GMKtec NucBox M4 mini PC review

GMKtec NucBox M4: 30-second review

The Intel NucBox M4 mini PC features an Intel 11th Gen Core i9-11900H processor, which is a powerful processor for such a small machine. This processor also highlights that its pitched at professionals who require a machine that can handle multiple apps as well as screens. With this processor that offers 8 cores and 16 threads, this mini PC boasts a top clock speed of 4.9 GHz, enough to ensure that most applications will run fast and smoothly, including those that need a little more processing power.

Unfortunately, when it comes to graphics, the power of the CPU isn't quite matched by the GPU, although this is a perfectly respectable Intel UHD Graphics chipset. While the GPU might not be suitable for high-end gaming, it can handle some light gaming and, surprisingly, the use of up to three monitors. The NucBox M4 excels can also multi-task well again, falling back on the power of that processor and support from the 16GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD.

In the home or office, connection options are well catered for with six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports and dual RJ45 ports for high-speed internet connections, and then there's the support for triple display setups. This feature means that if you're a professional who needs to multitask Office applications while web browsing across multiple screens,. Then there's the compact form factor, measuring only 180mm x 175mm x 36mm that makes it easy to position on any crowded desk.

Having tested plenty of the best mini PCs, we can say the GMKtec M4 put in a great performance when we ran it through our benchmark tests. With CrystalDiskMark Read speeds of 3438 MB/s and Write speeds of 2723 MB/s, it showed impressive data transfer speeds for application and file transfer, essential for tasks like video editing or handling large databases. GeekBench scores of 2227 (single-core) and 6175 (multi-core) also demonstrated just how fast it is when running everyday tasks as well as when using more demanding applications.

CineBench scores, especially the multi-core score of 9923, indicate its strength in CPU-intensive tasks, making it suitable for 3D rendering and video editing. In gaming performance, the Fire Strike and Time Spy scores suggest that while they can manage light gaming, the machine might struggle with the latest, most demanding games.

The GMKtec M4 is not just a work-orientated machine; its ability to support up to three screens at high resolution adds a layer of utility for multimedia as well as that all-important office work. However, those looking for a mini PC primarily for high-end gaming will find its graphics capabilities limiting.

GMKtec NucBox M4: Price & availability

The GMKtec M4 is accessible for purchase through GMKtec's official website, Amazon, and various other online retailers, making it widely available. 

The 32GB/1TB version is currently available from Amazon here. For all configurations, you can head to the official site by clicking here.

• Score: 4/5

GMKtec NucBox M4: Design & build

The GMKtec M4 takes quite a different approach to other mini PC machines on the market, including the GMKtec M3 and GMKtec NucBox G3. The M4 offers a  blend of traditional desktop styling and compact mini PC convenience. Its slightly larger footprint offers a slimline design that feels more like a miniature version of a standard desktop PC than a mini PC. 

Aesthetically, the GMKtec M4 takes a minimalist style, with the sleek design that will fit into any workspace without the flashy design details that can often be featured on the game focused Mini PCs. The design is also pretty versatile when it comes to how it can be placed on your desk, with the option to either place it flat or vertically. However, its size might make it less suitable for tucking away under a monitor. 

The front panel of the GMKtec M4 is well-designed when it comes to accessibility and ease of use, featuring two USB Type-A ports, a USB Type-C port, an audio output, and a power button that enable you to quickly plug in accessories; all other ports are positioned around the back.

Internal access for upgrades is straightforward and requires the removing of just two screws before the top section can be removed. This enables easy upgrades and maintenance of the main SSD and RAM.

The cooling system of the GMKtec M4 also deserves a mention as it runs quietly as it cools the Intel Core i9 processor even when the machine is put under load. You can hear the fan start-up, but the size of the fan means that it is quieter than other powerful Mini PCs. 

• Design: 4/5

GMKtec NucBox M4: Features

The larger design of the GMKtec NucBox M4 Mini PC instantly differentiates it from other Mini PCs, as does that powerful CPU that is designed to run office applications smoothly, although this is coupled with a less powerful GPU, making it less suitable for gaming. The Intel Core i9-11900H processor features 8 cores and 16 threads, which will deliver the performance need to smoothly run various applications and tasks, including when handling large databases and files. This combination of powerful processor, Intel UHD Graphics, will offer a balance of power for multitasking office applications, content creation, as well as some moderate gaming.

