GMKtec NucBox M3S launches with soldered 12GB RAM

GMKtec has launched the NucBox M3S, a compact mini PC built around Intel’s new Wildcat Lake platform. The machine is available from GMKtec’s US store for $389.99 with 12GB of memory and a 256GB SSD, although that memory is soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded later.¹²

The M3S uses Intel’s Core 3 304 processor, a five-core, five-thread chip with one performance core and four low-power efficiency cores. It can reach 4.3GHz, includes integrated Intel graphics and carries an NPU rated for up to 15 TOPS of AI performance.²

What the NucBox M3S offers

GMKtec provides Silent, Balanced and Performance profiles rated at 15W, 20W and 25W respectively. Cooling comes from a single fan and heat pipe, while storage is more flexible than the memory: buyers can choose 256GB or 512GB SSD configurations, and a second M.2 2280 slot supports PCIe 4.0 expansion.¹²

The 114 x 106 x 42.5mm system weighs about 430g and ships with Windows 11 Pro. Its connections include USB4 Type-C at up to 40Gbps, two HDMI 2.0 outputs, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, USB 2.0, a 3.5mm audio jack and 2.5Gbps Ethernet. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 are also included.²

GMKtec says the USB4 port and two HDMI connections can drive three 4K displays at 60Hz simultaneously. That makes the M3S unusually well connected for a small desktop, though the soldered 12GB RAM limit is a meaningful trade-off for anyone planning to keep the machine for years.¹²

Our opinion

The NucBox M3S looks like a practical low-cost desktop for basic work, media and multi-monitor setups, but its fixed memory makes the $389.99 asking price harder to judge. The second SSD slot gives owners useful storage headroom, yet there is no equivalent upgrade path for applications that need more RAM. Check the configuration carefully before buying: compact size and strong connectivity are attractive, but 12GB is the part of this mini PC that will age first.