GMKtec Launches NucBox K8 Plus with Improved Cooling and Expanded Port Selection
Earlier this year, GMKtec introduced the NucBox K8, a compact mini PC powered by AMD's Ryzen 7 8845HS, a top-tier processor from the Hawk Point series. Building on the success of that release, the company has now unveiled an upgraded variant, the NucBox K8 Plus. While the core specifications remain similar to the original model, the Plus version introduces a few noteworthy improvements, particularly in terms of port selection and thermal management.
Key Upgrades in the NucBox K8 Plus
The most significant upgrade in the NucBox K8 Plus is its port configuration. While the original model came with a single USB4 port, the Plus variant now features two, offering enhanced connectivity options for users with multiple high-speed external devices. Additionally, the new version retains the OCuLink port, which provides compatibility with external GPUs (eGPUs). This enables users to achieve solid performance when connecting the mini PC to external graphics cards, making it more versatile for tasks like gaming and creative workloads.
Another key enhancement is the improved cooling system in the NucBox K8 Plus. GMKtec has redesigned the heat dissipation system, resulting in better thermal management and lower noise levels, especially under heavy workloads. The enhanced cooling also allows the mini PC to operate at a higher thermal design power (TDP) compared to the original model. While the NucBox K8 maxed out at a 64W TDP, the Plus variant pushes that figure to 70W, leading to potentially better sustained performance during demanding tasks such as gaming or content creation.
Familiar High-End Specs
Apart from the upgrades in cooling and port selection, the NucBox K8 Plus carries over most of the specifications from the original model. It is powered by the same AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor, which belongs to the high-performance Hawk Point family. The integrated Radeon 780M graphics provide a solid balance between efficiency and performance, capable of handling both productivity tasks and casual gaming.
For memory, the NucBox K8 Plus supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM through two SODIMM slots, making it a highly capable machine for multitasking and handling large applications. In terms of storage, users have the flexibility of utilizing two M.2 slots that are compatible with PCIe 4.0 SSDs, ensuring fast read and write speeds for quicker data access and overall system responsiveness.
Performance Modes and TDP Settings
Like its predecessor, the NucBox K8 Plus offers three distinct performance modes: Quiet, Balanced, and Performance. These modes adjust the TDP to optimize performance or prioritize quieter operation depending on the user’s needs. The Quiet mode limits the TDP to 35W, suitable for light tasks and energy efficiency, while the Balanced mode allows for a 54W TDP, providing a middle ground for general computing. The Performance mode, which unlocks the 70W TDP, is designed for users looking to push the system to its maximum potential.
Price and Availability
GMKtec plans to launch the NucBox K8 Plus in China on September 23, with a starting price of CNY 2,199, approximately $310. This makes it an attractive option for users seeking a compact yet powerful mini PC at a reasonable price point. While there is no official word on international availability, GMKtec has historically sold its products globally, including the non-Plus variant of the NucBox K8, which is currently available on Amazon for $749.99 with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. Based on this, it is likely that the NucBox K8 Plus will also see a global release in the near future.
The NucBox K8 Plus stands out as an incremental yet meaningful upgrade over the original model, with improved connectivity and cooling, making it a compelling choice for users in need of a high-performance mini PC for gaming, productivity, or creative work.
