Let me start by saying this little box is a game-changer. The GMKtec Mini PC with its Intel N150 processor and 12GB DDR5 RAM is surprisingly powerful for its size. I've been using it as my daily driver for work and entertainment, and it hasn't disappointed.

The first thing you'll notice is how incredibly compact it is - just 1.5 inches tall! I love that I can literally carry it in one hand while moving between rooms. The build quality feels solid, and the new screw placement under the feet (instead of under removable rubber pads) is a thoughtful improvement from their previous models.

Performance-wise, it boots up Windows 11 in seconds - no more coffee breaks waiting for your computer to start! For everyday tasks like web browsing, office work, and even light photo editing, this mini PC handles everything with ease. The 256GB SSD provides snappy performance, though heavy users might want to consider cloud storage or an external drive.

The connectivity options are impressive for such a small device. With three USB 3.2 ports, dual HDMI outputs, and a DisplayPort, I was able to set up a triple monitor workstation effortlessly. WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 worked flawlessly with my wireless peripherals - though I did notice slightly better performance when using wired connections.

Where this mini PC really shines is as a media center. Connected to my TV via HDMI, it plays 4K content smoothly through VLC (though YouTube's performance could be better). The Intel UHD Graphics handles video playback beautifully, making it perfect for movie nights.

There are some limitations though. While it can handle some retro gaming emulation well through Windows (NES to Wii U), don't expect modern AAA gaming performance. Linux users should note there might be some driver challenges - I had issues getting dual displays working properly in Ubuntu.

The fan is quiet during normal use but does spin up during intensive tasks. One nice touch is the ability to disable the RGB lighting in BIOS if you prefer a more subtle look.

At under $200 (when I bought it), this offers incredible value. It's perfect for students, home offices, or as a secondary computer. While not suitable for heavy gaming or professional video editing, it handles everyday computing needs with power to spare.