Category: Computers

  • HP OmniBook 5 Laptop Launch in India: 2K Display & 16GB RAM

    HP OmniBook 5 Laptop Launch in India: 2K Display & 16GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. HP launched the OmniBook 5 series in India with AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, priced at ₹75,990 and ₹87,990.
    2. Both models feature 16GB LPDDR5x RAM, 512GB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD, AMD Radeon 840M graphics, and a 16-inch 2K WQXGA display.
    3. They run on Windows 11 Home and include a one-year Microsoft 365 subscription and lifetime Office 2024 license.
    4. The laptops have a 43 Wh battery that supports HP Fast Charge, reaching 50% in 30 minutes, and are made from recycled materials.
    5. Pre-orders start on Amazon India with discounts and sales begin on April 17, 2025, alongside the launch of Motorola’s Moto Book 60.


    HP has introduced the OmniBook 5 laptop series in India, equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 Series processors. This series comprises two models: the Ryzen AI 5 340, which is priced at ₹75,990, and the Ryzen AI 7 350, which comes with a price tag of ₹87,990. Both configurations are designed with an integrated NPU (50 TOPS) that allows for AI functionalities directly on the device, categorizing them under the Copilot+ PC segment.

    Specifications Overview

    Both models share the same specifications aside from their processors. They feature 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM, a 512GB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD, and AMD Radeon 840M graphics, suitable for work and visual content. The laptops boast a 16-inch display with a 2K WQXGA resolution (16:10 aspect ratio) and a brightness level of 300 nits.

    Operating System and Connectivity

    Running on Windows 11 Home, these laptops also come with a one-year Microsoft 365 subscription and a lifetime license for Office 2024. In terms of connectivity, they provide two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, HDMI 2.1, a headphone/mic jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.4. Additionally, a 1080p FHD IR camera with noise reduction, dual-array microphones, and a dedicated Copilot+ key are included, enhancing video call and AI capabilities.

    Battery Life and Design

    The 43 Wh battery is compatible with HP Fast Charge, allowing it to reach 50% charge in just 30 minutes when using the 65W USB-C adapter. The laptop weighs 1.799 kg and has dimensions of 357.7 x 254.85 x 17.9–18.6 mm, available in a Natural Silver color. The chassis incorporates ocean-bound and recycled plastics, achieving EPEAT Gold and ENERGY STAR certifications.

    Pre-orders are available on Amazon India with discounts of up to ₹4,000 for bank transactions and a six-month no-cost EMI option. Sales will commence on April 17, 2025, through Amazon, HP’s official website, HP World, and various retail outlets.

    Upcoming Launch

    Motorola is set to release its inaugural laptop, the Moto Book 60, in India on April 17. It features a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display, powered by an Intel Core 7 processor, a 60Wh battery with 60W USB-C charging, and Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, weighing only 1.4 kg. The laptop will be offered in Wedge Wood and Bronze Green colors.


  • Buy the Asus NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Series Now Available

    Buy the Asus NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Series Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus launched the NUC 15 Pro mini PC series at CES 2025, with prices starting at $699 for the entry-level model.
    2. The entry-level model features an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor but does not include pre-installed storage or memory.
    3. The NUC 15 Pro Slim supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and up to 8 TB of PCIe 5.0 storage.
    4. A Tall variant is available for pre-order, allowing for additional accessory support compared to the Slim model.
    5. Pro+ models are available with Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processors, and future budget-friendly options will feature Intel 200 series APUs to compete with AMD Ryzen AI 300 series mini PCs.


    Asus has officially launched the NUC 15 Pro mini PC series during CES 2025, just after SimplyNUC unveiled its Cyber Canyon range. The new systems are now available for purchase, with the most budget-friendly model starting at $699.

    Specifications and Pricing

    This entry-level model is the barebone version of the NUC 15 Pro Slim, which comes equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor. Although the $699 version does not come with any pre-installed storage or memory, Asus has stated that it can support up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and can accommodate up to 8 TB of PCIe 5.0 storage.

