MHz) handle 4K video playback, including AV1 decoding. That makes it usable as a home theatre PC attached to a projector or TV, or as a two-monitor desk machine.

Networking

The wired port is 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet using an Intel i226-V controller. It is faster than standard Gigabit, but you will only get the full speed if your router or switch also supports 2.5GbE. Wireless is WiFi 6 (802.11ax), with GMKtec quoting speeds up to 600Mbps, plus Bluetooth 5.2 for keyboards, mice and other peripherals.

Home server and lab uses

The brand lists Wake On LAN, PXE Boot, RTC Wake and Auto Power On, which are useful features when a PC is run unattended. It also lists compatibility with Linux, Proxmox, firewall systems, Ubuntu and ESXi. Those make it a candidate for a small home server, firewall or test lab, though the 4-core CPU and 8GB of RAM put a limit on how many virtual machines it can run.

Who it suits

It suits home offices, students, shared family computers, media playback and tinkerers who want a small, low-power machine. It is less suited to gaming, 3D work or large virtual machine setups.

What to check before you buy

• Model details: the listing has some inconsistent model labels, so confirm the RAM and storage configuration you are getting.
• Operating system: check whether one is pre-installed and which version.
• Monitor connections: confirm your displays accept HDMI, or plan for adapters.
• Network speed: 2.5GbE only helps with matching network hardware.
• Upgrades: check whether the RAM and SSD can be changed and how.
• Warranty: GMKtec states a 1-year limited warranty; read its terms.

The short version

• A compact mini PC with an Intel N150 (4 cores, up to 3.6GHz).
• 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB NVMe SSD.
• Dual HDMI 2.0 with 4K at 60Hz, four USB 3.2 ports, 2.5GbE, WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
• Wake On LAN, PXE Boot and Auto Power On for unattended use.
• Best matched to everyday computing and light server jobs.

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