GMKtec EVO-X2: Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC Beast is Coming
GMKtec is preparing to unleash a real beast with the EVO-X2. First announced last March, this is not just another wee computer. It is one of the very first mini PCs to feature AMD's high-powered Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chip, also known as "Strix Halo."
When Can You Get It? Launch Date and Price
GMKtec recently revealed that Chinese pre-orders for the EVO-X2 will start on April 7th, 2025. The launch price for the top-of-the-range model, featuring 128GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 2TB SSD, will be CNY 14,999 – roughly $2,066 USD.
This price is for the high-end specification. For comparison, their previous EVO-X1 model (with a Ryzen AI 9 HX 370) started at around $1,300 for a 32GB RAM version. Lower-priced EVO-X2 models with less RAM are likely to be available later.
EVO-X2 Standout Feature: Strix Halo Power
The AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chip with its onboard Radeon 8060S graphics is the main attraction. This iGPU has a 40 Compute Unit (CU) count. This is significantly more than the 16 CU count of the Radeon 890M found in AMD's Strix Point chips. Tests suggest this integrated graphics can deliver respectable 1440p gaming. This is impressive for a mini PC without a dedicated graphics card.
GMKtec claims this machine excels in AI tasks, outperforming even high-end desktops like the RTX 4090 in certain AI tests such as LM Studio. It is capable of running large AI models locally.
Cooling and Connectivity
To manage heat from the powerful chip, which can reach up to 140W peak performance, the EVO-X2 uses a cooling system with dual-turbo fans and a VC (Vapor Chamber) heat sink.
Connectivity is comprehensive. Ports include:
- Front: Power button, SD card reader, single 40Gbps USB-C port, two USB-A (presumably 3.x Gen), audio jack.
- Rear: Two slower USB-A (480Mbps), one HDMI 2.1, one DisplayPort 2.0, another 40Gbps USB-C port, one more USB-A (most probably 3.x Gen), a 2.5GbE Ethernet port, and the power connector.
For wireless, Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth are preinstalled.
Global Availability
The initial release targets China. Information regarding international pricing and availability is not yet announced. However, the GMKtec EVO-X2 is expected to enter the global market after its Chinese release. Further updates will follow.
