GEEKOM A7 Review – A Powerful Mini PC with Only Minor Downsides

I’ve been exploring whether the GEEKOM A7 is the ultimate mini PC, and simply put – it’s impressive. With its AMD’s 7th generation R9 processor, 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, and a hefty 2 TB NVMe SSD, it’s a powerhouse.

The variety of ports and the ability to support up to 4 displays is fantastic. However, it does face thermal throttling under heavy gaming, which can affect performance.

Its sleek design, low power consumption, and the fact it remains quiet even under load are big pluses. While it’s not without its flaws, the GEEKOM A7 has a lot to offer. Allow me to share more insights on this.

Unboxing

The A7 comes included with all you need and nothing more. GEEKOM included a single HDMI cable, power supply, user manual, and thank you card. See the video below:

Sleek Compact Design

Remarkably, the GEEKOM A7 Mini PC‘s ultra-thin and portable design redefines the concept of space efficiency in modern computing environments. Carrying dimensions of only 112.4 x 112.4 x 37 mm, and tipping the scale at a mere 414g, this ultra-slim and compact form factor is a demonstration of the innovative engineering behind its development.

Designed to optimize workspace without compromising performance, the GEEKOM A7 Mini PC is an ideal solution for users with limited desk space. Its space-saving design does not only contribute to a clutter-free work area but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of any setup.

I really love how the power supply is minimal. It’s about half the size of other mini PCs I’ve tested in the past, which is a nice bonus that keeps aesthetics tidy.

But do keep in mind, there is no VESA mounting option available. As with many of GEEKOM’s other mini PCs, VESA mounting allows for installation on the back of a monitor. With this absence, it’s crucial to keep in mind if you’re expecting the option to cleanly mount it.

Specifications

Getting into the heart of the GEEKOM A7‘s specifications, we find a mini PC that’s a powerhouse wrapped in an anodized aluminum alloy case, boasting AMD’s 7th generation Flagship R9 7940 HS processor.

This isn’t just any mini PC; it’s equipped with 32 GB of DDR5 5600 RAM and a whopping 2 TB NVMe SSD, ensuring blistering speeds for both work and play.

Priced at $849, with an extra coupon available (nerdtechya7) for a $20 discount, it offers great value. The metal case, with its Apple-like design, isn’t just about looks – it contributes to the system’s quiet operation, although it’s worth noting the RAM lacks dedicated cooling.

Despite this, the GEEKOM A7 comes with a reassuring 3-year warranty, standing out in a crowded market where most mini PCs are typically covered by a 1-year warranty.

Connectivity and Ports

Let’s now turn our attention to its connectivity and ports. This aspect is vital for ensuring that the device can seamlessly integrate into any workspace or home setup. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available:

Location	Connectivity Options
Front	2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1 x 3.5mm Aux headphone jack, 1 x power button
Sides	SD card reader
Back	1 x USB 4 Gen3 Type-C, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1 x DC in, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x RJ45 2.5Gbps, 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A

The incorporation of Realtek’s 2.5 GB LAN, alongside Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, guarantees fast and reliable internet connections, crucial for both work and play. Running Windows 11 Pro out of the box, it offers a familiar yet powerful operating system right from the start.

I tested both the 6E WiFi and Bluetooth 5.2 connection and found both connectivity options to work well. My earbuds and wireless headset paired without any qualms. No issues to report. The same was true with its vast array of USB ports. Transfer speeds were on par with the expectations I had.

One thing I do love is the inclusion of an SD card reader. It’s conveniently located on the side and offers removable storage expansion. Since there’s only one internal bay for an SSD, this is nice to have.

In terms of display options, it can support up to four monitors, each displaying up to 4K resolution. If you have it dedicated to a single screen, 8K resolution is supported. Personally, I hooked it up to a single 8K display and it worked flawlessly. While being hooked up to my triple 4k monitors, it functioned perfectly.

The assortment of available ports ensures that whether you’re looking to connect multiple displays, peripherals, or need high-speed internet access, the GEEKOM A7 is ready for it. It’s designed to be the centerpiece of your digital workspace, offering both variety and flexibility in connectivity.

Performance Benchmarks

Let’s take a closer look at the GEEKOM A7’s performance benchmarks to understand how it stacks up in real-world use.

With its flagship AMD R9 7940 HS processor, this Mini PC delivers single-core performance that’s close to the best minis I’ve reviewed, making it a solid choice for both work and play.

In multicore tasks, it’s on par with Intel-based mini PCs, showcasing its ability to handle demanding applications smoothly.

However, during my gaming tests at 1080p and 1440p resolutions, I noticed thermal throttling issues that slightly marred the experience in maximum performance mode. This didn’t ruin gaming entirely, but it did lead to varying frame rates across different titles.

Task	Performance	Notes
1080p Gaming	Good	Some thermal throttling
1440p Gaming	Fair	Requires eGPU for best experience
Multitasking	Excellent	Handles multiple apps smoothly

Cooling and Power Efficiency

One of the GEEKOM A7’s standout features is its cooling system, which maintains quiet operation despite its powerful performance. This is important because powerful components like the AMD R9 7940 HS can generate significant heat.

The A7’s cooling system guarantees that during gaming sessions or heavy multitasking, it remains cool and quiet, mostly avoiding the common issue of thermal throttling that can hamper performance. The only time I noticed slight degradation in the performance was while playing Valorant in 1440p with high settings.

However, its power efficiency is remarkable. At idle, the A7 draws a mere 8 watts, showcasing its ability to balance performance with energy conservation.

But its maximum CPU temperature can vary considerably with the chosen power mode.

I’ve found that sticking to the normal power mode is the best strategy to sidestep any thermal issues, ensuring a smoother operation. Despite its quiet operation and efficient cooling system, there’s a noticeable absence of cooling for the RAM, which could potentially lead to thermal throttling under heavy loads.

This oversight suggests there’s room for improvement in managing the device’s thermal performance, especially during intensive tasks or extended, high-end gaming sessions.

Final Verdict

The GEEKOM A7, with its flagship AMD R9 7940 HS, 32 GB DDR5 RAM, and a 2 TB NVMe SSD, presents a compelling case for those in need of high performance in a compact package. Its quiet operation and sleek design are definite pluses.

However, the observed thermal throttling and lack of RAM cooling are concerns that can’t be completely ignored. For users prioritizing performance and aesthetics, the A7 is worth considering, especially with its competitive pricing and 3-year warranty.

Just keep in mind the potential need for additional cooling solutions to guarantee peak performance with maxed out settings. And if you’re expecting to mount it on the back of your monitor, be aware that there is no VESA mounting option available.