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GMK K11 Review: 2025 AMD R9 Performance Beast Worth It?

Worth it for gamers? 2025 GMK K11 review: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS offers gaming and AI power in a budget-friendly mini PC.

  • 9 min read
GMK K11

For Windows users seeking a refined and compact host, the GMKtec K11 barebones version, equipped with the AMD R9-8945HS processor, offers strong performance suitable for gamers and professional users. This article combines in-depth online reviews to analyze its performance, design, and applicable scenarios.

1. Core Specifications

  • Chip: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.2GHz boost clock, Zen4 architecture)
  • Memory: Supports dual-channel DDR5 5600MHz, up to 96GB (barebones version requires self-configuration)
  • Storage: Supports dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSDs, up to 4TB per drive (barebones version requires self-configuration)
  • Price: Starting from 2699 yuan for the barebones system (JD.com initial sale price)

2. Review Feedback

Since its initial sale on December 16, 2024, the GMKtec K11 barebones version has garnered widespread attention for its high cost-performance ratio and powerful performance. The following is a detailed review from five aspects: performance, design, cooling, expandability, and applicable scenarios.

Performance Testing

The K11 is equipped with the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, based on the Zen4 architecture, with 8 cores and 16 threads, and a maximum boost clock of 5.2GHz. It integrates Radeon 780M graphics (RDNA3 architecture, 12CU, 2.8GHz). Official data shows a Master Lu benchmark score of up to 1.69 million, demonstrating strong computing power. In game tests at 1080P resolution, “Forza Horizon 5” maintained a stable frame rate of 50-140fps, and “Black Myth: Wukong” ranged from 40-70fps, showing excellent performance. The integrated graphics are sufficient for mainstream 3A games and lightweight professional software, such as the video editing tool Premiere Pro and the 3D modeling software Blender.

For barebones version users, the free configuration of memory and storage is a highlight. It is recommended to pair it with dual-channel DDR5 32GB 5600MHz memory and a PCIe 4.0 1TB SSD to fully utilize the processor’s performance. In tests, dual-channel memory significantly improved integrated graphics frame rates, while single-channel memory may cause performance bottlenecks.

Compact Design

The K11 adopts a family-style design with a gray case and a green power button, measuring only 132×125×58mm and a volume of less than 1L, suitable for desktop use or mounting behind a monitor. The transparent top cover, combined with RGB fan lighting effects, adds a sense of technology and caters to the aesthetics of younger users. The chassis is made of composite materials, and the internal roll cage structure enhances strength while avoiding wireless signal shielding. The overall design is simple and stylish, suitable for both home and office environments.

Cooling and Noise

The cooling system uses a silent turbine fan combined with a VC heatsink and a new CPU heat treatment system. Even under high-load gaming or rendering tasks, the chassis temperature remains within a reasonable range, with the surface temperature around 45-50°C. Noise control is excellent, around 35-40 decibels in high-performance mode, and almost imperceptible in daily use. Barebones version users should note that the choice of SSD and memory heatsinks will affect the overall cooling effect. It is recommended to purchase hardware with heatsinks.

Expandability

The K11’s expandability is its core selling point. It supports dual-channel 96GB DDR5 memory and dual M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSDs, providing ample storage and memory upgrade space. In terms of interfaces, it offers a full-featured USB4, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen2, HDMI 2.1, dual 2.5G network ports, and an Oculink graphics docking station interface (sold separately). Built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensure high-speed network connectivity. The Oculink interface provides the possibility for future external graphics card upgrades, suitable for users who need higher graphics performance.

Applicable Scenarios

  • Gamers: Integrated graphics support mainstream games at 1080P medium-to-high settings; external graphics can further enhance performance
  • Content Creators: Tasks such as video editing and 3D rendering benefit from high-performance CPU and large memory support
  • Home Entertainment: The compact chassis is suitable for a living room HTPC, running Kodi or Plex streaming media without pressure
  • Office and Development: Supports local running of 20 billion parameter AI models, suitable for lightweight AI development and office work

✅ Advantages

  • High-performance AMD R9-8945HS processor, Master Lu score of 1.69 million, excellent performance in games and professional tasks
  • Compact design, 132×125×58mm size, transparent top cover with RGB lighting effects, stylish and space-saving
  • Strong expandability, supports 96GB DDR5 memory, dual M.2 SSDs, and Oculink external graphics interface

❌ Disadvantages

  • Barebones version requires self-configuration of memory and SSD, higher initial investment and configuration difficulty
  • Oculink graphics docking station needs to be purchased separately, increasing additional costs
  • Fan noise under high load is slightly higher than competitors, around 40 decibels

ETA PRIME: Hardcore Review of GMK K11

  • Overview: The GMKtec K11 is a high-performance mini PC powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.2GHz, 70W TDP) and a Radeon 780M integrated GPU (12 cores, up to 2.8GHz). It supports 1080p gaming and light 4K video editing. Its all-metal chassis with a transparent RGB top cover is compact yet offers efficient cooling. It supports up to 96GB of DDR5-5600 memory and 8TB of dual M.2 storage, and features OcuLink, dual USB4, HDMI 2.1, and dual 2.5GbE ports for external GPU support, making it suitable for gaming, office work, and content creation.

  • Pros: Strong Performance: Zen 4 architecture with 70W TDP delivers excellent multi-core performance for video editing and multitasking. Rich Connectivity: OcuLink, dual USB4, HDMI 2.1, and dual 2.5GbE ports support quad-display output and high-speed data transfer. High Expandability: Supports 96GB of memory and 8TB of storage to meet future upgrade needs. Efficient Cooling: Optimized cooling system keeps CPU temperatures low (66°C in games, 74°C max).