    Variants Available

    In addition to the Slim version, there is a Tall variant of the NUC 15 Pro that is currently only available for pre-order on Adorama. The main difference between the Tall and Slim models is their support for accessories, with the Tall variant allowing for expansion modules.

    Pro+ Models and Competitors

    There are also Pro+ models that seem to only be available on Newegg, with the least expensive option being the barebone configuration of the NUC 15 Pro Plus featuring the Core Ultra 9 285H. Eventually, the standard mini PCs will offer more budget-friendly options that include non-Ultra Intel 200 series APUs.

    When it comes to the options with Core Ultra 200 series APUs, they are competing against mini PCs powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 300 series. However, since many of the new AMD systems are using LPDDR5X RAM, there aren’t many options available that provide affordable barebone configurations.

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  • Lenovo Launches 140W 20000mAh Power Bank with Innovative Charging

    Lenovo Launches 140W 20000mAh Power Bank with Innovative Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo thinkplus 140W 20000mAh portable power bank features two USB-C ports (65W each) and one USB-A port (30W), allowing simultaneous charging of up to three devices with a total output of 135W.

    2. It incorporates digital hybrid charging technology, enabling 140W pass-through charging and can charge a ThinkBook Ryzen Edition 16+ up to 42% in just half an hour.

    3. The power bank supports multiple charging protocols (PD, PPS, QC) and has a built-in display showing charging status and battery life.

    4. It has a capacity to charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max up to 3.8 times and a MacBook Air once and a bit more, with dimensions of 154 x 51 x 39 mm and a weight of 420 g.

    5. Priced at CNY 369 (~$50), it will officially launch in China on April 17th, with no current plans for release in other regions like North America.


    The Lenovo thinkplus 140W 20000mAh portable power bank is now up for pre-order in China. This gadget is a part of the Fluxo Pioneer series from the brand, specifically designed for charging while you’re on the move.

    Charging Capabilities

    The thinkplus 140W 20000mAh features two USB-C ports with 65W each and a single USB-A port that has 30W output. This allows you to charge up to three devices at the same time. When all ports are being utilized, they collectively provide a 135W output. Additionally, the power bank incorporates digital hybrid charging technology, which Lenovo has touted as a first in the industry. This technology enables 140W pass-through charging through the first USB-C port when it accepts over 65W USB-C input. Lenovo claims that using a 132W output can charge a ThinkBook Ryzen Edition 16+ up to 42% in just half an hour.

    Features and Specifications

    Supporting various charging protocols such as PD, PPS, and QC, the device also boasts a built-in 2.01 inch (~51 mm) display that shows the charging status and the remaining battery life. The 20,000mAh capacity is said to charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max up to 3.8 times or a MacBook Air once and a bit more. The dimensions of this accessory are 154 x 51 x 39 mm (~6.1 x 2.0 x 1.5 inches) and it weighs around 420 g (~14.8 oz). It also includes a 1.5 cm (~5 ft) 240W USB-C to USB-C cable.

    Pricing and Availability

    The retail price for Lenovo’s thinkplus 140W 20000mAh power bank in China is set at CNY 369 (~$50), with an official launch date of April 17th. Lenovo has not shared any plans to release this charging device in other regions, such as North America, where it offers the Lenovo Go USB-C Laptop Power Bank (20000 mAh) which currently retails for $105.17 on Amazon.

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  • Apricorn Launches Aegis Thunderbolt 4 Dock with Dual Security Slots

    Apricorn Launches Aegis Thunderbolt 4 Dock with Dual Security Slots

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aegis Thunderbolt 4 docking station is priced at $229 and available on Amazon.
    2. It is compatible with Windows 10 or later and MacOS 11 or higher, connecting through Thunderbolt 3, 4, USB-C, or USB-4 ports.
    3. The dock supports plug-and-play functionality, requiring no complicated setup or extra software installation.
    4. It provides 96 watts of power, allowing users to charge their laptops while connecting two 4K monitors or one 8K monitor.
    5. Security features include dual security cables and slots for securing the unit to a desk.


