Mini PC Review: GMK Tech G5 Windows 11 Pro

Introduction

• Presenter: ETA Prime
• Product: GMK Tech G5 Mini PC
• Size: Ultra compact (1.4 in x 1.4 in)
• Windows Version: Windows 11 Pro
• Price: Approx. $150 with coupons

Product Comparison

• Size Comparison:
  • Raspberry Pi 5: Larger than the G5 but not by much.
  • Xbox Controller: Illustrates the G5's small size.

Package Contents

• User manual
• Power Adapter: 12V, 3A USB Type-C

Input/Output (I/O) Ports

• Front:
  • 2 x USB 3.2 ports
  • 1 x Micro SD card slot
• Back:
  • 1 x USB Type-C (power only, no video/data out)
  • 1 x 3.5mm audio jack
  • 2 x HDMI ports
  • 1 x USB 3.2 port
  • 1 x Gigabit Ethernet

Upgradeability

• Storage: M.2 SSD (2242) upgradeable up to 2TB
• Network Card: Wi-Fi 5 built-in, upgradeable to Wi-Fi 6

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel N97 CPU
  • 4 cores, 4 threads, boost up to 3.6 GHz
  • Integrated UHD graphics (24 execution units, boosts up to 1.2 GHz)
• RAM: 12 GB LPDDR5, 4800 MHz
• TDP: Rated at 12W (with a boost to around 15-16W)

Performance Overview

• Handles older and indie games well
• Capable of emulation

Video Playback Tests

• 4K Video Playback:
  • Tested with Chrome browser; no drop frames for 4K 60 HDR video
• Web Browsing: Fast and responsive

Benchmark Results

• Single-Core: 1371
• Multi-Core: 3524
• 3D Mark Night Raid Score: 5,921
  • Indicates performance ahead of the N200 and N100 CPUs.

Gaming Performance

• Resolution: 900p medium settings recommended
• Game Titles Tested:
  • Hades 2 (Early Access): 60 FPS at 900p
  • Dirt 3: ~81 FPS at medium settings
  • Older Titles: e.g., Half-Life 2, Left for Dead 2, Skyrim playable at lower settings

Emulation Performance

• PSP: Runs games at 3x resolution without issues
• GameCube: Most games perform well at native resolution
  • Some demanding games drop performance
• PS2: Can upscale some games, performance may drop on heavier titles

Power Consumption

• Idle: ~4 Watts
• 4K Video: ~9 Watts
• Gaming/Emulation: ~13 Watts
• Maximum: 19 Watts when fully loaded

Conclusion

• Suitable for general tasks (web browsing, 4K playback, light gaming/emulation)
• Not designed for AAA gaming or intense tasks
• Recommendation: Great value for the price.