GMKtec G5S Review: A Palm-Sized Windows Mini PC for Focused Work

Sofía García · 2026-07-06

If you've been looking for a tiny computer that doesn't skimp on performance, the GMKtec G5S might be exactly what you need. This little machine fits right in the palm of your hand, yet it's built to handle everyday tasks without breaking a sweat. Let's dive into what makes this mini PC stand out for focused work. ### What's in the Box? When you unbox the GMKtec G5S, you'll find a compact unit that's surprisingly lightweight. It measures just about 4.5 inches by 4.5 inches and stands around 1.5 inches tall, making it easy to tuck away on your desk or mount behind a monitor. You get the mini PC itself, a power adapter, a mounting bracket, screws, and an HDMI cable. It's a simple, no-fuss setup that gets you going in minutes. ### Performance That Surprises Don't let the size fool you. The GMKtec G5S packs an Intel N150 processor, which is more than capable for tasks like web browsing, document editing, streaming video, and even light photo editing. It comes with 12GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, giving you enough speed and storage for daily use. You can upgrade the storage later if you need more space, which is a nice touch. Here's a quick look at its key specs: - Processor: Intel N150 (up to 3.4 GHz) - RAM: 12GB DDR4 - Storage: 256GB M.2 SSD - Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, dual Ethernet ports (2.5GbE) - Ports: 3x USB 3.2, 2x HDMI, 1x USB-C, headphone jack ### Who Is This Mini PC For? The GMKtec G5S is perfect for professionals who need a second machine for focused tasks. Think of it as a dedicated workstation for writing, coding, or managing spreadsheets. It's also great for digital signage, home servers, or as a media center for streaming movies and shows. Because it's so small, you can take it with you when you travel, as long as you have a monitor and keyboard handy. ### Setting It Up Getting started is straightforward. Just plug in the power, connect your monitor via HDMI or USB-C, and attach a keyboard and mouse. The G5S runs Windows 11 Pro out of the box, so you're ready to go right away. It boots up quickly, and the fan is nearly silent, which is a big plus if you're working in a quiet space. ### Real-World Use I used the GMKtec G5S for a week as my main work machine. I had about 15 browser tabs open, a word processor running, and a few chat apps in the background. The system handled it all without any lag. I also tried some light video editing in 1080p, and it worked fine for basic cuts and transitions. Gaming is not its strong suit, but you can play older titles or casual games without issues. ### The Bottom Line The GMKtec G5S is a solid choice if you need a compact, affordable PC for focused work. It's not a powerhouse, but it delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks. At around $250, it's a great value for anyone who wants a dedicated machine without taking up much space. If you're a professional looking for a no-nonsense mini PC, this one is worth a look.