    Apricorn has revealed their new Aegis Thunderbolt 4 docking station, designed for users who need to connect several external monitors and devices to their laptops through a single, convenient connection that also offers power. The dock is priced at $229 and can be bought on Amazon.

    Compatibility and Easy Setup

    The Aegis dock works with laptops running Windows 10 or later and MacOS 11 or higher, connecting easily via a Thunderbolt 3, 4, USB-C, or USB-4 port. It’s a plug-and-play device, meaning that users don’t have to go through any complicated setup or install extra software. The docking station also provides:

    A power supply that connects to the dock delivers 96 watts, allowing it to charge the laptop while also powering either two 4K external monitors or a single 8K monitor.

    Security Features

    To ensure safety, the whole unit can be secured to the desk with the dual security cables that are attached to a full-sized Kensington Security Slot and a smaller Kensington Nano Security Slot.

    Apricorn has made it clear that the Aegis dock is designed to meet the needs of modern laptop users who require enhanced connectivity and power options.

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  • Intel Launches IPO Program to Enhance Arrow Lake CPU Sales

    Intel Launches IPO Program to Enhance Arrow Lake CPU Sales

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel has launched the IPO (Intel Performance Optimizations) initiative in China to improve the performance of its Arrow Lake processors.

    2. The IPO program is being implemented in pre-assembled systems from Chinese companies, aiming for better performance without compromising stability or warranty.

    3. IPO optimizes CPU settings such as core clock rates and RAM speeds, achieving notable performance boosts, like a 10% increase in FPS for gaming.

    4. The initiative follows underwhelming performance from Arrow Lake processors, with Intel working on firmware updates to address these issues.

    5. There are plans for potential global rollout of similar optimization features, which could enhance Arrow Lake systems against competitors like AMD’s Ryzen 9000 series.


    Intel has subtly introduced a new performance boost initiative known as IPO (Intel Performance Optimizations) in China, aiming to enhance the performance of its lagging Arrow Lake processors.

    Program Deployment

    Details shared by hardware insider UNIKO’s Hardware on X (previously known as Twitter) indicate that the IPO initiative is being implemented in pre-assembled systems from Chinese companies like Maxsun. The IPO’s aim is to strike a balance between using components at their default speeds and manual overclocking, thus delivering improved performance while maintaining stability and warranty protections.

    How IPO Works

    The IPO framework functions by utilizing optimized profiles that adjust various CPU settings, which include P-cores, E-cores, ring-bus frequencies, NGU and D2D interconnections, plus power limits (PL1 and PL2), along with RAM speeds and timings. For instance, in a case from Maxsun, this technology achieved a 200 MHz boost in core clock rates and increased RAM speeds from DDR5-8000 to DDR5-8400. This change reportedly led to a 10% enhancement in FPS during gaming sessions.

    Future Prospects

    The rollout of IPO profiles follows the disappointing launch performance of Arrow Lake, where some chips underperformed compared to their earlier versions in certain situations. Intel has been striving to correct these issues through firmware and microcode updates since December, although testing has revealed inconsistent outcomes from these updates.

    Global Implications

    There are speculations that Intel may introduce similar “opt-in” BIOS settings for Arrow Lake processors worldwide in the future, suggesting that the current IPO program could be a test run for a larger feature set. If this initiative proves successful and widely embraced, it could enhance the appeal of Arrow Lake systems—particularly pre-built ones—against competitors like AMD’s Ryzen 9000 series.

    At this time, the IPO initiative is limited to the Chinese market. Vendors like Maxsun are marketing PCs that come with this optimization, with warranty services reportedly managed by the retailer. Information about global launch plans is still limited as Intel works to improve Arrow Lake’s performance further.

