GMKtec NucBox K15 Review: A Compact Intel Core Ultra 5 H Series Mini PC
GMKtec has become a notable player in the mini PC market, offering a range of compact computers often positioned as more affordable alternatives to brands like Beelink. The company, founded in 2019 and based in Shenzhen, China, now sells its products in over 70 countries with established distribution networks in 35 GMKtec. Recently, GMKtec sent the NucBox K15 for review, a mini PC powered by the Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor, aiming to deliver a balance of performance and portability.
GMKtec NucBox K15 Specifications
| Dimensions | 154 × 151 × 73.6 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 877 g |
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 5 125H (4nm, up to 4.3GHz boost, 12MB cache, 12 cores/14 threads) |
| Graphics | Intel Arc graphics (7 Xe-cores, 1.85 GHz) |
| NPU | Intel AI Boost 1.4 GHz (up to 11 NPU TOPS) |
| Memory | 16 GB / 32 GB Dual-channel DDR5 4800 MT/s |
| Storage | 1 x M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 3×4 (TWSC 1 TB, 2TB options), 2 x M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 3×4 slots (unpopulated) |
| Expansion | OCuLink (PCIe 4.0 x4) |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro 25H2 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Ethernet | Dual Realtek 8125B 2.5G LAN |
| Wireless LAN | Wi-Fi 6E (MediaTek MT7922, RZ616, up to 2.4Gbps) |
| Rear I/O Ports | 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x USB4 (PD 100W/DP1.4/USB 40Gbps), 2 x RJ45 LAN (2.5Gbps), 1 x DC IN, 1 x Security lock hole |
| Front I/O Ports | 1 x USB Type-C (USB 3.2 Gen2, PD 100W/DP 1.4/20Gbps), 3 x USB 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps), 1 x 3.5mm audio jack, Power/LED button |
| Power | DC IN (5.5/2.5mm) 20V/5A, External PSU |
| MSRP | $479.99 (Barebone), $699.99 (16GB+1TB), $849.99 (32GB+1TB) |
Design and Build Quality
The NucBox K15 features a square design with a weight of 877 grams. A metal covering wraps around the top and sides, contributing to both airflow and RGB lighting effects. The chassis is constructed from plastic. The device includes one USB 4.0 port (Type-C) on the rear. The front panel offers an audio jack, power button, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and a Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 2 port. The exterior has a two-tone grey finish and is prone to fingerprints.
The NucBox K15 can support up to four displays via its HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and two Type-C ports (one with 100W Power Delivery). A Kensington lock slot is also included for security.
Teardown and Expandability
Accessing the internal components involves removing the four metal feet, sliding off the metal cover, and removing screws on the sides. The fan cable can be disconnected to provide easier access to the NVMe and memory slots. The design allows for ample space to manage SSDs and memory, with the option to add two additional SSDs in unpopulated M.2 slots. All NVMe slots support PCIe 4×4.
Setup and Performance
The NucBox K15 utilizes an AptiBIOS, accessible during boot-up by pressing the ESC key. The system comes pre-loaded with Windows 11 Pro, and notably, does not include bloatware. Initial setup is straightforward, and the system receives the latest Windows updates. The Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processor, released in Q4 2023, is typically found in mid-range laptops.
Benchmark tests were conducted using Cinebench 2024, 7-Zip, AS SSD, CrystalDiskMark, 3DMark Time Spy, PCMark 10, and Geekbench 6. The NucBox K15 generally performed below systems equipped with Ryzen 9 HX370 and Ryzen 7 6850U processors in CPU-intensive tasks, but demonstrated competitive performance in tasks utilizing the integrated NPU.
Benchmark Results
| Benchmark | GMKtec NucBox K15 (Intel Core Ultra 5 125H) | GMKtec M7 Ultra (Ryzen 7 PRO 6850U) | Geekom A9 MAX (Ryzen AI 9 HX370) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3DMark: Time Spy | 1,928 | 2,542 | 3,732 |
| PCMark 10: Standard | 6,211 | 6,767 | 7,762 |
| Cinebench 2024: Single Core | 995 | 876 | 1201 |
| Cinebench 2024: Multi Core | 54 | 31 | 146 |
| 7-Zip | 56,091 | 89,999 | 123,551 |
Gaming performance is limited by the Intel Arc integrated graphics, which is comparable to a nine-year-ancient NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030. The system is not well-suited for demanding games.
Thermal Performance and Power Consumption
The NucBox K15 remained relatively cool during testing, with the CPU reaching a maximum temperature of 72°C during the Fire Strike benchmark. Power consumption was measured at approximately 1W in standby, 10W idle, and up to 43W under heavy load.
Conclusion
The GMKtec NucBox K15 offers a compact and portable computing solution, particularly well-suited for office tasks, students, or users needing a lightweight system. Although its gaming capabilities are limited, the inclusion of a USB4 port with 100W Power Delivery and the option for OCuLink expansion add to its versatility. The decision to include a PCIe 3.0 SSD is a drawback, but the overall package represents a solid value, especially when available at a discounted price.
Pros:
- Power efficient
- DDR5 memory
- HDMI 2.1 port
- OCuLink port
- Good airflow
Cons:
- Ships with PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD
- Only one USB 4 port (on the back)
- Pricey (due to current market conditions)
Would I recommend it? Yes, with a discount and for users who do not prioritize gaming.