GMKtec’s “New” Strix Halo Mini PC Arrives With a Familiar Face and Double the Price

GMKtec EVO-X3 arrives as a premium Strix Halo mini PC with serious power and a much higher price

GMKtec has officially launched the EVO-X3, a performance-focused mini PC that has been teased for some time. Built around AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395, the same Strix Halo APU used in the earlier EVO-X2, the new compact desktop aims to deliver high-end computing power in a small, sleek chassis.

At launch, the GMKtec EVO-X3 is available in two configurations. The base model includes 128GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD, with a launch price of $3,600. A higher-storage version increases the SSD capacity to 4TB and comes in at $3,849. GMKtec is also offering a $20 discount for subscribers during the launch period.

The pricing is one of the biggest talking points. The EVO-X3 costs roughly twice as much as the EVO-X2 did at launch when configured with the same memory and storage. While market conditions have changed since the EVO-X2 debuted, the large price jump may still surprise buyers, especially since both systems use the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor.

That said, the EVO-X3 is not simply a renamed EVO-X2. GMKtec has redesigned the system with a PS4-sized chassis, giving it a larger footprint than many traditional mini PCs while still keeping it compact enough for desks, entertainment setups, and professional workstations. The new design appears to focus on better expansion, improved cooling, and higher sustained performance.

One of the most important upgrades is the addition of an OCuLink port. This was missing from the EVO-X2 and gives the EVO-X3 a stronger position for users who want external expansion options, including external GPU setups. For creators, engineers, gamers, and AI-focused users, OCuLink support could be a major advantage.

The EVO-X3 also keeps the USB4 port found on the previous model, complete with 100W Power Delivery support. This adds flexibility for modern accessories, docking stations, high-speed storage, and compatible displays.

Storage expansion is another highlight. The mini PC includes two M.2 slots, each supporting up to 8TB of storage. That means the GMKtec EVO-X3 can support up to 16TB of internal SSD storage, making it a compelling option for users who work with large media files, game libraries, virtual machines, or local AI workloads.

Cooling has also received attention. GMKtec says the EVO-X3 uses a three-fan cooling system designed to stay quiet while handling demanding workloads. In its highest power mode, the system can reportedly reach 140W, allowing the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 to stretch its legs more effectively than lower-power mini PC designs.

Other notable features include Wi-Fi 7 support, a slim chassis design, and a pre-installed Claw system. Together, these additions position the EVO-X3 as a premium compact PC built for users who want desktop-class performance without moving to a full-size tower.

GMKtec has also confirmed plans to release a version with the Ryzen AI Max+ 495 in late 2026. That future model could offer another step up in performance for buyers willing to wait.

For now, the GMKtec EVO-X3 enters the market as a powerful but expensive Strix Halo mini PC. Its high RAM capacity, large storage potential, OCuLink support, USB4 connectivity, Wi-Fi 7, and upgraded cooling make it a serious machine for demanding users. However, its steep launch price means it is best suited for enthusiasts and professionals who can take full advantage of its hardware.