The GEEKOM IT13 Max pairs an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H with a rare-for-this-size spread of connections, including two USB4 ports, two HDMI ports and dual 2.5GbE. It is a capable compact Windows PC for productivity and CPU-heavy work, but its integrated graphics, older processor generation, configuration-dependent memory and fan noise under load make it a less convincing choice for graphics-heavy work. The right version depends as much on whether you value upgradeable RAM or a larger included SSD as on the processor.
What the GEEKOM IT13 Max is—and what it is not
The IT13 Max is a compact Windows mini PC built around Intel’s Core Ultra 9 185H and integrated Intel Arc graphics. Reviews describe it as capable for productivity and some creative workloads, but it is not a discrete-GPU workstation. That distinction matters: a powerful CPU can help with tasks such as compiling, encoding or heavy multitasking, but it does not make the system equivalent to a PC with a dedicated graphics card for demanding games or GPU-bound creative software.
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PCWorld characterized it as an unusually powerful mini workstation while noting that the 185H is not the current processor generation. Tom’s Hardware likewise points to the older-generation processor as a consideration for the 2026 model. The CPU remains substantial, but buyers choosing a system for longevity or newer platform features should weigh its generation alongside its benchmark performance. PCWorld’s review and Tom’s Hardware’s 2026 review discuss those trade-offs.
Which memory and storage configuration should you choose?
GEEKOM’s UK product listing describes two materially different memory-and-storage configurations. The specifications are regional manufacturer listings, not a guarantee that every retailer or market sells identical SKUs. Confirm the exact memory type and SSD capacity on the offer you intend to buy.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Listed configuration | Memory | Included storage | Upgrade implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 GB + 1 TB | DDR5 SO-DIMM; manufacturer lists upgradeability up to 96 GB | 1 TB SSD | Replaceable SO-DIMM memory gives a path to expand RAM, subject to the system’s stated limit. |
| 24 GB + 500 GB | LPDDR5 onboard memory | 500 GB SSD | Memory is soldered, so it cannot be upgraded like SO-DIMM memory. |
The UK listing specifies one M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 SSD slot, with support listed up to 4 TB, and one M.2 2242 SATA III slot, with support listed up to 2 TB. These are manufacturer-stated capacities for that listing; check regional product details and the seller’s SKU before relying on them. The 24 GB onboard-memory configuration is also listed with a 500 GB drive, which may be limiting if you keep large projects or a substantial game library locally. GEEKOM’s UK product page provides the configuration details.
TechRadar’s review unit had 24 GB LPDDR5 rated at 6,400 MT/s and a 500 GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD. That reviewed configuration should not be confused with the separately listed 16 GB SO-DIMM/1 TB option. TechRadar’s review identifies the configuration it tested.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Are the ports and display connections a real advantage?
Yes, if your desk or network actually uses them. The IT13 Max’s wired connectivity is a standout: it combines USB4, HDMI, dual 2.5GbE and multiple USB-A ports in a compact system. The reported layout is:
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| Location | Connections |
|---|---|
| Front | Four USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports and a 3.5 mm audio jack |
| Rear | Two USB4 Type-C ports, two HDMI 2.0 ports, one USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port, one USB 2.0 Type-A port, two 2.5GbE RJ45 ports and DC input |
| Other | Full-size SD card reader and Kensington lock slot |
The two USB4 ports support DisplayPort Alt Mode. Tom’s Hardware notes that one USB4 port can also accept power input. The combination of two HDMI outputs and two USB4 display-capable ports gives the system substantial monitor flexibility: CNX Software reports support for up to four independent displays and tested a four-display setup on its review unit. That is evidence from that specific setup, not a promise that every monitor arrangement will work identically; resolution, refresh rate, cables and adapters can affect results. CNX Software also tested the USB ports with an external NVMe enclosure and reported that each worked as advertised. CNX Software’s Windows review details its display and port testing.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 are also listed for the reviewed system. Dual Ethernet is useful for people with a multi-gig network, separate network segments or a wired appliance setup; it is less valuable if you will use only Wi-Fi. The practical benefit of the port count depends on the peripherals and monitors you need to attach, rather than the number of connectors alone.
How fast is it in reviews?
