GMKtec Nucbox KB7
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The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 is an impressively compact mini PC that demonstrates just how much computing power can fit into a palm-sized form factor. Measuring just 3.4 x 3.4 x 1.56 inches and weighing under half a pound, this diminutive device is smaller than an Xbox controller yet packs enough performance for everyday computing tasks. Powered by the 11th generation Intel Pentium Silver N6005 processor with four cores running up to 3.3GHz, the KB7 strikes an attractive balance between efficiency and capability. With 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM, 512GB of M.2 SATA storage, and Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, it’s ready to handle office work, media playback, and light entertainment right out of the box. The standout feature is its triple HDMI 2.0 output capability, enabling users to drive three 4K displays simultaneously, making it an excellent choice for multi-monitor productivity setups or digital signage applications.
Pros and Cons of GMKtec Nucbox KB7
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely compact form factor (smaller than Xbox controller) | Not suitable for demanding tasks or AAA gaming |
| Triple 4K@60Hz display output via HDMI | USB-C port is power delivery only |
| Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports | Fan noise audible under full load |
| Energy efficient at only 18.9W typical operation | M.2 slot limited to 2242 form factor |
| Best-in-class performance for budget mini PCs (PCMark 2648) | Struggles with intensive emulation (GameCube+) |
| Quiet operation (46dB) with excellent thermals (43C max) | Limited availability (discontinued on Amazon) |
| VESA mount included for clean workspace setup |
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GMKtec Nucbox KB7 Comparison Chart
![]() GMKtec Nucbox KB7 | |
| Price | List Price: $299.00 Amazon Prices: |
| Version | 16GB/512GB/Intel Pentium Silver N6005 |
| Perfomance Rating | 4.9 |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
| Processor | Quad-core 2.00 Ghz (max 3.30 Ghz) Intel Pentium Silver N6005 |
| GPU | Integrated Intel UHD Graphics |
| RAM | 16 GB |
| Internal Storage | 512 GB |
| Dimensions width x length x thickness | 3.4 x 3.4 x 1.56 inches (86.36 x 86.36 x 39.62 mm) |
| Weight | 0.48 lbs (0.22 kg) |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Ethernet | 2 Ethernet ports at 1 Gbps |
| HDMI | 3 Full-Size HDMI Ports |
| DisplayPort | No DisplayPort |
| VGA | No VGA Ports |
| USB Ports | 3 USB 3, 1 USB-C |
| Thunderbolt Ports | No |
| Internal SATA Ports | No SATA ports |
| Card Reader | No Card Reader |
| Headphone Jack | combo |
| Fanless | No |
| VESA Mount | Yes |
| In the Box | Nucbox K7 Mini PC, Power Adapter, User Manual Card, Vesa Mount with Screws |
| Expandability | storage is upgradeable |
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Detailed Insights on the GMKtec Nucbox KB7

The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 excels in its design philosophy of maximizing capability within minimal space. The 3.4-inch square footprint makes it one of the smallest fully-functional Windows PCs available, yet GMKtec has managed to pack in an impressive array of ports. The three HDMI 2.0 outputs are particularly noteworthy for a device in this class, supporting simultaneous 4K@60Hz output on all three displays. This makes the KB7 an exceptional choice for trading workstations, command centers, or any scenario requiring multiple monitors. The dual Gigabit Ethernet ports add further flexibility, enabling network bridging, failover configurations, or simultaneous connections to different networks, which is particularly valuable for small business or home lab applications.
Performance testing reveals that the Intel Pentium Silver N6005 processor delivers approximately 15% better performance than its predecessor, the N5105, according to benchmark testing from multiple sources. With a PassMark score of around 5,375 and a PCMark score of 2,648, the KB7 achieves the highest performance in its budget mini PC category. The 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM running at 2933MHz provides ample headroom for web browsing with dozens of tabs, office productivity suites, and light creative work. The 512GB M.2 SATA SSD delivers respectable read and write speeds for a system drive, though users should note that the M.2 slot accepts 2242 form factor drives, which limits upgrade options compared to the more common 2280 size.
