The SZBOX GK3V GK3 Pro Mini PC combines Intel Alder Lake N100/N150 processors, up to 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage in a palm-sized design. Ideal for gaming, office tasks, and media streaming, it runs Windows 11 Pro with WIFI5 and BT4.2 connectivity. Its modular storage and dual 4K output make it a versatile, space-saving powerhouse for home and professional use.
How Does the Alder Lake Processor Enhance Performance?
Intel’s Alder Lake N100/N150 CPUs use a hybrid architecture with Efficient-cores for multitasking and light gaming. The N150’s 3.4GHz turbo boost handles photo editing and 1080p gaming (e.g., Minecraft, CS:GO) at 40-60 FPS. Intel UHD Graphics (16-24 EUs) ensures smooth video playback and casual gaming, while 6W TDP minimizes heat generation in the compact chassis.
The hybrid design of Alder Lake processors combines performance cores and efficiency cores to optimize power consumption. This architecture allows the GK3V GK3 Pro to handle background tasks like software updates or antivirus scans without interrupting foreground applications. For creative professionals, the N150 variant accelerates Lightroom exports by 18% compared to previous-gen Jasper Lake chips. The processor’s support for DDR4-3200 memory further reduces latency in data-heavy workflows. While not designed for intensive 3D rendering, it efficiently manages multitasking across 10+ browser tabs while streaming 4K content.
2025 Best 5 Mini PCs Under $500
| Best Mini PCs Under $500 | Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
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Beelink S12 Pro Mini PC  |
Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake-N100, 16GB RAM, 500GB SSD, supports 4K dual display. | View on Amazon |
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ACEMAGICIAN Mini Gaming PC  |
AMD Ryzen 7 5800U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, supports 4K triple display. | View on Amazon |
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GMKtec Mini PC M5 Plus  |
AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, features WiFi 6E and dual LAN. | View on Amazon |
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Maxtang ALN50 Mini PC ![Maxtang Ryzen 7 7735HS Mini PC [8C/16T up to 4.75GHz] Windows 11 Home Supported 32GB DDR5 Ram 1TB PCIe4.0 Nvme SSD WIFI6 BT5.2 Mini Desktop Gaming Computer](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51oZECsOffL._AC_SX466_.jpg) |
Intel Core i3-N305, up to 32GB RAM, compact design with multiple connectivity options. | View on Amazon |
|
MINISFORUM Venus UM773 Lite  |
Ryzen 7 7735HS, up to 32GB RAM, supports dual displays and has solid performance. | View on Amazon |
| Processor | Base Clock | Turbo Clock | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| N100 | 1.8GHz | 3.4GHz | Basic multitasking |
| N150 | 2.0GHz | 3.4GHz | Media editing |
What Connectivity Options Does This Mini PC Offer?
Connectivity includes 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x USB-C (display/output), 3x USB 3.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 ensures 867Mbps wireless speeds, while Bluetooth 4.2 connects peripherals like keyboards and speakers. The front-facing IR sensor allows remote control for media center setups, making it compatible with Kodi or Plex streaming.
The dual HDMI 2.0 ports enable extended desktop configurations for financial traders or digital artists needing multiple monitors. Users can connect a 4K TV as primary display and a 1080p secondary monitor for chat applications or system monitoring. The USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode, allowing connection to modern portable monitors. For peripheral expansion, the three USB 3.0 ports provide sufficient bandwidth for external SSDs (up to 5Gbps) while maintaining low latency for input devices. Network engineers will appreciate the Gigabit Ethernet port’s consistent 940Mbps throughput, which outperforms wireless connections in latency-sensitive tasks like VoIP calls.
| Port Type | Quantity | Max Bandwidth |
|---|---|---|
| USB 3.0 | 3 | 5Gbps |
| HDMI 2.0 | 2 | 18Gbps |
| USB-C | 1 | 10Gbps |
Is the Storage Upgradeable in the SZBOX GK3V GK3 Pro?
Yes: The mini PC has an accessible M.2 2280 slot for NVMe SSDs and a 2.5-inch bay for SATA SSDs/HDDs. Users can upgrade to 2TB NVMe + 4TB SATA for massive storage. RAM is soldered, so choose 8GB or 16GB models carefully. The tool-free bottom panel enables quick upgrades without voiding the warranty.
How Does It Compare to Similar Mini PCs Like Beelink or Minisforum?
The GK3V GK3 Pro competes with Beelink SER5 (Ryzen 5 5500U) and Minisforum HX90 (Ryzen 9 4900H). While weaker in GPU performance, its Alder Lake CPUs offer better single-threaded efficiency for office tasks. At $180-$250, it undercuts rivals by 20-30%, making it ideal for budget-conscious users needing basic gaming and multitasking capabilities.
“The GK3V GK3 Pro bridges the gap between ultra-compact form factors and practical usability. While it won’t replace high-end gaming PCs, its value-for-money proposition and upgradeability make it a standout in the sub-$300 segment. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro out-of-the-box is a major plus for small businesses needing secure, licensed systems.” — Tech Analyst, Compact Computing Magazine
FAQs
- Can I Run macOS on the GK3V GK3 Pro?
- Hackintosh installations are unsupported but possible via OpenCore. However, driver compatibility for Wi-Fi/BT may require external dongles. Stick to Windows or Linux for optimal stability.
- Does It Support 8K Video Playback?
- No—the Intel UHD Graphics maxes out at 4K 60Hz. For 8K content, consider mini PCs with Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon graphics.
- How Long Is the Warranty Period?
- SZBOX offers a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Extended warranties are available through third-party sellers like Amazon.