Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
View on Amazon
GEEKOM IT15 Mini PC: Ultra-Compact Intel Core Ultra 9 Performance for AI, Creation, and Multitasking
The GEEKOM IT15 is a compact desktop engineered for users who need laptop-class efficiency with desktop-grade expandability and sustained speed. Built around the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, the system focuses on three pillars: high single-thread responsiveness for everyday interaction, strong multi-thread throughput for parallel workloads, and on-device AI acceleration for modern creative and productivity tasks. Within a small, ruggedized chassis, the IT15 integrates fast DDR5 memory, PCIe Gen4 solid-state storage, Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5GbE networking, and multiple high-bandwidth display outputs. Together, these capabilities make the IT15 a flexible workhorse for editing, rendering, coding, data analysis, and content publishing from a footprint that fits under a monitor or mounts behind one.
Platform Overview
At its core, the IT15 features the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor (16 cores and 16 threads, boost clocks up to 5.4 GHz). This generation combines efficient and performance cores with an updated media and graphics engine for modern codecs and smooth UI across multiple monitors. The platform emphasizes low latency for interaction—launching apps, switching windows, and manipulating large documents—while maintaining the sustained throughput required by encoders, compilers, or batch processes. Complementing the CPU is a triple-engine AI approach: a dedicated NPU for low-power inferencing, a GPU with high TOPS throughput for larger models and vision tasks, and the CPU for general compute and frameworks that are not yet offload-optimized.
AI Acceleration and Practical Workflows
The IT15 is designed as a compact AI workstation. With an aggregate of up to 99 TOPS across NPU, GPU, and CPU engines, it supports local inference for assistants, image generation, upscaling, transcription, and vision pipelines. The NPU, rated at approximately 13 TOPS, excels at persistent background tasks such as smart meeting summaries, noise suppression, and real-time translation while consuming minimal power. The integrated Arc-class GPU contributes an estimated 77 TOPS of AI throughput and accelerates parallelizable operations like super-resolution, denoising, and transformer inference on quantized models. The CPU complements these engines with high scalar performance for pre- and post-processing, tokenization, and data orchestration. In practice, this hybrid design keeps the desktop responsive while AI tools run locally, reducing reliance on the cloud and improving privacy and latency.
Memory Architecture and Storage Throughput
Out of the box, the IT15 includes dual-channel 32 GB DDR5-5600 memory, upgradeable to 64 GB. Dual-channel operation is important for integrated GPUs and for CPU tasks that stream data continuously; it provides more bandwidth and lower frame-time variance than a single stick. For storage, a 2 TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD delivers high IOPS and sustained sequential transfers for quick project loads and snappy application installs. Users who need tiered storage can add an extra M.2 2242 SATA SSD for archives or scratch space. This layout supports typical professional pipelines: a primary high-speed project drive for active work, and a secondary volume for media ingestion, proxies, and backups.
Thermal Design and Acoustic Behavior
Sustained performance in small form factors depends on cooling strategy. The IT15 employs a high-speed fan, copper heat pipes, and a direct-contact CPU plate to move heat efficiently. Intake and exhaust paths are tuned to maintain airflow across hotspots while minimizing turbulence. The design targets quiet operation under typical productivity loads and controlled acoustics under heavy, long-duration tasks such as encoding or 3D baking. By transferring heat quickly from the CPU package to the heatsink and out of the chassis, the system maintains boost frequencies longer and avoids sudden thermal throttling. For users working in shared offices or studios, the acoustic profile helps keep the device unobtrusive on a desk or behind a display.
Chassis Strength and Durability
The enclosure centers on a PC+ABS metal-frame construction designed for structural rigidity and protection in tight setups. Rated for up to 200 kg of static pressure, the shell resists flex and better survives accidental knocks compared to thin plastic housings. The robust frame complements the cooling solution by providing additional thermal mass, while the compact outer dimensions help with cable management and VESA mounting. This focus on durability suits classrooms, front-of-house kiosks, and mobile production kits where hardware can be moved frequently.
Connectivity and I/O for Modern Desktops
The port selection covers common creator and engineering needs without relying on external docks. Two USB4 Type-C ports (40 Gbps) deliver high-bandwidth connectivity for NVMe enclosures, pro audio interfaces, capture devices, and even external GPUs for users who want to scale graphics performance later. Four USB-A ports handle peripherals, controllers, and legacy accessories. Dual HDMI 2.0 outputs enable two 4K displays at 60 Hz, while the USB4 ports provide additional DisplayPort-over-Type-C lanes for further monitors. Networking includes 2.5GbE for stable, low-latency wired transfers to NAS devices or remote workstations, and Wi-Fi 7 with Bluetooth 5.4 for high-throughput wireless links and modern peripheral pairing.