  • Cons: Non-Switchable RGB: RGB lighting cannot be turned off, which may bother some users. Large Power Brick: The 120W power adapter is bulky, affecting portability. Limited Game Optimization: Some new games require reduced resolution or FSR to run smoothly.

  • Recommendation: The GMKtec K11 is recommended for gamers, content creators, and office users seeking high cost-effectiveness. Starting at $480 (barebones), it offers strong performance and good expandability for 1080p gaming and professional tasks. However, users sensitive to RGB or needing ultra-portable power should weigh their options. Overall, it’s a well-balanced mini PC in terms of performance and price.

Team Pandory: Unveiling Performance Flaws and Test Results of GMK K11

  • Overview: The GMKtec K11 is a compact, high-performance mini PC powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.2GHz, 65W TDP) and a Radeon 780M GPU. It supports 1080p gaming, 4K video playback, and light editing. It features a metal chassis with an RGB transparent top cover and includes OcuLink, dual USB4, HDMI 2.1, and other ports for external GPU support. The K11 supports up to 96GB of DDR5-5600 memory and 8TB of dual M.2 storage, and comes with Windows 11 Pro, making it suitable for gaming, office work, and emulator use.

  • Pros: Strong Performance: The Ryzen 9 8945HS offers excellent multi-core performance for gaming, video editing, and multitasking. Rich Connectivity: OcuLink, dual USB4, and dual 2.5GbE ports support quad-display output and high-speed expansion. Easy Maintenance: The top cover can be twisted off for easy memory and storage upgrades, offering good expandability. Optimized Cooling: Efficient cooling design keeps temperatures around 70°C during gaming.

  • Cons: Weak Wi-Fi Performance: The Intel AX200 module has a signal strength of only 67%, requiring replacement for improvement. Fan Noise: Noise is high in performance mode, requiring BIOS fan curve adjustments. Non-Switchable RGB: RGB lighting cannot be turned off, which may affect user experience.

  • Recommendation: The GMKtec K11 is recommended for budget-conscious gamers and creative professionals. Starting at $480 (barebones), it offers high cost-effectiveness for 1080p gaming and professional tasks. However, Wi-Fi issues and noise may require user optimization. It’s an ideal choice for those who need RGB aesthetics and strong expandability.

Robtech: GMK K11 Specifications and Performance Tests

  • Overview: The GMKtec K11 is a powerful mini PC powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.2GHz) and a Radeon 780M integrated GPU, supporting 1080p gaming and light 4K video editing. Its 5 x 5-inch metal chassis features an RGB transparent top cover for aesthetics and cooling efficiency. The K11 offers up to 96GB of DDR5 memory and 8TB of dual M.2 storage expansion, and includes OcuLink, dual USB4, HDMI 2.1, and other ports for external GPU support, making it suitable for gaming, office work, and creative tasks.

  • Pros: High Performance: The Ryzen 9 8945HS provides excellent multi-core performance for multitasking and video encoding. Rich Connectivity: OcuLink, dual USB4, HDMI 2.1, and dual 2.5GbE ports support multi-display and high-speed data transfer. Easy Upgrades: Supports 96GB of memory and 8TB of storage, offering strong expandability. Stable System: Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro, free of bloatware, and supports Linux.

  • Cons: Noise Issue: Dual fan noise is significant in performance mode. Non-Switchable RGB: RGB lighting cannot be turned off, which may bother some users. Large Power Adapter: The power brick is larger than previous generations.

  • Recommendation: The GMKtec K11 is recommended for users needing a compact, high-performance device, such as gamers, video editors, and small businesses. Starting at $480 (barebones), it offers high cost-effectiveness and is suitable for users seeking portability and expandability. However, users sensitive to noise or who dislike RGB lighting should consider carefully.

Longxiang Kele: GMKtec K11 Review

  • Overview: The GMKtec K11 is a high-performance mini host powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.2GHz) and a Radeon 780M integrated GPU. It comes standard with 32GB of DDR5 5600MHz memory and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and supports up to 96GB of memory and 8TB of storage expansion. It features dual USB 4.0, an Oculink external graphics interface, and dual 2.5G network ports, and runs Windows 11 Pro. With a metal frame and transparent top cover, and a 120W power adapter, it has a volume of only 0.98 liters, making it suitable for office work, content creation, and light gaming.

  • Pros: Strong Performance: R9 8945HS and 780M integrated GPU, 3DMark score of 3411, supports 8K video decoding and medium-quality 3A gaming (such as “Black Myth: Wukong” averaging 61 fps). High Expandability: Dual PCIe 4.0 SSD slots, Oculink interface supports external graphics, dual USB 4.0 supports multi-display output. Cooling and Quietness: Dual fan cooling, CPU temperature of 77℃ in performance mode, noise of 52 decibels, optimized current noise issue. Easy Maintenance: Rotating top cover and modular design, disassembly requires no complex tools.

  • Cons: Slightly High Price: 32GB+1TB version costs 3699 yuan, slightly less cost-effective than configuring a barebones system. Integrated Graphics Limitations: High-quality 3A games require external graphics to improve performance. Transparent Top Cover Durability: PC material may scratch easily.

  • Recommendation: Suitable for office users, content creators, and light gamers who need a high-performance mini PC, especially recommended for users who pursue productivity and portability. If budget is limited or top-tier gaming performance is required, consider the barebones system or pairing with an external graphics card.

4. Purchase Recommendations

The GMKtec K11 barebones version, starting at 2699 yuan, is suitable for gamers, content creators, and DIY enthusiasts with limited budgets but who pursue high performance. It is recommended to pair it with 32GB of DDR5 memory and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD for 1080P gaming, video editing, and lightweight AI development. It offers excellent value for money but requires self-configuration of hardware.

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