GEEKOM IT8 Mini Workstation PC Review

Geekom isn’t a very famous brand, and not many people have heard of it. However, its IT8 (small form factor) is a decent piece of hardware given its affordable price. You can’t expect it to be a high-end performing Mini PC due to an 8th gen Intel Core i5 processor inside it. So, of course, this seems like an old spec compared to newer Intel processors. However, the inclusion of huge memory and storage space with Windows 11 pro makes up for it.

The starting price is £309.00 for 8GB RAM and 256 GB SSD in the UK. With more RAM and storage configurations, it can go to £389.00. In the US, you may get this model at a discounted price of $379 with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, while the price would increase to $449 if you select 16GB and 512GB storage.

Specs:

• CPU: Intel Core i5-8259 U
• GPU: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655
• OS: Windows 11 pro
• Connectivity: Wifi 2.4G + 5G, Ethernet 1000mb/s
• Ports: three ports of 3.2 USB-A, two ports of USB-C, one HDMI port, one Displayport, one Ethernet port, one Micro SD, one audio jack, one Kensington security slot   
• Memory: 16GB Dual Channel DDR4
• Storage: 512GB kingston DDR4
• Weight: 1 kg
• Dimensions: 117 x 112 x 48mm

Design:

It is not hidden from anyone that Geekom IT8 duplicates the layout of Intel NUC models launched in the past when it comes to design. Many things come as a surprise because, firstly, you’d hardly see the latest model PC using an older chip when 12th gen newer chips are already out there. The Iris Plus graphics card isn’t up-to-date either.

But, let’s not forget that Core i5 has offered great performance, especially in the business world. And despite the fact that it’s an old processor, it can’t be the reason to disregard its ability. Also, the upgradability of this model does give it an edge. You can upgrade the RAM to 32GB. The PCle, M.2 SSD slot can be upgraded up to 1 TB, whereas the 2.5 SATA HDD can be upgraded up to 2 TB.

Overall, the model is lightweight yet pretty durable. With the cooling vents located on three sides of this model, you can rest assured that the temperature will remain controlled. The fans operate quietly but can become loud if put under many loads.

Performance:

Performance-wise, this is a good deal given its price and decent specs. One thing to know is that this mini PC isn’t designed for gaming. And given the CPU and GPU credentials, it isn’t expected to be used for playing games either.

It performs quite well in running business applications and programs on the bright side. You can manage a great deal of multitasking like running photoshop software, using office apps, and running video playbacks altogether. Students can make great use of this compact and affordable machine and all it offers, like taking online classes, etc.

Also, the massive RAM and storage allow you to use it for setting up a server or use it as a personal cloud. All in all, it performs excellent with the specs it comes with.

The Bottom Line:

The bottom line is that you can’t expect it to perform like some ultra-fast machine with a Core i9. It delivers sufficiently good results with the configurations and specs it offers and the price you pay. It isn’t a gaming PC, so gamers won’t get much out of it and should consider a gaming PC. Overall, this mini PC is a good small form factor trying to make a name for itself in the market.