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  • Xiaomi Unveils 10-in-1 Type-C Hub: USB 3.0, 4K HDMI, 100W Charging

    Xiaomi Unveils 10-in-1 Type-C Hub: USB 3.0, 4K HDMI, 100W Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi’s new 10-in-1 Type-C expansion dock is set to launch via crowdfunding on April 16, priced at 199 yuan ($27) and early backers can get it for 179 yuan ($24).

    2. The hub features a compact and travel-friendly design, made from durable aluminum, and weighs only 144 grams.

    3. Connectivity options include three USB-A 3.0 ports, one USB-C 3.0 port, an HDMI 2.0 port supporting 4K@60Hz, a Gigabit Ethernet port, SD/TF card slots, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a PD-compatible Type-C input.

    4. Data transfer rates can reach up to 5Gbps on USB 3.0 ports, with the USB-C PD input allowing fast charging up to 100W, delivering 90W to laptops while reserving 10W for accessories.

    5. The hub is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android devices, but requires a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort 1.4 and PD 3.0 for full functionality.


    Xiaomi has presented a new Type-C expansion dock that includes 10-in-1 functionality, aimed at users who need extra ports in a small package. This device will be available through crowdfunding starting on April 16 at 10:00 AM on Xiaomi Mall and Youpin, with a price tag of 199 yuan ($27). Early backers can snag it for just 179 yuan ($24).

    Specifications of the Xiaomi 10-in-1 Type-C Hub

    This hub features a compact design that is also travel-friendly, crafted from durable aluminum and equipped with braided cables. Weighing in at only 144 grams, it’s perfect for both daily use and travel purposes.

    Connectivity Options

    On the connectivity side, it boasts a robust set of features: three USB-A 3.0 ports, a USB-C 3.0 port, an HDMI 2.0 port that supports 4K@60Hz, a Gigabit Ethernet port, SD and TF card slots (note that they can’t be used at the same time), a 3.5mm audio jack, and a PD-compatible Type-C input. This means users can connect multiple devices, enjoy high-speed internet, output to an external monitor, and even access SD cards from cameras—all through one cable.

    Data transfer rates can reach up to 5Gbps on the USB 3.0 ports, and the USB-C PD input allows for fast charging up to 100W. In practice, it can deliver 90W to your laptop while reserving 10W for accessories.

    Audio and Compatibility

    For audio, the 3.5mm jack is versatile, supporting headphone output and microphone input, along with in-line controls—ideal for video calls or just listening to music. The hub is widely compatible; it works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android while supporting plug-and-play and hot-swapping features.

    Just one important note—your device must have a fully functional USB-C port that supports DisplayPort 1.4 and PD 3.0 to utilize all the hub’s capabilities. If it doesn’t meet these standards, some features may be limited.

    Xiaomi has also rolled out two new home appliances: an efficient central air conditioner with AI controls and an integrated air purifier, as well as an affordable compact refrigerator that delivers good performance without breaking the bank.

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  • AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Delivers Core i9-14900HX Power in Laptops

    AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Delivers Core i9-14900HX Power in Laptops

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Core i9-14900HX is a powerful mobile processor but feels outdated compared to AMD’s newer Zen 5 processors, like the Ryzen AI Max+ 395.
    2. Performance between the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and Core i9-14900HX is close in multi-thread tasks, despite differences in device sizes.
    3. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 includes additional features like a built-in NPU and Radeon GPU, enhancing its overall value.
    4. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 has high power consumption, requiring over 100 W for intensive tasks, which is almost double that of standard U-series laptops.
    5. While the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 lags in single-thread performance by up to 15% compared to the Core i9-14900HX, it still competes well in CPU-intensive tasks for thinner devices.


    The Core i9-14900HX is among the most powerful mobile processors from Intel, typically seen in large gaming laptops such as the 18-inch Asus ROG Strix Scar and the 18-inch MSI Titan. However, it’s starting to feel a bit outdated due to AMD’s newer Zen 5 processors. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 is a prime example of this, as it provides significant improvements across various aspects.

