FINALLY a Mini PC That Can GAME! GEEKOM AX8 Pro Packs Tech That Checks All the Boxes
Table of Contents
Introduction
This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of the GEEKOM AX8 Pro mini PC, showcasing its gaming capabilities and technical specifications. It's designed for anyone interested in purchasing a compact yet powerful gaming solution. Whether you're a casual gamer or someone looking for a capable desktop alternative, this guide will help you understand the GEEKOM AX8 Pro's features and performance.
Step 1: Understand the Specifications
Before investing in the GEEKOM AX8 Pro, familiarize yourself with its key specifications to ensure it meets your gaming and productivity needs.
- Processor: AMD Ryzen™ 9 8945HS
- Graphics: AMD Radeon™ 780M integrated GPU
- Memory: 32GB Dual-channel DDR5 at 5600MT/s
- Storage: M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x 4 SSD, expandable up to 2TB
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth® 5.2
Practical Advice
- Check if these specs align with your gaming requirements, especially if you plan to run demanding applications or games.
Step 2: Evaluate Who Should Buy This Mini PC
Consider your gaming and usage habits to determine if the GEEKOM AX8 Pro is right for you.
- Casual Gamers: Ideal for those who enjoy light to moderate gaming without needing a full-sized PC.
- Content Creators: Suitable for video editing and multitasking due to its robust RAM and processor.
- Emulation Enthusiasts: Excellent choice for running PS2 and PS3 emulators.
Practical Advice
- Think about your typical usage scenarios to see if this mini PC fits your lifestyle, especially if space-saving is a priority.
Step 3: Unboxing and Exploring Ports
Upon receiving the GEEKOM AX8 Pro, follow this unboxing process to familiarize yourself with the device and its ports.
- Carefully open the packaging and remove the mini PC.
- Identify the various ports:
- USB-C
- HDMI
- Ethernet
- Audio jack
- USB-A ports
Practical Advice
- Take note of the port layout to plan your peripheral connections and setup.
Step 4: Teardown and Upgradability
Understanding the upgradability of the GEEKOM AX8 Pro is crucial for long-term performance.
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Teardown Process:
- Remove the screws from the bottom panel.
- Gently lift the panel to access the internal components.
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Upgrade Options:
- RAM and storage can be upgraded easily, allowing for future enhancements.
Practical Advice
- Regularly check for firmware updates and consider upgrading components if your requirements change.
Step 5: Assessing Software and Noise Levels
Evaluate the software experience and fan noise to ensure a comfortable user experience.
- Software: Pre-installed operating system and essential software tools.
- Fan Noise: Monitor the noise levels during heavy usage to ensure it meets your tolerance levels.
Practical Advice
- If fan noise is an issue, consider investing in external cooling solutions or optimizing the PC's performance settings.
Step 6: Performance Testing with Benchmarks
Test the performance of the GEEKOM AX8 Pro using popular benchmarking applications.
- Cinebench: Assess CPU performance.
- Monitor temperatures during benchmarking to evaluate thermal management.
Practical Advice
- Use benchmarking results to gauge the performance of your mini PC compared to other options in the market.
Step 7: Gaming Performance
Experience the gaming capabilities of the GEEKOM AX8 Pro by testing various titles.
- Games to Try:
- Warzone
- CS2
- CyberPunk
- GTA V
Practical Tips
- Start with settings optimized for performance to assess the gaming experience before adjusting for higher graphics.
Conclusion
The GEEKOM AX8 Pro is a versatile mini PC that excels in gaming and productivity. By understanding its specifications, exploring its features, and testing its performance, you can make an informed decision. If you're looking for a compact gaming solution that doesn't compromise on power, the GEEKOM AX8 Pro is worth considering.