Nucbox K6 Review: Big power in a tiny box
Today, we’re diving into the realm of compact computing with GMKtec’s latest innovation: the Nucbox K6 Mini PC. GMKtec, known for their expertise in crafting small form factor Intel and AMD devices, has raised the bar with the introduction of the Nucbox K6. What sets this device apart is the integration of the powerful Ryzen 7 7840 HS processor, featuring the cutting-edge Zen4 CPU architecture complemented by RDNA 3 graphics. This amalgamation of high-performance components is neatly packaged within an impressively compact form factor.
A standout feature of the Nucbox K6 is its innovative cooling system. The actively ventilated chip is shielded by a copper block, facilitating the efficient transfer of heat to heat pipes. These heat pipes, in turn, are cooled by the airflow generated from the sides of the case. This sophisticated cooling mechanism ensures optimal thermal performance, allowing the Nucbox K6 to operate at peak efficiency even under demanding workloads.
In addition to its advanced cooling system, the K6 boasts a range of connectivity options tailored to meet diverse user needs. At the rear of the device, users will find dual Ethernet ports, catering to those requiring robust networking capabilities for tasks such as gaming or data-intensive applications.
Furthermore, the Nucbox K6 offers ample storage expansion opportunities, with support for two internal M.2 NVMe SSDs. This flexibility empowers users to tailor their storage configuration to suit their specific computing requirements, whether it be for multimedia content creation, data storage, or fast-paced gaming.
Nucbox K6: Video Review
| Specs | GMKtec Nucbox K6 |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS |
| Frequency | 3.8GHz |
| Max Frequency | 5.1GHz |
| Core / Thread | 8-core 16-Thread |
| GPU | AMD Radeon 780M (Graphics Frequency up to 2700 MHz) |
| TDP | 35W |
| RAM | Up to 64GB DDR5 5600Mhz |
| Storage | PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 SSD |
| BT / Wifi | Bluetooth 5.2/ WI-FI 6 |
| OS | Windows 11 Pro |
| Slot | 3 x USB-A 3.2 / 1 x HDMI (4K@60Hz) / 1 x DP (4K@60Hz) / |
| 1 x Type-C(DP/DATA / 2 x Giga Lan(RJ45) / 1 x Headphone Jack / 1 x DC Port | |
| Size | 128.8 x 127 x 47.8 mm |
| Weight | 1.58 kg |
Nucbox K6: Design
The NucBox K6 from GMKtec is a standout among Mini PCs, offering a compelling blend of compact design, robust hardware, and versatile connectivity options. With dimensions measuring just 128.8 x 127 x 47.8 mm and weighing 1.58kg, the NucBox K6 exudes portability without compromising on performance.
Compared to GMKtec’s previous offering, the 7940 HS-powered NucBox K4, the NucBox K6 has a slightly larger footprint, but this is offset by an improved cooling system and dual M.2 slots for improved performance and expandability.
On the front panel of the K6, users will find a start button, a 3.5mm combo audio jack, a USB4 port, and two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, providing ample connectivity for various peripherals and accessories.
Moving to the rear panel, users will discover additional connectivity options, including a USB 3.2 port, a full-size USB 2.0 port, full-size HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, and dual 2.5GB Ethernet ports, alongside the power input.
Moreover, the device features a classic jack for power supply and a Kensington Lock type anti-theft device next to the hot air extraction grille, offering enhanced security options. While maintaining a minimalist aesthetic, the NucBox K6 ensures efficient ventilation through subtle vents on the sides.
One notable feature of the K6 is its user-friendly design, which grants easy access to internal components. Accessible through the top of the machine, users can conveniently upgrade or replace RAM and storage modules, enhancing the device’s adaptability to evolving computing needs.
Specs
Let’s delve into the specifications of the Nucbox K6, a powerhouse Mini PC that promises exceptional performance. At its core lies the AMD Ryzen 7 7848 CHS processor, featuring eight Zen 4 cores and 16 threads. With a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock up to 5.1 GHz, this CPU ensures smooth and responsive computing across a variety of tasks.
The built-in Radeon 780M iGPU, based on RDNA 3 architecture and clocked at up to 2700 MHz with 12 compute units, delivers stunning graphics performance for gaming, content creation, and multimedia tasks. The Nucbox K6 supports up to 64 GB of DDR5 SODIMM RAM, offering lightning-fast memory speeds of up to 5600 MHz.
Storage options are abundant with two M.2 NVMe slots, allowing for blazing-fast data access and storage expansion. Connectivity is top-notch with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring seamless wireless connectivity.
Out of the box, the K6 runs Windows 11 Pro, providing a secure and feature-rich operating environment for users. Accessing the internals of the device is a breeze, thanks to the easily removable cover. Underneath, a single fan setup efficiently cools the NVMe SSDs and RAM modules, ensuring optimal performance under heavy workloads.
