FINALLY a Mini PC That Can GAME! GEEKOM AX8 Pro Packs Tech That Checks All the Boxes

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.

1. Carefully open the packaging and remove the mini PC.
2. 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.

• Teardown Process:

  1. Remove the screws from the bottom panel.
  2. Gently lift the panel to access the internal components.

• 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.