Geekom IT15 shows Linux power in tiny desk PC

A compact mini PC demonstrates solid Linux performance and flexible OS options for space-conscious desks.

Geekom IT15 Proves Linux Power on a Tiny Desktop

Geekom IT15 packs strong performance into a 4.5 by 4.5 by 2 inch chassis. It ships with Windows 11 and can be set up to run Ubuntu Budgie, offering a small-footprint computer that still handles everyday tasks with ease. In testing, the reviewer installed Ollama AI and measured how the CPU handles local AI workloads without a dedicated GPU, noting speed is solid but not instant when running on CPU alone.

Once Linux is on the system, apps launch quickly and the interface feels smooth. The IT15 uses an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor with an integrated Intel Arc 140T GPU, up to 64 GB of RAM, and a 2 TB NVMe SSD, along with robust port options. The build quality is praised, and the price point around $1,100 is positioned as a strong value for those who want both power and compact form factor.

This review highlights a broader trend: Linux finds a viable home on compact, ready-made PCs. The IT15 shows that small form factors can still deliver meaningful productivity, even for tasks like local AI work that usually benefits from a GPU. The tradeoffs are clear—without a discrete GPU, AI workloads rely on the CPU, which affects speed but does not eliminate usefulness for everyday use. Price competition in the mini PC space is intensifying, and buyers now expect hardware that performs well out of the box with Linux. For manufacturers, this raises questions about future GPU options, software support, and how to balance price with performance for a market that increasingly values flexibility over raw power.

Highlights

A compact PC that embraces Linux without sacrificing convenience, the IT15 is a test case for the next wave of space-saving computing.