GMKtec NucBox G3 mini PC review

Affordable efficiency in compact design, perfect for everyday tasks and light multimedia applications

GMKtec NucBox G3 review
(Image: © Alastair Jennings)

TechRadar Verdict

The GMKtec NucBox G3 is a budget-conscious choice that delivers on essential computing needs. With its Intel N100 processor and entry-level hardware, it handles routine tasks and light multimedia activities well. The NucBox G3 is ideal for users seeking a basic, reliable mini PC for everyday use; the G3 stands out for its affordability and simplicity, making it a practical choice for casual or entry-level computing needs.

Pros

  • +

    Budget-friendly pricing

  • +

    Compact design

  • +

    Easy upgradability

Cons

  • -

    Limited gaming performance

  • -

    Basic processor capabilities

  • -

    Modest storage capacity

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GMKtec NucBox G3: 30-second review

Specs

CPU: Intel 12th Alder Lake-N100, 4C/4T, up to 3.4 GHz
Graphics: 
Intel UHD Graphics (750MHz, 24 execution units)
RAM: 8GB DDR4 3200 MT/s (expandable to 32GB)
Storage: 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD (expandable to 2TB)
Rear Ports: 2 x USB3.2 (Gen1*1 5Gbps/S), 2 x HDMI (4K@60Hz), 1 x 2.5G Giga LAN (RJ45)
Front Ports: 2 x USB3.2 (Gen1*1 5Gbps/S)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
Audio: 1 x 3.5 mm headphone jack
Camera: Not included
Size: 115mm x 108mm x 44mm
OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro
Accessories: Power adapter (DC IN 5.5/2.5mm, 12V/3A)

The GMKtec NucBox G3 is definitely priced to attract entry-level users, those on a budget or just want a compact machine that will enable them to browse the internet and carry out office and some multimedia tasks. 

Powering the small box is an Intel 12th Alder Lake-N100 processor, an ideal choice for this style of mini PC as, while not a top-spec processor, it is still designed to handle everyday tasks efficiently. With its 4 cores and 4 threads, it reaches a maximum speed of 3.4 GHz. We've tested plenty of the best mini PCs, and while not groundbreaking, there's sufficient power here for basic office applications, web browsing, and light multimedia tasks such as watching videos and streaming music.

The GMKtec NucBox G3's performance in the benchmark test highlighted that it is a machine designed for light use with Crystal Disk, GeekBench, and PC Mark that pitch this Mini PC in the entry level. The Crystal Disk scores of 1763 MB/s read and 1692 MB/s write speed indicate impressive speeds with the handling of data transfer and storage. GeekBench scores, with 933 in single-core and 2303 in multi-core tests, highlight that it will handle day-to-day applications such as Word and Excel well, although it is probably best to avoid image and video editing software.

In terms of gaming, the G3's limitations really become apparent with the onboard Intel UHD Graphics stuggling, while it is OK for basic graphical tasks but is not cut out for high-end gaming or even mid-range, as evidenced by Fire Strike and Time Spy scores.

The design of the G3 does break from most Mini PC although not in size and shape but rather in colour, as it features a lush green finish that adds a unique look to its compact form. The build quality is solid, and it is remarkably lightweight at just 0.79 lb (361g), making it highly portable. The option for DIY upgrades is a nice addition, with easy access to RAM and SSD slots, enabling you to upgrade if and when you need.

As a small machine, there are a good amount of connectivity options, with multiple USB 3.2 ports, dual HDMI supporting 4K at 60Hz, and a 2.5G Ethernet port for faster internet connectivity. Its Wi-Fi 6 capability is a great addition and helps to ensure speedy wireless connections for browsing the internet and streaming. The audio output is limited to a single 3.5mm headphone jack, which, to be honest, is standard for most mini PCs.

Running on Windows 11 Pro, the GMKtec NucBox G3 offers a familiar and intuitive user experience, with added support for Linux for those who prefer an open-source environment. If you're running any of the best 3D printers or best laser engravers, then this could make a great workshop choice.