Performance
Before delving into real-world testing, it’s essential to assess the Thermal Design Power (TDP) of the Nucbox K6 out of the box. Using a combination of applications like Core Temp, CPU-Z, and GPU-Z, we can gauge the power consumption across the CPU and GPU.
Upon running stress tests, the TDP peaked at 54 Watts, indicating that the cooling system is effectively managing the thermal output. However, for users seeking even more performance, the X86 Tuning Utility offers customization options. By switching to Extreme mode, we observed a TDP increase to 70 Watts, pushing the system to its limits while maintaining manageable temperatures.
Moving on to benchmarks, the K6 showcases impressive performance across various metrics. In Geekbench 6, the single-core score reached 2,465, while the multi-core score hit 12,774, aligning with expectations for this hardware configuration. Despite the increased TDP in Extreme mode, temperatures remained within acceptable limits during these tests.
GPU benchmarks, including 3DMark Fire Strike and Time Spy, further highlight the progress of the Nucbox K6. With scores of 7,972 and 3,347 respectively, the device demonstrates solid performance in graphical workloads, outperforming comparable Mini PCs equipped with similar hardware.
While synthetic benchmarks provide valuable insights, real-world gaming performance ultimately determines the device’s usability. Therefore, the next step is to evaluate the Nucbox K6’s gaming capabilities through practical gameplay tests.
Nucbox K6: Games
Let’s delve into the real-world gaming performance of the Nucbox K6, starting with Mortal Kombat 11. Despite its demanding nature, the game runs smoothly at 900p with FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) set to balance, maintaining a steady 60fps. The CPU package power hovers around 48 Watts, well within the device’s capabilities, especially considering it can handle up to 70 Watts in Extreme mode.
Moving on to Shadow of the Tomb Raider, running at 1080p low settings, the game achieves an average of 77 FPS. However, performance takes a hit when transitioning to medium settings, dropping to around 62 FPS, showing the limitations of integrated graphics at higher graphical settings.
Forza Horizon 5, known for its optimization, performs admirably on the Nucbox K6. At 1080p medium settings with V-Sync enabled, the game maintains an average of 116 FPS, offering a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.
Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Spider-Man Remastered run decently on the Nucbox K6, albeit with some compromises. At 1080p low settings with FSR set to Performance, the games maintain a playable frame rate, although a locked 60fps may require lowering the resolution further.
God of War sees noticeable improvements in performance due to driver updates. Running at 1080p with FSR set to Performance, the game achieves an average of 68 FPS, offering a more enjoyable experience compared to previous iterations.
Finally, Cyberpunk 2077, notorious for its demanding requirements, performs surprisingly well on the K6. Running at 1080p with FSR set to Performance, the game maintains an average of around 79 FPS, showcasing the capabilities of the Radeon 780M GPU clocked up to 2700 MHz.
The Nucbox K6 from GMKtec delivers impressive gaming performance, thanks to its powerful hardware and efficient cooling system.
Power Supply
In the package alongside the NucBox K6 Mini PC, GMKtec includes a 120-watt power supply equipped with a USB Type-C power input, ensuring efficient and reliable power delivery to the device. Additionally, the inclusion of a barrel jack further reinforces the power supply’s stability, providing users with peace of mind during extended usage.
Throughout the testing process, total system power consumption is closely monitored. At idle, the Nucbox K6 draws around 14 Watts from the wall, with gaming sessions pushing it up to 71 Watts on average. Under extreme stress, the maximum power draw peaks at 93 Watts, demonstrating the device’s efficient power management even under demanding conditions.
Nucbox K6: Conclusion
The Nucbox K6 by GMKtec emerges as a standout performer in the realm of Mini PCs, offering a compelling combination of compact design, powerful hardware, and impressive gaming capabilities.
Equipped with the AMD Ryzen 7 7848 CHS processor and Radeon 780M iGPU, the Nucbox K6 delivers robust performance across a variety of tasks, from productivity to gaming.
During gaming tests, the Nucbox K6 proves its mettle, delivering smooth performance across various titles, including demanding AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 and God of War. With careful optimization and settings adjustments, the Nucbox K6 maintains playable frame rates, showcasing its capabilities as a capable gaming machine.
Moreover, the device’s efficient cooling system ensures optimal thermal performance, even under heavy workloads and extended gaming sessions. With customizable TDP settings through the X86 Tuning Utility, users can further fine-tune performance according to their preferences and needs.
Overall, the Nucbox K6 stands as a compelling choice for users seeking a high-performance Mini PC solution. Whether for productivity, multimedia, or gaming, the Nucbox K6 offers a versatile and capable computing platform that excels in both performance and efficiency.
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