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The GMKtec NucBox K17 pairs an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V Lunar Lake processor with two M.2 NVMe slots in a compact mini PC. Its main trade-off is fixed 16GB memory: you can expand storage, but you cannot upgrade the RAM.
What the NucBox K17 includes
GMKtec’s 2026 specifications describe a small desktop built around Intel’s Core Ultra 5 226V. The following figures are manufacturer specifications unless otherwise noted; they are not independent performance test results.
| Component | K17 specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 5 226V; 8 cores and 8 threads, 2.1GHz base frequency, up to 4.5GHz P-core turbo. GMKtec lists 20W, 25W and 35W operating modes and 37W peak. |
| Graphics and AI | Intel Arc 130V graphics, rated by GMKtec at up to 53 TOPS, plus an AI Boost NPU rated at 40 TOPS. GMKtec and TechRadar Pro give up to 97 TOPS for combined AI performance. |
| Memory | 16GB onboard LPDDR5X at up to 8533 MT/s; not upgradeable, according to GMKtec and TechRadar Pro. |
| Storage | Two M.2 2280 NVMe slots: one PCIe Gen5 x4 and one PCIe Gen4 x2. GMKtec lists capacity of up to 16TB with two 8TB drives. SATA SSDs are not supported. |
| Display connections | Two HDMI 2.1 outputs and one USB4 DisplayPort connection. GMKtec and TechRadar Pro state support for up to three displays and 8K output. |
| Networking | 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E rated up to 2.4Gbps, and Bluetooth 5.2, per GMKtec. |
| Size and included items | 127.5 × 127 × 44.5mm, per GMKtec. TechRadar lists a weight of 460g (1.01lb). GMKtec says a VESA mount and HDMI cable are included. |
| Power | 100W external adapter. GMKtec lists USB4 at 40Gbps and support for 100W USB-C Power Delivery input. |
Can you upgrade the RAM?
No. The K17 has 16GB of onboard LPDDR5X memory, and it is not upgradeable. That makes the capacity a buying decision rather than a later upgrade: consider the demands of your usual applications and multitasking before choosing this model.
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#1 Best Overall
- 97 TOPS AI SUPERCHARGED PERFORMANCE – BUILT FOR THE AI ERA --- Powered by the next-gen Intel Core Ultra 5 226V processor (up to 4.50GHz) built on TSMC’s advanced 3nm N3B process, the K17 delivers an incredible 97 TOPS of total AI performance (40 TOPS NPU + 53 TOPS GPU). Unlike traditional systems that rely solely on CPU/GPU, this triple AI architecture enables real-time local AI processing, faster inference, and smoother multitasking—perfect for AI assistants, local LLMs, content generation, and intelligent workflows without cloud dependency.
- INTEL ARC 130V GRAPHICS – DISCRETE-CLASS POWER, NO GPU REQUIRED --- Experience next-level integrated graphics with the Intel Arc 130V GPU (up to 1.85GHz), delivering up to 53 TOPS AI compute and supporting hardware ray tracing, XeSS AI upscaling, and AV1 encoding. Compared to previous-gen iGPUs, performance is massively improved, enabling smooth AAA gaming, 4K video editing, and real-time rendering—bringing desktop-class graphics power into a compact, energy-efficient mini PC.
- DEDICATED NPU – TRUE LOCAL AI, FASTER & MORE SECURE --- Equipped with Intel AI Boost NPU delivering 40 TOPS of dedicated AI acceleration, the K17 handles AI workloads independently without consuming CPU/GPU resources. From AI noise cancellation and real-time translation to local model deployment and generative AI tasks, enjoy faster response times, lower power consumption, and enhanced data privacy with fully local processing.
- LPDDR5X 8533 MT/s HIGH-BANDWIDTH MEMORY – BUILT FOR HEAVY MULTITASKING --- Featuring 16GB LPDDR5X onboard memory running at blazing 8533MT/s, the K17 provides ultra-high bandwidth for demanding workloads. Compared to traditional DDR4 systems, it ensures faster data throughput, smoother multitasking, and stable large-model loading—ideal for AI applications, creative software, and multi-window productivity without lag.
