GMKtec G3S vs G3 Mini PC: What’s the Difference?

GMKtec G3S vs G3 Mini PC: What’s the Difference?

GMKtec G3S vs G3 Mini PC

Mini PCs have become an increasingly popular choice for home offices, entertainment setups, and even casual gaming rigs.

Among the best budget options in 2025 are the GMKtec G3S and the GMKtec G3, two compact machines that look similar but differ quite a bit under the hood.

If you’re trying to decide which one suits you best, this comparison breaks down the key differences in performance, design, and connectivity.

Processor and Graphics Performance

The GMKtec G3S runs on the Intel Alder Lake N95, a quad-core processor with 4 threads and clock speeds up to 3.4 GHz. The GMKtec G3, on the other hand, is powered by the slightly superior Intel Alder Lake N100. Both chips are efficient and designed for everyday computing, but the N100 integrates a more capable Intel UHD GPU with 24 execution units, compared to 16 EUs on the N95.

That difference gives the G3 a noticeable edge in tasks that involve graphics acceleration, such as media playback, light photo editing, and retro gaming emulation.

Memory and Storage

Both systems use DDR4 RAM, but the G3 offers a bit more flexibility. The G3S typically comes with 8 GB or 16 GB, while the G3 allows expansion up to 32 GB — a handy feature for users who run multiple apps or virtual machines. Storage-wise, both models include SSDs ranging from 128 GB to 512 GB, but the G3 also supports NVMe drives, which deliver faster read/write speeds than the SATA drives seen in the G3S.

Connectivity and Ports

Connectivity is one of the areas where the GMKtec G3 really shines. It features WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, all of which provide faster and more stable connections compared to the G3S’s WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and 1 Gbps Ethernet.

Both models offer dual HDMI outputs capable of 4K@60Hz video, but the G3 adds a USB-C port for greater versatility. The G3S, on the other hand, includes several USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, which still provide strong performance for peripherals and external storage.

Which One Should You Buy?

• Choose the GMKtec G3S if you’re looking for the most affordable option and you need a reliable mini PC for web browsing, office tasks, or streaming. It’s simple, stable, and energy-efficient.

• Go for the GMKtec G3 if you want a more future-proof machine with better graphics, faster networking, and upgradable RAM. It’s a better choice for light productivity, content creation, and emulation gaming setups.

Final Thoughts

Both the GMKtec G3 and G3S offer impressive value for money, but the G3 stands out as the more refined model. With WiFi 6 support, a stronger GPU, and broader upgrade potential, it’s the one to choose if you need extra performance headroom. The G3S remains a great option for basic users or those searching for the best low-cost mini PC in 2025.