GMKtec NucBox M2

Updated on June 20, 2026

The GMKtec NucBox M2 is a compact computer designed for users who need a small form factor coupled with decent performance. It's powered by an Intel Core i7-11390H processor capable of speeds up to 5.00 GHz. With Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, the NucBox M2 ensures users can access Microsoft's latest features and security updates. This Mini PC also boasts a 1TB NVMe drive for rapid storage access and supports dual-channel DDR4 SODIMM RAM, although it arrives with one stick installed.

Measuring just 4.48 inches wide, 4.17 inches long, and 1.67 inches thick, the NucBox M2 offers a small footprint without sacrificing connectivity. It features USB 3.2, HDMI, an audio jack, 2.5GB Ethernet LAN, and USB-C with DisplayPort capabilities. A VESA mount is included, allowing for a tidy, space-saving installation behind a monitor.

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GMKtec NucBox M2 Comparison Chart

	GMKtec NucBox M2	GMKtec NucBox M2
Price	List Price: $599.99 Amazon Prices: Check Price on Amazon	List Price: $639.99 Amazon Prices: Check Price on Amazon
Version	16GB/1TB/Intel Core i7-11390H	32GB/1TB/Intel Core i7-11390H
Performance Rating	5.7	6.4
Operating System	Windows 11 Pro	Windows 11 Pro
Processor	Quad-core 2.90 Ghz (max 5.00 Ghz) Intel Core i7-11390H	Quad-core 2.90 Ghz (max 5.00 Ghz) Intel Core i7-11390H
GPU	Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics	Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
RAM	16 GB	32 GB
Internal Storage	1 TB	1 TB
Dimensions width x length x thickness	4.48 x 4.17 x 1.67 inches (113.79 x 105.92 x 42.42 mm)	4.48 x 4.17 x 1.67 inches (113.79 x 105.92 x 42.42 mm)
Weight	unknown	unknown
WiFi	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Bluetooth	Bluetooth 5.2	Bluetooth 5.2
Ethernet	1 Ethernet port at 2.5 Gbps	1 Ethernet port at 2.5 Gbps
HDMI	2 Full-Size HDMI Ports	2 Full-Size HDMI Ports
DisplayPort	USB-C supports DisplayPort	USB-C supports DisplayPort
VGA	No VGA Ports	No VGA Ports
USB Ports	1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 1 USB-C (USB-C supports DisplayPort and data transfer)	1 USB 2.0, 3 USB 3, 1 USB-C (USB-C supports DisplayPort and data transfer)
Thunderbolt Ports	No	No
OCuLink	No	No
Internal SATA Ports	No SATA ports	No SATA ports
Card Reader	No Card Reader	No Card Reader
Headphone Jack	combo	combo
Fanless	No	No
VESA Mount	Yes	Yes
In the Box	Mini PC, Power adapter, VESA mount, HDMI cable, Manual	Mini PC, Power adapter, VESA mount, HDMI cable, Manual
Expandability	Supports addition of an M.2 SATA drive	Supports addition of an M.2 SATA drive

Detailed Insights into the GMKtec NucBox M2

The GMKtec NucBox M2 Mini PC distinguishes itself with its Intel Core i7-11390H processor, a significant draw for those requiring high-speed computing in a compact unit. This processor's peak speed of 5.00 GHz caters to intensive applications and multitasking.

The 1TB NVMe drive offers substantial space and swift data retrieval, enhancing the system's responsiveness. While the NucBox M2 is configured with single-channel memory, its support for dual-channel memory allows for potential performance boosts with an additional RAM stick.

The NucBox M2 features USB 3.2 and USB-C ports for peripheral compatibility, HDMI and 2.5GB Ethernet LAN for display and networking, and WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connections. The device's cooling system deserves praise for its silent fan, which operates quietly except when handling demanding tasks. The Mini PC's design facilitates easy component upgrades, a boon for enthusiasts.

Reviewer Insights on the GMKtec NucBox M2 Mini PC

Team Pandory's review on YouTube showcases the GMKtec NucBox M2 as an "emulation beast," thanks to its powerful Intel i7 11390H processor capable of achieving up to 5GHz. They note that "this M2 has a quad-core i7 processor, with a max speed of 5GHz. That is pretty good," underscoring its impressive performance.

Windows 11 Pro comes pre-installed and activates upon internet connection, streamlining the setup process. The 1TB NVMe drive delivers fast storage speeds, and although the system is ready for dual-channel memory, it comes with only one RAM stick. Team Pandory notes, "So now with dual channel memory, we get a higher and much more stable frame rate."

The Intel GPU is a limiting factor for GPU-intensive tasks, with performance in games like Grand Theft Auto V not substantially better than the N100 chipset. An external GPU is suggested for those needing more graphical power.

The silent fan operation and the ease of upgrading the internals are praised. Team Pandory recommends the NucBox M2 for emulation and general computing tasks, hoping for future models to come with dual-channel memory and an additional NVMe slot. Their full review is on Team Pandory's YouTube channel.

A hands-on review from the TECH Genius YouTube channel walks through the same i7-11390H configuration with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. Running a Cinebench multi-core stress test, the reviewer noted that the fan stayed quiet and often did not spin up at all, while CPU temperatures climbed into the high 90s and briefly to around 110C, which he judged acceptable ("not too hot") rather than alarming. He then drove two monitors and ran Adobe Photoshop without trouble, coming away pleased with the everyday performance. The full review is on TECH Genius' YouTube channel.

Both reviewers came away seeing the NucBox M2 as a capable, compact machine for everyday computing and emulation, with Team Pandory flagging the integrated GPU and single-stick memory as the main areas it could improve.

Customer Reviews of the GMKtec NucBox M2

Owner feedback on the NucBox M2 skews positive, with the recurring praise being that it packs a lot of speed into a tiny enclosure and sets up quickly with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. Mike M., a verified buyer, wrote "For something so small, it's got a lot of power and speed," and noted it drove three displays without issue. Several owners also call out the value and easy setup, and one verified buyer, Ben, described a power supply failing after about two months but the manufacturer replacing the unit and reimbursing his return shipping.

The criticism is worth naming. Nicholas L., a verified buyer who rated it four stars, cautioned that the CPU is not built for heavy loads and that "Under heavy loads you will hear the fan. Can get loud at times." Another verified buyer, robv14000, praised the speed at first but reported the machine became unusable after a Windows update and complained that the documentation was unclear and that the manufacturer did not reply when he tried to contact them about adding an SSD. Treat it as a fast, compact value pick for light to moderate work rather than a gaming or heavy-duty machine.

Conclusion

The GMKtec NucBox M2 Mini PC is an excellent option for users who value a compact design without sacrificing processing power. The Intel Core i7-11390H processor and 1TB NVMe drive make it adept at handling various tasks, including demanding emulation. It suits users needing a quiet, powerful machine for digital audio workstations or multitasking.

However, the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics may disappoint users with high-end gaming or video editing needs, whom a Mini PC might better serve with a dedicated GPU or an external GPU solution. If you need integrated Radeon graphics, consider the GMKtec Nucbox M5 Plus as an alternative. The single-stick RAM configuration is another consideration for those looking to optimize performance.

For emulation, general computing, and pre-installed Windows 11 Pro convenience, the NucBox M2 is a solid choice. Users can compare Mini PCs using Starry Hope's Mini PC Comparison App for alternatives or more budget-friendly options.