Multi-Display Capability and Visual Work
Efficient multi-window workflows benefit from more pixels. The IT15 can drive up to four displays when combining its HDMI ports with USB4 (DisplayPort Alt Mode). Typical arrangements include a color-accurate 4K panel for grading, a high-refresh monitor for timeline scrubbing or CAD panning, and auxiliary displays for scripts, chat, and asset browsers. Hardware video engines accelerate decode and encode for contemporary formats, ensuring smooth playback during editing and responsive scrubbing with proxies or optimized media. The integrated graphics architecture supports mainstream 3D viewports and UI compositing while reserving CPU time for application logic and effects.
Creator, Developer, and Office Scenarios
For video editors and motion designers, the combination of fast Gen4 storage, dual-channel DDR5, and hardware media engines keeps timelines responsive while exports proceed in the background. Photographers benefit from rapid RAW ingestion using the high-speed USB and USB4 ports, with previews and batch operations utilizing both CPU and GPU resources. Developers can run IDEs, containers, databases, and local services simultaneously, taking advantage of the multi-core CPU and the option to leverage the NPU or GPU for machine learning tests. In an office setting, the system’s small footprint and VESA compatibility allow a tidy workstation with multiple monitors for spreadsheets, dashboards, conferencing, and documentation.
Network Strategy and Collaboration
For teams, dual 2.5GbE offers flexible network topologies. One port can connect directly to a NAS for high-speed asset storage, and the other to the broader LAN for collaboration tools and remote access. Link aggregation is available on many managed switches to increase throughput or provide redundancy. Wi-Fi 7 adds low-latency wireless for conference rooms and open spaces, while Bluetooth 5.4 improves stability with modern headsets and input devices. These options support hybrid work where users move between wired desk setups and wireless meetings without changing machines.
Service Coverage and Lifecycle
The IT15 emphasizes longevity through component selection, structural design, and thermal validation. Units are stress-tested to extend operational lifespan relative to typical consumer mini PCs. The service plan combines one year of replacement coverage with two additional years of maintenance support, and round-the-clock assistance for configuration questions or troubleshooting. This lifecycle approach makes the device appropriate for deployments where predictable upkeep and minimal downtime matter, such as education labs, front-office terminals, and content studios.
Suggested Configuration Practices
- Install memory in matched pairs to maintain dual-channel bandwidth for integrated graphics and large data operations.
- Use the 2 TB PCIe Gen4 drive as a primary project and application volume; add the M.2 2242 SATA SSD as a secondary workspace or archive.
- Connect color-critical displays via USB4 (DP Alt Mode) or high-quality HDMI cables certified for 4K to ensure stable signal and accurate profiles.
- For large media libraries, connect a 2.5GbE NAS and configure SMB/NFS caching to reduce repeated transfer overhead.
- Maintain a few centimeters of clearance on intake and exhaust paths to preserve cooling efficiency and low acoustics.
Technical Summary
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, 16C/16T, up to 5.4 GHz boost
- AI Engines: Approx. 99 TOPS combined (NPU ~13 TOPS, GPU ~77 TOPS, CPU ~9 TOPS)
- Memory: 32 GB DDR5-5600 dual-channel (upgradeable to 64 GB)
- Storage: 2 TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD; additional M.2 2242 SATA slot up to 2 TB
- Graphics/Displays: USB4 (DP Alt Mode) + dual HDMI 2.0; up to four displays (two 8K + two 4K depending on chain and capabilities)
- Ports: 2 × USB4 (40 Gbps), 4 × USB-A, additional headers as configured
- Networking: 2.5GbE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
- Chassis: PC+ABS metal-frame, pressure-rated up to 200 kg, VESA-mountable
- Cooling: High-speed fan, copper heat pipes, direct-contact plate; tuned for quiet operation
- Dimensions: Compact mini-PC footprint
- OS Support: Windows 11; compatibility with Linux distributions
- Warranty/Service: One-year replacement + two-year maintenance; 24/7 support
Conclusion
The GEEKOM IT15 mini PC focuses on speed where it matters—snappy interaction, sustained throughput, and practical AI offload—inside a durable, compact chassis. It offers the I/O breadth to anchor modern desks without add-on docks and the headroom to scale memory, storage, and external graphics as workflows grow. For creators, developers, and professionals who want a small system that behaves like a larger workstation, the IT15 provides a balanced foundation for today’s software and tomorrow’s AI-accelerated tools.