GMK NucBox K12 design has a small but annoying flaw

GMKtec recently launched its NucBox K12 mini PC which is more or less a larger version of the NucBox K11 but with a few more physical features. We appreciate its visually unique and more original external design in contrast to the latest mini PCs from Beelink which can all be easily confused for an Apple Mac Mini. One particular detail of the NucBox K12 design, however, could certainly use another look.

As shown by the picture below, the four feet on the NucBox K12 double as thumb screws similar to the feet on older Intel NUCs. Thumb screws allow for easier servicing without the need for any screwdrivers. Unfortunately on the GMK system, these thumb screws are small and tight with smooth metal perimeters for extremely poor gripping properties. In fact, loosening the thumb screws on our NucBox K12 test unit would require rubber bands and a monkey wrench. The thumb screws on Intel NUCs avoided this issue by being larger with rubber perimeters for easier gripping.

The problem doesn't stop there, either. Once the four thumb screws are removed from the NucBox K12, four additional Phillips screws must be removed to even access the motherboard. At this point, the four thumb screws may as well be regular Phillips screws as a screwdriver is still required for any kind of servicing. Most other mini PCs are easier to service with fewer screws for faster access.