- DUAL M.2 SSD (GEN5 + GEN4) EXPANSION – UP TO 16TB MASSIVE STORAGE --- Designed for power users, the K17 supports dual M.2 2280 SSD slots (PCIe Gen5×4 + Gen4×2), enabling up to 16TB total storage (8TB×2). Experience ultra-fast read/write speeds for massive datasets, AI model storage, and 4K/8K media files—no more external drives or storage limitations, everything stays fast and accessible.
Does it support two M.2 SSDs, and how much storage can it hold?
Yes. The K17 has two M.2 2280 NVMe slots, with different interface specifications: one PCIe Gen5 x4 and one PCIe Gen4 x2. GMKtec states a maximum of 16TB total when both slots use 8TB drives.
GMKtec’s listed preconfigured SSD options are 512GB, 1TB and 2TB. Those configurations are distinct from the stated two-drive maximum. The system does not support SATA SSDs, so check that any replacement or added drive is an M.2 2280 NVMe model. Also check the drive’s size and cooling requirements against the available clearance before buying; the provided specifications do not give a thermal limit or sustained drive-performance result.
Rank #2
- Next-Gen Intel Core Ultra 7 258V AI Performance: Powered by Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor with advanced 3nm TSMC process, 8 cores/8 threads, up to 4.8GHz turbo frequency and 12MB Intel Smart Cache. With up to 115 TOPS AI computing power, this AI mini PC delivers faster productivity, intelligent workflows, content creation and everyday computing
- Intel Arc 140V Graphics for Creation & Gaming: Equipped with Intel Arc 140V GPU featuring up to 1.95GHz dynamic frequency and 64 TOPS GPU AI performance, K17 PLUS handles 8K video editing, graphic design, AI applications and light gaming smoothly with enhanced visual performance
- 32GB LPDDR5X + Dual SSD Expansion up to 16TB: Built-in 32GB LPDDR5X 8533MT/s high-speed memory provides excellent multitasking performance. Supports dual M.2 SSD expansion, including PCIe Gen5 x4 NVMe and PCIe Gen4 x2 NVMe slots, allowing up to 16TB storage capacity for large files, games and professional applications
- Ultra Compact Design with Powerful Cooling: Featuring a compact 127.5 × 127 × 44.5mm metal-body design, K17 PLUS saves desktop space while delivering powerful performance. The dual copper heat pipe cooling system, turbo fan and intelligent fan control provide efficient heat dissipation with quieter operation
- Triple Display Support & 8K Visual Experience: Supports up to three independent displays through dual HDMI 2.1 ports and a full-featured USB4 port. Enjoy up to 8K@60Hz output, expanded workspace, smoother multitasking and immersive entertainment for office, creative and home scenarios
Can it run three displays or output 8K?
GMKtec and TechRadar Pro specify up to three displays through the two HDMI 2.1 ports and USB4’s DisplayPort connection, and list 8K output support. The published information does not specify the resolution and refresh-rate combinations available when multiple displays are connected, so confirm the particular monitor setup you need rather than assuming that every display can run at 8K simultaneously.
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Rank #3
- 12th INTEL ALDER LAKE N95 PROCESSOR - The G3S mini pc uses the 12th Intel N95 CPU 4 Core 4 Threads 6MB cache, burst speed up to 3.4GHz. Compared with (N100/N5105/N5100/N5095), the N95 offers an overall performance improvement of 36%. Ideal for routine tasks, office work and home entertainment,which is more convenient than traditional desktop pc
- 8GB RAM MEMORY & 256GB SSD STORAGE - GMKtec Nucbox G3S mini pc is prebuilt with 8GB DDR4 RAM, you will enjoy a speedier experience with Built-in 256GB M.2 2242 SSD Hard Drive. Our mini desktop pc boots up in seconds, work on multiple browser tabs, software applications and quickly transfers files
- RICH INTERFACE - Nucbox G3 Plus mini computer is equipped with USB 3.2, up to 10Gbps/S, HDMI(4K@60Hz)×2, 3.5mm Audio Jack. Supports WiFi 5, and Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 1000MbE network connectivity, Bluetooth 5.0. This Mini PC supports multiple device connection and can be used with servers, monitoring equipment, office equipment, displays, projectors, televisions, etc
- 4K DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY - Mini desktop computer is equipped with upgraded Intel Graphics(max 1000MHz), supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding, connect the pc with a projector as a home theatre, enjoy a variety of entertainments. Two HDMI 2.0 ports allows you to multi-task efficiently on two 4K@60Hz displays
- WiFi5 & BT5.0 - Built-in Bluetooth 5.0 enables you to connect multiple wireless devices such as mice, keyboard, monitoring equipment, printer and monitor. High-speed wireless connection technology, reliable and efficient transmission speed, providing a faster internet experience for browsing and streaming. Small pc supports Wake On LAN, PXE Boot, RTC Wake and Auto Power On, ideal to use as a server
What are the main expansion limits?
