ultimateimp – The GMKtec EVO-X3 is primarily designed as a powerful Mini PC for local artificial intelligence workloads. However, its AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU also gives the compact system considerable gaming capabilities. The processor combines 16 Zen 5 cores with a Radeon 8060S integrated GPU. When paired with SteamOS, the EVO-X3 reportedly delivers strong performance in several demanding AAA games.
ETA Prime recently tested the EVO-X3 in synthetic and gaming workloads. The tested system features the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor and 128GB of RAM. The Mini PC performed strongly across both types of testing. ETA Prime has now evaluated the same hardware with SteamOS to examine its potential as a dedicated gaming system.
SteamOS appears to work well with the EVO-X3’s hardware configuration. Linux-based operating systems can use fewer background resources than Windows in certain situations. This can leave additional system resources available for games. Linux also provides strong support for gaming software and emulation tools such as RPCS3.
The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 can operate with a maximum configurable TDP of 140W. Its 16-core Zen 5 design provides substantial processing power for demanding games and applications. The integrated Radeon 8060S handles graphics workloads without requiring a dedicated GPU. The APU can also access a large portion of the system’s memory.
The tested configuration reportedly allocates 96GB of memory to the APU. This provides the integrated graphics processor with an unusually large memory pool. Such capacity can help support demanding gaming workloads and high-resolution graphics settings.
The combination produces strong results in several AAA titles at 1440p. According to ETA Prime’s testing, the EVO-X3 can exceed 60 FPS with elevated graphics settings. Performance varies between games, but the results demonstrate the potential of AMD’s Strix Halo platform.
SteamOS Turns the EVO-X3 Into a Capable Gaming Mini PC
Spider-Man 2 provides another demanding test for the GMKtec EVO-X3. According to ETA Prime, the system averaged more than 85 FPS at 1440p. The game was tested with Very High graphics settings and FSR Quality mode. The result further demonstrates the capabilities of the Radeon 8060S.
The EVO-X3 therefore ranks among the more powerful Mini PCs available for gaming. Its performance comes from the combination of the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and Radeon 8060S. The large memory allocation also gives the integrated GPU substantial resources for demanding workloads.
The system’s thermal performance is another notable aspect of the hardware. Previous testing reportedly found that the EVO-X3 remains relatively cool despite its high performance. Effective cooling is particularly important for compact computers operating with high-power processors.
SteamOS changes the EVO-X3’s positioning by providing a gaming-focused software environment. Users can configure the Mini PC primarily for gaming instead of local AI workloads. SteamOS also provides direct access to a large library of compatible games.
However, the EVO-X3 has one major drawback for gaming-focused buyers. The 128GB configuration reportedly costs $3,799.99. That price makes the Mini PC extremely expensive when compared with conventional gaming desktops.
A dedicated gaming PC can provide considerably higher graphics performance for less money. Desktop systems with discrete GPUs generally outperform integrated graphics solutions in demanding games. They can also offer greater upgrade flexibility and better long-term gaming value.
The EVO-X3’s price becomes easier to understand when considering its AI capabilities. Its large memory capacity and powerful CPU are valuable for local AI workloads. Buyers who need both AI processing and gaming performance could therefore find the system more compelling.
For gaming alone, however, the price is difficult to justify. The Radeon 8060S delivers impressive 1440p results, but the overall system cost remains exceptionally high. A cheaper desktop with a dedicated graphics card would generally provide stronger gaming performance.