GMKtec NucBox G3: Price & availability

GMKtec NucBox G3 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The GMKtec NucBox G3 Mini PC, already attractively priced at $279 for the 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD variant, can often be found discounted through various retailers, including directly from GMKtec by clicking here or from Amazon by clicking here. This aspect of affordability enhances its value proposition significantly. 

  • Score: 4/5

GMKtec NucBox G3: Design & build

GMKtec NucBox G3 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The GMKtec NucBox G3 might be at the budget end of the market, but it still models a sleek, modern mini PC design, combining both form and function in a compact and lightweight package, and the green is quite nice too. Weighing in at just 265g and with dimensions of 115mm x 108mm x 44mm, it's both a great desktop space saver with its small footprint and small and lightweight enough to make it portable if needed.

As with other NUCs of this type, it also offers a good range of alternative mounting options, enabling you to monitor, stand, or wall mount if needed.

The exterior of the G3 is made from high-quality plastic, which balances the lightweight construction with portability and durability. Despite its all-plastic construction, the unit feels well made and robust, so if you do need it to be portable, then it should withstand being carried about. The design also makes it incredibly easy to upgrade if needed with the top cover, which can be easily pried open, providing fast access to the internal components. This is useful if you purchase the barebones version or want to upgrade the hardware in the future.

The layout of the ports around the case helps to enhance the G3's usability. On the front are two USB Type-A ports, and then there's a well-arranged selection of ports at the back, all of which help when setting up the Mini PC. The G3's port design is really well thought out, especially the two HDMI ports, one on either side of the rear of this small machine.

  • Design: 4/5

GMKtec NucBox G3: Features

GMKtec NucBox G3 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The G3 features a decent range of ports, including USB 3.2 for high-speed data transfer, HDMI for 4K@60Hz Ultra HD output, a 2.5G Giga LAN port for fast-wired network connectivity, and dual-band Wi-Fi 6 that enables speeds of up to 2400Mbps. These connections enable plenty of flexibility if you want to connect to monitors, TVs, audio systems, NAS, printers, and projectors. For the security conscious, there's also the usual inclusion of a Kensington lock port.

At its core, the G3 features the Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake N100 processor, which offers increased performance and energy efficiency compared to its predecessors like the N95 processor. The N100 processor features 4 cores, 4 threads, and a 6 MB cache, operating at a speed of 3.4 GHz, which highlights that it is an entry level CPU. The N100 also features 7nm lithography and 6W TDP (Thermal Design Power) which makes it extremely energy-efficient and enough to run everyday computing tasks such as Microsoft Office and web browsing. The fact that it draws so little power will also make it an interesting choice for the Van Life community.

The G3 is equipped with 8GB of DDR4 RAM at 3200MHz, which is expandable up to 32GB, which for a machine of this type isn't at all bad. As standard the machine ships with a small 256GB SSD M.2 2280, expandable to 2TB if you do need more storage and there's a slot for an M.2 2242 SATA if you need to further boost the storage, potential. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 enables fast wireless connectivity. The cooling fan and vents incorporated into the design help maintain optimal operating temperatures, although this is a machine that shouldn't really get overly hot.

With dual HDMI 2.0 ports, the G3 supports two 4K displays at 60Hz, which can again be useful in a work environment where you may want your work documents on one screen and a web browser on the other. 

Other notable features include Auto Power On and Wake On LAN, and compatibility with multiple operating systems, including Linux, Windows 10, and Ubuntu.

  • Features: 3.5/5

GMKtec NucBox G3: Performance

GMKtec NucBox G3 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks

Crystal Disk Read: 1763
Crystal Disk Write: 1692
GeekBench CPU Single: 933
GeekBench CPU Multi: 2303
GeekBench Compute: 3276
PC Mark: 2711
CineBench CPU Multi: 362
CineBench CPU Single: 683
Fire Strike Overall: 1080
Fire Strike Graphics: 1138
Fire Strike Physics: 6252
Fire Strike Combined: 413
Time Spy Overall: 373
Time Spy Graphics: 326
Time Spy CPU: 2163
Wild Life: 2699
Windows Experience: 6.4

The GMKtec NucBox G3 performance is by no means groundbreaking and highlights that the G3 is fine for everyday use although has limitations running demanding applications.