Energy efficiency is a major strength of the GMKtec Nucbox KB7, with tested power consumption of just 18.9W during typical operation. This represents significant savings compared to traditional desktop computers that often draw 200W or more. The internal smart fan maintains impressive thermal management, keeping the processor at a maximum of 43C under load while producing noise levels of approximately 46dB. This makes the KB7 suitable for noise-sensitive environments like bedrooms, living rooms, or quiet offices. The included VESA mount allows the unit to be tucked behind a monitor, completely hiding it from view while maintaining easy access to ports. The combination of low power draw, minimal heat output, and quiet operation makes this an excellent candidate for always-on applications like home automation hubs, media servers, or lightweight file servers.
Reviewer Insights on the GMKtec Nucbox KB7

jimmy shumk’s Perspective
YouTube reviewer jimmy shumk provides an extensive hands-on look at the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 (also called the NucBox 7), emphasizing its remarkably compact design. “Basically, the Xbox controller is bigger than this mini PC, so it’s still a very small form factor unit,” he notes when comparing the device to common objects. His testing reveals strong 4K video playback capabilities, with streaming content and local files playing without any dropped frames or stuttering. He specifically praises the multi-display functionality, confirming that all three HDMI ports can drive separate 4K screens simultaneously.
For performance, jimmy shumk expresses pleasant surprise given the budget-oriented processor. “I’m actually really surprised by the performance here and it actually really comes down to the TDP,” he explains, noting that the 15-18W thermal design power allows the N6005 to maintain boost clocks effectively. His emulation testing shows strong compatibility with PlayStation 1, Dreamcast, and many Nintendo 64 titles, though he cautions that GameCube emulation pushes the limits of what the processor can handle smoothly. For casual gaming and retro enthusiasts, he finds the performance more than adequate. “4K from your favorite streaming apps or even natively is no problem at all,” he concludes, recommending the device for anyone seeking a compact, versatile computing solution.
Mini PC Reviewer
According to Mini PC Reviewer, the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 represents “exceptional value for its price” among budget mini PCs. Their review highlights the 15% performance improvement the N6005 offers over the previous-generation N5105, making it a worthwhile upgrade for users coming from older budget systems. The publication particularly appreciates the triple 4K display support and dual Gigabit Ethernet as standout features that differentiate the KB7 from competing products in its price range.
DROIX’s Analysis
The technical team at DROIX conducted comprehensive benchmark testing of the GMKtec Nucbox KB7, finding it achieves “the highest score in the budget range of mini PCs” on PCMark. Their testing recorded a PCMark score of 2,648, PassMark of 1,828, and 3DMark Time Spy of 409. Real-world thermal testing revealed excellent temperature management with the processor reaching only 43C maximum under sustained load, while fan noise measured at a reasonable 46dB. Power consumption testing showed typical operation at just 18.9W, making it one of the most energy-efficient mini PCs available. “The GMKTec NucBox7 is an excellent low cost, energy efficient, palm sized mini PC that is perfect for home and office work, light gaming and retro gaming,” they conclude, noting it cannot handle AAA games but excels at its intended use cases.
The consensus among reviewers points to the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 as an outstanding value proposition for users seeking a compact, efficient computer for everyday tasks. The triple HDMI output and dual Ethernet stand out as features typically found only on more expensive systems, while the performance-per-watt ratio impresses across all reviews.
Who Should Consider the GMKtec Nucbox KB7?
The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 is ideal for users who prioritize compactness and energy efficiency over raw computing power. It excels as a home theater PC, capable of streaming 4K content from all major platforms without breaking a sweat. Remote workers who need a small, quiet system for video conferencing, email, and document editing will find it more than capable. The triple display support makes it particularly attractive for financial traders, security monitoring, or anyone who benefits from multiple screens but doesn’t need workstation-class performance.