Published results suggest strong CPU performance for a mini PC, but they come from different reviewers and test setups. Treat each set as a report of that reviewer’s sample—not as a controlled head-to-head comparison. In particular, benchmark versions, power modes and test methods may differ.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Reviewer and conditions | Reported results |
|---|---|
| CNX Software, Windows 11 Pro, Best performance mode, 28–30°C ambient temperature; 2026 review | PCMark 10: 7,040; 3DMark Fire Strike: 7,906; PassMark PerformanceTest 11: 6,933.3; Cinebench R23: 14,895 multicore and 1,792 single-core. Included SSD: 5,445.67 MB/s sequential read and 3,280.20 MB/s write. |
| TechRadar, 2026 review; reviewed configuration had 24 GB LPDDR5 and a 500 GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD | Geekbench CPU: 13,150 multi-core and 2,402 single-core; PCMark overall: 7,526; Cinebench R23: 14,934 multi-core and 1,666 single-core. CrystalDiskMark: 5,466.68 MB/s read and 3,289.07 MB/s write. |
CNX Software’s figures are tied to its Windows 11 Pro test conditions; TechRadar’s results are from its own review and test methods. Even where the benchmark name is shared, the results should not be read as a direct ranking. The numbers support the view that the system has substantial CPU capability and a fast included NVMe drive, but they do not establish how it will perform in every sustained workload, game or application. Read CNX Software’s test report and TechRadar’s review for the respective results.
What are the main compromises?
Integrated graphics limit gaming and GPU-heavy work
Intel Arc graphics are integrated rather than a discrete GPU. That makes the IT13 Max more suitable for general desktop use and lighter creative tasks than for demanding modern games, 3D work or GPU-intensive editing. The provided reviews do not establish a universal gaming frame rate, so performance will depend on the title, settings and workload. TechRadar specifically cautions that the 24 GB soldered-memory configuration can constrain demanding graphics work.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
The two configurations make different upgrade bets
The 16 GB SO-DIMM/1 TB version favors memory upgradeability and more space out of the box. The 24 GB onboard LPDDR5/500 GB version starts with more memory and faster-rated LPDDR5 in TechRadar’s reviewed unit, but its RAM is soldered and the included SSD is smaller. Neither configuration is automatically better: choose based on whether you need to expand memory later or would rather start with a larger drive.
Fan noise matters under heavier load
TechRadar reports high fan noise under heavier workloads. That matters if the mini PC will sit close to you during sustained CPU-intensive tasks. The available reviews do not quantify noise under a standardized measurement, so consider this a qualitative review finding rather than a decibel rating.
Processor generation is part of the value calculation
The Core Ultra 9 185H can deliver substantial computing power, but it is an older-generation processor choice in a 2026 product. If you mainly need current connectivity and strong general-purpose CPU performance in a small chassis, that may be acceptable. If you are buying specifically for the newest platform generation or long-term graphics capability, the processor’s age and integrated GPU deserve more weight.
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Who should consider the IT13 Max?
- Good fit: people who need a compact Windows computer with extensive wired connectivity, several monitor options, dual 2.5GbE, and strong productivity or CPU-heavy performance.
- Consider carefully: buyers who need quiet operation during sustained heavy work, or who expect the 24 GB onboard-memory model to support future RAM expansion.
- Look elsewhere if: your priority is demanding gaming or GPU-bound creative work that calls for a discrete graphics card.
- Check before ordering: the exact regional SKU, RAM type, SSD capacity, warranty and price. Published prices are time- and market-specific: Tom’s Hardware listed $799 at its 2026 review publication, while PCWorld cited €799 and an Amazon listing at €798 at its own 2026 review publication. Those are historical review-time figures, not current quotes.
How to decide against another mini PC or small desktop
There is no controlled head-to-head comparison here against one named competitor, so use your actual requirements rather than assuming the IT13 Max wins on raw benchmark totals. Compare alternatives on the factors that will affect your use:
Quick Recap
- CPU and generation: prioritize the processor and sustained performance for your applications, not just the model name or a single score.
- Graphics: determine whether integrated graphics are enough for your games or creative software.
- Memory and storage: compare soldered memory with upgradeable SO-DIMMs, and include the cost and effort of adding storage if the chosen SKU is too small.
- Connectivity: count the connections you will actually use—especially USB4, HDMI, dual 2.5GbE and support for your display setup.
- Noise: account for the sound level in your work environment and the workload you expect to run for long periods.
- Regional terms: compare the current local price, warranty and seller’s exact configuration rather than relying on review-time prices or specifications from another market.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
