A small gaming PC is easiest to understand in two parts. Its built-in graphics decide what it can play on its own. An OCuLink or USB4 port can connect an external graphics setup later, but that adds a dock, power supply, card and desk space. The three machines here use Radeon 780M integrated graphics; two also include OCuLink.
| Model | Built-in graphics | External-GPU route | Distinguishing ports |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beelink SER8 | Radeon 780M | USB4 | HDMI, DisplayPort, one USB4 |
| MINISFORUM UM890 Pro | Radeon 780M | OCuLink or USB4 | Two USB4, dual 2.5GbE |
| GMKtec K8 Plus | Radeon 780M | OCuLink or USB4 | OCuLink, two USB4, dual 2.5GbE |
Beelink SER8: play on the integrated GPU
The SER8’s Ryzen 7 8745HS and Radeon 780M make it the simplest of these three to choose if no external GPU is planned. Its 32GB DDR5/1TB Amazon configuration provides ample memory and storage for a mixed work-and-games desktop. The manufacturer’s specification lists HDMI, DisplayPort and USB4, but no OCuLink port. Expect to adjust resolution or graphics settings in demanding games; a 780M is integrated graphics, not a replacement for a current desktop gaming card.
Beelink SER8 (Ryzen 7 8745HS, 32GB/1TB)
Processor: Ryzen 7 8745HS
Graphics: Radeon 780M
Listed configuration: 32GB DDR5 / 1TB SSD
MINISFORUM UM890 Pro: more ports for the setup
The UM890 Pro has a Ryzen 9 8945HS and the same Radeon 780M graphics family. Its value is the extra connectivity: two USB4 ports, OCuLink, HDMI, DisplayPort and dual 2.5GbE. If you already have an OCuLink GPU dock or plan to buy one, that port is the meaningful difference from the SER8. A graphics dock is a separate purchase; the linked 32GB/1TB listing is for the mini PC itself.
MINISFORUM UM890 Pro (Ryzen 9 8945HS, 32GB/1TB)
Processor: Ryzen 9 8945HS
Graphics: Radeon 780M
Listed configuration: 32GB DDR5 / 1TB SSD
GMKtec K8 Plus: another OCuLink option
The K8 Plus uses a Ryzen 7 8845HS with Radeon 780M. GMKtec lists two USB4 ports, two 2.5GbE ports and PCIe 4.0 ×4 OCuLink. Its own instructions say OCuLink is not hot-pluggable: power the machine off before connecting or disconnecting the cable. Compare the current Amazon AU price with the UM890 Pro, then inspect the exact RAM/SSD version; both can occupy the same role.
GMKtec NucBox K8 Plus (Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB/1TB)
Processor: Ryzen 7 8845HS
Graphics: Radeon 780M
Listed configuration: 32GB DDR5 / 1TB SSD
Decide whether you really need an external GPU
For lighter PC games, older titles and game streaming, try the built-in GPU first. An external GPU makes sense if you need higher settings in demanding 3D games and already accept the added cost and cables. If that is your main plan from day one, price the mini PC, dock, power supply and card together against a conventional gaming desktop. Check the game’s own system requirements and independent benchmarks for the exact title; processor branding alone cannot promise a frame rate.