Small business owners seeking digital signage solutions or point-of-sale systems should consider the KB7 for its reliability, low power consumption, and ability to drive multiple displays. Tech enthusiasts interested in home lab projects will appreciate the dual Ethernet ports for router or firewall experiments, while retro gaming enthusiasts can enjoy emulation of classic consoles through the Dreamcast era. The VESA mount compatibility means it can disappear behind a monitor, creating a clean, professional appearance.
However, video editors, 3D artists, software developers running heavy compilation tasks, or gamers seeking modern titles should look elsewhere. The Pentium Silver N6005, while efficient, lacks the horsepower for these demanding applications. Users requiring NVMe speeds or larger internal storage expansion should also note the M.2 2242 size limitation.
Note that the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 appears to be discontinued and may no longer be available from major retailers. Users interested in this form factor may want to consider the newer GMKtec K7 Plus or similar current-generation models from GMKtec’s lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions about the GMKtec Nucbox KB7
What processor powers the GMKtec Nucbox KB7?
The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 is powered by the Intel Pentium Silver N6005, an 11th generation quad-core processor with four threads. It features a base clock speed of 2.0GHz and can boost up to 3.3GHz. The processor has a 15-18W thermal design power (TDP), making it highly energy efficient while delivering solid performance for everyday computing tasks.
Can the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 drive three monitors simultaneously?
Yes, the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 features three HDMI 2.0 ports that can each output 4K resolution at 60Hz simultaneously. This makes it an excellent choice for multi-monitor productivity setups, trading workstations, or digital signage applications where multiple displays are required.
Is the USB-C port on the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 functional for data transfer?
No, the USB-C port on the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 is designated for power delivery input only. It supports USB-C PD charging but cannot be used for data transfer or display output. For USB connectivity, you’ll need to use the three USB 3.2 Type-A ports on the device.
Can the storage be upgraded in the GMKtec Nucbox KB7?
Yes, the M.2 storage slot supports user-replaceable drives. However, the slot accepts M.2 SATA drives in the 2242 form factor, which is smaller than the more common 2280 size. Drives up to 1TB or 2TB in this form factor are available for upgrades.
How loud is the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 during operation?
The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 produces approximately 46dB of noise under load according to testing by DROIX. This is comparable to a quiet conversation and generally unobtrusive in most environments. The smart fan keeps the processor cool while minimizing noise output, making it suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, and quiet office spaces.
Why does the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 have two Ethernet ports?
The dual Gigabit Ethernet ports provide flexibility for various networking configurations. Users can set up network bridging, create a failover connection for redundancy, connect to two different networks simultaneously, or use the system as a basic router or firewall in home lab scenarios. This feature is particularly valuable for small business or technical applications.
Can the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 be mounted behind a monitor?
Yes, the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 includes a VESA mount bracket with screws in the box. The compact 3.4 x 3.4 inch form factor and light weight (under half a pound) make it easy to attach to the back of any VESA-compatible monitor, creating a clean, space-saving setup that hides the PC from view.
Is the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 good for gaming?
The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 is suitable for light gaming, retro gaming, and emulation of older consoles up through the PlayStation 1 and Dreamcast era. It can handle some older PC games at reduced settings. However, it is not designed for modern AAA titles or demanding games, as the Intel UHD integrated graphics lack the power for high-performance gaming. For serious gaming, consider a mini PC with dedicated graphics or a more powerful processor.
How much power does the GMKtec Nucbox KB7 consume?
The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 is highly energy efficient, consuming approximately 18.9W during typical operation according to testing by DROIX. This is significantly lower than traditional desktop computers, which often draw 200W or more. The low power consumption makes it economical for 24/7 operation and suitable for always-on applications like home automation hubs or media servers.
Where can I buy the GMKtec Nucbox KB7?
The GMKtec Nucbox KB7 appears to be discontinued and is no longer readily available from major retailers like Amazon. Users interested in a similar compact mini PC may want to consider current GMKtec models such as the K7 Plus or other budget-friendly options in GMKtec’s lineup. Third-party resellers may occasionally have remaining stock.


