The GMKtec NucBox K8, initially launched with the robust AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS CPU from the Hawk Point lineup, has now received an exciting update with the new NucBox K8 Plus variant. While the core specifications of this mini PC haven’t been upgraded to the latest Strix Point lineup, the Plus version introduces some compelling improvements in port selection and cooling performance.
One of the significant enhancements in the NucBox K8 Plus is the addition of an extra USB4 port, bringing the total to two compared to the single port featured in the non-Plus model. This improvement offers users increased flexibility and options for connectivity. Moreover, the new model retains the OCuLink port, allowing users to tap into impressive performance when connecting an eGPU to the system.
Another key upgrade is the cooling system. The NucBox K8 Plus boasts a new heat dissipation design intended to maintain lower temperatures during intense tasks such as gaming, which also has the added benefit of reducing noise levels under load. This advanced cooling mechanism enables the NucBox K8 Plus to operate at a higher TDP than its predecessor, pushing the limits of performance.
Under the hood, the NucBox K8 Plus continues to utilize the capable Ryzen 7 8845HS CPU paired with Radeon 780M iGPU. Users can also take advantage of up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM, thanks to the two SODIMM slots available. For storage, it offers two M.2 slots supporting PCIe 4.0 SSDs, providing ample room for high-speed data storage.
The NucBox K8 Plus introduces three distinct performance modes. The Quiet mode keeps the TDP at a manageable 35W, while the Balanced mode increases it to 54W. For those demanding peak performance, Performance mode pushes the TDP up to 70W, a step above the 64W maximum TDP setting in the non-Plus model.
GMKtec plans to release the NucBox K8 Plus in China on September 23, with a starting price of CNY 2,199, roughly around $310. While there’s no official announcement on international availability, it’s expected to follow soon, given that the non-Plus variant is already available globally.
The enhanced cooling system, additional port, and performance modes make the NucBox K8 Plus a promising option for anyone seeking a compact yet powerful mini PC. Keep an eye out for further updates on global availability and pricing.