One of the features that will appeal to anyone wanting a machine for day-to-day office work is the ability to hook up to three screens, with the machine offering HDMI, DP, and Type-C outputs all enabling display connections. 

In terms of other types of connectivity, the GMKtec M4 features six USB 3.2 ports and dual RJ45 ports with 2.5G Ethernet, which is essential for online gaming streaming and has been especially useful during the review for network-connected 3D printers and laser engravers.

As previously mentioned, the M4 includes an i9 processor, which can pack a lot of power but also generate a considerable amount of heat when under load. The additional size of this machine will help; however, the special cooling system is also a major part of the design. The M4 features a super cooling fan system, ensuring efficient heat dissipation through the machine. This feature is crucial, given the power of that i9 processor, as it should maintain optimal operating temperatures and helps to maintain the processor speed when being worked hard. 

Memory and storage options are also pretty decent, with support for up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM and 2TB of M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD storage—the usual maximum for a Mini PC is 64GB with 96GB on rare occasions, so 128 GB is huge. This expandability is worth taking into consideration if your computing needs expand or the applications you use become more processor-intensive. 

• Features: 4/5

GMKtec NucBox M4: Performance

The GMKtec M4 is powered by an 11th Gen Core i9-11900H, which, through the tests, showed impressive performance across all of the various benchmarks as well as the real world tests and highlighted the high-performance potential of this mini PC. Starting with a look at the SSD speed tested with CrystalDiskMark which showed Read and Write speeds of 3438MB/s and 2723MB/s, respectively, this essentially highlights it can handle data-intensive tasks loading applications quickly and able to transfer large files at speed making it a great choice for anyone using applications that require fast data access and transfer, such as video editing or large file management.

The GeekBench scores, with 2227 in single-core and 6175 in multi-core tests, confirm the M4's ability to handle a range of tasks from everyday computing to more demanding applications. This was reflected in the real world tests with its potential for creative tasks suc as image manipulation in Photoshop, multitasking with Microsoft Office applications, and even some light gaming. 

CineBench scores, particularly the multi-core score of 9923, indicate the M4's strength in rendering and other CPU-intensive tasks, making it suitable for creative professionals working with the best 3D modeling software or best video editing software. Through the test, I utilised Blender and Fusion 360 to design a couple of tripod leg holders, with the modeling handled well by the power of this processor.

In gaming performance, the M4 showed capability for light to moderate gaming, and the Fire Strike and Time Spy scores supported this. While it may not cater to the most demanding modern games at high settings, it's certainly capable of handling less graphics-intensive titles smoothly. Through the test, we tested Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption II, and whilst both ran, the graphics meant that the gameplay was sluggish. However, less graphically intensive games were handled well. 

The Windows Experience Index score of 7.7 further validates the overall solid performance of the M4, indicating it is a reliable and robust machine for a variety of uses especially as a powerful office machine.

The benchmark results, alongside the real-world tests using Microsoft Office, Photoshop, DaVinci Resolve, and loading a few games, showed the M4 is well-suited for professional and creative work and other processor-intensive applications like the best graphic design software. 

A solid, space-saving, if unspectacular, alternative to the best video editing laptops or the best laptops for graphic design. Its ability to support triple displays is a bonus, although, in this test, we only expanded that to two. Overall, this is a great machine for processing and work. 

• Performance: 3/5

Should you buy the GMKtec NucBox M4?

The GMKtec M4 is an impressive mini PC that bridges the gap between compact design and high performance. The small machine's main selling points are its powerful Intel Core i9-11900H processor and the capability to support up to three displays, making it one of the best business PCs in a small-form factor (or an alternative to the best business laptops if space is at a premium). An ideal choice for professionals looking for a machine that will easily multitask or for use for content creation as long as there isn't too much demand on the graphics. Additionally, it offers plenty of connectivity options, a generous amount of storage, and plenty of RAM expandability. 

While it may not be the go-to choice for ultra-high-end gaming or those seeking the smallest possible footprint, the NucBox M4 excels in providing robust performance in a relatively compact form. Its blend of power, functionality, and design makes it a great option for anyone looking for a mini PC that can handle demanding tasks with ease.

Value: Exceptional performance at a competitive price. (4/5)
Design: Slimline, traditional design; versatile, accessible ports. (4/5)
Features: Ample connectivity, easy internal access, effective cooling. (4/5)
Performance: Strong CPU, decent GPU; suits moderate gaming. (4/5)
Total: A powerful, well-designed mini PC with great value. (4/5)

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...