- Fixed memory: the 16GB LPDDR5X cannot be expanded.
- No SATA storage: storage expansion is through the two M.2 NVMe slots.
- No OCuLink: GMKtec explicitly states that this model does not support OCuLink.
- One USB4 port: consider your external-storage and docking needs if you expect to connect several high-speed peripherals.
How much does the GMKtec NucBox K17 cost?
The cited prices vary by configuration and source. GMKtec’s US product page lists $599.99 for 16GB/512GB, while TechRadar reported $619.99 for a 16GB/1TB configuration in 2026. These are not like-for-like storage configurations, and prices, regional availability and seller listings can change; check the current listing for the configuration and country you plan to buy in.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who should consider the K17?
The K17 is worth considering if you want a compact Lunar Lake mini PC with two NVMe storage slots and the option to add substantial SSD capacity. The fixed 16GB RAM is the key constraint: it may not suit workloads that need more memory, even though storage can be expanded. It is also a less natural fit for buyers who require OCuLink, SATA drives or multiple USB4 ports.
Rank #4
- MINI PC COMPUTER OFFICE LIGHT GAMING - GMKtec Nucbox G10 Series is equipped with the Ryzen 5 3500U, a 64-bit quad-core mid-range performance x86 mobile microprocessor. This processor is based on AMD's Zen+ microarchitecture and is fabricated on a 12 nm process. The 3500U operates at a base frequency of 2.1 GHz with a TDP of 15 W and a Boost frequency of 3.7 GHz. This APU supports up to 32 GB of dual-channel DDR4-2400 memory and incorporates Radeon Vega 8 Graphics operating at up to 1.2 GHz. 20% Multi-core Performance increase over previous Ryzen 3 models such as 4300U. 35% performance increase over the Intel N-series N95/N97/N150.
- RYZEN 5 3500U vs RYZEN 3 4300U COMPARISON - Why Choose Ryzen 5 3500U: Better multi-threaded performance: More threads, better suited for multitasking and demanding applications. Better graphics: With Vega 8, it's superior for casual gaming, video playback, and GPU-intensive tasks. Overall higher performance: Higher boost clock and better ability to handle a variety of workloads, from light gaming to productivity tasks. So, if you're looking for a more balanced processor with stronger multitasking capabilities and better GPU performance, the Ryzen 5 3500U would be the clear choice.
- 16GB DUAL CHANNEL DDR4 + 512GB SSD - Installed with DDR4 16GB SO-DIMM RAM Dual Channel (2x8GB) and a 512GB SSD, the Nucbox G10 mini pc supports memory expansion to 64GB RAM. Featured with Dual M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 slots, supports dual storage slot expansion to 16TB SSD (2*8TB). (Upgrades not included) This model supports a configurable TDP-down of 12 W and TDP-up of 35 W.
- UNLEASH RAW PERFORMANCE MODE 25W - Dominate demanding tasks with the AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor. When switched to Performance Mode in the BIOS (press "Esc" key repeatedly during boot, save then exit), this mini PC delivers superior multi-core processing power, significantly outperforming Intel N-series chips in CPU-intensive applications, multitasking, and creative workloads.
- MINI DESKTOP COMPUTER WITH TRIPLE DISPLAY SCREEN - Nucbox G10 integrates AMD Radeon Vega 8 1200 MHz GPU to deliver powerful graphics processing power to easily handle video editing, and playback, or casual gaming. And it can connect to 3 display screens simultaneously via HDMI 2.1 TMDS/ DPv1.4/ TYPE-C.
When comparing it with another mini PC, look beyond processor and graphics names. Check whether RAM is replaceable, the generation and lane configuration of each M.2 slot, supported display modes, external expansion, networking, sustained power and noise behavior, and the price of the same memory-and-storage configuration. GMKtec’s listed power modes are not a substitute for independent noise or sustained-performance measurements.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