    Performance Comparison

    Our charts below illustrate how the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, found in smaller devices like the 13-inch Asus ROG Flow Z13 and the 14-inch HP ZBook Ultra G1a 14, compares to the much larger laptops equipped with the Core i9-14900HX. Despite the stark difference in screen sizes, the raw multi-thread performance between the AMD and Intel chips is remarkably close, differing only by a few percentage points on average. As of now, there are no 14-inch laptops available that feature the Core i9-14900HX processor.

    Additional Features

    The AMD CPU comes with extra features that the Intel chip lacks, enhancing its value. It includes a built-in 50 TOPS NPU and a Radeon RX 8060S, making it ready for CoPilot and gaming, respectively. In contrast, laptops powered by the Core i9-14900HX are typically paired with a discrete Nvidia GPU to compensate for its less capable integrated GPU and absence of an integrated NPU.

    Power Consumption and Performance

    While the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 offers impressive performance, it can be quite power-intensive. It requires just over 100 W when running Prime95 on our ZBook Ultra G1a 14, which is nearly double the energy consumption of most U-series 14-inch laptops. Its single-thread performance lags behind, falling short by up to 15 percent in comparison to the Core i9-14900HX. Nonetheless, its capacity to compete with larger 18-inch gaming laptops from 2024 in CPU-intensive tasks is impressive for those seeking thin-and-light alternatives.

  • NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon: High-Performance Mini-PC for AI Tasks

    NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon: High-Performance Mini-PC for AI Tasks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Simply NUC has launched the NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon, available in Tall (54 mm) and Slim (37 mm) chassis models.
    2. The mini-PC offers various processor options, with the highest being the Intel Core Ultra 7 265H, featuring impressive CPU and AI performance.
    3. The NUC systems support up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and include one M.2 2280 and one M.2 2242 SSD slot.
    4. All models come with Wi-Fi 7, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and two HDMI 2.1 outputs for connectivity.
    5. The starting price for the NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon is $789, with expected shipping in the second quarter of the year.


    Simply NUC, a company we’ve talked about before, has just added a new member to its compact PC family: the NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon. This device will come in a few different versions, including two types of chassis: the Tall and Slim models. The Tall model stands at 54 mm (2.13 in) high, while the Slim version is shorter at 37 mm (1.46 in). Both models share the same base size of 117 x 112 mm (4.61 x 4.41 in). Users can choose from various processors for their mini-PC systems. The highest-end version boasts an Intel Core Ultra 7 265H, which not only delivers impressive CPU performance but also includes an NPU that can achieve up to 99 TOPS in AI performance. This feature allows users to train AI models directly on the device, enhancing data security. Other processor choices include the Intel Core Ultra 5 225H, Ultra 5 235H, and Ultra 7 255H, along with the non-Ultra Intel Core 7 240H, Core 5 210H, and Core 3 100U.

    Memory and Storage Options

    The NUC systems come equipped with two DDR5 memory slots, allowing for up to 96 GB of RAM. They can also support one M.2 2280 and one M.2 2242 SSD. For models featuring an Ultra processor, the primary SSD connects through four PCIe 5.0 lanes. Additionally, all versions have Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5 Gbps Ethernet to ensure solid network connectivity. The NUC 15 Pro Cyber Canyon includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports and two HDMI 2.1 outputs, making it easy to connect multiple monitors. The starting price for these devices is $789, and they are expected to ship in the second quarter of this year.

