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29 Karma

Review on πŸ’» GK50 Fanless Mini PC: Powerful Windows 10 Pro, 8GB DDR4, 256GB SSD - Efficient Intel Pentium N5030, Dual 4K@60Hz Outputs, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0 - Versatile Desktop Computer by Mike Barnes

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Great for very little use

You can expect more convenience than performance with any Mini PC. This computer is no exception. Its small size and quiet operation make it ideal for a range of scenarios. With the included bracket that allows for VESA or wall mounting, it's very easy to hide this unit wherever you like (as long as it's within 6ft of an outlet. The included power adapter is one-piece with a large wall mount) . The GK50 comes with a 1.10GHz Intel Pentium N5030 processor, 8GB RAM (surface soldered) and a 128GB SSD (a cheap upgrade to 256GB should be available and recommended). There's also room for a 2.5-inch SSD. To upgrade the memory you'll have to remove the screws underneath your feet, which is needlessly cumbersome, but not a problem if you only need to do it once. The GK50 comes with Windows 10 Pro pre-installed which is a great upgrade from the Home version which I was expecting at this price point. It has many connectivity options including 1 HDMI 2.0, 1 miniDisplayPort, 4 USB 3.0, 2 Ethernet, 1 miniSD headphones and microphone. It also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. It has no fan, which ensures completely silent operation. %. This was partly due to the many updates, configuration tasks, etc. that Windows forced on it. But even after applying all the updates and a few reboots, the CPU shut down pretty quickly. Even opening the Edge tab for a few seconds increases the CPU load to 100%. I think the use of this machine is pretty limited. It's certainly not a slot, and I think it's probably only marginal for productivity apps or even heavy internet use. However, it can ideally be used as a lightweight media server or signage. If that's what you're after, the MinisForum GK50 is a serious contender at this price point.

Pros
  • Dual Monitor Compatibility
Cons
  • Quick Start Guide