GEEKOM A8: Tiny PC, Big Performance (Review Part 1)
Introduction
The GEEKOM A8 is a mini PC powered by AMD Ryzen processors, boasting strong performance in a compact size. This first part of our review covers the A8's specifications, unboxing experience, teardown process, and initial boot with Windows 11.
By Technetbook
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS (or Ryzen 7 8845HS) |
| CPU Cores/Threads | 8 cores / 16 threads |
| CPU Speed | 4.0 GHz base, up to 5.2 GHz turbo |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon 780M Graphics |
| AI Performance | NPU: 16 TOPS, Total: 39 TOPS |
| Memory | Up to 64GB DDR5-5600 |
| Storage | M.2 2280 SSD (PCIe Gen4 x4 up to 2TB or SATA III up to 1TB) |
| Display Outputs | 2x HDMI 2.0 ports, 2x USB-C ports with DisplayPort Alt Mode |
| Networking | 2.5GbE LAN, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| USB Ports | 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x USB4 Type-C, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x USB 2.0 Type-A |
| Dimensions | 112 x 112 x 37 mm |
Unboxing
The GEEKOM A8 arrives in a new retail package with the A8 mini PC itself, a 120W power supply, power cord, HDMI cable, VESA mount, user guide, and Thank You card.
Teardown
While previous GEEKOM mini PCs were easier to open, the A8 requires more caution. The bottom cover uses sticky pads and screws, and requires squeezing the sides for a small opening. There's a risk of damaging the antenna connected to the cover. Accessing the motherboard requires removing a metal plate with additional screws.
First Boot to Windows 11
The A8 booted up Windows 11 Pro without issues, recognizing the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor, 32GB RAM, and the pre-installed Windows 11 Pro 23H2. WiFi connectivity worked despite a missing antenna (which will be replaced for further testing).
GEEKOM A8: Powerful Mini PC with Upgradeable Guts
This first part provides a general overview of the GEEKOM A8. The mini PC boasts impressive specs with AMD Ryzen processors and ample RAM for powerful performance. While the teardown process requires more care than previous models, the A8 offers easy access to upgrade memory and storage. The next parts of the review will delve deeper into Windows 11 Pro performance and explore how the A8 handles Ubuntu 24.04.
Pricing and Availability
The reviewed model (Ryzen 9 8945HS, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD) can be pre-ordered on the GEEKOM store for $899. The Ryzen 7 model with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD costs $749. Discount codes might be available (check comments section). Both models are also listed on GEEKOM's Amazon store.