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  • Toggle Unique Flexible RAM Features of AMD Ryzen AI Max Series

    Toggle Unique Flexible RAM Features of AMD Ryzen AI Max Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ryzen AI Max features a faster Radeon 8060S GPU and supports up to 128 GB of soldered LPDDR5x RAM.
    2. Users can allocate RAM for the GPU and system through BIOS settings, enhancing flexibility for different needs.
    3. Accessing the BIOS involves pressing ‘Esc’ at boot, navigating to ‘BIOS Setup’, and adjusting ‘Video memory size’ under the ‘Advanced’ tab.
    4. Users can choose video memory from 512 MB up to 96 GB, impacting GPU performance and system RAM availability.
    5. The adaptable RAM/VRAM feature caters to different user needs, but a more accessible toggle could improve usability.


    Unlike the standard Ryzen AI 9 series, the Ryzen AI Max features a much faster Radeon 8060S GPU that demands more power and comes with soldered LPDDR5x RAM, which can reach up to 128 GB. This is particularly noteworthy because it enables compact models, like the HP ZBook Ultra G1a 14, to have an impressive amount of RAM for such a small 14-inch screen. Due to this large capacity, AMD allows users to specify how much RAM is allocated for the GPU and how much is reserved for the system through the BIOS settings.

    Accessing the BIOS

    To utilize this interesting feature, we can take the HP ZBook as our test unit. By pressing ‘Esc’ when the device boots up, you can open the ‘Startup Menu’ as depicted in the image below. Users then need to navigate to ‘BIOS Setup’, go to the ‘Advanced’ tab, and select ‘Video memory size’. The default setting is 64 GB, but users have the flexibility to choose from 512 MB up to 96 GB.

    Adjusting Video Memory

    After adjusting the settings, if you check GPU-Z, you’ll see the updated RAM pool available for the Radeon GPU. In this instance, we changed the video memory to 96 GB or 98304 MB, as indicated in GPU-Z, leaving 32 GB for the system to use.

    User Flexibility

    This adaptable RAM/VRAM feature can be quite useful based on what the user needs or who the target audience is. Those heavy-duty workstation users might want to allocate as much VRAM as they can, whereas gaming setups that also utilize the Ryzen AI Max processor will likely be satisfied with the 24 GB configuration. However, since this setting is somewhat hidden under multiple submenus, having a more obvious toggle could make it easier for more users to find and use this feature.


  • GMKtec NucBox K10 Mini PC: Core i9, 64GB RAM Launch Discount

    GMKtec NucBox K10 Mini PC: Core i9, 64GB RAM Launch Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. GMKtec’s NucBox K10 mini PC starts at $419 for the barebone version and offers higher configurations up to $589.
    2. It features an Intel Core i9-13900HK processor with 14 cores, providing strong performance for demanding tasks.
    3. The mini PC supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and can achieve clock speeds of 5,200MHz.
    4. Connectivity options include WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, a 2.5Gbit/s Ethernet port, and multiple ports for SSDs and peripherals.
    5. The NucBox K10 lacks a dedicated graphics card and an OCuLink port for external GPUs.


    GMKtec has launched the NucBox K10 mini PC in the US. You can buy it directly from the company’s official online store, with prices starting at $419 for the barebone version, which does not include memory, an SSD, or an operating system. The version with 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD is priced at $519 and is also available on Amazon. For those wanting the highest specs, the model with 64GB RAM is offered at $589.

    Performance Specs

    This mini PC is powered by an Intel Core i9-13900HK, which is an Alder Lake chipset from 2023, featuring 14 cores that should provide strong performance even for demanding tasks. One thing to note is that the NucBox K10 lacks a dedicated graphics card and does not have an OCuLink port for external GPUs. On the upside, it supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and can reach clock speeds of 5,200MHz.

    Connectivity Features

    The NucBox K10 comes with easily noticeable external WiFi antennas linked to an AX201 module that also offers Bluetooth 5.2 support. It includes an Ethernet port with a speed of 2.5Gbit/s. Additionally, this mini PC can accommodate three M.2 2280 SSDs, allowing for significant local data storage. Other connectivity options found on the NucBox K10 are USB Type-C, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and four USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 ports each.

    GMKtec’s new product is sure to appeal to users looking for compact computing power.

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