For standard tasks like web browsing, document editing, and basic office applications, the G3 proves more than capable. Its Crystal Disk Read and Write scores show it can handle data transfers and system operations quickly and in the everyday running of the machine, it should seem fast and responsive especially when browsing the internet and using Microsoft Office applications. We found it's also perfectly suited to handling 3D printing slicing software such as prusaSlicer.

When it comes to creative applications like Photoshop, the G3's performance is decidedly more sluggish. This is hardly the best photo editing PC out there—not even close. While it can handle basic photo editing and light graphical tasks, the CineBench scores suggest limitations in handling more processor-intensive creative work, such as complex image processing or running the best video editing software. While basic editing is possible, the speed of rendering on video footage above 1080p can quickly get jittery with dropped frames through playback, so we can't recommend this to anyone looking for the best video editing PC or a space-saving alternative to the best video editing laptops.

In our experience, the gaming performance of the G3 is best described as suitable for casual gaming. The Fire Strike and Time Spy scores reflect that while it can manage some light gaming, it struggles with more graphics-intensive games. Games like Red Dead Redemption II and Cyberpunk require more than this machine can provide on the graphics front. 

The GeekBench CPU scores showcase that the G3 can handle multitasking, making it a solid choice for productivity tasks that don't demand intensive CPU usage, such as working on both Office and web browsing applications. However, for multi-threaded tasks or heavy multitasking, it may not be the most efficient choice.

With its dual HDMI ports supporting 4K displays and fast Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, the G3 is well-equipped for multimedia consumption and online activities. Its ability to support dual screens at high resolution is a great feature, considering the price point. It does enable you to split applications across two screens, which gives you far greater room to manoeuvre. 

For an entry-level machine, the performance is solid. When in use, it's quick for everyday tasks and will handle Microsoft Office and other similar applications with ease. When it comes to anything more processor-intensive, while it can handle some tasks, it will struggle with others, but it is still impressively powerful for its intended market. 

  • Performance: 3/5

Should you buy the GMKtec NucBox G3?

The GMKtec NucBox G3 Mini PC is a great choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly, compact computer. The use of the Intel N100 processor handles general computing and basic multimedia applications with relative ease, making it one of the best business computers for everyday office and browser-based use. 

While the G3 falls short on performance when trying to run high-intensity games or when used for creative tasks, its design, featuring a decent selection of connectivity options and upgradability, adds to it's appeal. 

Priced at $279, it offers great value for money, perfectly suiting budget-conscious consumers, students, and anyone needing a reliable, no-frills computer. Overall, the G3 is a practical, cost-effective mini PC for everyday use and light multimedia activities.

  • Value: Exceptionally priced for basic computing needs. (4/5)
  • Design: Compact, lightweight, with practical connectivity options. (4/5)
  • Features: Adequate features for everyday use and upgrades. (3.5/5)
  • Performance: Satisfactory for general tasks, limited for gaming. (3/5)
  • Total: A cost-effective, efficient choice for basic usage. (3.5/5)

GMKtec NucBox G3 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Buy it if...

You want a versatile workhorse:

Budget-Focused Basic Computing:

Suppose you're seeking an affordable mini PC for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. In that case, the GMKtec NucBox G3 is a perfect fit with its efficient performance and budget-friendly price.

Compact Space Saver:

Ideal for users with limited space, the NucBox G3 offers a compact and lightweight design without compromising on essential features and connectivity, making it perfect for small workspaces or home use.

Don't buy it if...

High-End Gaming Enthusiast:

If your primary need is for a mini PC that can handle demanding games and graphics-intensive applications, this GMKtec mini PC, with its modest graphics capabilities, might not meet your expectations.

Professional Creative Work:

For professionals in video editing, graphic design, or other creative fields requiring high processing power and advanced graphics, the G3's basic performance profile may fall short of meeting the necessary computing demands.