Review: GMKtec M7 and M7 Pro Mini PC: A Stylish and Powerful Miniature Workhorse
Over the years, GMKtec has consistently refined its lineup of mini PCs, catering to users who need performance-packed, space-saving solutions. Their latest releases, the GMKtec M7 and M7 Pro, are no exception. These Ryzen-based mini PCs come with notable upgrades in design and performance. After spending some time with the M7 Pro, we’re ready to dive into its features and performance.
Sleek Design and Improved Cooling
One of the most noticeable upgrades in the new M7 series is the case design. They both boast a semi-transparent lid, giving users a peek at the large internal fan. This fan plays a vital role in maintaining quiet operation, while keeping the system cool during heavy usage.
Previous iterations of GMKtec’s mini PCs, like the K4, had some cooling issues, especially with long gaming sessions. However, the new design addresses those problems. This smart ventilation design ensures that the PC won’t overheat even during demanding tasks. Additionally, the larger case fan operates at a slower speed, reducing noise levels while increasing airflow.
Performance That Packs a Punch
Powered by AMD’s Ryzen Zen 3+ architecture, both the M7 and M7 Pro are built for a wide range of tasks. The 8-core, 16-thread processor is more than capable of handling Windows 11 Pro, which comes pre-installed, along with productivity tasks like office work, video editing, and even some gaming. Users can enjoy smooth workflows in digital audio workstations (DAWs), film production software, and even casual gaming.
In terms of graphics, the Radeon 680M integrated GPU delivers decent gaming performance. Popular titles like Rocket League and Fortnite can be played at 1080p with medium to high settings. For more graphically intense games, however, you’ll need to lower the settings for a smoother experience.
Storage performance is also solid, with them featuring a PCIe 3×4 NVME SSD. While we would have preferred a PCIe 4.0 NVME for even faster speeds, the current setup still holds up well for most users. The extra NVMe slot for storage expansion is a welcome addition, though users will have to install another stick without heatsink, as space is tight due to the system fan.
Noise Levels and Wi-Fi Performance
The noise levels on both M7 machines are impressively low, especially compared to its predecessor, the K5. At idle, the stronger M7 Pro is barely audible, and even under load, the fan produces a quiet hum, unlike the higher-pitched whine of smaller fans used in previous models. This makes the M7 Pro ideal for those seeking a silent workstation or home office setup.
However, the one area where the M7 Pro stumbled was with its Wi-Fi signal strength. While it uses the same Intel AX200 Wi-Fi 6 chip from the previous K5 model, signal strength dropped to 72%, and speeds were around 100 Mbps during our tests. Swapping out the Intel chip for a MediaTek RZ616 (taken from the M6) provided a noticeable boost in performance, but this is something GMKtec should address in future iterations. Of course, users can opt for the dual 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports for a wired connection, or a USB Wi-Fi dongle as a workaround.
Expandability and Future-Proofing with Oculink
One of the standout features of these computers are the inclusion of an Oculink port. This addition allows users to connect an external full-sized GPU, transforming this mini PC into a capable gaming or workstation powerhouse. While not everyone may need this feature, it’s an excellent option for those looking to future-proof their setup or upgrade their system for more intensive tasks without purchasing an entirely new computer.
For those who prefer higher resolutions and refresh rates, both the M7 and M7 pro also include HDMI 2.1 support, making it compatible with the latest monitors and displays.
Pricing and Configurations
The M7 series offers solid value for the performance it packs. The barebones M7 starts at $299, requiring users to add their own RAM, storage, and OS. For those who prefer a ready-to-use option, the fully equipped M7 with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage is available for $389. The M7 Pro, with its slightly boosted GPU and CPU, and a configuration of 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, comes in at $459.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek design with improved ventilation and quiet operation
- Solid performance for office work, light gaming, and creative tasks
- Excellent Value and Price
- Stays cool, very quiet
- Expandable storage with an extra NVMe slot
- Oculink port for external GPU connectivity
- HDMI 2.1 for higher resolutions and refresh rates
- Fully Licensed Windows 11 Pro pre-installed
- Included VESA mount
Cons:
- Wi-Fi chip could use an upgrade; weak signal in certain setups
- PCIe 4.0 storage support would have been a nice addition
- Not suitable for high-end gaming without an external GPU
Final Verdict
The GMKtec M7 and M7 Pro offer a stylish and versatile solution for users seeking a powerful mini PC for work or play. While not perfect, especially in terms of Wi-Fi performance and gaming on higher settings, the sleek design, quiet operation, and expandable options make these mini PCs a strong contender in the market. If you’re in the market for a compact but capable desktop, the M7 series is definitely worth considering.
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► Related Videos
Our Video Review: https://youtu.be/4SdmBA5rt3c
GMKtec M7 vs M7 Pro Benchmarks: https://youtu.be/JOmxsubH-cI
