The desktop gaming space is evolving rapidly, and mini PCs are no longer just for basic tasks. With powerful new mobile CPUs, ultra-fast memory, and high-bandwidth connectivity options like USB4 and Oculink, small form factor PCs can now deliver true desktop-grade performance in a fraction of the space.
The GMKtec K11 Mini Gaming PC exemplifies this new class of compact performance machines. Featuring AMD’s Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, 32 GB of high-speed DDR5 memory, and a 1 TB NVMe SSD, this mini tower offers exceptional gaming, multitasking, and productivity power while taking up less space than a console. It even includes dual 2.5GbE LAN ports and Oculink support for external GPUs, making it highly versatile for both gamers and professionals.
In this in-depth review, we’ll examine its specifications, gaming and productivity performance, thermal behavior, and why it’s one of the best mini gaming PCs to buy in 2026.
- AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS Processor – GMKtec K11 mini pc equipped with the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU, featuring 8 cores, 16 threads, and boost up to 5.4 GHz. It offers superior multitasking performance for demanding tasks like gaming and content creation, with energy-efficient power management at 35W TDP (upgradable to 70W)
Core Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS — 8 cores / 16 threads, 4.0 GHz base, up to 5.2 GHz boost |
| Graphics (iGPU) | AMD Radeon 890M integrated graphics — capable of light 1080p gaming |
| Memory (RAM) | 32 GB DDR5 — Dual-channel high-speed SODIMM memory for smooth multitasking |
| Storage | 1 TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD — Fast OS/app drive with expandability |
| Connectivity | Dual 2.5GbE LAN, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, USB4 x2, HDMI, DisplayPort, Oculink |
| Form Factor | Ultra-compact mini PC chassis |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
Performance Overview
Despite its tiny footprint, the GMKtec K11 is engineered for serious computing performance. The Ryzen 9 8945HS combines high core counts with fast clock speeds, enabling excellent results in both gaming (with an eGPU) and demanding productivity tasks.
Gaming Performance
On its own, the integrated Radeon 890M iGPU can handle light 1080p gaming in titles like Valorant, Rocket League, Fortnite, and Minecraft at medium settings. However, the K11’s real strength is its Oculink port, which allows connection to an external desktop GPU enclosure (eGPU) for true high-end gaming.
When paired with a modern GPU like an RTX 4070 or RX 7900 XT via Oculink, the K11 delivers desktop-class frame rates at 1440p and 4K, transforming this tiny system into a powerful gaming rig while keeping the main chassis cool and silent.
Productivity and Multitasking
The Ryzen 9 8945HS’s 8-core / 16-thread configuration makes it ideal for heavy multitasking, content creation, and software development. Tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, virtual machine hosting, and compiling code run smoothly thanks to the high single-core speeds and 32 GB of DDR5 memory.
Windows remains snappy and responsive, even with dozens of browser tabs, creative suites, and communication apps running simultaneously.
Storage Performance
The 1 TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD delivers ultra-fast load times, near-instant boots, and smooth game/app launches. Users can also expand storage via an internal M.2 slot or USB4 external drives if more space is needed for large game libraries or media projects.
Networking and Connectivity
One of the standout features is the dual 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, which are rare in this size class. They enable link aggregation or network separation for advanced setups, ideal for streamers, NAS users, or IT professionals. USB4 and Oculink support allow high-bandwidth connections for eGPUs, storage, and docking stations, future-proofing the system’s I/O.
Thermal and Acoustic Behavior
Despite its power, the K11 maintains stable temperatures with a low-profile cooling system and well-ventilated chassis design. Under typical gaming or workload stress, fan noise remains low and steady, making it well-suited for quiet office or bedroom environments. Even during extended CPU loads, the Ryzen 9 maintains high boost clocks without thermal throttling.
Design and Build Quality
The GMKtec K11 features a clean, professional exterior with subtle design lines and a rugged metal chassis that feels premium despite its small footprint. Its minimalist design fits seamlessly into both office desks and gaming setups.
Internal layout is neat and accessible, allowing RAM and SSD upgrades without hassle. The solid build and efficient thermal engineering show clear attention to detail, especially for a system this compact.
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Pros and Cons
Pros
- Powerful Ryzen 9 8945HS CPU in an ultra-compact chassis
- 32 GB DDR5 RAM and 1 TB NVMe SSD for fast, responsive performance
- Oculink support enables full desktop GPU power via eGPU
- Dual 2.5GbE LAN ports for advanced networking setups
- USB4 ports, HDMI, and DisplayPort support for multi-display setups
- Excellent thermal and acoustic performance for its size
- Extremely space-saving form factor
Cons
- Integrated Radeon 890M GPU only suitable for light gaming without an eGPU
- No included discrete GPU out of the box
- Limited internal GPU upgrade options (relies on external GPU for high-end gaming)
- Compact chassis limits internal expansion beyond storage/RAM
Ideal Use Cases
This system is best for:
- Gamers who want desktop-grade performance in a small form factor via eGPU (Oculink)
- Streamers, coders, and developers who need high CPU performance and fast I/O
- Professionals needing a quiet, portable workstation for content creation or business tasks
- Home lab enthusiasts using dual-NIC networking for advanced setups
- Users with limited desk space seeking powerful yet compact performance
Final Verdict
The GMKtec K11 Mini Gaming PC is a compact powerhouse that redefines what a small desktop can do. It combines a Ryzen 9 CPU, fast DDR5 memory, ultra-fast storage, and rare features like dual 2.5GbE LAN and Oculink in a sleek mini chassis.
While it needs an external GPU for high-end gaming, its ability to transform from a quiet mini workstation into a powerful gaming rig makes it one of the most versatile and future-ready mini PCs available in 2026.
[Check Today’s Best Deals on Amazon] — Buy elite gaming and productivity performance in an ultra-compact package with the GMKtec K11 Mini Gaming PC.
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