When it comes to compact PCs, the GMKTec G3 has always been a standout option, given just how inexpensive it is for the performance and flexibility it brings. Last week I picked up the new G3 Plus (compensated affiliate link) to see how it stacks up against the original. You can check it out in my latest review.
It features Intel’s latest low-end processor, the N150, and comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of NVMe storage for a super low price. Like the original, it also runs a fully licensed copy of Windows 11 Pro and remains highly upgradeable.
The design of the G3 Plus mirrors its predecessor. The top pops off easily, revealing two storage slots: one occupied by the included NVMe storage and the other compatible with M.2 SATA drives. This allows for dual-booting between operating systems. For my setup, I’ve installed both Windows and Linux. The RAM is also easy to access and replace. While DDR5 RAM could offer faster speeds, the DDR4 3200 RAM included here is sufficient for most users.
The port configuration is identical to the original G3, with two HDMI outputs supporting 4K at 60Hz, four USB 3.0 ports, and a 2.5Gb Ethernet port that performs as expected. The Wi-Fi performance, however, is less impressive, consistent with what I observed on the earlier model. Power consumption is low, making it a practical option for home lab environments or scenarios where the device may idle for extended periods. During testing, it consumed 30 to 32 watts under load and just 12 to 14 watts while idle in Linux.
Performance-wise, the G3 Plus feels quite similar to the original. Tasks like word processing and web browsing, even at 4K resolution, are smooth and responsive. Benchmark tests showed only marginal improvements over the G3. For instance, the 3DMark Time Spy test recorded a 22% performance increase, but this didn’t translate into noticeably better real-world performance. Gaming capabilities remain modest but improved slightly; older titles like GTA V run smoothly at 720p on the lowest settings, maintaining frame rates of around 30fps. Retro game emulation also performs well, with the PS2 emulator handling native resolution games without significant lag.
One of the standout improvements in the G3 Plus is the fan. Unlike the original, which could get quite noisy under load, this model operates almost silently, even during heavy use.
Linux performance on the G3 Plus is seamless. Everything from display scaling to Bluetooth worked without issue, and the efficiency of Linux as an operating system makes it a great choice for this hardware. Compared to a Raspberry Pi 5, the G3 Plus offers significantly better performance and comes at a comparable price when factoring in accessories. And unlike the Pi, the original G3 and now the G3 Plus make excellent transcoding Plex servers when running Linux as the base OS.
For those already using the original G3, upgrading to the G3 Plus might not be necessary. The performance gains are incremental and unlikely to justify replacing the existing device. However, if you’re purchasing a mini PC for the first time or need an additional unit, the G3 Plus’s quieter fan and updated processor make it a solid choice. This compact and affordable PC continues to offer impressive value for the price point.