Affordable Intel Wildcat Lake mini PC launches with non-upgradeable RAM

GMKtec has introduced the NucBox M3S, a compact new mini PC powered by Intel’s recently launched Wildcat Lake architecture. It has the same internals as Maxsun's MU01 mini-PC, sans the multiple CPU options and colourways.  

The mini-PC uses Intel’s Core 3 304, with one performance core and four low-power efficiency cores, for a total of five cores and five threads. It can boost up to 4.3 GHz and comes with 6 MB of cache. The CPU also features integrated Intel Graphics and a dedicated NPU rated for up to 15 TOPS of AI performance. GMKtec offers three configurable performance profiles: Silent (15 W), Balanced (20 W) and Performance (25 W). Cooling is handled by a single fan and heat pipe.

Unfortunately, the memory configuration is less impressive. The M3S ships with just 12 GB of LPDDR5-5600 RAM soldered directly to the motherboard, ruling out future upgrades. Buyers can choose between 256 GB and 512 GB SSD configurations, although storage expansion is possible thanks to a second M.2 2280 slot supporting PCIe 4.0. Measuring 114 × 106 × 42.5 mm and weighing approximately 430 g, the NucBox M3S M3S is also relatively compact. It ships with Windows 11 Pro preinstalled.

Thankfully, connectivity is aplenty. The compact mini PC features one USB4 Type-C port capable of 40 Gbps transfers, two HDMI 2.0 ports, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, USB 2.0, a 3.5 mm audio jack and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 are also supported. The two HDMI ports and USB4 connection allow the M3S to drive three 4K displays at 60 Hz simultaneously. The GMKtec NucBox M3S is currently available from the company’s official US store for $389.99 with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage, more flexible alternatives.